The Best Alpha Arbutin Serums For Hyperpigmentation (Top Brands & Buyers Guide)

If you’re on this page, then you must have been searching for the best alpha arbutin serums for hyperpigmentation, and you know what? Your search is over.

Asides from acne , wrinkles and fine lines, hyperpigmentation is another annoying skin issue one can ever encounter. Not only does it make your skin look dull and uneven, but also makes it look more older and unpleasant. All thanks to vitamin C and retinol serum which fights skin aging signs, brightens dark spots, age spots and scars, giving the skin a youthful glow with an improved texture.

But above all, alpha arbutin has proven superior and more potent in getting rid of hyperpigmentation, and you know what? It’s suitable for all skin types, unlike tons of products promise to brighten, tone, and add luminosity, they can be too harsh or drying for those with sensitive skin, which is why it’s very important to know your skin type.

What Is Arbutin?

Arbutin is naturally derived from bearberry plant, it’s also found in cranberries, blueberries, wheat, and pears. Arbutin prevents the formation of melanin, as it functions as a tyrosinase inhibitor to provide skin lightening and brightening effects.

Arbutin Comes In Two Forms

• Alpha-Arbutin
• Beta-Arbutin

Alpha-Arbutin: Alpha-Arbutin is a biosynthetic active ingredient that is pure, water-soluble and is manufactured in a powder form, its main source of extraction is from bearberry plant. Research has proven that it has a stronger inhibitory action than that of (beta) arbutin.

Though it is a very expensive ingredient to manufacture, even at very low concentrations, alpha arbutin has shown to inhibit the activity of tyrosinase. Alpha Arbutin’s inhibitory mechanism is different from that of beta-arbutin and can be up to 10 times more effective.

The a-glucosidic bond found in alpha-arbutin offers higher stability and efficacy than the B form found in the related Beta-Arbutin. This leads to a skin whitening active that acts faster and more efficiently than existing single components

Beta-Arbutin: Beta-Arbutin is often referred to as just Arbutin. As a natural extract also found in bearberry (Uva Ursi) plants, Arbutin also provides a skin lightening effect on the skin by inhibiting tyrosinase activity. Though it is cheaper to manufacture than Alpha-Arbutin, the skin lightening effect is much less than that of its counterpart. For this reason, many new skin whitening products now use Alpha Arbutin as opposed to only beta-Arbutin.

Skin Benefits Of Arbutin

• Fades hyperpigmentation: Be it dark spots, age spots, sun spots and acne scars, arbutin can fade all kinds of hyperpigmentation, all you need is consistent usage and the right concentration.

• Lightens uneven complexion: Since arbutin inhibits tyrosinase, an enzyme that helps with melanin production, it can prevent dark spots or even help fade them, leading to a more even complexion.

• Suitable for all skin types: Arbutin not only proven its efficacy on hyperpigmentation, but also proven to be suitable for all skin types (even the most sensitive skin). It’s gentle on the skin and can be used twice daily for optimum result without causing any dryness or irritation.

• Safer than Hydroquinone: Arbutin is a perfect alternative to hydroquinone (which is also known for lightening the skin with numerous side effects). Although arbutin converts to hydroquinone in the body but does not possess the same risks or side effects associated with hydroquinone.

• Safe to use with other skincare products: Arbutin not only being skin friendly but also friendly with other skincare ingredients.
  There are no known negative interactions between arbutin and other skincare ingredients. Arbutin even works more better when combined with other skincare ingredients like vitamin C, Retinol, AHAs, etc.

Buyers Guide (Things You Should Know)

There are some certain things you should look out for before purchasing an arbutin serum or product.

Ensure It’s At least 1%.

Before purchasing an alpha arbutin serum (or product) ensure it’s at least 1% above. Anything below that, we recommend you shouldn’t buy. Alpha arbutin at 1% works great for hyperpigmentation. Most manufacturers uses 2% or higher for more optimum and effective result.

After a careful research and review, we’ve independently selected six (6) best alpha arbutin serums for hyperpigmentation.

Best Alpha Arbutin Serum For Hyperpigmentation.

