What it does
Works best within a complete strategy that includes sun protection and management of the causes of dark spots.
Tone-evening ingredients
Alpha-arbutin.
A derivative used to address the appearance of uneven pigmentation and support an even tone.
- INCI name
- Alpha-Arbutin
- Function
- A skin-conditioning ingredient used in tone-evening formulas.
- Information level
- Moderate evidence
- Last reviewed
- 22 September 2026
Who may benefit
Skin with uneven tone.
Compatibility
Niacinamide, vitamin C derivatives and SPF.
Precautions
Arbutin and Alpha-Arbutin are not necessarily interchangeable. Follow the product's stability and use instructions.
How to use it
Morning or evening.
Concentrations
The percentage cannot be inferred from INCI order. WAI LAB shows it only when stated by a verifiable source.
HOW TO READ IT
What it means in the INCI list?
In the European Union, ingredients above 1% are listed in descending order by weight; below 1%, they may appear in any order. Their position therefore cannot be used to calculate an exact percentage.
Its position helps you understand the formula, but does not on its own establish effectiveness or an exact percentage.
SOURCES
Where the information comes from.
WAI LAB distinguishes cosmetic function, regulatory context and scientific literature. This information is not a substitute for medical advice.
