ALPHA-ARBUTIN is graded C (Moderate) by Expert·ING, based on COSING, FDA regulatory data. It is restricted under EU COSING — AnnexIII-COMBINATION-.
ALPHA-ARBUTIN
Safety grade: C
Alpha-arbutin is a naturally derived compound that comes from plants like bearberry and is used to help even out skin tone and reduce the appearance of dark spots. It works by limiting the production of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color.
This ingredient is used in skincare products to brighten the complexion, fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation, protect skin from oxidative damage, and improve overall skin texture and appearance.
Graded using: COSING, FDA.
- EU COSING — Restricted
- EU COSING — Restricted
Last verified: June 7, 2026
Safer alternatives to ALPHA-ARBUTIN
- ASCORBIC ACID — Grade A. Potent antioxidant and skin brightener; directly addresses hyperpigmentation.
- SODIUM ASCORBYL PHOSPHATE — Grade A. Stabilized vitamin C derivative that brightens and protects against oxidative damage.
- CAMELLIA SINENSIS LEAF EXTRACT — Grade A. Antioxidant extract with skin-conditioning benefits; fades dark spots naturally.
Other Antioxidant ingredients
- TOCOPHEROL — Grade A
- TOCOPHERYL ACETATE — Grade A
- BHT — Grade C**
- ASCORBYL PALMITATE — Grade A
- HYDROXYACETOPHENONE — Grade A
- PENTAERYTHRITYL TETRA-DI-T-BUTYL HYDROXYHYDROCINNAMATE — Grade A