Kido Brightening Serum is designed to illuminate and even out sensitive skin with gentle, non-comedogenic effective ingredients. Infused with Retinol, Kojic Acid, Alpha Arbutin, Bakuchiol, and Centella Asiatica, this lightweight formula fades dark spots, boosts radiance, and soothes irritation. Perfect for all skin types, Kido delivers a luminous, balanced complexion without harsh additives.
Free from parabens, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances.
Retinol
Wrinkle reduction
Kojic Acid
Brightens and evens tone
Alpha Arbutin
Reduces pigmentation
Bakuchiol
Gentle Retinol alternative
Centella Asiatica
Soothes and repairs
See what our customers are saying
Read what our customers are saying about our products and how they have transformed their skin.
Great serum worth every cent
I absolutely loved this serum! It didn’t irritate my skin at all, and I’ve already started to notice visible improvements. It’s definitely worth every cent!
George
It's a splurge, Made in the USA
I was excited about this serum because most brightening serums are intended for daytime use, at least the ones I've tried. I like to do as much of my skincare as possible at night to shorten my morning routine.I've been using this serum consistently for a few weeks. I don't think it's done anything…I was excited about this serum because most brightening serums are intended for daytime use, at least the ones I've tried. I like to do as much of my skincare as possible at night to shorten my morning routine.I've been using this serum consistently for a few weeks. I don't think it's done anything (yet) specifically for my dark spots, but I do think it's helped to heal my acne spots faster which results in less scarring and overall better complexion. Based on that alone, I look forward to using the rest of it. Not sure I can afford to order it again though.It has a very light natural scent, nothing perfumy. Made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients.I recommend this product if you can afford the splurge!
Sydney D
Surprisingly Gentle Retinol Serum with Promising Early Results
TLDR; I tried Kido Brightening Serum nightly for two weeks near the under-eye area. No irritation despite 1% retinol, and I noticed smoother, slightly fuller skin with finer pores. Too soon to speak to brightening, but it's off to a promising start.Long version:This is a review of the Kido…TLDR; I tried Kido Brightening Serum nightly for two weeks near the under-eye area. No irritation despite 1% retinol, and I noticed smoother, slightly fuller skin with finer pores. Too soon to speak to brightening, but it's off to a promising start.Long version:This is a review of the Kido Brightening Serum from IKI Skincare.I ordered this serum specifically to evaluate it over time and see how well I tolerated it. After two weeks of nightly use, I’m ready to share some impressions.There’s not much publicly available about IKI Skincare beyond their Amazon landing page. According to the listing, the brand is based in the U.S. and draws inspiration from Japanese skincare principles. J-beauty, as it’s often called, emphasizes gentle cleansing, layering of serums, and gradual improvement in tone and hydration, something this serum seems designed to fit into.The Kido formula includes several notable ingredients. The ingredient list reads like a greatest hits of modern skincare, so I spent some time looking things up. It includes kojic acid dipalmitate and alpha-arbutin, which are both known for their skin-brightening effects and often used to help fade dark spots or melasma. Retinol is listed at 1%, which is on the stronger side for an over-the-counter product, so I was surprised it’s marketed as suitable for sensitive skin. There’s also Centella Asiatica (aka gotu kola), which shows up in a lot of calming products, and things like jojoba esters, vitamin E, and sodium hyaluronate that are there to moisturize and support the skin barrier. All in all, it looks like a mix of active and soothing ingredients aimed at improving tone and texture without being too harsh.For testing, I kept my routine simple: I washed my face with a mild soap each night and applied the Kido serum to my upper cheek area, adjacent to the under-eye skin. The product doesn’t explicitly state that it’s for use near the eyes, but the illustrations on the box, the emphasis on sensitive skin, and references to brightening effects all suggest that’s an intended use area.Over the course of two weeks, I experienced no irritation: no redness, dryness, or stinging. That alone made a strong impression, since many people struggle with retinol at much lower concentrations. Around day 10, I noticed something unexpected: the area where I had been applying the serum appeared subtly fuller and smoother, with visibly finer pores compared to surrounding skin. It wasn’t dramatic, but it was definitely real.I’m not on a lifelong quest for luminous skin—nobody’s scrutinizing my face under studio lighting. It’s too early to determine how well it works at evening complexion, but I can say it was gentle, pleasant to apply, and showed some subtle early improvements that are promising.
