Skin lighteners & hidden medicines
Kojic acid
Restricted in European Union and United Kingdom; its status in Nigeria is not confirmed.
Why it matters
UK and EU scientific advisers found a potential health risk, judging it safe only at 1% or less.
What to look for on the label
Kojic acid, kojic dipalmitate.
Country by country
Around the worldRestricted in European Union and United Kingdom; its status in Nigeria is not confirmed.
Why: UK and EU scientific advisers found a potential health risk, judging it safe only at 1% or less.
| Place | Status |
|---|---|
| Nigeria | not confirmed |
| European Union | restrictedFace and hand products only, max 1% (Annex III, Reg 2024/996) |
| United Kingdom | restrictedFace and hand products only, max 1%; in force 31 Jan 2025 (SI 2024/1334) |
| United States | not confirmed |
| Canada | not confirmed |
Sources: COSlaw.eu summary of Reg (EU) 2024/996 (secondary) · UK SI 2024/1334. Checked 2026-10-19; rules change, so check the regulator before relying on it.
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Education, not legal advice. Rules change: check with your country's regulator before relying on this.