PLDEFRESITJęzyk: polski
INCI name

ARBUTIN

Arbutin

AntioxidantBleachingSkin conditioning – miscellaneousreviewed

A plant-derived glycoside of hydroquinone, regulated in Annex III.

What it is

Arbutin (beta-arbutin) is 4-hydroxyphenyl-beta-D-glucopyranoside, a glycoside of hydroquinone that occurs in bearberry leaves and some other plants. CosIng lists it as an antioxidant, bleaching and skin-conditioning ingredient. In the EU it is covered by an entry in Annex III (substances subject to restrictions).

Where it is used

Found in serums, face creams and other 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; according to the Annex III entry, the limit concerns face creams. Arbutin and alpha-arbutin are different substances with separate names.

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 3784-Hydroxyphenyl-beta-D-glucopyranoside
Product type
Face cream
Maximum concentration
7 %
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 (18)

Check a full ingredient list