AmazonCustomerJ
Works great but pricey
This serum feels lightweight on the skin but still delivers deep hydration. I’ve noticed my skin looking brighter and more even after consistent use, and it hasn’t caused any irritation despite containing active ingredients like retinol and kojic acid. It layers well under moisturizer and…This serum feels lightweight on the skin but still delivers deep hydration. I’ve noticed my skin looking brighter and more even after consistent use, and it hasn’t caused any irritation despite containing active ingredients like retinol and kojic acid. It layers well under moisturizer and makeup without pilling, and the dropper makes application easy and mess-free. While results take a few weeks to really show, it’s been a nice addition to my skincare routine for tackling dark spots and dullness. However, price is a bit up there so I don't know if I'd order again.
Luna
Another K-Beauty Hit!
Growing up in the 80s and 90s, tanning was not considered a bad thing. In fact, I had a doctor tell me to go to a tanning bed on a regular basis, because I needed the light therapy and the Vitamin D. Though not prone to sunburns, I am one with fair skin, and over the years, I developed a pattern of…Growing up in the 80s and 90s, tanning was not considered a bad thing. In fact, I had a doctor tell me to go to a tanning bed on a regular basis, because I needed the light therapy and the Vitamin D. Though not prone to sunburns, I am one with fair skin, and over the years, I developed a pattern of skin damage on my chest. I, also, had damage done on my face from melasma and acne scarring.Over the years, I have become a fan of Korean skincare. These days, I will choose it hands down over almost any "traditional" American-designed/sold product. This is no different.This product is a well-made serum that with time will gently refine the surface of the skin to reduce dark spots, even skin tone, provide deep hydration to the skin. And, as with most K-skincare lines… less is more. This serum is very, very light… almost water-like. Four to five drops in the palm of the hand will be enough to spread over one's face and neck, but in a dabbing-manner. Dip your finger into the drops in the palm of your hand, and spread that amount onto one section that needs treatment. (I have, also, tried adding the required amount of drops to a water-based moisturizer and getting the treatment/moisturizing done in one step, while extending the spread of the serum.) This should be used in the following manner in the evening: wash your face, apply serum, moisturize. It is important when using this product to use a good sunscreen in the daytime (I would recommend checking out the d'Alba Piedmont line, sold here on Amazon, as it's very gentle on the skin, provides a beautiful glow, and offers a broad spectrum of protection not available in most American-labeled lines.)This product takes time to see its overall effectiveness, because it's gentle to the skin, avoiding pain in the process of refinement. But, I'm here for the journey. And, compared to other luxury brands offered in the United States, it offers competitive pricing.
A. Hartman
Anti-aging retinol serum with brightening and hydrating ingredients!
This Kido Brightening Serum arrived just in time here for me to battle some of the unintentional sun damage we all get by end of summer. After three weeks of nightly use, I do feel an area of melasma I have is very gradually lightening. What makes this a standout treatment for me is the addition of…This Kido Brightening Serum arrived just in time here for me to battle some of the unintentional sun damage we all get by end of summer. After three weeks of nightly use, I do feel an area of melasma I have is very gradually lightening. What makes this a standout treatment for me is the addition of retinol. Using a powerful ingredient like 1% retinol allows the lightning agents like Koji acid and alpha arbutin to penetrate skin to fade melasma. This serum also contains soothing and hydrating ingredients, vitamin E and centella asiatica. Yes, it is pricey, but I am able to get away with using just this serum at night. I have had no irritation and my skin looks generally brighter.I like the texture of the serum. It has enough body that it doesn’t drip down your face, so you can pat it into your skin as recommended. There is pleasant, clean scent, but no discernible smell on the skin. Time will tell whether I achieve long-term results, but I’m happy to hang in there because I am still getting my nightly retinol. I recommend the serum to anyone looking for antiaging benefits, as well as skin evening properties.
