Arbutin

What is Arbutin?

A brightening active derived from bearberry, used in Korean whitening functional cosmetics at defined concentrations. Alpha-arbutin is the more stable and more expensive form. Regulatory acceptance varies — some markets restrict it or treat related hydroquinone-releasing ingredients as drug actives — so check before making the claim your lead message.

At a glance

Category

Ingredients

Also known as

알부틴

Korean term

알부틴

Last reviewed

July 23, 2026

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