1. SkinCeuticals Phyto Plus.

Buy Now From Dermstore

If you’re into the idea of combined therapies, this is a great arbutin serum to try. It combines a high dose of arbutin with kojic acid, so the two come together to make this serum extra powerful at renewing the skin and fading all kinds of discoloration thereby improving overall complexion. It’s a light, hydrating formula that works well for most skin types, though be careful if you’re sensitive.

Pros

• All natural.
• Cruelty-free.
• Combines arbutin with Kojic acid.
• Light-weight formula.
• Non-comedogenic.
• Contains no harmful substances.

Cons

• May not be suitable for sensitive skin.

2. iS Clinical Super Serum Advance Plus.

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A high potent formula for skin brightening and glowing. This serum combines Vitamin C (L-acorbic acid) and arbutin for optimum result which addresses the issue of all kinds of hyperpigmentation. This serum also offers intense hydration and encourages wound healing and collagen production because of its content in hyaluronic acid, Vitamin B5 and copper tripeptide growth factor. It also contains centella asiatica a powerful reddness-soothing ingredient which makes this serum ideal for all skin types Including sensitive skin.

Pros

• All natural.
• Cruelty-free.
• Very hydrating.
• Suitable For all skin types
• Light-weight formula
• Non-comedogenic
• Contains no harmful substances.

Cons

• Expensive (but worths the price)

3. The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% Serum.

Buy Now From Ulta

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You know the cause that led to popularity of alpha arbutin serums? The ordinary 2% alpha arbutin is behind it. This product (from Deciem) combines hydrating hyaluronic acid with 2% alpha-arbutin, to fade hyperpigmentation such as dark marks, melasma, and sunspots. It’s a simple, non-comedogenic formula that is easy to add to any existing skincare routine.

We love this serum because, not only does it contain 2% alpha arbutin which effectively fades spots but also contains hyaluronic acid, which is a moisture magnet that draws and retains moisture into the skin, thereby keeping the skin well hydrated and plumped.

This serum has a gel-like texture (just like hyaluronic acid serum) and absorbs quickly into the skin. 

We must be honest with you, (just like we always are) This serum takes time to work. It’s not a fast action, so we suggest you give it more time. Well, result may vary. It all depends on your skin type and the severity of hyperpigmentation being treated. But with consistent usage you should see full results in a period of 1-2 months. Read in-depth review here.

Pros

• Contains 2% Alpha arbutin (high concentration)
• Brightens skin tone.
• Reduces the look of dark spots.
• Light-weight formula.
• Non-comedogenic.
• Suitable for all skin types.
• Fragrance-free.
• Contains no harmful substances.

Cons

• Takes time to show results. (Depending on skin type and severity of hyperpigmentation).

4. The Inkey List Alpha Arbutin Serum.

Buy Now From Sephora

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Also one of the best alpha arbutin serums on the market. Comprised of simple ingredients list. This beloved serum is stuffed with 2% alpha arbutin to laser-focusly target and fade hyperpigmentation (dark spots, melasma) and brighten overall skin tone. It also contains squalane, hyaluronic acid and glycine Soja (soybean) extract which helps to increase skin hydration and smoothness.

Pros

• Absorbs quickly.
• Very hydrating to the skin.
• Non-comedogenic.
• Combines 2% alpha arbutin with squalane, hyaluronic acid & glycine Soja (soybean).
• Light-weight formula.
• Non-comedogenic
• Contains no harmful chemicals.

Cons

• None.

5. Dr. Dennis Gross Clinical Grade IPL Dark Spot Correcting Serum.

Buy Now From Dermstore

A powerful hyperpigmentation treatment which combines three powerful ingredients Arbutin, 10% L-acorbic acid and Kojic acid to target and tackle pigmentation, fight against environmental aggressors and visibly brightens the complexion. It also contain lactic acid an AHA which mildly exfoliates the skin by sloughing off dead skin cells which enables the skin lighteners penetrate well to do their jobs effectively.

Pros

• All natural.
• Combines Arbutin, vitamin C and Kojic acid.
• Light-weight formula.
• Contains no harmful substances.
• Cruelty-free & Vegan

Cons

• May not be suitable for sensitive skin.

