Many might not know what exactly is arbutin. Well, it is an ingredient that is safe for all types of skin. It is a great ingredient to incorporate into your skincare routine when you are dealing with uneven skin tone. Arbutin can help provide several benefits to help counteract the effects of ageing. Therefore, Beauty Insider is here to help you understand what arbutin is, and the benefits of using it. Plus, read all the way through to get some product recommendations from us! 

What Is Arbutin?

Arbutin is suitable for all types of skin. It is also a molecule extracted from the bearberry plant. Thus, it also prevents the forming of melanin. Although, it is also great for treating hyperpigmentation, dark spots, acne scars and uneven skin tones. It has the benefit to help you achieve skin that looks brighter too! Since it works as a tyrosinase inhibitor, you should know that there are two types of arbutin. Alpha-Arbutin is what you want, Beta-Arbutin is a cheaper alternative that can be unstable. 

Benefits Of Using Arbutin 

Using arbutin can also help provide many benefits to your skin. Not only is it gentle on your skin, but it also helps even out your skin tone. Besides that, it also helps protect your skin from the sun! Since it does not cause much irritation, it is also suitable for those with sensitive skin. Arbutin is also quite compatible with other skincare products and it is safer than hydroquinone. This natural skin brightening ingredient also helps fade away acne scars too!

How To Use Arbutin

It is best to use arbutin twice a day. Once in your morning skincare routine and another during your nighttime skincare routine. It is also a good idea to use it before applying any heavy moisturisers. Arbutin is actually really common in most of your skin brightening products. If you are using any new product for the first time, always start small! Do a patch test or apply on a small area first. If after 24 hours you don’t experience any irritation, then you can start applying more and more based on your skin. You can also use it as a spot treatment or on your whole face. 

Products With Arbutin

Now, here are some products that you can get your hands on! 

1. The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA Concentrated Serum

The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA Concentrated Serum has a vegan formula that is free from phthalate, gluten, paraben, sulfate and cruelty. You can use this serum both in the morning and evening. But, it is not a good idea to use an arbutin serum within 24 hours of using a retinol formula. 

Price: RM39.00

Where to buy: LookFantastic Singapore

2. The Inkey List Alpha Arbutin Face Serum

The Inkey List Alpha Arbutin Face Serum helps brighten your skin and fade away dark spots. Not only does it help improve hyperpigmentation, but it also contains squalane to hydrate your skin! Thus, it also helps add brightness to your skin after continuous use. 

Price: RM60.00

Where to buy: Sephora

3. Paula’s Choice Radiance Renewal Mask 

Paula’s Choice Radiance Renewal Mask is an overnight mask that helps brighten your skin. Thus, your dull complexion can transform into a luminous and refreshed glow! Suitable for all types of skin, it also provides hydration that is soft to the skin. It has a gel-like formula that is also smooth. 

Price: RM195.00

Where to buy: Paula’s Choice

4. iS Clinical Super Serum Advance+ 

The iS Clinical Super Serum Advance+ has the benefit to help boost anti-ageing and antioxidant activity. To help brighten the skin, its formula also contains centella asiatica, vitamin C, copper tripeptide growth factors and arbutin of course! It also helps reduce fine lines and improve skin tones. 

Price: RM776.00

Where to buy: Shopee

5. Peter Thomas Roth PRO Strength Niacinamide Discoloration Treatment

If you want something that’ll help achieve quick results, try the Peter Thomas Roth PRO Strength Niacinamide Discoloration Treatment! It works fast to help fade away your dark spots quickly. It is safe for all types of skin and even helps prevent acne too. The presence of kojic acid also helps enhance its brightening effects.

Price: RM419.95

Where to buy: Sephora

6. Sunday Riley Tidal Brightening Enzyme Water Cream

The Sunday Riley Tidal Brightening Enzyme Water Cream contains hyaluronic acid in its formula to provide an extra boost of moisture. Thus, it helps to brighten and hydrate your skin at the same time! Its formula is light and works as a makeup base too! The blend of arbutin, hyaluronic acid and papaya extract to help resurface your skin gently. Thus, you’ll achieve a glowing complexion.

Price: RM295.00

Where to buy: Sephora