LynnMarie
Rich bedtime serum
This rich, milky gel serum is a treat at bedtime. It glides onto and melts into my skin and includes a laundry list of skin-benefitting ingredients. The soft dropper bulb makes it easy to dispense the three drops I apply nightly. It so effectively hydrates that I often don't feel the need for an…This rich, milky gel serum is a treat at bedtime. It glides onto and melts into my skin and includes a laundry list of skin-benefitting ingredients. The soft dropper bulb makes it easy to dispense the three drops I apply nightly. It so effectively hydrates that I often don't feel the need for an additional moisturizer. Obviously it takes quite a bit of time to realize significant results, but I am enjoying the product and the process and am hopeful for good results in due course.
TheMaven
Fades spots with no irritation
I’ve had some sunspots and leftover acne marks on my cheeks for a while, so I gave this whitening serum a try. What made me want to use it was the strong ingredient list. It includes Centella Asiatica, alpha-arbutin, Vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, and retinol. I didn’t have any stinging or…I’ve had some sunspots and leftover acne marks on my cheeks for a while, so I gave this whitening serum a try. What made me want to use it was the strong ingredient list. It includes Centella Asiatica, alpha-arbutin, Vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, and retinol. I didn’t have any stinging or irritation, and it absorbs fast without leaving my skin sticky. After using it at night for a bit, I noticed my dark spots lightening slightly and my skin tone looking more even overall. I usually apply it right after cleansing, then follow up with a moisturizer. In the morning, my skin feels refreshed and brighter, without that dull look. The price is a bit expensive, but considering the quality and how it’s been working for me.
Jennie
Night Time Brightening Serum
This Iki Kido Brightening Serum arrived as one ounce in a plain looking pinkish hard plastic container with a dropper top. The serum is thick and semi-transparent and goes on easily and is readily absorbed. Since I have some darker skin tone areas that have been resistant to change, I decided to…This Iki Kido Brightening Serum arrived as one ounce in a plain looking pinkish hard plastic container with a dropper top. The serum is thick and semi-transparent and goes on easily and is readily absorbed. Since I have some darker skin tone areas that have been resistant to change, I decided to try this serum to see if it could help my skin tone. I find the serum effective at hydrating my skin and it does seem to smooth out my skin texture. However, I'm not seeing any changes in the spots after a week of use, it may just be my skin and it just might take more time.One note, the listing calls this 100% natural and organic, as far as I can tell it is not. There seems to be at least one synthetic polymer and there is no indication that anything is organic. The website listed on the product is under construction so there is no information available about the company. As far as value for this product, it seems a bit pricy for an unknown company but it does contain some good ingredients.
Mountain Mama
Nice texture and absorbs quickly
I had never heard of IKI Skincare before, and there’s limited information about the brand available online, which made me a bit hesitant. That said, the serum itself has a nice texture. It feels lightweight, non-greasy, and absorbs quickly into the skin. It’s formulated to target dark spots and…I had never heard of IKI Skincare before, and there’s limited information about the brand available online, which made me a bit hesitant. That said, the serum itself has a nice texture. It feels lightweight, non-greasy, and absorbs quickly into the skin. It’s formulated to target dark spots and uneven tone. After applying it, my skin does feel more hydrated. However, at nearly $70 for just 1 oz, the price does feel a bit steep considering the brand’s low visibility and lack of reviews. I’ll continue using it to see if it delivers noticeable results. I think more transparency or consumer feedback would help build trust around the product.
