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Medicube Kojic Acid Turmeric Niacinamide Serum
Medicube

Medicube Kojic Acid Turmeric Niacinamide Serum

Efficacy100/100IrritancyMedium
See all ingredients

Works for

Moisturizing
Niacinamide, Jojoba esters + 11 more
Works well
What the product description says
“Kojic Acid fades the uneven patches, Turmeric soothes irritation, Niacinamide and Vitamin E refine texture, enhance skin tone, and support the natural moisture barrier.”
Source: Lila Beauty

This product can help soften the skin and reduce its moisture loss with emollients and occlusives: jojoba esters, cetyl alcohol.

Keep in mind that this product does not contain effective ingredients to attract water to the upper layer of the skin. This is why an additional product with humectants like glycerin or hyaluronic acid can be helpful (apply it before this product for the best results).

The following ingredients in this product are especially good for supporting the skin barrier and helping with the hydration level: niacinamide

NiacinamideHeroEffect: HighIs proven to be effective in reducing blemishes, evening out skin tone and helping to improve lines and wrinkles. It helps the skin to repair sun damage, calm down inflammation and keep maintain good levels of moisture. The concentration of about 2% is effective for supporting the skin barrier and evening out the skin tone. Concentration of 4-6% is better for helping with acne and balancing the sebum production~4.4–6.6%
Jojoba estersKey active· EmollientEffect: HighAn emollient made of jojoba oil. Helps soften the skin and support its barrier function~2.6–4%
Coco-caprylate/caprateKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumHelps to soften the upper layer of the skin without creating a greasy texture~1.2–1.8%
Cetyl alcoholKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumA non-drying alcohol that works to soften the skin and stabilize product formulations helping oil and water mix together~0.15–0.65%
Corallina officinalis extractKey activeEffect: HighRed algae extract that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might contain antioxidants~0.1–0.35%
AdenosineKey activeEffect: MediumMight help improve cell turnover and reduce inflammation in skin. One study shows that the ingredients might be able to help reduce dynamic wrinkles (for example, in the corners of the eyes or on the forehead)~0.05–0.3%
Butylene glycol· HumectantEffect: LowUsed to create a nice product texture and help delivery of other ingredients. Might be somewhat helpful in attracting water to the upper layer of the skin~3.3–4.9%
Behenyl alcohol· Emollient, OcclusiveEffect: LowNon-drying alcohol that helps water and oil mix together. Also serves as an emollient~0.1–0.45%
TocopherolEffect: Low, below effective dosePure form of vitamin E. Can help moisturise and protect the skin from free radicals. Often used to help stabilise other ingredients or the formula itself~0.05–0.25%
AllantoinUnder-dosedHelps calm down inflammation in skin and can help reduce itching. Helps to repair the skin barrier and keep skin hydrated~0.15–0.5%
PanthenolUnder-dosedHelps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and can help improve skin barrier function~0.05–0.15%
SqualaneUnder-dosedAn oil naturally present in skin. Works as an emollient to soften the skin and form a protective layer on its surface without a greasy feeling.~0.05–0.25%
ArginineUnder-dosedAn amino acid that is naturally present in skin and helps keep it hydrated. When used together with AHAs, it can reduce their irritating effect on the skin~0.05–0.2%
Evens skin tone
Niacinamide, Kojic acid + 1 more
Works well
What the product description says
“DESCRIPTION Medicube Kojic Acid Turmeric Niacinamide Serum evens skin tone, soothes irritation, and refines skin texture for an enhanced radiant complexion.”
Source: Lila Beauty

This product can help reduce hypepigmentation and even out the skin tone because it contains the following effective ingredients: kojic acid, niacinamide

Keep in mind that you would need to apply any topical skincare targetted at hypigmentation consistently for a couple of months to get a result. No topical skincare product can help get rid of hyperpigmentation (including post-acne marks and age spots) instantly.

NiacinamideKey activeEffect: HighIs proven to be effective in reducing blemishes, evening out skin tone and helping to improve lines and wrinkles. It helps the skin to repair sun damage, calm down inflammation and keep maintain good levels of moisture. The concentration of about 2% is effective for supporting the skin barrier and evening out the skin tone. Concentration of 4-6% is better for helping with acne and balancing the sebum production~4.4–6.6%
Kojic acidKey activeEffect: HighHelps to reduce hyperpigmentation and neutralize free radicals. Can be irritating~0.95–1.4%
Glycolic acidUnder-dosedAn alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that helps to remove the dead skin cells on the surface of the skin reveling a more even, smoother complexation. It is also able to stimulate collagen production with long-term use. Could help to reduce pore congestion. It can be irritating to the skin. Apply sunscreen daily if using products with glycolic acid~0.01–0.05%
Anti-oxidation
Side benefit · Kojic acid, Thioctic acid + 7 more
Works well

This product contains antioxidants (kojic acid, thioctic acid) that can help neutralize free radicals in skin. By doing so, they can lessen the damage the skin gets from the UV light (sun).

