Ingredients question
isitbannedintheuk.co.uk · Answer card
Not banned, but restricted. Kojic acid, often found in brightening products, is allowed only in face and hand products, at up to 1%. Body products can't contain it. The same limit applies in Northern Ireland.
England, Wales, Scotland
Face and hand only, up to 1%Kojic acid is on the list of restricted substances for face and hand products at a maximum of 1%. A restricted substance can't be used outside its listed limits, so body products can't contain it.
Follows EU cosmetics rules
Face and hand only, up to 1%The EU rules set the same 1% limit for face and hand products.
| Where | Rule starts | Old stock: placed on the market | Old stock: last date to be sold |
|---|---|---|---|
| Great Britain | 31 January 2025 | On or before 20 June 2025 | On or before 1 November 2025 |
| Northern Ireland | 1 February 2025 | Not allowed from 1 February 2025 | Not allowed from 1 November 2025 |
Both transition periods have ended, so products that break the limit shouldn't be on sale anywhere in the UK.
Kojic acid … Face and hand products … 1%
cosmetic products that are placed on the market on or before 20th June 2025 may continue to be made available on the market on or before 1st November 2025.
This page is about legal status only. A product being allowed doesn't mean it's right for your skin, and a product being banned doesn't tell you how risky an old bottle at home is. If you're worried about a reaction, speak to a pharmacist or GP.
isitbannedintheuk.co.uk/rules/kojic-acid/ · Last checked 1 November 2026
General information from official sources, checked on the date shown. Not legal or medical advice. © The Contract Studio UK Ltd
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