How to use them
Alternate nights, for example Kojic Acid on Monday, Wednesday and Friday and Tretinoin on Tuesday and Thursday, with a plain moisturiser night in between if your skin feels sensitive. If your skin is resilient and already used to both, you can try layering them: apply Kojic Acid first, wait a few minutes, then apply Tretinoin.
- 1CleanseGentle cleanser, pat dry
- AMKojic Acid (day 1)then moisturiser and SPF 50
- PMTretinoin (day 2)then moisturiser
What Kojic Acid does
Derived from fungi used in rice wine and soy sauce production, kojic acid blocks the enzyme that makes melanin. It is effective on dark spots but can cause contact sensitivity in some people.
- Typical strength
- 1% – 2%
- When
- AM/PM
- Irritation
- Best for
- Normal, Oily And Combination skin
Everything that pairs with Kojic Acid →
What Tretinoin does
The prescription-strength retinoid, and the gold standard for acne and photo-ageing, with decades of evidence. It works directly (no conversion needed), so it is stronger and more irritating than retinol or retinal.
- Typical strength
- 0.025% – 0.1% (prescription)
- When
- PM
- Irritation
- Best for
- Oily, Normal And Combination skin
Everything that pairs with Tretinoin →
Trying to choose one? Read Kojic Acid vs Tretinoin: which is better for your skin.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use Kojic Acid and Tretinoin together?
Yes, but not at the same time. Both can irritate, and kojic acid is a known cause of contact allergy in some people. Together they raise the odds of redness, peeling and a damaged barrier, which can make pigmentation worse rather than better. If you use both, keep them in different routines (kojic acid in the morning under sunscreen, tretinoin at night) and patch test first. Tretinoin is a prescription medicine, so check with your dermatologist.
Which goes first, Kojic Acid or Tretinoin?
Apply Kojic Acid first, then Tretinoin. The general rule is thinnest to thickest texture, and lowest pH first. For this pair, though, it is better not to layer them in the same routine at all.
Should I use Kojic Acid in the morning or at night?
Kojic Acid: works morning or night. Patch test first. Use once daily at first, then build up.
Should I use Tretinoin in the morning or at night?
Tretinoin: best at night. Use only as prescribed: a pea-sized amount on completely dry skin at night, starting 2–3 nights a week. Expect dryness and a possible purge for 4–8 weeks. Daily SPF is essential.
Is Kojic Acid with Tretinoin safe during pregnancy?
Tretinoin is generally avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Ask your doctor about safer alternatives such as azelaic acid or bakuchiol.