Kojic acidKey activeEffect: HighHelps to reduce hyperpigmentation and neutralize free radicals. Can be irritating~0.95–1.4%
Thioctic acidKey activeEffect: High~0.01–0.05%
Melia azadirachta flower extractEffect: LowA plant extract that might be helpful to neutralize free radicals in skin~0.3–0.75%
Coccinia indica fruit extractEffect: LowA plant extract that might have some anti-oxidant effect helping neutralize free radicals in skin~0.15–0.55%
Eclipta prostrata extractEffect: LowA plant extract that might help neutralize free radicals in skin. It can be irritating~0.15–0.55%
Ocimum sanctum leaf extractEffect: LowA plant extract that is rich in a fragrance compound eugenol that is a frequent allergen and can be irritating. It might also contain anti-oxidants to help neutralize free radicals~0.15–0.6%
Corallina officinalis extractEffect: LowRed algae extract that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might contain antioxidants~0.1–0.35%
AdenosineEffect: LowMight help improve cell turnover and reduce inflammation in skin. One study shows that the ingredients might be able to help reduce dynamic wrinkles (for example, in the corners of the eyes or on the forehead)~0.05–0.3%
TocopherolUnder-dosedPure form of vitamin E. Can help moisturise and protect the skin from free radicals. Often used to help stabilise other ingredients or the formula itself~0.05–0.25%
Anti-blemish
Side benefit · Niacinamide, Melia azadirachta leaf extract + 2 more
Works well

This product can help reduce breakouts and clogged pores because it contains the following ingredient: niacinamide. This ingredient is used for treating acne and can have a noticeable effect.

NiacinamideHeroEffect: HighIs proven to be effective in reducing blemishes, evening out skin tone and helping to improve lines and wrinkles. It helps the skin to repair sun damage, calm down inflammation and keep maintain good levels of moisture. The concentration of about 2% is effective for supporting the skin barrier and evening out the skin tone. Concentration of 4-6% is better for helping with acne and balancing the sebum production~4.4–6.6%
Melia azadirachta leaf extractEffect: LowA plant extract that has anti-bacterial properties. Can be used to preserve the product. Can be irritating~0.15–0.55%
AllantoinEffect: Low, below effective doseHelps calm down inflammation in skin and can help reduce itching. Helps to repair the skin barrier and keep skin hydrated~0.15–0.5%
Glycolic acidUnder-dosedAn alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that helps to remove the dead skin cells on the surface of the skin reveling a more even, smoother complexation. It is also able to stimulate collagen production with long-term use. Could help to reduce pore congestion. It can be irritating to the skin. Apply sunscreen daily if using products with glycolic acid~0.01–0.05%
Anti-aging
Side benefit · Niacinamide, Adenosine + 3 more
Works well

This product can help reduce and prevent fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin elasticity and firmness because it contains adenosine, niacinamide.

Keep in mind that it typically takes at least 6 weeks to notice any results because the changes that are needed to improve fine lines and elasticity happen in the deeper layers of the skin. No topical anti-aging product can “erase” wrinkles or fully reverse signs of aging.

NiacinamideKey activeEffect: HighIs proven to be effective in reducing blemishes, evening out skin tone and helping to improve lines and wrinkles. It helps the skin to repair sun damage, calm down inflammation and keep maintain good levels of moisture. The concentration of about 2% is effective for supporting the skin barrier and evening out the skin tone. Concentration of 4-6% is better for helping with acne and balancing the sebum production~4.4–6.6%
AdenosineKey activeEffect: HighMight help improve cell turnover and reduce inflammation in skin. One study shows that the ingredients might be able to help reduce dynamic wrinkles (for example, in the corners of the eyes or on the forehead)~0.05–0.3%
Thioctic acidEffect: Low~0.01–0.05%
TocopherolEffect: Low, below effective dosePure form of vitamin E. Can help moisturise and protect the skin from free radicals. Often used to help stabilise other ingredients or the formula itself~0.05–0.25%
Glycolic acidUnder-dosedAn alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that helps to remove the dead skin cells on the surface of the skin reveling a more even, smoother complexation. It is also able to stimulate collagen production with long-term use. Could help to reduce pore congestion. It can be irritating to the skin. Apply sunscreen daily if using products with glycolic acid~0.01–0.05%

Can it cause trouble?