Cupcake
Brightening serum to lighten dark spots
I have freckles and I’m always trying to find something to lighten them up, especially during the summer when they get darker. This serum seems to work well. It does not have a scent. A little bit goes a long way. I use approximately three very small drops of the serum. It leaves my face feeling…I have freckles and I’m always trying to find something to lighten them up, especially during the summer when they get darker. This serum seems to work well. It does not have a scent. A little bit goes a long way. I use approximately three very small drops of the serum. It leaves my face feeling smooth and hydrated. It does not irritate my skin. It’s not oily, it’s more of a water-based serum. It absorbs quickly. I gave it four stars because for the 1 ounce bottle, it is a steep price of $72.
Kay G
Gentle on my skin
I am using this facial brightening serum by iki in the evening after I cleanse my face. I am using approximately 5 drops as recommended and for me this adequately covers my face. The serum isn’t oily and it absorbs rather quickly into my skin. I find my skin appears bright and hydrated the…I am using this facial brightening serum by iki in the evening after I cleanse my face. I am using approximately 5 drops as recommended and for me this adequately covers my face. The serum isn’t oily and it absorbs rather quickly into my skin. I find my skin appears bright and hydrated the following morning. This is a small container of serum, only 1ounce, however since I’m only using 5 drops per evening I feel it should last me a while. I do have sensitive skin however this serum has been extremely gentle and has caused no irritation thus far. I am pleased with this serum and would likely repurchase if there was a coupon as I find the current price to be out of my price range.
Wylee's mom
Improved areas if unevenness
Skin brightening serum that is easy to dispense and effectively helps my skin. Improves overall uneven skin textures and pigmented areas. Absorption rate being better than I'd originally anticipated. Leaves no heavy feelings and did not clog my pores. I like that I easily incorporated into my…Skin brightening serum that is easy to dispense and effectively helps my skin. Improves overall uneven skin textures and pigmented areas. Absorption rate being better than I'd originally anticipated. Leaves no heavy feelings and did not clog my pores. I like that I easily incorporated into my skincare routine. Odorless serum with no tack nor oil feelings.Effectively improved my skin's overall appearance and health without breaking my skincare budget!
TanyaKirk74
Gentle Brightening Serum That Delivers Steady Results Without Irritation
The media could not be loaded.I have sensitive skin that reacts easily, so I’m cautious about brightening serums. Kido has worked surprisingly well for me without irritation. I apply it at night alongside a very mild tretinoin and always wake up with skin that feels hydrated and calm.A few…The media could not be loaded.I have sensitive skin that reacts easily, so I’m cautious about brightening serums. Kido has worked surprisingly well for me without irritation. I apply it at night alongside a very mild tretinoin and always wake up with skin that feels hydrated and calm.A few specific observations:• Ingredients:• It includes several well-studied actives like kojic acid, alpha arbutin, retinol (listed as retinol and retinyl palmitate), and centella asiatica.• The retinol is listed at 1%, but given where it appears in the ingredients list, it may be buffered or diluted, which might explain why it feels gentle even on sensitive skin.• Vitamin E, jojoba esters, and collagen round out the formula for hydration and barrier support.• There is phenoxyethanol as a preservative, which is common in skincare, though worth noting for people looking for preservative-free options.• Claims vs. Reality:• “Corrects & Prevents Skin Spots & Melasma”: This is a big claim. Realistically, it would take consistent use over weeks or months to see fading of pigmentation, and it would depend on skin type. I would say this is possible but gradual.• “Non-Irritating Formula”: For me, that’s true. Sensitive skin types should still patch test, especially because of retinol and kojic acid.• “Cruelty-Free, Organic, 100% Natural”: The serum does contain lab-derived ingredients alongside natural ones. I wouldn’t call it truly 100% natural in the strictest sense, but it doesn’t feel like a synthetic-heavy product either.• “Scientifically Formulated, Gentle & Powerful”: That’s good marketing language. I’d say it’s a balanced blend of brightening and soothing ingredients rather than something unusually powerful.• Packaging and Experience:• The dropper bottle is sturdy and feels nicer than some products in this price range.• It absorbs well and layers nicely under moisturizer. No greasy or sticky feel.• I appreciate that it is made in the US, especially for peace of mind with ingredient sourcing.• Price Point: the combination of actives plus sensitive-skin-friendly formulation justifies it more than many products I’ve tried at similar price points.Final thought: If you are looking for an all-in-one brightening serum that won’t set off sensitive skin and you’re patient with gradual results, this is a solid choice. I wouldn’t call it a miracle product, but it delivers consistent, steady benefits without drama.
