Arbutin
Arbutin is a plant-derived brightening ingredient that is chemically related to hydroquinone and can release small amounts of it in formulation. EU regulators have set new maximum use levels for arbutin and alpha-arbutin in leave-on products because of this hydroquinone-release concern, so products sold there must stay within those caps.
Worth knowing
- Restricted in the EU
EU Regulation 2024/996 caps Arbutin at 7% in face creams and sets separate lower limits for alpha-arbutin in face and body products, with a requirement that any released hydroquinone stay at unavoidable trace levels.
Gentler alternatives
References
Cosmetic information for general education, not medical advice. A verdict is a reading of the published evidence, never a guarantee for your skin: any ingredient can irritate someone, so patch test new products and see a professional if you react. Concern is graded on cited evidence, never on hazard-score lists. See how we score.