Introduction

Arbutin is a compound with a structure in which one molecule of D-glucose is bound to hydroquinone. D-glucose exists in α, β, or γ-anomeric form in aqueous solution, with β-anomer being a dominant form. β-Arbutin (this stereoisomer is called arbutin), in which the β-anomer of D-glucose is bound to hydroquinone, is mainly found in plants such as wheat and bearberry. It is also found in blueberry, cranberry, and pear varieties. α-arbutin is a compound of hydroquinone and the α-anomer of D-glucose.

Preparation

α-arbutin could be produced through transglycosylation from various glucose donors to hydroquinone catalyzed by purified enzymes. Sucrose phosphorylase from Leuconostoc mesenteroides, α-amylase from Bacillus subtilis X-23, sucrose isomerase from Erwinia rhapontici, amylosucrase from Deinococcus geothermalis and Cellulomonas carboniz T26, and cyclodextrin glucanotransferase from Thermoanaerobacter sp. were capable of α-arbutin synthesis.

Function

Alpha arbutin works by slowly releasing hydroquinone over time, inhibiting tyrosinase, the key enzyme responsible for melanin, or pigment, in the skin. In other words, less tyrosinase means less pigment, less discoloration and fewer unwanted dark spots. Along with its excellent brightening abilities, alpha arbutin is also known to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA Hyperpigmentation Serum

It is a concentrated serum with pure alpha arbutin and hyaluronic acid for more visibly even-toned skin. It is a brightening serum for the face and neck. The purified Alpha Arbutin is a gentle yet very potent brightening agent. In its high 2% concentration, it effectively reduces skin pigment production, prevents further pigmentation, and even out skin tone. This advanced formula is enriched with Hyaluronic Acid for additional skin conditioning and comfort. The product targets post-blemish redness, age & sun spots, and pigmented acne scars. It is suitable for all skin types.

Reference

[1] Boo, Yong Chool. “Arbutin as a Skin Depigmenting Agent with Antimelanogenic and Antioxidant Properties.” Antioxidants 10 7 (2021).