Laly
Brighten my skin
I love this serum, it has brighten my skin. I use it every day and night and I see the good results already. My skin looks younger and hydrated, value for money. I love this product. It's not sticky on the face very light weight.
tickyour
Pricey, but cruelty free and effective!
PROS:Easy to useAbsorbs wellNo tackiness or greasy residueHas Alpha Arbutin, Kojic acid and Retinol – all great for brightening/fading spotsVitamin E & Centella Asiatica for soothingNo redness or irritationSeems gentle on my dry, sensitive skinGlowing complexionCruelty…PROS:Easy to useAbsorbs wellNo tackiness or greasy residueHas Alpha Arbutin, Kojic acid and Retinol – all great for brightening/fading spotsVitamin E & Centella Asiatica for soothingNo redness or irritationSeems gentle on my dry, sensitive skinGlowing complexionCruelty freeNon-comedogenicOrganicCONS:Pretty priceyI think this is a really nice brightening serum. It has given me a lovely glow in the morning. I love that this is cruelty free, which is very important to me. I won't support a company that condones animal testing, directly or indirectly. I'm so glad that isn't the case with this expensive, but very nice serum!
Cat Wrangler
IKI Skincare – KIDO Brightening Serum It seems to be working!
I have been using IKI Skincare – KIDO Brightening Serum for about 3 weeks faithfully now. It has a dropper top and is easy to apply just the right amount. It has not irritated my skin at all. After 3 weeks, I do feel I am seeing a nice difference in my facial skin. I have a couple of darker age…I have been using IKI Skincare – KIDO Brightening Serum for about 3 weeks faithfully now. It has a dropper top and is easy to apply just the right amount. It has not irritated my skin at all. After 3 weeks, I do feel I am seeing a nice difference in my facial skin. I have a couple of darker age patches, and I do feel that I'm seeing a little good changes happening there. This skincare does seem to be evening out my skin tones for the better. It is readily absorbed into my skin and gives my face a nice feeling. I am also using a couple of drops on the tops of my hands where I'm starting to see signs of aging. I do feel like this product is helping there too.So after using this every night for about 3 weeks, I am pleased with the small changes that I am seeing. I would get this product again. I would also love to try some of their other products.
SapphireSkies13
So far so good
I love this serum, it moisturizes my skin, it doesn’t irritate me, very easy to use and a great travel size. Great for the price and hopefully in time I start to see some good changes to skin.
TT
KIDO BRIGHTENING SERUM
I added this serum to my nighttime routine because I wanted a gentle way to fade stubborn sun spots without irritation. After three weeks, my complexion looks more even and hydrated, and I haven’t experienced any redness or peeling._ Pros_ Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture—no greasy feel_…I added this serum to my nighttime routine because I wanted a gentle way to fade stubborn sun spots without irritation. After three weeks, my complexion looks more even and hydrated, and I haven’t experienced any redness or peeling._ Pros_ Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture—no greasy feel_ Kojic acid, alpha-arbutin & gentle retinol combo visibly soften dark spots_ Centella Asiatica and vitamin E calm sensitive skin_ Airless pump protects actives from oxidation_ Cons_ Mild retinol means results take patience on deeper pigmentation_ Slight herbal scent (fades quickly)A solid brightening formula if you want gradual tone-evening without harsh side effects.
