PLDEFRESITJęzyk: polski
INCI name

ALPHA-ARBUTIN

Alpha-arbutin

AntioxidantBleachingSkin conditioning – miscellaneousreviewed

A glucoside of hydroquinone regulated in Annex III.

What it is

Alpha-arbutin (4-hydroxyphenyl alpha-D-glucopyranoside) is a glycoside of hydroquinone and an isomer of arbutin. CosIng lists it as an antioxidant, bleaching agent and skin-conditioning agent. In the EU it is listed in Annex III (substances subject to restrictions).

Where it is used

Used in serums, face creams and body lotions, often in products aimed at uneven skin tone.

Limits of interpretation

The INCI list shows which ingredients are present, not how much of each. Above 1%, ingredients are listed in descending order of weight; below 1% the order is free.

See the EU regulation section for the applicable limits, which depend on the product type. The label does not show the concentration actually used.

Functions

Antioxidant
Inhibiting reactions promoted by oxygen, thus avoiding oxidation and rancidity.
Bleaching
Bleaching or lightening the shade of hair and/or skin.
Skin conditioning – miscellaneous
Enhancing the appearance of dry and/or damaged skin by reducing flaking and restoring suppleness.

EU regulation

EU · Annex III, entry 3774-Hydroxyphenyl-alpha-D-glucopyranoside
Product type
(a) Face cream (b) Body lotion
Maximum concentration
(a) 2 % (b) 0,5 %
As of
3 November 2026 · (EU) 2024/996

Scientific opinions (SCCS)

Opinions of the EU Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety that mention this ingredient. They assess specific uses and concentrations; read the opinion for its scope.

Products with this ingredient (23)

Check a full ingredient list