The Derma Co 2% Kojic Acid Face Serum with 1% Alpha Arbutin & Niacinamide Review

The Derma Co 2% Kojic Acid Face Serum with 1% Alpha Arbutin & Niacinamide
3.4
/ 10
Moisturizing
6.9 Humectancy icon Humectancy
0.0 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
2.8Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Rich
in Antioxidants
Review

Does The Derma Co 2% Kojic Acid Face Serum with 1% Alpha Arbutin & Niacinamide Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what The Derma Co 2% Kojic Acid Face Serum with 1% Alpha Arbutin & Niacinamide has to offer:
 
  • Light moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 3.4 out of 10.
  • Modest anti-wrinkle efficacy: The Derma Co 2% Kojic Acid Face Serum with 1% Alpha Arbutin & Niacinamide has an anti-wrinkle rating of 2.8 out of 10 so you may expect some, although limited, effect on wrinkles.
  • Antioxidant protection.

Key Benefits of The Derma Co 2% Kojic Acid Face Serum with 1% Alpha Arbutin & Niacinamide

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using The Derma Co 2% Kojic Acid Face Serum with 1% Alpha Arbutin & Niacinamide:
 

Lightweight Purely Humectant Moisturizer Well-Suited for Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, The Derma Co 2% Kojic Acid Face Serum with 1% Alpha Arbutin & Niacinamide is lightly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 3.4 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Purely humectant. It has zero occlusivity (we didn't find any occlusive ingredients on the ingredient list) and a high humectancy of 6.9 out of 10, primarily due to Niacinamide (est. ≈1.9%), Propanediol (est. ≈1.8%) and Propylene Glycol (est. ≈1.7%).

This humectant-rich product, when used alone as a moisturizer, is well-suited for oily skin, providing moderate hydration in a lightweight, fast-absorbing formula without any occlusive ingredients.

Tip: Certain studies suggest that humectants alone may not effectively moisturize the skin. If you use this product as your only moisturizer, we recommend following it with one that contains at least some occlusive ingredients.

A Humectant Enhancement for Any Skincare Routine

But it’s not limited to oily skin - such a humectant enhancement will also positively contribute to the moisturizing efficacy of any skincare routine when used as a step before applying the main moisturizer. This type of formulation is typically used in serums, where a light, fast-absorbing texture is key.

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the moisturizing rating calculation.

Modest Anti-Wrinkle Efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, The Derma Co 2% Kojic Acid Face Serum with 1% Alpha Arbutin & Niacinamide has a modest level of anti-wrinkle efficacy, rated 2.8 out of 10.

It contains one ingredient with proven anti-wrinkle efficacy: Niacinamide (est. ≈1.9%), 
 one of the most effective and well-researched anti-wrinkle ingredients. A clinical study involving 30 participants (Kawada et al.) confirmed that a cream with 4% niacinamide reduced the average depth of wrinkles around the eyes by 9% after 8 weeks of use, compared to a vehicle (the same formulation without niacinamide).
 
Moisturizers, when used regularly, are proven to prevent wrinkle formation and even reduce existing wrinkles. Therefore, this product, like any other moisturizer, can deliver some anti-wrinkle effects through its moisturizing action.
 

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the anti-wrinkle rating calculation.

Rich in Skin-Protecting Antioxidants

We estimate that The Derma Co 2% Kojic Acid Face Serum with 1% Alpha Arbutin & Niacinamide is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Kojic Acid (est. ≈2.0%).

A key benefit of antioxidants is their ability to reduce oxidative stress caused by free radicals and therefore prevent accelerated skin aging. Studies also show that antioxidants can protect against environmental damage such as UV radiation and pollution, and help reduce inflammation and skin redness.

Please note that this is not a complete list of benefits. We are in the process of enhancing our AI model to incorporate anti-pigmentation, exfoliation and anti-acne ratings.

Things to Be Aware Of: The Derma Co 2% Kojic Acid Face Serum with 1% Alpha Arbutin & Niacinamide

 
CreamScan AI identified a few things to consider before adding The Derma Co 2% Kojic Acid Face Serum with 1% Alpha Arbutin & Niacinamide to your skincare routine:
 

If It’s Your Only Moisturizer, It Needs to Be Paired with Some Occlusives

While humectants are highly effective at attracting water to the skin, studies (J. N. Kraft, C. W. Lynde) suggest they may not be efficient when used alone.

One major drawback of purely humectant moisturization is that the water attracted by humectants to the upper layers of the skin can evaporate completely into the environment through transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Adding occlusive ingredients helps seal this moisture into the skin and prevent further water loss.

If you’re using The Derma Co 2% Kojic Acid Face Serum with 1% Alpha Arbutin & Niacinamide as your only moisturizer, consider pairing it with one that contains at least some occlusive ingredients, such as oils, butters, or silicones. These work alongside humectants to create a protective barrier, locking in hydration and ensuring longer-lasting moisturization. The amount of occlusive needed depends on your skin type - the drier the skin, the more occlusives it requires.

If this product is used not as a standalone moisturizer but as part of your skincare routine, such as a toner or serum, it should be applied before your main moisturizer (unless it's a sunscreen), which will provide the necessary occlusivity on top of it.

