Alpha arbutin is a skin-lightening agent that inhibits melanin production, reducing hyperpigmentation and promoting even skin tone.
Alpha arbutin is a skin-lightening agent that can be derived naturally or synthesized. It functions by inhibiting tyrosinase, an enzyme crucial for melanin synthesis, thereby reducing hyperpigmentation, melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, leading to a more even skin tone. It is typically used in topical formulations at concentrations between 0.2% and 2%. While generally safe, some individuals might experience mild skin irritation. It's recommended to use sunscreen in conjunction with alpha arbutin to protect the skin from UV radiation, which can stimulate melanin production and counteract the effects of alpha arbutin.
Key Information
Outside Body Harmful Score
Common Dosage
0.2-2% in topical formulations
Source Type
hybrid
Production Process
Alpha arbutin can be extracted from natural sources like bearberry, cranberry, and blueberry plants. It is also synthesized in a laboratory through enzymatic glucosylation of hydroquinone.
Use Type
Outside BodyPotential Benefits
Hyperpigmentation reduction lightens or evens out skin tone in areas with excessive melanin production by targeting melanin synthesis, transfer, or removal. Treatments involve topical agents, procedures, and sun protection.
Arbutin lightens the skin by inhibiting tyrosinase, reducing melanin production and promoting a more even skin tone. It helps fade hyperpigmentation, sunspots, and melasma.
Alpha arbutin reduces melanin production, fading existing dark patches and preventing new ones from forming, thus treating melasma. It evens skin tone by inhibiting tyrosinase.
Alpha arbutin helps reduce post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) by inhibiting melanin production, leading to a more even skin tone. It addresses dark marks left behind by skin inflammation like acne and eczema.
Possible Side Effects
Skin irritation involves symptoms like redness, itching, and rashes due to contact with irritants, allergens, or environmental factors. Severity varies based on the cause, individual sensitivity, and affected area; persistent cases may lead to secondary infections.
Sun sensitivity is an increased susceptibility to UV radiation, leading to exaggerated sunburn reactions and potential long-term skin damage. It can be triggered by medications, medical conditions, or topical products.
Contact dermatitis is a skin inflammation triggered by direct contact with irritants or allergens, leading to redness, itching, and potential blistering. Prolonged exposure can worsen the condition.
Scientific Evidence
Studies show alpha arbutin inhibits melanin production more effectively than beta arbutin and is generally considered safer than hydroquinone. Further research continues to explore its efficacy and optimal concentrations for various skin conditions. (e.g., 'Inhibition of melanogenesis by arbutin' - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16185230/')
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