Beta Arbutin
The naturally occurring isomer of arbutin found in bearberry, mulberry, and cranberry leaves. Lower potency than alpha-arbutin but more affordable and widely available.
Tyrosinase competitive inhibitor; bound to glucose making it stable until hydrolysed in skin to release small amounts of hydroquinone.
- Gentle brightening
- Natural source
- Antioxidant from co-extracted polyphenols
- Long history of safe use
What the evidence supports.
- All skin types
No notable contraindications reported.
Mid-routine serum or treatment step.
Concentration range in well-formulated products: 1%–7%
Year-round.
Bearberry, mulberry, cranberry, and pear leaves.
No specific deficiency signals tracked for this ingredient.
Often labelled simply 'arbutin' in K-beauty. Higher % required for equivalent effect to alpha-arbutin.
The research behind Beta Arbutin.
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.
International Journal of Dermatology, 2004
British Journal of Dermatology, 2002
International Journal of Dermatology, 1991
No flagged conflicts. Still, patch-test new actives.
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