ARBUTIN is graded C (Moderate) by Expert·ING, based on COSING, FDA regulatory data. It is restricted under EU COSING — AnnexIII-COMBINATION-.
ARBUTIN
Safety grade: C
Arbutin is a naturally occurring compound found in plants like bearberry and pear that helps brighten skin and reduce the appearance of dark spots. It works by limiting the production of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color.
Arbutin is used in skincare products to help even out skin tone, fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation, protect skin from damage, and improve overall skin condition and radiance.
Graded using: COSING, FDA.
- EU COSING — Restricted
- EU COSING — Restricted
Last verified: June 7, 2026
Safer alternatives to ARBUTIN
- ASCORBIC ACID — Grade A. Vitamin C derivative that brightens skin and fades dark spots like arbutin.
- CAMELLIA SINENSIS LEAF EXTRACT — Grade A. Green tea extract provides antioxidant protection and skin conditioning benefits.
- UBIQUINONE — Grade A. CoQ10 antioxidant that protects skin and improves overall skin radiance.
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