Arbutin, also known as arbutoside, has the molecular formula C12H16O7. It is a naturally occurring compound extracted from the leaves of bearberry plants (family Ericaceae). By inhibiting the activity of tyrosinase in the body, arbutin helps prevent melanin formation, reduce skin pigmentation, and diminish dark spots and freckles. It also exhibits antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Its primary applications are in the food and cosmetics industries.
Arbutin competitively inhibits tyrosinase activity, blocking the conversion of tyrosine into DOPA and dopaquinone, thereby reducing melanin synthesis at its source. It does not damage melanocytes and is considered a mild, skin-compatible ingredient. Its inhibitory activity is approximately 10 times that of β-arbutin, making it suitable for long-term use in skin-brightening and pigmentation-reduction formulations.


Product Description and Specifications
Arbutin is primarily extracted from bearberry leaves, although it is also naturally present in certain fruits and other plants. Known for its skin-brightening properties, arbutin rapidly penetrates the skin without affecting skin cells. It binds to tyrosinase, the enzyme responsible for melanin production, effectively inhibiting tyrosinase activity and melanin formation while accelerating melanin breakdown and elimination.
In addition, arbutin helps protect the skin against free radical damage. Its excellent hydrophilicity makes it a popular ingredient in commercially available skin-brightening products, particularly in Asian markets.
Main Applications:
Used in premium cosmetic formulations, arbutin can be incorporated into skincare creams, spot-correcting creams, premium pearl creams, and other high-end skincare products. It provides cosmetic skin-conditioning benefits while also offering anti-inflammatory and anti-irritation properties.
Specifications:
|
Parameter |
Specification |
|
Chemical Formula |
C12H16O7 |
|
Molecular Weight |
272.251 |
|
CAS Registry Number |
497-76-7 |
|
Purity |
≥99% |
|
Appearance |
White powder |
|
Density |
1.556g/cm3 |
|
Melting Point |
195-198°C |
|
Boiling Point |
561.6ºC at 760 mmHg |
|
Flash Point |
293.4ºC |
|
Water Solubility |
10-15 g/100 mL at 20 ºC |
|
Vapor Pressure |
1.9×10-13mmHg at 25°C |
|
Shelf Life |
24 months |
Product Benefits and Functions
Competitively inhibits tyrosinase activity and blocks the melanin biosynthesis pathway.
Helps reduce the appearance of dark spots, freckles, and sunspots while minimizing UV-induced pigmentation.
Improves dull, yellowish skin tone and promotes a brighter, more even complexion.
Gently reduces pigmentation marks and improves the appearance of superficial post-acne marks with low irritation potential.
Offers excellent formulation stability and heat resistance, making it compatible with various aqueous-based systems.
Exhibits good formulation compatibility and can be combined with tranexamic acid, glutathione, and niacinamide for synergistic effects.
Product Application Areas
Skin-brightening serums, concentrated brightening solutions, and ampoules.
Pigmentation-reducing facial masks, rubber masks, and professional skincare products.
Brightening toners, lotions, creams, and tone-up creams.
Post-sun skincare products and formulations designed to help prevent tanning.
Functional skin-brightening kits and complementary ingredients for skin hydration and rejuvenation treatments.
Premium high-performance skin-brightening cosmetics.
Analytical Testing Methods
HPLC (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography): The mainstream quality control method, used to distinguish between α-arbutin and β-arbutin.
A Certificate of Analysis (COA) and Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) are supplied with each shipment.
Packaging, Transportation, and After-Sales Service
Packaging:
α-Arbutin is vacuum-sealed in aluminum foil bags with an internal desiccant to prevent moisture absorption. Standard packaging options include 1 kg bags and 25 kg fiber drums. Custom sample packaging and private-label customization are available upon request. Additional protective outer packaging is provided to ensure product integrity during transit. Each shipment is accompanied by the relevant COA and MSDS documentation.
Transportation:
This product is classified as non-hazardous goods and can be transported under ambient temperature conditions. It should be protected from moisture and direct light and kept separate from strong oxidizing agents. Domestic courier services, full-truckload transportation, and international shipping channels are available. Shipment tracking is provided, and compensation is available in the event of lost shipments.
After-Sales Service:
Customers are advised to inspect the goods promptly upon receipt. Any packaging damage or quantity discrepancies must be reported within 3 working days, accompanied by supporting evidence.
Quality-related claims may be submitted for independent laboratory testing within 15 days of receipt. Claims will be evaluated and handled based on valid analytical test reports.
Our technical team provides professional guidance on recommended addition levels and formulation compatibility. Quality issues not attributable to improper handling or storage by the customer will be addressed appropriately, with prompt responses and timely after-sales support.
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