Irritancy
1 strong irritant: Ocimum sanctum leaf extract
Medium risk
We flagged 13 ingredients with irritancy potential. Severity depends on your sensitivity threshold; the table lists the worst offenders first.
IngredientFunctionIrritationEst. amount
Curcuma longa root extractA plant extract that can contain an active compound curcumin, that may have some anti-inflammatory properties when applied to the skin, but solid research is lacking and the typical concentration used in skincare products is too low. Can be an irritantHigh~1.6–2.4%est.
Kojic acidHelps to reduce hyperpigmentation and neutralize free radicals. Can be irritatingHigh~0.95–1.4%est.
Ocimum sanctum leaf extractA plant extract that is rich in a fragrance compound eugenol that is a frequent allergen and can be irritating. It might also contain anti-oxidants to help neutralize free radicalsHigh~0.15–0.6%est.
Eclipta prostrata extractA plant extract that might help neutralize free radicals in skin. It can be irritatingHigh~0.15–0.55%est.
Melia azadirachta leaf extractA plant extract that has anti-bacterial properties. Can be used to preserve the product. Can be irritatingHigh~0.15–0.55%est.
Glycolic acidAn alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that helps to remove the dead skin cells on the surface of the skin reveling a more even, smoother complexation. It is also able to stimulate collagen production with long-term use. Could help to reduce pore congestion. It can be irritating to the skin. Apply sunscreen daily if using products with glycolic acidHigh~0.01–0.05%est.
Jojoba estersAn emollient made of jojoba oil. Helps soften the skin and support its barrier functionMedium~2.6–4%est.
1,2-hexanediolA preservativeMedium~1.2–1.7%est.
Melia azadirachta flower extractA plant extract that might be helpful to neutralize free radicals in skinMedium~0.3–0.75%est.
Coccinia indica fruit extractA plant extract that might have some anti-oxidant effect helping neutralize free radicals in skinMedium~0.15–0.55%est.
Sodium citrateHelps to control the skin's pH level. Maintains the skin's natural film of amino-lactic acids and oils. Helps to preserve productsMedium~0.1–0.4%est.
EthylhexylglycerinA preservativeMedium~0.1–0.4%est.
Citric acidCan work as an exfoliant but is typically used to adjust the product pHMedium~0.05–0.2%est.
Comedogenic
1 ingredient rated 2 or more on the 0–5 pore-clogging scale
1 flagged
These ingredients have a comedogenic rating of 2 or more on a 0–5 scale; the table shows each one's rating. In leave-on products they can clog pores in acne-prone skin.
IngredientFunctionRatingEst. amount
Corallina officinalis extractRed algae extract that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might contain antioxidants3/5~0.1–0.35%est.
Alternatives
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Ingredients

Filter by role to see what each ingredient is doing.

Water~40–60%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Plain old water

More about Water
Niacinamide~4.4–6.6%
Hero · Moisturizing, Anti-blemish
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Evens skin toneAnti-blemishAnti-agingMoisturizingReduces irritationAntibacterialReduces rednessAnti-inflammatory

Is proven to be effective in reducing blemishes, evening out skin tone and helping to improve lines and wrinkles. It helps the skin to repair sun damage, calm down inflammation and keep maintain good levels of moisture. The concentration of about 2% is effective for supporting the skin barrier and evening out the skin tone. Concentration of 4-6% is better for helping with acne and balancing the sebum production

More about Niacinamide
Butylene glycol~3.3–4.9%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Used to create a nice product texture and help delivery of other ingredients. Might be somewhat helpful in attracting water to the upper layer of the skin

More about Butylene glycol
Jojoba esters~2.6–4%
Key activeIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Moisturizing

An emollient made of jojoba oil. Helps soften the skin and support its barrier function

More about Jojoba esters
1,2-hexanediol~1.2–1.7%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

A preservative

More about 1,2-hexanediol
Curcuma longa root extract~1.6–2.4%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Anti-inflammatory

A plant extract that can contain an active compound curcumin, that may have some anti-inflammatory properties when applied to the skin, but solid research is lacking and the typical concentration used in skincare products is too low. Can be an irritant

More about Curcuma longa root extract
Caprylic/capric/succinic triglyceride~1.4–2.1%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Cleansing
More about Caprylic/capric/succinic triglyceride
Coco-caprylate/caprate~1.2–1.8%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps to soften the upper layer of the skin without creating a greasy texture

