Alpha Arbutin: what is it, what are the benefits and benefits
Alpha Arbutin: what is it, what are the benefits and benefits
What is Alpha Arbutin?
Alpha Arbutin is a skin lightening hydroquinone derivative, widely used in the gradual lightening of spots such as melasma, freckles and other conditions. The active ingredient can be found in various plants, such as the leaves of uva-ursi, cranberries, raspberries, wheat and peas.
For many years, hydroquinone has been used as the traditional standard in the treatment of hyperpigmentation. However, since it is unstable in the presence of light and presents a high aggressiveness to the skin, its use has been left aside by alternatives with stable whitening formulations, such as alpha-arbutin.
“The big advantage of using arbutin is its ability to lighten and even out skin tone, and reduce the technical inconveniences of hydroquinone,” explains esthetician Heluisa Olivan, of the Olivian Institute. These disadvantages include: allergic reactions, skin irritation, and cytotoxicity due to the use of the original.
What is Alpha Arbutin used for?
Alpha arbutin acts as an inhibitor of the enzyme tyrosinase , which is responsible for the body’s production of melanin, the protein that gives color to human skin. Although it is produced naturally, certain situations can contribute to increased melanin synthesis, such as UV rays, pollution and hormonal imbalances – causing spots to appear.
In addition to helping to even out skin tone, Alpha Arbutin also acts as a lightener for various types of blemishes, such as melasma, freckles, and blemishes caused by excess sunlight.
How to use Alpha Arbutin in skin care?
Known for its versatility, alpha-arbutin can be used in various types of skin products, such as creams, lotions, and gels. “When [o ativo] is the only star in a whitening formula, 1% to 3% is enough for the result to be visible,” adds Olivian.
If alpha-arbutin is combined with other depigmenting agents (called lightening enhancers), it is best if they are present between 0.5% to 1% in the formulation.
In your skincare routine, it can be used in the morning and evening before applying moisturizers and oils. However, applying sunscreen in the morning is essential.
Benefits of Alpha Arbutin
One of the main benefits of Alpha Arbutin is that, unlike hydroquinone, it can be used on all photogenic skin types by inhibiting melanin production where it is applied.
Key asset benefits include:
- Inhibition of melanin synthesis, smoothing the appearance of blemishes
- A safe and effective alternative to treating spots, melasma and freckles, unlike hydroquinone.
- Unifies and brightens skin tone
- Promotes skin rejuvenation
- Helps reduce skin tanning after exposure to the sun.
contraindications
As with all other whitening agents, alpha-arbutin should not be used on skin that has any bleaching sensitivity or sores in the healing process.
It is important to emphasize, according to Ollivan, that cell phones, tablets, computers, and lights in indoor environments can also trigger the melanin-secreting machinery. Then sunscreen is essential even indoors and on cloudy or rainy days.
Although there are no contraindications in relation to the age group, it is recommended to use the active substance in patients who are in adulthood.
Moreover, the use of alpha-arbutin, as well as kojic acid and azelaic acid, released during pregnancy, does not cause any toxicity and does not cause skin irritation.
“Its use must be authorized by the obstetrician accompanying the pregnant woman during this very sensitive and special period,” concludes Heloisa Olivan.
