What benefits does Alpha-Arbutin offer to the skin?

Arbutin, also called arbutoside, is a derivative of hydroquinone. It is a molecule contained in the leaves and barks of several plants of the Ericaceae family. It can be found in the leaves of bearberry, bilberry, ash heather and cranberry. In the cosmetics industry, arbutin is used in certain skin care products to lighten the skin tone and reduce pigmentation spots.

Although abrutin has the same depigmenting properties as hydroquinone, it is better tolerated. It can be used in different forms: either pure or in the form of plant extracts. In the cosmetic industry, this active ingredient unifies the skin and fades pigmentation spots. It thus helps to maintain the natural balance of the skin. The use of this active ingredient serves to limit the effects of tanning after exposure to ultraviolet rays. These are the alpha-arbutin benefits:

• It eliminates unwanted imperfections. In fact, this active ingredient blocks the synthesis of melanin by inhibiting the activity of tyrosinase, and therefore prevents the appearance of dark spots on the skin. In addition, it eliminates spots of acne since it is a lightening product;

• It allows having a unified and healthy skin tone. In addition to preventing the development of spots, it lightens the skin, reduces existing spots and evens out the skin tone;

• It gives a soft feeling to the skin. It is a gentle ingredient, making it suitable for all skin types.

• GAO J. & al. The use of botanical extracts as topical skin-lightening agents for the improvement of skin pigmentation disorders. Journal of Investigative Dermatology Symposium Proceedings (2008).

• CHANG T.S. An updated review of tyrosinase inhibitors. International Journal of Molecular Sciences (2009).

• BOISSY R.E. & al. Mechanisms regulating skin pigmentation : the
  rise and fall of complexion coloration. International Journal of Molecular Sciences (2009).