Do I Wash Off Kojic Acid Serum?

When I first added kojic acid serum to my skincare routine, I wasn’t sure if I was using it the right way.

One of my biggest questions was, “Do I wash it off, or should I leave it on?”

If you’ve been wondering the same thing, here’s the answer and everything you need to know about using kojic acid serum effectively.

The Short Answer

No, you don’t wash off kojic acid serum.

Unlike kojic acid soap, which you rinse off, a serum is meant to stay on your skin.

This allows the active ingredients to penetrate deeply and work on fading dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone.

How to Use Kojic Acid Serum

Here’s the step-by-step guide to using kojic acid serum for the best results:

1. Start with Clean Skin
   Always begin with a freshly cleansed face.

   This removes dirt and oil, allowing the serum to absorb better.

   If you’re using kojic acid soap as part of your routine, rinse it off completely before applying the serum.

2. Apply a Small Amount
   A little goes a long way with serums.

   Dispense a few drops onto your fingertips and gently pat it onto areas with dark spots or uneven tone.

   If you’re treating your entire face, spread it evenly across your skin.

3. Let It Absorb
   Allow the serum to fully absorb into your skin before applying other products.

   This usually takes 1–2 minutes.

4. Follow with Moisturizer
   After the serum absorbs, lock in hydration with a good moisturizer.

   This step is crucial because kojic acid can be drying.

5. Use Sunscreen in the Morning
   If you’re applying the serum in the morning, always follow up with sunscreen.

   Kojic acid can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, so SPF is a must.

When to Use Kojic Acid Serum

You can use kojic acid serum once or twice a day, depending on your skin’s tolerance.

If you’re new to it, start with once daily at night to avoid overloading your skin.

Once your skin adjusts, you can add it to your morning routine as well.

Just make sure to always wear sunscreen during the day.

Combining It with Other Products

If you use other active ingredients like retinol, glycolic acid, or vitamin C, alternate their use with kojic acid serum.

For example, use kojic acid serum in the morning and your retinol or exfoliant at night.

This prevents irritation and allows each product to work effectively.

Final Thoughts

No, you don’t wash off kojic acid serum—it’s designed to stay on your skin and work its magic.

By applying it correctly and pairing it with moisturizer and sunscreen, you’ll see brighter, more even-toned skin over time.

Remember, consistency and patience are key to getting the best results from your skincare routine!