More about Coco-caprylate/caprate
Kojic acid~0.95–1.4%
Key activeIrritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Anti-oxidationEvens skin tone

Helps to reduce hyperpigmentation and neutralize free radicals. Can be irritating

More about Kojic acid
Ammonium acryloyldimethyltaurate/vp copolymer~0.55–1.25%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Increases thickness of a product. Texture enhancer for oil-in-water emulsions

More about Ammonium acryloyldimethyltaurate/vp copolymer
Hydrogenated castor oil/sebacic acid copolymer~0.45–1%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Hydrogenated castor oil/sebacic acid copolymer
Melia azadirachta flower extract~0.3–0.75%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Anti-oxidation

A plant extract that might be helpful to neutralize free radicals in skin

More about Melia azadirachta flower extract
Ocimum sanctum leaf extract~0.15–0.6%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Anti-oxidation

A plant extract that is rich in a fragrance compound eugenol that is a frequent allergen and can be irritating. It might also contain anti-oxidants to help neutralize free radicals

More about Ocimum sanctum leaf extract
Coccinia indica fruit extract~0.15–0.55%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Anti-oxidation

A plant extract that might have some anti-oxidant effect helping neutralize free radicals in skin

More about Coccinia indica fruit extract
Eclipta prostrata extract~0.15–0.55%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Anti-inflammatoryAnti-oxidation

A plant extract that might help neutralize free radicals in skin. It can be irritating

More about Eclipta prostrata extract
Melia azadirachta leaf extract~0.15–0.55%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
AntibacterialAnti-blemish

A plant extract that has anti-bacterial properties. Can be used to preserve the product. Can be irritating

More about Melia azadirachta leaf extract
Allantoin~0.15–0.5%
Under-dosed
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-inflammatoryAnti-blemishReduces rednessReduces irritationExfoliation

Helps calm down inflammation in skin and can help reduce itching. Helps to repair the skin barrier and keep skin hydrated

More about Allantoin
Cetyl alcohol~0.15–0.65%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
CleansingMoisturizing

A non-drying alcohol that works to soften the skin and stabilize product formulations helping oil and water mix together

More about Cetyl alcohol
Silica silylate~0.15–0.65%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Helps create a thicker product consistency

More about Silica silylate
Sodium citrate~0.1–0.4%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

Helps to control the skin's pH level. Maintains the skin's natural film of amino-lactic acids and oils. Helps to preserve products

More about Sodium citrate
Ethylhexylglycerin~0.1–0.4%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

A preservative

More about Ethylhexylglycerin
Corallina officinalis extract~0.1–0.35%
Key activeComedogenic 3/5
Irritation risk
Low
Comedogenicity
3/5
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-oxidation

Red algae extract that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might contain antioxidants

More about Corallina officinalis extract
Adenosine~0.05–0.3%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Anti-agingMoisturizingAnti-oxidation

Might help improve cell turnover and reduce inflammation in skin. One study shows that the ingredients might be able to help reduce dynamic wrinkles (for example, in the corners of the eyes or on the forehead)

More about Adenosine
Chamaecyparis obtusa wood oil~0.05–0.3%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Chamaecyparis obtusa wood oil
Behenyl alcohol~0.1–0.45%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Non-drying alcohol that helps water and oil mix together. Also serves as an emollient

More about Behenyl alcohol
Arginine~0.05–0.2%
Under-dosed
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

An amino acid that is naturally present in skin and helps keep it hydrated. When used together with AHAs, it can reduce their irritating effect on the skin

More about Arginine
Citric acid~0.05–0.2%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

Can work as an exfoliant but is typically used to adjust the product pH

More about Citric acid
Tocopherol~0.05–0.25%
Under-dosed
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Anti-oxidationMoisturizingAnti-inflammatoryAnti-aging

Pure form of vitamin E. Can help moisturise and protect the skin from free radicals. Often used to help stabilise other ingredients or the formula itself

More about Tocopherol
Panthenol~0.05–0.15%
Under-dosed
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MoisturizingReduces rednessReduces irritation

Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and can help improve skin barrier function

More about Panthenol
Squalane~0.05–0.25%
Under-dosed
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

An oil naturally present in skin. Works as an emollient to soften the skin and form a protective layer on its surface without a greasy feeling.

