Arbutin is one of the components of cosmetics intended for skin whitening. The substance is of natural origin. Arbutin is obtained by extracting plants such as cranberry, bearberry, blueberry, lingonberry and other plants.

Basic properties of action

Arbutin blocks the main enzyme, tyrosinase, which is involved in the synthesis of melanin, in other words, stops the pigmentation process. As you know, age spots are formed for various reasons, the main of which is the influence of sunlight. Ultraviolet radiation is especially dangerous at the time of skin damage. In addition to the sun, hormonal disruptions affect the appearance of age spots ... age.



Arbutin is the first assistant in the fight for an even skin color. Arbutin disinfects the skin, has an antiseptic effect, cleanses from toxins, reduces swelling, redness and improves skin turgor. Thanks to all of these properties, the skin becomes smooth and well-groomed under the action of the product.

Previously, hydroquinone was used in whitening cosmetics. However, it is recognized as toxic and carcinogenic, therefore, its use is prohibited in the EU countries. Hydroquinone is not used in Australia and Japan either. Arbutin proved to be a worthy substitute for hydroquinone.

Many cosmetic companies prefer arbutin as an ingredient in whitening products. Arbutin goes well with other components: hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, with vitamin C, retinol, with various acids.



Here are some examples of remedies that have especially proven themselves as the means with the best results of action.

1. Hada Labo Shirojyun Arbutin Whitening Lotion - lotion of the Japanese brand Hada Labo. The product has a lightening effect on the skin. The lotion contains a high concentration of arbutin, so it not only lightens freckles and pigmentation, but also prevents further melanin production. The product contains hyaluronic acid, which contributes to deep hydration of the skin, and vitamin C, which is contained in the composition, repairs the skin from damage caused by ultraviolet radiation.

The lotion is suitable for sensitive skin as it does not contain fragrances, mineral oil, dyes or alcohol.



2.iS Clinical Super Serum Advance Plus - Super Serum Advance Plus is developed by the American brand iS Clinical. It is a product with a high concentration of active ingredients, so the result of its use will be perfectly even skin. The serum is designed for all skin types.

The product contains vitamin C, which protects the skin from free radicals and stimulates collagen synthesis. The serum makes the skin firmer and more elastic. Pigmented spots are lightened, and the skin seems to glow from the inside.

As components, in addition to arbutin and vitamin C, peptides, kojic acid and a complex of amino acids are included, which contributes to the rejuvenation of the skin and the healing of various injuries.



3. The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA - Canadian brand serum with alpha-arbutin and hyaluronic acid. The product has brightening and skin tone smoothing properties. The drug suppresses the secretion of melanin, while at the same time creating an even distribution of the pigment. Hyaluronic acid effectively moisturizes the skin. The product does not contain alcohol, fragrances and silicones. And what else the manufacturer pays attention to is that during the production of the drug, not a single animal was harmed.The product can be beneficial for dull skin lacking in radiance and pigmentation.

4. The Inkey List. Alpha arbutin Is another highly effective serum from the young British brand The INKEY List, which entered the cosmetic industry in 2018. Products with affordable prices, not tested on animals.



Concentrated whitening serum with alpha-arbutin - 2%, squalane - 0.5%, hyaluronic acid, phospholipids, soybean seed extract is ideal for problem skin. Alpha Arbutin is derived from bearberry leaves. An additional face treatment requires an SPF cream to protect the skin from UV damage.

5. RCS Snow Skin - whitening face cream. Among this product category, there is a cream for both day and night. In the cream, niacinamide and arbutin are the best active ingredients for whitening freckles and age spots. RCS is a Russian manufacturer with quite an affordable price and fairly good quality. Agree that such a combination of price and quality is rare. Snow Skin allows you to remove very strong age spots.



6. Dr. Rimpler Whitening - whitening cream of the German company Dr Rimpler. Since 1974, this company has been producing high quality cosmetic products with the introduction of innovative nanotechnology and supplies products to more than 40 countries around the world.

This cream is used to combat age-related pigmentation. It contains SPF filters that protect the skin from harmful UV. The cream moisturizes the skin, protects against the damaging effects of free radicals, has whitening properties and prevents premature aging.

The cream with arbutin and silk proteins works for 24 hours, while effectively reducing and lightening pigmentation of any origin. Arbutin, which is in the composition of the drug, inhibits the activity of melanocytes. The cream activates collagen synthesis, thereby improving the firmness and elasticity of the skin, gives it an even tone, moisturizes and nourishes it. The skin becomes soft and radiant.

The cream contains arbutin, shea butter, vitamin E, aloe vera, silk proteins, UVA and UVB filters.



Arbutin helps the skin to cope with age spots, but it acts slowly and delicately. The first results can be seen in a month and a half. In many cases, pigmentation only disappears during the application of the product. When we stop using it, some age spots return to their places again. However, it all depends on the causes of pigmentation and, of course, the individual properties of the body, so everyone can hope for the best.

If the pigmentation cannot be treated with cosmetic products, you can use the procedures in the salon. These are cryotherapy (liquid nitrogen treatment), mesotherapy, laser treatment, exposure to selective pulsed light (phototherapy). The last two methods are considered the most effective, since a few days after the procedure, the spots quickly disappear and do not return more. These treatments are best done in winter when sun activity is at its lowest.

Are there any negative consequences when using products containing arbutin? Cosmetologists claim that such products are completely safe, so they have no contraindications. However, do not forget that people with sensitive skin need to be careful.