How To Use Arbutin Acid?

Arbutin acid, or alpha-arbutin, is a safe and natural alternative to hydroquinone, a whitening agent that has been banned in many countries and areas, including Europe, since March 2001, due to its carcinogenic potential.

The effectiveness of alpha-arbutin on pigmentation spots is due to its high affinity with the activity of tyrosinase, the enzyme that stimulates melanin synthesis in the skin. As a reminder, melanin is the pigment responsible for the brown color. When too much melanin is produced in a localized area, it leads to the formation of persistent brown spots on the skin's surface. This phenomenon has a name: hyperpigmentation. Alpha-arbutin inhibits the overproduction of melanin and fades the spots already present, as well as any skin marks left by imperfections.

In addition, this active ingredient has an antioxidant power that helps the skin defend itself against attacks by free radicals. These highly reactive molecules accelerate skin aging.

Acne marks, sun spots, pregnancy masks are all skin irregularities that can affect the uniformity of the complexion and sometimes cause a certain amount of discomfort for the individuals affected. In order to fade these marks of all kinds, different formulations contain alpha-arbutin and are now distributed on the cosmetic market. This active ingredient can be found in creams, lotions, tonics, aqueous serums or even night masks.

To observe an efficiency on the skin, the arbutin acid must be at least concentrated at 0.2% in a cosmetic formula. In general, serums are the formulations that have a higher concentration of active ingredients and therefore also of alpha-arbutin.

Note: According to a 2015 report, the SCCS (Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety) considers the use of alpha-arbutin in cosmetic products to be safe for consumers at a concentration of up to 2% in face creams and up to 0.5% in body milks.