Pros & Cons of The Derma Co 2% Kojic Acid Face Serum with 1% Alpha Arbutin & Niacinamide

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of The Derma Co 2% Kojic Acid Face Serum with 1% Alpha Arbutin & Niacinamide to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

Pros:

  • When used alone: Provides humectant-rich moisturizing well-suited for oily skin
  • As part of a routine: A humectant moisturizing enhancement, beneficial for any skin type
  • Lightweight texture
  • Offers modest anti-wrinkle efficacy
  • Rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress associated with accelerated skin aging and defend against environmental damage

Cons: 

  • Only if used as a standalone moisturizer - it needs to be paired with occlusives to seal in humectants

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
90
2
1.9
1.8
1.7
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Kojic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Niacinamide
Function:
Origin:
Propanediol
Function:
Origin:
Propylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Alpha-Arbutin
Function:
Origin:
Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Chrysanthemum Indicum Flower Extract
Function:
Origin:
Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Extract
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:
Sodium PCA
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Metabisulfite
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract
Function:
Origin:
Magnolia Kobus Flower Extract
Function:
Origin:
Panthenol
Function:
Origin:
Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
6.9
1.9
1.8
1.7
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
0.0
None
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
3.4
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 6.9 10
6.9
1.9
1.8
1.7
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 0.0 20
0.0
None
Moisturizing rating
3.4
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
1.9
1.8
1.7
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 6.9 10
6.9
All humectants
6.9
1.9
1.8
1.7
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
None
All occlusives 0.0 20
0.0
All occlusives
0.0
None
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
6 /10 4 1.9 2.8
Total
2.8
Niacinamide
2.8
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
6 /10
when present at, %
4
in this formula, est. %
1.9
Anti-wrinkle rating
2.8
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
2
1.9
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 7 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
7
Kojic Acid
2
Niacinamide
1.9
Alpha-Arbutin
1
Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract
0.3
Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Extract
0.3
Sodium Hyaluronate
0.3
Sodium Metabisulfite
0.3
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract
0.3
Magnolia Kobus Flower Extract
0.3
Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
1.9
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 3.1 5 No
All soothing
3.1
1.9
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %90
Function
Origin
WaterThe most used ingredient in skincare. Its concentration defines the product texture: rich creams may have about 50% of water while a light jelly about 90%. Water doesn’t moisturize the skin by itself and is used in skincare as a solvent for other ingredients.
Kojic Acid
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Kojic AcidA bioactive compound isolated from various fungi or fermented products. It is one of the most common and potent anti-pigment and brightening ingredients, and has been successfully tested on humans.
Niacinamide
Est. %1.9
Function
Origin
Niacinamide

Also known as vitamin B3, this ingredient is a true superstar with confirmed moisturizing, anti-acne, hyperpigmentation, and antioxidant benefits. Two studies confirm its significant anti-wrinkle efficacy.

Propanediol
Est. %1.8
Function
Origin
PropanediolAn excellent solvent capable of mixing water with normally water-insoluble ingredients. It also functions as a humectant due to its water-loving alcohol groups. Propanediol can control the viscosity of a product by reducing its thickness.
Propylene Glycol
Est. %1.7
Function
Origin
Propylene GlycolA clear, thick, odorless liquid of synthetic origin. Its main function is to stabilize cosmetic products exposed to varying temperatures. It is also a moderately strong humectant with similar properties to glycerin.
Alpha-Arbutin
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Alpha-Arbutin
Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root ExtractAn extract derived from the thick roots of curcuma (turmeric), a famous yellow spice and a major ingredient in curry powder. It is used in skincare for its proven antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Phenoxyethanol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PhenoxyethanolThe most frequently used preservative in skincare. It is a clear, oil-like liquid synthetic substance that protects products from harmful bacteria and yeast, whilst still leaving skin microflora unharmed. It is confirmed by research to be harmless.
Chrysanthemum Indicum Flower Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Chrysanthemum Indicum Flower Extract
Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) ExtractAn extract derived from rosemary leaves. It contains a fragrant essential oil and is a strong antioxidant with astringent tannins.
Sodium Hyaluronate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Hyaluronate

A sodium salt of famous hyaluronic acid. A potent humectant that hydrates the skin, supports collagen function, and fills out small wrinkles. Sodium hyaluronate also offers soothing and antioxidant properties.

Ethylhexylglycerin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
EthylhexylglycerinA preservative booster derived from glycerin. It is commonly paired with other preservatives to improve their efficacy. Ethylhexylglycerin is also a humectant due to its chemical base of glycerin.
Sodium PCA
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium PCAOne of the most important parts of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor, a mixture of various compounds that keeps the skin’s surface well hydrated. Sodium PCA is used in skincare for its fantastic humectant properties.
Sodium Metabisulfite
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium MetabisulfiteA preservative that is especially effective at preventing fungus and mold growth. It is normally combined with a strong bactericidal preservative in order to achieve broad-spectrum protection. Sodium metabisulfite is also used as an antioxidant.
Glycerin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycerin

The most popular moisturizing ingredient in the world. It is a powerful humectant – cheap yet very effective.

Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) ExtractAn extract obtained from the twigs and/or leaves of witch hazel. It is one of the oldest skincare remedies known to man. It is astringent and sebum regulating, meaning that it controls the amount of sebum that the skin produces.
Magnolia Kobus Flower Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Magnolia Kobus Flower Extract
Panthenol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PanthenolA popular soothing and moisturizing derivative of vitamin B5. Panthenol is particularly beneficial for dry, flaking, burned, or damaged skin. It is used to alleviate the symptoms of a rash, dermatitis, eczema, chapped lips, and sunburn.
Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polygonum Cuspidatum Root ExtractAn extract from the roots of the Japanese knotweed, a plant from East Asia that has spread around the world as an invasive plant. It contains various antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and potentially anti-pigment (more tests are necessary) phytochemicals.