Alpha Arbutin

Antioxidants · 2021 · systematic review

Comprehensive review of arbutin mechanisms: alpha-arbutin competitively inhibits tyrosinase by binding the active site without melanocyte cytotoxicity; also exhibits antioxidant properties; safer alternative to hydroquinone as it does not form toxic benzoquinone metabolites

Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology · 2010 · systematic review

Review of PIH management in skin of color: arbutin is recommended as a well-tolerated depigmenting agent for acne-related PIH in Fitzpatrick III-VI; lower irritation risk than hydroquinone reduces the chance of treatment-induced inflammation (which would worsen PIH); optimal at 1-2% concentration in combination with sunscreen and gentle retinoids

The Journal of Dermatology · 2008 · rct · n=32

Randomized, open-label study (n=30) in melasma comparing topical gels of arbutin, synthetic ellagic acid, and plant-derived ellagic acid; all three significantly reduced melanin levels, with arbutin producing a significant response in all 10 treated patients (p=0.05). No hydroquinone comparator and no PIH endpoint.

Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology · 2024 · rct · n=30

Randomized controlled trial (n=30, 12 weeks): AAK comparable efficacy to TCC for melasma similar melanin index and mMASI score reductions; TCC had significantly higher PGA improvement week 4 p=0.002 week 8 p<0.01 week 12 p=0.032 but comparable objective measures and TCC showed higher recurrence severity at week 16 follow up.

International Journal of Medical Reviews and Case Reports · 2020 · observational · n=30

Clinical study (n=30, 4 weeks): Combination serum comparable to hydroquinone 4% for skin brightness L star and pigmentation intensity improvement at 4 weeks.

Clinical and Experimental Dermatology · 2002 · observational

Clinical study (2 weeks): Arbutin reduced UVR induced hyperpigmentation by 43.5% vs vehicle aleosin by 34% combination by 63.3%.