Name

Alpha Arbutin

We recommend avoiding

Description

Arbutin is a naturally occurring derivative of hydroquinone. It is found in various plant species, including bearberry, blueberry, and cranberry, and is widely used in the cosmetic industry for its skin-lightening properties.

Benefits

Skin Lightening: Arbutin is primarily used for its ability to inhibit melanin production, making it effective in treating hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and uneven skin tone. Antioxidant Properties: Arbutin also has antioxidant properties, which help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals.

Considerations

• Skin Sensitivity Some individuals may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions, especially those with sensitive skin. • Hydroquinone Contamination Arbutin can potentially release hydroquinone, which is a more potent and potentially harmful skin-lightening agent. It has been found to cause certain cancers.

Synonyms

Hydroquinone β-D-glucopyranoside (2R,3S,4S,5R,6R)-2-(hydroxymethyl)-6-(4-hydroxyphenoxy)oxane-3,4,5-triol a-Arbutin 4-hydroxyphenyl alpha-D-glucopyranoside (2R,3S,4S,5R,6R)-2-(hydroxymethyl)-6-(4-hydroxyphenoxy)oxane-3,4,5-triol alpha-D-Glucopyranoside, 4-hydroxyphenyl a-D-Glucopyranoside, 4-hydroxyphenyl (2R,3S,4S,5R,6R)-2-(hydroxymethyl)-6-(4-hydroxyphenoxy)tetrahydro-2H-pyran-3,4,5-triol AC1L4KBI Alpha Arbutine Alfa Arbutina 4-Hydroxyphenyl-alpha-D-glucopyranoside α-arbutin

Research Sources

https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/158637 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8301119/

Summary

Can be contaminated or release carcinogenic hydroquinone.