Bearberry Extract

INCI: Arctostaphylos Uva-Ursi Leaf Extract

Also known as: Uva ursi, Natural arbutin source

BrighteningbrighteningbotanicalAnecdotal evidencePregnancy safe

Skinlumis Rating

Comedogenic

0/5

Irritancy

1/5

Best applied

Both

Effective range

1%–10%

How It Works

Leaf extract of Arctostaphylos uva-ursi, the natural source of arbutin. Provides gentle brightening alongside tannin antioxidants.

Arbutin content delivers tyrosinase inhibition; tannins provide antioxidant and astringent action.

pH Range

4.0–6.0

Benefits

Gentle brightening
Antioxidant
Natural source
Anti-inflammatory tannins

Proven For

What the evidence supports.

Mild hyperpigmentation

Best For

All skin types

Avoid If

No notable contraindications reported.

Layering Order

4/10

Mid-routine serum or treatment step.

Max Safe Concentration

10%

Concentration range in well-formulated products: 1%–10%

Seasonal Use

Year-round.

Nutrition Connection

Native to alpine regions; not consumed dietarily.

Skin Signals When You Need It

No specific deficiency signals tracked for this ingredient.

For Estheticians & Professionals

Botanical alternative to synthesised arbutin for natural-brand formulations.

Clinical Evidence

The research behind Bearberry Extract.

3 peer-reviewed studies

Every claim on this page traces to published research. Findings below are drawn from randomized trials and systematic reviews, each links to the study on PubMed.

Randomized Controlled Trial

Vitamin C showed comparable efficacy to hydroquinone for melasma treatment.

Espinal-Perez LE, Moncada B, Castanedo-Cazares JP
International Journal of Dermatology, 2004

View Study →

Randomized Controlled Trial

Niacinamide inhibits melanosome transfer to keratinocytes, reducing hyperpigmentation by up to 35%.

Hakozaki T, Minwalla L, Zhuang J et al.
British Journal of Dermatology, 2002

View Study →

Randomized Controlled Trial

Azelaic acid comparable to hydroquinone for hyperpigmentation with superior safety across all Fitzpatrick types.

Balina LM, Graupe K
International Journal of Dermatology, 1991

View Study →

Pairs Well With

Niacinamide Licorice Root Extract

Conflicts With

No flagged conflicts. Still, patch-test new actives.

Your Skin Compatibility