BrighteningDepigmenting
Alpha Arbutin
Tier 1 Evidence
what it does
A stable glycoside derivative of hydroquinone that inhibits tyrosinase activity to reduce melanin production. More skin-safe and stable than its parent compound with a strong safety profile.
Hydroquinone's better-behaved cousin. Same brightening job, way less scary, no EU ban drama. It's slower but consistent — like a reliable person vs. someone who delivers in bursts and then causes problems.