6. The Ordinary Ascorbic Acid 8% + Alpha Arbutin 2%.

Buy Now From Ulta

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If you want combined therapies, this is yet another great serum to try from Deciem (The Ordinary brand). This serum combines 8% ascorbic acid (vitamin C) alongside alpha arbutin for inhibiting melanin production and fading away existing dark spots, marks and scars.

According to research, Alpha arbutin works even more better when combined with vitamin C, and other natural skin lightening ingredients.

Vitamin C known as a powerful vitamin, which offers skin brightening and anti-aging benefits by supplying the skin with antioxidants which fights free radicals, repairs damaged skin, fights skin aging signs (wrinkles & fine lines), stimulates collagen production and improve over all skin texture. In combination with 2% alpha arbutin will be a super combo in brightening skin tone and reducing signs of ageing, this formula is particularly adept at reducing the look of dark spots and uneven skin tone. 

This product contains 8% ascorbic acid (an acidic form of vitamin C) which may not be suitable for individuals with super sensitive skin. If your skin is super sensitive, ensure to apply a moisturizer immediately after applying the serum to counter the effect of possible occurrence of irritations such as dryness, and redness. You can as well choose to back off entirely.

This product has a light, yet oily feeling texture (but oil-free). Your skin will feel slightly oily after application but will wear off after some minutes (after absorbing). People with oily skin may not really like this feeling, but we advise you should apply just two drops. This will absorb faster.

Note: This serum is non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores).

Pros

• Contains 8% Ascorbic acid & 2% Alpha arbutin.
• Brightens skin tone.
• Reduces the look of dark spots.
• Non-comedogenic.
• Contains no harmful substances.
• Fragrance-free.

Cons

• Takes a while to completely absorb.
• Has a slight oily feeling texture.
• May not be suitable for super sensitive skin.

Possible Questions & Answers.

Q: Does arbutin have any side effects?

A: Arbutin is absolutely gentle and mild on the skin and causes no irritations.

However, as with any ingredient, it is still possible to have an allergic reaction to arbutin (which is very rare).
This is why we always recommend patch testing new products on the arm or behind the ear for few days before applying it all over the face – this recommendation applies to arbutin skin care as much as it applies to anything else.

Also note: Arbutin products are combined with other skincare ingredients for more optimum result. If in any case irritation should occur, it could be you’re allergic to one of the ingredients.

Q: Is arbutin really suitable for all skin types?

A: Yes, arbutin is great for all skin types. Arbutin on its own is gentle and non-comedogenic and easy to include in variety of different formulations, such as serums, creams, face masks and peels.

However, just like we keep advising. It’s always important to go through the ingredients list of any product before purchasing. This is to check for any ingredient not suitable for your skin type or you could be allergic to.

Example: People with oily skin are advised to go for oil-free and less greasy products, they should avoid products with heavy oils which might make their skin more oily or potentially clog pores. 

Q: While using alpha arbutin serum, do i need sunscreen?

A: Yes. In fact using a sunscreen everyday before stepping outside is a must, whether you’re using a skin lightening product or not. This is to protect your skin from the harmful UV rays of the sun. Read how to correctly apply sunscreen. 

Q: How should I use arbutin serum?

A: Arbutin is completely safe, gentle and suitable for all skin types. Therefore it can be used twice daily (AM & PM) after cleansing your face with a facial cleanser suitable for your skin.

Q: As a skin lightening ingredient is arbutin safe to use for a long period of time?

A: Arbutin is 100% natural and derived from bear berry plant. It’s completely safe to use as long as you want.

According to this study, Alpha arbutin has proven to be a safe skin lightening ingredient, as it showed no inhibitory effect on HMV-II cell growth at a concentration below 1.0 mM.

Also according to this study. A research test was carried out on a mouse using both Hydroquinone and alpha Arbutin.

Results showed that Arbutin had no effect on the differentiation of melanocytes, and only suppressed melanogenesis (melanin forming cells).

UP NEXT: Here Are The Best Kojic Acid Serums To Tackle Dark Spots & Melasma.