Arbutin

antioxidant even complexion scar reduction lightening brightening
acne redness sun sensitivity irritation

overview

Alpha-arbutin, a naturally occurring skin-lightening agent, is extracted from plants like bearberries, blueberries, and cranberries. It works by inhibiting the tyrosinase enzyme, which is responsible for melanin production, leading to a reduction in dark spots, hyperpigmentation, age spots, and melasma. Alpha-arbutin is generally safe for all skin types, including sensitive skin, and can be used in concentrations up to 2% in face creams and 0.5% in body lotions. Alpha-arbutin is extremely sensitive to degradation in the presence of water if the pH of the formulation is not ideal. The pH of this formula has been shown to be the most suitable pH to minimize degradation of Alpha-arbutin.

benefits

["Skin-lightening: Alpha-arbutin helps reduce dark spots, hyperpigmentation, age spots, and melasma by inhibiting melanin production.", "Antioxidant properties: Alpha-arbutin possesses antioxidant properties that may help protect the skin from free radical damage.", "Gentle on skin: Alpha-arbutin is less irritating than other skin-lightening agents, making it suitable for sensitive skin.", "Improves uneven complexion: Alpha-arbutin can help fade dark spots and even out skin tone.", "Can be used twice daily: Alpha-arbutin can be safely used both in the morning and at night.", "Effective at fading scars: Alpha-arbutin can help fade red-purple acne scars.", "Brightens skin: Alpha-arbutin prohibits the formation of dark spots, offering a brightening effect on the skin."]

Skin suitability

Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

concerns

Some cases of hypersensitive reactions have been reported, including skin irritation, mild breakouts, sun sensitivity, and redness.

precautions

["Perform a patch test before using alpha-arbutin to check for any allergic reactions.", "Avoid using alpha-arbutin if you have active acne or rosacea.", "Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to protect your skin from sun damage.", "Avoid mixing alpha-arbutin with niacinamide and ascorbic acid, as they may not be compatible.", "Heat can degrade the effectiveness of arbutin."]

source

Extracted from plants like bearberries, blueberries, and cranberries.

CIR

Alpha-arbutin used in face creams up to a maximum concentration of 2% and in body lotions up to a concentration of 0.5% is safe, also when used together.

EWG

NA

additional info

Alpha-arbutin is a safer alternative to hydroquinone, a potent skin-lightening agent with potential side effects. It can be combined with other ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and facial acids to enhance its skin-lightening and depigmenting properties.