What is Alpha Arbutin?

Alpha Arbutin is the pure form of arbutin, a substance naturally found in bearberry leaf and some berries. This version is lab-made using enzymes and comes as a fine, white to off-white powder. It is virtually odorless.

Alpha Arbutin is a great ingredient in skincare for skin with dark spots or uneven skin tone. It helps your skin look more even.

Great for DIY: dissolve 0.5-2% in water or floral water for a clear serum. Combines well with niacinamide and hyaluronic acid.

What are the benefits of Alpha Arbutin?

For a more even-looking complexion
Alpha Arbutin cares for skin with dark spots, making them less noticeable.

Calmer skin tone
Your skin looks more even and fresher.

Gentle on sensitive skin
No harsh acid, but a mild substance that dissolves in water and is usually well tolerated.

Absorbs quickly, not oily
Water-based, so it absorbs quickly without a sticky or oily feeling. Great under sunscreen and makeup.

Works well together
Combines nicely with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and licorice extract for an even result.

You need only a little
Even a small amount in a light serum gives noticeable results, so a sachet lasts a long time.

How do you use Alpha Arbutin?

Face: apply a serum with 0.5-2% Alpha Arbutin to clean skin, morning and/or evening. Follow with a cream. Always use sunscreen during the day.

DIY serum: dissolve 0.5-2% in distilled water or floral water and stir until clear. Optionally add 2-5% niacinamide and humectants such as glycerin or hyaluronic acid.

Cream or lotion: add 0.5-2% once the formula has cooled (below 40°C), preferably after emulsifying.

pH and heat: keep the pH around 4.5-6.5 and avoid high heat to maintain effectiveness.

Targeted use: apply your serum extra to dark spots for a targeted approach.

Patch test: test first on a small area of skin.

What makes Alpha Arbutin so special?

Alpha Arbutin is the "alpha" form of arbutin: more targeted and more stable than the regular beta form, and it remains stable at a skin-friendly pH. This means a small amount in a light, watery serum often already gives a nice, even result, without a complicated routine.