More about Squalane
Thioctic acid~0.01–0.05%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Anti-oxidationAnti-aging
More about Thioctic acid
Glycolic acid~0.01–0.05%
Under-dosedIrritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
ExfoliationAnti-agingEvens skin toneAnti-blemish

An alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that helps to remove the dead skin cells on the surface of the skin reveling a more even, smoother complexation. It is also able to stimulate collagen production with long-term use. Could help to reduce pore congestion. It can be irritating to the skin. Apply sunscreen daily if using products with glycolic acid

More about Glycolic acid
Ingredient list view

Water, Niacinamide, Butylene glycol, Jojoba esters, 1,2-hexanediol, Curcuma longa root extract, Caprylic/capric/succinic triglyceride, Coco-caprylate/caprate, Kojic acid, Ammonium acryloyldimethyltaurate/vp copolymer, Hydrogenated castor oil/sebacic acid copolymer, Melia azadirachta flower extract, Ocimum sanctum leaf extract, Coccinia indica fruit extract, Eclipta prostrata extract, Melia azadirachta leaf extract, Allantoin, Cetyl alcohol, Silica silylate, Sodium citrate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Corallina officinalis extract, Adenosine, Chamaecyparis obtusa wood oil, Behenyl alcohol, Arginine, Citric acid, Tocopherol, Panthenol, Squalane, Thioctic acid, Glycolic acid

Compare prices

Retailers ranked by price — lowest first.

🇦🇺 Amazon Australia (AU)Price as of 11/4 15:13 GMT
≈ $21.41
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🇦🇺 Lila Beauty (AU)30 ml
≈ $23.90
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Worth comparing, line by line.

Match % combines shared ingredients, the first five ingredients, shared actives and hero ingredients, irritancy (lower counts in the alternative's favour), texture and body area. Only products in the same routine step are compared.

Side-by-side comparison of this product against its closest alternatives
MedicubeKojic Acid Turmeric Niacinamide SerumYOUR PRODUCTnumbuzinNo.5 Vitamin Concentrated Serum (Non-TXA Version) 30mlBonafide AustraliaEctoin Hydration SerumBeauty of JoseonCalming Barrier Serum
Match—91%90%90%
Price—$15.41—$13.60
Shared key ingredients—6 of 115 of 114 of 11
Key difference—Alpha-ArbutinGlycerinCeramide Np
Irritancy Medium Medium Low Low
Drying alcohol————
View product Shop Shop Shop
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Product summary

"Medicube - Buy Medicube Kojic Acid Turmeric Niacinamide Serum in Australia - Korean Skincare Online" is effective for: Moisturizing, Anti-blemish, Evens skin tone and Anti-aging

Ingredient callouts

  • A good concentration of Niacinamide (4.40% - 6.60%). Niacinamide is a well-studied multi-tasking active. It is stable, and can work well in almost any hydrating formulation. There is solid evidence that Niacinamide can help support skin barrier, regulate oil production and reduce acne and clogged pores. It also helps to fight photodamage and improve the skin tone, reducing pigmentation marks.
  • Adenosine 0.05% - 0.30%. It is a compound that in involved in many biological processes inside the skin cells. According one high-quality clinical trial, topical Adenosine in low concentrations can somewhat help improve "deep wrinkles" - the wrinkles that appear with age in places where our faces are most dynamic (for example, on the forehead or in the corners of the eyes).

Price

The product retails for 35.04A$ in Australia.

For a detailed price comparison: click here.

Sources cited in this review

Every concentration estimate and effectiveness label is anchored to one of these 19 studies and safety reviews.

  1. 1
    Niacinamide - mechanisms of action and its topical use in dermatologyncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  2. 2
    Gehring, W. (2004). Nicotinic acid/niacinamide and the skin. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 3(2), 88–93. doi:10.1111/j.1473-2130.2004.00115.x ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  3. 3
    The influence of alkane chain length on the skin irritation potential of 1,2-alkanediolsncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  4. 4
    Vaughn, A. R., Branum, A., & Sivamani, R. K. (2016). Effects of Turmeric (Curcuma longa) on Skin Health: A Systematic Review of the Clinical Evidence. Phytotherapy Research, 30(8), 1243–1264. doi:10.1002/ptr.5640ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  5. 5
    Safety Assessment of Alkyl Esters as Used in Cosmeticscir-safety.org
  6. 6
    TOPICAL TREATMENT OF MELASMAncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Medicube Kojic Acid Turmeric Niacinamide Serum
MedicubeKojic Acid Turmeric Niacinamide Serum
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Find on Amazon

As an Amazon Associate, WIMJ earns from qualifying purchases.