All ingredients

Active Ingredients

Alpha-Arbutin

α-熊果苷

Also known as: Arbutin

What it does

Inhibits melanin
Fades dark spots
Evens skin tone

Effective concentration

Typical 1-2%

Evidence

Moderate evidence

Skin types

Well suited for: All

Irritation potential

Low

Comedogenic rating

0 / 5

Pregnancy

Generally considered safe during pregnancy

Good to know

Gentler, safer alternative to hydroquinone. Results take 8-12 weeks.

References

PubChem · CID 158637

Compound data from PubChem (U.S. National Library of Medicine).

Further reading

Phospholipid-Based Vesicular Systems as Carriers for the Delivery of Active Cosmeceutical Ingredients — Int J Mol Sci (2025)
Medicinal Plants for Skin Disorders: Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Insights — Molecules (2025)

Selected peer-reviewed reviews on this ingredient, indexed by Europe PMC. Provided as background, not proof of any specific claim.

Related ingredients

Niacinamide Retinol Salicylic Acid Ascorbic Acid Centella Asiatica Extract Azelaic Acid

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Educational information only — not medical advice. Always patch test and consult a dermatologist for skin concerns.