Alpha Arbutin - An Underrated Ingredient For Dark Spots

Alpha Arbutin - An Underrated Ingredient For Dark Spots

By Daisy Jing

As someone committed to helping people achieve their healthiest skin and testing tons of skincare products,  I've seen firsthand the brightening effects of using alpha arbutin!

Alpha Arbutin is derived from plants such as bearberry, or cranberry.

Alpha arbutin is a powerhouse ingredient known for its skin-brightening and hyperpigmentation-fighting properties. Here's the science behind this underrated skincare ingredient.  

Alpha arbutin is also a natural derivative of hydroquinone, which is a potent skin-lightening ingredient that is available through prescription in the U.S.

However, unlike hydroquinone, alpha arbutin is gentler on the skin and doesn't carry the same risks of irritation or side effects such as erythema and dermatitis. 

Alpha arbutin is a great choice for those who have more sensitive skin or want something that has less side effects. 

One of the key benefits of alpha arbutin is its ability to stop the production of melanin, which is the pigment responsible for dark spots, sun spots, and uneven skin tone.

Fades dark spots

By blocking the activity of tyrosinase, the enzyme involved in melanin synthesis, alpha arbutin helps fade existing hyperpigmentation  while preventing new hyperpigmentation from forming. With continued use, skin will have a more even complexion and a reduction in the appearance of discoloration.

Alpha arbutin has antioxidant properties that help protect the skin from damage caused by factors such as UV radiation and pollution. Therefore, alpha arbutin helps maintain the skin's elasticity to maintain the skin's firmness and further help even out skin tone. 

How To Use

Incorporating alpha arbutin into your skincare routine is simple. Look for serums, creams, or spot treatments containing this ingredient, and apply them to clean, dry skin daily.  Depending on the product, you can use it once a day, or twice morning and night. 

Pairing alpha arbutin with other brightening agents such as vitamin C can enhance the effectiveness and speed up its skin-brightening effects.

Some research also shows Arbutin combined with aloe show better results for dark spots compared to using it alone.

It's important to note that while alpha arbutin can deliver impressive results, consistency matters. Add it into your daily skincare routine and be patient with it.

Also if you are struggling with dark spots, don't forget to use sun protection as UV exposure can deepen hyperpigmentation.  

In conclusion, alpha arbutin is a great new dark spot fading ingredient with a great safety profile. 

Whether you're dealing with stubborn dark spots, sun damage, or simply seeking to enhance your natural glow, incorporating alpha arbutin into your routine may help. you reach your skin goals faster! 

Recommended Product: Alpha Vitamin C Creme which combines arbutin with aloe and vitamin C to enhance the brightening effectiveness! 

 

 

References: Schwartz C, Jan A, Zito PM. Hydroquinone. [Updated 2023 Aug 22]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539693/

Chandorkar, Nikhil & Tambe, Srushti & Amin, Purnima & Madankar, Chandu. (2021). Alpha Arbutin as a Skin Lightening Agent: A Review. 13. 3502 - 3510. 10.31838/ijpr/2021.13.02.446. 

Hollinger JC, Angra K, Halder RM. Are Natural Ingredients Effective in the Management of Hyperpigmentation? A Systematic Review. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2018 Feb;11(2):28-37. Epub 2018 Feb 1. PMID: 29552273; PMCID: PMC5843359.

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