Arbutin
INCI: Alpha-Arbutin
Also known as: Alpha-Arbutin, Beta-Arbutin, Hydroquinone-β-D-glucopyranoside
Last updated:
Arbutin is a glycosylated form of hydroquinone used for skin brightening as a milder alternative to free hydroquinone. SCCS opinion SCCS/1642/22 evaluated arbutin and recommended maximum 2% alpha-arbutin in face creams and 0.5% beta-arbutin in body lotions. The US, Canada, and other markets permit arbutin without specific concentration limits.
Regulatory status by market
| Market | Status | Detail | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| European Union | Restricted | Alpha-arbutin max 2% face; beta-arbutin max 0.5% body | SCCS/1642/22 |
| United Kingdom | Restricted | Mirrors EU | UK Cosmetics Regulation |
| United States | Permitted | No federal limit | CIR review |
| Canada | Permitted | — | Not on Hotlist |
Safety profile
Arbutin hydrolyzes to release free hydroquinone in skin, which is the active brightening molecule. The SCCS limits reflect the goal of keeping hydroquinone exposure below problematic thresholds. Arbutin is generally well-tolerated. Common commercial concentrations are 2-5% for alpha-arbutin.
Common uses
- Brightening serums (typically 2-5% alpha-arbutin)
- Pigmentation correction products
- Skincare positioned as hydroquinone alternatives
Primary sources
Regulatory status is current to the "Last updated" date above. Always verify against the regulator's authoritative publication for the specific market and product category before relying on this summary for compliance decisions.
Check your full formulation
Cosmetica analyzes complete ingredient lists across 15 markets with citation-backed findings — not one ingredient at a time.