6 Best Arbutin Skin Care Products For Women (2024), As Per A Makeup Artist
Nourish your skin with this gentle ingredient to see a visible difference in no time!
Shawnda DorantesMSN, APRN, FNP-C 
Shawnda Dorantes, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, is the founder and Master Injector at Beauty Lounge Medical Spa. She has 15 years of experience in the beauty industry and 13 years as a registered nurse. Dorantes began her career as a Beaut... more
shiboli chakrabortiMA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor,... more
krati darakMBA, Certified Skin Care Coach Experience: 3 yearsKrati is an associate commerce editor, a certified skin care coach, and a beauty enthusiast. She has a master’s degree in advertising and publishing relations from DAVV University and three years of ... more
Image: StyleCraze Design Team
If you have not tried Arbutin skin care products, we will tell you why you need to add them to your skin care routine right away. Common skin problems like freckles, hyperpigmentation, and sunspots are often swept under layers of foundation, and we do not know how to attend to them.
Arbutin-based products are gentle and safe on your skin. Many brands incorporate arbutin in their cleansers, serums, moisturizers, and sheet masks due to its skin care benefits. Here are the 6 highest-rated expert-recommended products that you must check out.
In This Article
What Is Arbutin?
Arbutin is a natural compound found in plants like mulberry, bearberry, and pomegranate. It works as a tyrosinase inhibitor. Tyrosinase is activated in the skin when exposed to the sun and is responsible for melanin production, which leads to dark spots, freckles, and pigmentation. Arbutin is an effective tyrosinase blocker and works to correct hyperpigmentation.
Benefits Of Arbutin For The Skin
Arbutin is generally safe for all skin types and can be used in conjunction with other skin-brightening products to provide a host of benefits:
- Provides UV protection against harmful sun rays.
- Prevents dark spots and promotes an even skin tone.
- Reduces pigmentation.
- Effectively fades acne scars.
Arbutin can also be used in combination with other skin care products. Let’s now look at the products containing this wonderful skin care ingredient.
Best Skin Care Products That Have Arbutin + Buying Guide – 2024
1. Best For Dark Spots:Paula’s Choice Radiance Renewal Mask With Bearberry + Vitamin C
The overnight mask from Paula’s Choice is packed with brightening ingredients to deliver a smooth, even skin tone. Apart from arbutin, this rich gel contains bearberry extract and vitamin C to boost skin radiance and give a refreshing glow in the morning.
It is enriched with niacinamide that strengthens the natural barrier of the skin while diminishing fine lines and wrinkles. Hyaluronic acid plumps the face and provides intense moisture to keep the skin soft and supple. The hydrating preparation brightens dull and tired skin while fading away dark spots during the night.
Pros
- Mild
- Paraben-free
- Fragrance-free
- Cruelty-free
- Dark spot corrector
- Offers radiant complexion
Cons
- Leaves a white cast.
Remember2. Best For Uneven Skin Tone:Image Skincare Ageless Total Resurfacing Masque
The microcrystals in the Image Skincare Ageless Total Resurfacing Masque gently buff away dead skin cells and reveal smooth, even-toned skin. It is enriched with bearberry extract, rich in natural arbutin, that minimizes dark spots and visibly brightens skin tone.
Papaya extracts and alpha hydroxy acids come together to rejuvenate dull skin and restore a youthful appearance. The hyaluronic acid maintains the skin’s natural moisture barrier while combating the premature signs of aging. This exfoliator can be paired with a cleanser for body polishing.
Pros
- Mild
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Artificial fragrance-free
- Physician formulated
- Aids in skin rejuvenation
Cons
- Expensive
- May cause redness.
Quick Tip3. Best Natural Ingredient-Based:Vasanti Brighten Up! Amplify Moisturizer
The lightweight moisturizer from Vasanti is a natural ingredient-based formula that includes aloe vera and bearberry leaves. The bearberry leaves deliver natural arbutin to the skin, and aloe vera hydrates the skin while boosting collagen production. This zero-residue product has anti-aging and antioxidant properties that minimize sun or age spots and dark circles and fade away wrinkles. This results-driven moisturizer with powerful ingredients instantly hydrates and heals the skin’s natural moisture barriers for instant radiance and luminosity.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Non-greasy
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Phthalate-free
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
Cons
- Expensive
Paula's Choice Radiance Renewal Mask With Bearberry + Vitamin C Best For Dark Spots | Image Skincare Ageless Total Resurfacing Masque Best For Uneven Skin Tone | Vasanti Brighten Up! Amplify Moisturizer Best Natural Ingredient-Based | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 1.97 x 1.97 x 3.94 inches | 1.75 x 1.55 x 5.2 inches | - |
| Weight | 3.84 Ounces | 2 Ounces | - |
| Skin Type | - | Acne-Prone | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 164 | 614 | 112 |
| Price | $39 | $33.15 | $34 |
4. Best For Smoother Skin:Soon Biocellulose Brightening Face Mask
The Biocellulose mask from Soon is designed to snugly fit the contours of the face for maximum serum absorption. The innovative blend of brightening ingredients, including arbutin, niacinamide, and glutathione, makes this K-sheet mask a cult favorite.
The arbutin brings down melanin production to fade dark spots and reduce hyperpigmentation. This clinically tested product is fortified with hyaluronic acid and betaine to keep the skin plump and well-hydrated. The blend is also not tested on animals and is infused with adenosine to energize tired skin and fade fine lines to reveal softer, smoother skin.