Ryan
Powerful Serum – Feels Light on the Skin
I have freckles and discoloration on my face so I’ve been looking out for a product that can help. I saw this KIDO serum and was impressed with the contents. It has some powerful ingredients known to improve skin tone and texture. I wasn’t sure that my skin could tolerate a mixture of alpha…I have freckles and discoloration on my face so I’ve been looking out for a product that can help. I saw this KIDO serum and was impressed with the contents. It has some powerful ingredients known to improve skin tone and texture. I wasn’t sure that my skin could tolerate a mixture of alpha arbutin, 1% retinol, bakuchiol, and vitamin E, but I experienced no irritation on my sensitive skin.The serum itself is light and dries almost immediately after application. My skin doesn’t feel sticky or tacky. I don’t like a heavy serum and lightness is especially important if I want to layer with moisturizer or sunscreen, as I often do.I’ve only been using it for a short time, but I’m already noticing results. I can’t wait to see how it does longterm. My only hesitation is the price for a bottle that is a little over an ounce. But since I only use 4-5 drops each time, it should last a while. This serum is definitely worth a try!
Booklover
A slightly mysterious brand that is apparently making great stuff
This is an interesting product for me. I try and review a lot of high end skincare products here on Amazon. I have never heard of this company which isn’t that unusual. However, in this Information age, I can find very little about this company. It is very Japanese leaning, complete with Japanese…This is an interesting product for me. I try and review a lot of high end skincare products here on Amazon. I have never heard of this company which isn’t that unusual. However, in this Information age, I can find very little about this company. It is very Japanese leaning, complete with Japanese descriptions on the bottle. However, it is made here in the US. I guess I am saying all of this to let you know that I am a bit confused about this product. There just isn’t much about them on the web. That said, this is a high end serum that uses great ingredients. It is a brightening and evening serum and after just a week, I am pretty happy with it. I use it as a night serum as brightening serums tend to leave your skin more vulnerable to sun exposure. It goes in clean and absorbs well. It is non-comedogenic so most skin types should be good here. There is no fragrance. All good. I wish I knew more about the company but will continue to do my homework and update. In the meantime, this stuff isn’t cheap and, while I think it is really good, the lack of information around the company gives me a little bit of a pause in terms of a whole hearted endorsement. That said, this serum is fantastic and an easy recommendation. Just need more information to recommend going all in on the brand.
HJeffK
Smooth Texture, Easy to Absorb
I’ve been using the KIDO Brightening Serum for a few weeks now and I really like the texture and how it absorbs quickly into the skin. It feels light, non-greasy, and doesn’t cause any irritation. The formula combines ingredients like kojic acid, alpha arbutin, and retinol, which I’ve used…I’ve been using the KIDO Brightening Serum for a few weeks now and I really like the texture and how it absorbs quickly into the skin. It feels light, non-greasy, and doesn’t cause any irritation. The formula combines ingredients like kojic acid, alpha arbutin, and retinol, which I’ve used separately before, so it’s nice to have them in one bottle. I’ve noticed my skin tone looking more even and some dark spots starting to fade. It also keeps my skin feeling hydrated throughout the day. The quality feels very good and the price is fair for what you get. I appreciate that it includes Centella Asiatica and Vitamin E, which help calm the skin. I’ll continue using it.
Eva
Not sticky or tacky
Why did you pick this product vs others?:I have been using this serum for a few weeks in my nightly skin care routine. It has a milky texture to it. It goes on lightly and absorbs quickly. It does not feel sticky on my skin. I follow up with my nightly moisturizer as this product is a…Why did you pick this product vs others?:I have been using this serum for a few weeks in my nightly skin care routine. It has a milky texture to it. It goes on lightly and absorbs quickly. It does not feel sticky on my skin. I follow up with my nightly moisturizer as this product is a little drying on me. I am noticing brightening effect as this is helping to smooth out my skin tone. Three drops is all I need to cover my face and neck area. A little goes a long way on me.
Graylady
Excellent hydration
Goes on smoothly. Feels like a facial barrier. It is easily and quickly absorbed leaving a soft smooth skin texture.
