Dr. Yayoko Ito
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Graduated from Hiroshima University School of Medicine. After working in the Department of General Medicine, he studied under doctors at the forefront of cosmetic medicine. After acquiring knowledge and skills in aesthetics, he became the director of YAYOI CLINIC in 2023. Her specialties include Botox, hyaluronic acid injections, and customized sagging treatment. His motto is to provide natural and pain-free treatments with careful consultation.
Have you ever wondered, “What are active ingredients?” or “What should I look for when choosing cosmetics?” Active ingredients are key components that support the effects and benefits of quasi-drugs. In this article, we’ll cover the basics of active ingredients and introduce six representative skin-brightening active ingredients, along with their characteristics.
What Are Skin-Brightening Active Ingredients?
To put it simply, skincare products containing “active ingredients” are, in short, “cosmetics whose efficacy, benefits, and safety have been approved by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare.” “Active ingredients” are referred to as “active ingredients” in English.
"Skin-brightening active ingredients" are,Ingredients with skin-brightening effects that have been approved by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare for use in product labelingThere are approximately 20 types of skin-brightening active ingredients that have been approved.
Some people may also be curious about the difference between “medicinal ingredients” and “active ingredients.” The term “medicinal” refers to “quasi-drugs,” which contain “active ingredients”—substances recognized by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare as having specific therapeutic effects—at a specified concentration. In other words, “quasi-drugs (medicinal)” contain “active ingredients.”
Please note that the list of active ingredients in medicated cosmetics (quasi-drugs) is specified in the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare’s “List of Active Ingredients in So-Called Medicated Cosmetics,” so if you’re interested, please check that document as well.
tranexamic acid
Tranexamic acid isAn active ingredient for skin brightening that is also expected to help prevent skin roughness. It inhibits melanin production to prevent dark spots.Effective for treating widespread dark spots and melasmaFor this reason, it is sometimes prescribed as an oral medication by dermatologists.
[Recommended Skincare Products Containing Tranexamic Acid]
- GAUDISKIN® “Inner Moist TA Lotion (Quasi-Drug)”
This toner is formulated with highly absorbable "human-type ceramides" to moisturize the skin. - plus RESTORE® “TA White Cream MD (Quasi-Drug)”
This is a moisturizing, easily spreadable cream formulated with the active ingredients tranexamic acid and stearyl glycyrrhetinate.
Hydroquinone
In addition to the active ingredients approved by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, hydroquinone is an essential component in aesthetic medicine that is expected to provide a high level of skin clarity. Hydroquinone isIt works to lighten the color of melanin and inhibit its production.. However,Possibility of risks (adverse reactions) such as irritation or skin irritation... and we recommend a patch test for your first visit.
[Recommended Skincare Products Containing Hydroquinone]
- ZO®SKIN HEALTH “Miramin”
This serum is designed to help you achieve a bright, translucent complexion. - GAUDISKIN® “HQ Clear”
This is a medical-grade beauty cream containing 4% hydroquinone, formulated specifically for Japanese skin. - plus RESTORE® “Nano HQ Cream EX”
Contains 4% hydroquinone. This cream was developed for use before and after treatments such as laser procedures.
vitamin C derivative
Vitamin C derivatives are modified forms of vitamin C, which is prone to degradation, andA skin-brightening ingredient with enhanced safety and absorptionIt is.Delivers three skin-brightening effects: preventing the formation of dark spots, reducing pigmentation, and promoting the elimination of pigmentIt does. It also offers beauty benefits such as moisturizing, anti-aging care, and sebum control.
[Recommended Skincare Products Containing Vitamin C Derivatives]
- Puremer “Reset VitaC Serum”
This is a serum formulated with a high concentration of 13.5% vitamin C. - Revision Skincare® “C+ Correcting Complex 30%”
Formulated with high-concentration, high-purity vitamin C. This single product offers versatile solutions for a variety of skin concerns. - Lekarka “CF Serum Advance”
Formulated with two types of vitamin C, this serum penetrates the skin’s stratum corneum, leaving your skin feeling plump and firm.
4MSK
4MSK is an abbreviation for “potassium 4-methoxysalicylate,” andAn active ingredient for skin brightening developed through many years of research and development by ShiseidoIt is.It helps suppress melanin production and promotes its elimination.。
[Recommended Cosmetics Containing 4MSK]
- NAVISION DR (Navision DR) “TA White Lotion n”
This is a medicated skin-brightening toner formulated with 4MSK and tranexamic acid, an active ingredient for skin brightening. - NAVISION DR (NAVISION DR) “TA White Emulsion In”
4MSK and tranexamic acid help suppress melanin production. This is a medicated lotion that helps prevent dark spots and freckles. - NAVISION DR (NAVISION DR) “TA White Emulsion IIn”
In addition to 4MSK and tranexamic acid, this formula contains Shiseido’s proprietary moisturizing ingredient, “Stemlan DG.” It is a medicated skin-brightening lotion that leaves skin feeling soft and hydrated.
niacinamide
Niacinamide helps prevent dark spots and freckles by suppressing melanin production. It also promotes collagen production, helps reduce wrinkles, and strengthens the skin’s barrier function. Furthermore,An all-purpose ingredient that also helps control sebumIt is.
[Recommended Skincare Products Containing Niacinamide]
- &DR. (And Doctor) “BAKU Skincare Serum”
This serum is formulated with ingredients such as "niacinamide," "bacuchiol" (which helps firm the skin), and "vitamin C." - Lekarka “Brightly Moist Shine Mist”
Keep your skin hydrated with this mist-type toner that lets you moisturize anytime. - Lekarka “Sim Serum EX”
A serum formulated with Recalca's signature ingredients! It gives your skin firmness, radiance, and a luminous glow.
Kojic acid
Kojic acid works to inhibit melanin production and prevent dark spots and freckles. In addition,It also helps prevent skin from looking dull and yellowish thanks to its anti-glycation properties.。
[Recommended Cosmetics Containing Kojic Acid]
- Lekarka “Fermentation Pack”
Achieve hydrated skin with the power of fermentation and beauty-enhancing ingredients. This is a mild, rinse-off exfoliating mask. - Cosme Decorte “White Logist Neo Genesis Brightening Concentrate”
Gentle dark spot care powered by kojic acid. This full-face brightening serum instantly gives your entire face a radiant glow.
It's important to choose skin-brightening ingredients based on your specific skin concerns.
Each active ingredient for skin brightening has its own unique characteristics. There are various types, including ingredients that are effective at preventing dark spots, those that are expected to help with melasma, and those that also aim to moisturize and improve skin firmness. The key is to choose an ingredient that suits your specific skin concerns, rather than simply going with what’s popular. If you’re unsure, it’s a good idea to consult with a cosmetic clinic to help you make your choice.
For skincare products with effective skin-brightening ingredients, visit YAYOI CLINIC
Each skin-brightening ingredient has its own specific benefits. By choosing ingredients based on your skin concerns and goals, you’ll be able to maintain a more effective daily skincare routine. At Yayoi Clinic, we’re here to help you select skincare products and doctor-recommended cosmetics tailored to your skin’s condition. Please feel free to consult with us.
Aesthetic Dermatology, Cosmetic Medicine, Cosmetic Surgery, and Art Makeup in Hiroshima YAYOI CLINIC offers treatments for different problems of the skin, body, and face.
In order to offer a better option to our customers, we will assess the skin condition of each individual and formulate a treatment plan that meets their needs in terms of treatment duration, budget, and acceptable downtime.
If you have any concerns, please come for a counseling session first.
