Skin treatments for hyperpigmentation and discoloration are so damn pricey. And I’m not just talking about the fancy schmancy in-office lasers that dermatologists use. Almost every serum I’ve used to remedy my acne scars and melasma costs well over $80 (😩). My wallet has been begging for an affordable solution, so, as one does, I went to TikTok to sleuth, and discovered that soap—more specifically, kojic acid soap—can brighten and lighten dark spots for cheap.
Kojic acid is a natural brightening antioxidant that’s becoming super popular in serums, but it can be just as beneficial in other formats, including cleansers, says dermatologist Nicole Lee, MD. “Kojic acid in soap form is a convenient and cost-effective way to treat larger areas of the body, making it ideal for addressing uneven skin tone on the arms, legs, or back,” she says. “This not only simplifies your routine but also makes skin brightening an easy, integrated part of everyday self-care.”
Beyond being pretty damn affordable, kojic acid soaps are also a lot more practical than most serums because, like Dr. Lee mentions, they can be used on your face and body. That means if you’re dealing with discoloration under your arms, along your bikini line, or on your knees, you can lather up and watch your skin get brighter and more even allll over.
Okay, so are you ready for radiant skin from head to toe? Keep reading to discover seven Cosmo editor-approved kojic acid soaps, with insights from dermatologists.