Pros
- Snug fit
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Phthalate-free
Cons
- Messy application
5. Best For UV Protection:Cos De BAHA AN Arbutin Niacinamide Serum
The gentle and soothing serum from Cos De BAHA is a blend of arbutin and niacinamide, which tone down hyperpigmentation and dark spots to bring out a natural glow. It protects and minimizes the damaging effects of harmful sun rays on the skin. Niacinamide has a proven efficacy of combatting the signs of premature aging and reducing the appearance of acne, blemishes, and open pores while promoting a clear and even skin tone. This anti-inflammatory moisturizing serum harnesses the benefits of hyaluronic acid to enhance the elasticity of the skin and keep it soft and supple.
Pros
- UV protection
- Mild
- Value for money
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Sticky texture
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has garnered over 683 positive reviews on Amazon, and the number continues to grow.
6. Best For All Skin Types:Obagi Nu-Derm Clear Fx Skin Brightening Cream
The Obagi Nu-Derm Clear Fx Skin Brightening Cream is formulated with Arbutin and is ideal to improve dull complexion. It enhances the appearance of the skin, and makes it look healthier. The clinically backed skincare product also effectively minimizes the signs of aging. It also reduces the dark spots & improves the skin texture. Not to mention, it keeps the skin hydrated. Word of caution: the arbutin cream contains sodium metabisulfite which may be not suitable for some people.
Pros
- Visible results
- Easy-to-use bottle
- Enhanced skin appearance
- Offers even complexion
- Suitable for all skin types
- Dermatologist-tested
Cons
- Itchy for some users
Alpha arbutin, a natural skin-lightening agent that inhibits the production of melanin in the skin, can tackle various skin concerns. This secret skin brightener works better than the traditionally known natural brighteners and is now used in various skin products like serums, masques, moisturizers, and creams. Read on to learn how to choose the best skin care products with arbutin.
How To Choose the Best Skin Care Products with Alpha Arbutin
- Concentration
Alpha arbutin is safe for topical use in concentrations of up to 2%. However, incorporate a product with less concentration if you have sensitive skin and conduct a patch test before using the product to avoid any adverse reaction. Note that higher-concentrated products may work faster than those with lower concentrations.
- Active Ingredients
To boost the benefits of alpha arbutin, look for clinically proven products with other skin-brightening ingredients like vitamin C and bearberry plant extract. On the other hand, when used in conjunction with AHA, such as lactic acid, in the skin care routine, it helps slog off dead and discolored cells to reveal healthy, clear skin underneath. Lastly, Kojic acid in the products also helps reduce brown spots or melasma by slowing down melanin production. For dry skin, look for hydrating ingredients such as aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, and other natural fruit extracts and avoid pairing it with actives such as azelaic acid or salicylic acid.
- Lightweight
Your alpha arbutin product should be lightweight and easily absorbed into the skin. The consistency should be non-sticky to feel comfortable on the skin. The mode of delivery should be convenient for your skin care routine without being heavy or clogging your pores, especially in oily skin.
- Chemical-free
Ensure your alpha arbutin product is free of harmful chemicals like parabens, sulfates, phthalates, mineral oils, and artificial fragrances. Read the label to ensure it is hypoallergenic and toxin-free.
Infographic: Effective Skin Care Routine Using Arbutin To Reduce Dark Spots
Arbutin can help reduce hyperpigmentation and minimize the appearance of stubborn dark spots on your face. However, simply utilizing an arbutin serum will not produce the desired results – you must also adhere to a certain skin care regimen. The infographic below details a basic 5-step skin care strategy for reducing dark spots with arbutin-based products. Check it out for more information.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Arbutin is a cosmeceutical. It is a natural compound found in plants like pomegranate, bearberry, and mulberry that help treat common skin problems like discoloration, freckles, hyperpigmentation, breakouts, and sunspots. Products with arbutin protect you against harmful sun rays, are gentle and safe on your skin, and combat early signs of aging. Some arbutin products also contain hyaluronic acid and betaine that keep your skin plump and well-hydrated. The Paula’s Choice Radiance Renewal Mask With Bearberry + Vitamin C is a great non-comedogenic option that gently exfoliates and brightens your skin, while the Cos De BAHA AN Arbutin Niacinamide Serum is a lightweight and non-greasy option that evens out the skin’s texture and leaves you with radiant skin. For a potent formulation to target severe dark spots and hyperpigmentation, opt for the Obagi Nu-Derm Clear Fx Skin Brightening Cream. These products are usually mild, paraben-free, and cruelty-free. However, do a patch test in case you have sensitive skin to avoid allergic reactions and go through several reviews before selecting the right product for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use arbutin with vitamin C?
Yes, arbutin is often combined with skin brighteners like vitamin C. They work in the same way to reduce pigmentation and have an enhanced effect when blended.
Is the ordinary alpha arbutin safe?
Alpha arbutin is safe to use in facial skin care products up to 2% concentration. It slowly releases hydroquinone into the skin, eliminating the chances of side effects.
Is arbutin safe for the skin?
Yes, arbutin is safe for all skin types. It helps reduce dark spots, treats acne scars, improves skin tone, and removes hyperpigmentation. You may use it for spot treatment to fade scars or acne reduction.
Does arbutin lighten the skin permanently?
No, arbutin does not lighten the skin permanently.
What can you not mix with alpha arbutin?
Do not mix alpha arbutin with vitamin C and niacinamide.
How long does arbutin take to work?
It takes 1-2 months for arbutin to show visible results.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Shiboli Chakraborti is a certified skin care coach who loves to review different skin care products. After thorough research, she has provided a detailed list of the best arbutin skin care products in this post. She went through numerous reviews and feedback on multiple forums and brand websites to help you pick the best arbutin skin care products that are gentle and safe on your skin. The products listed in this post protect and minimize the damaging effects of harmful sun rays on the skin.
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