Aging is a natural process, but the signs of premature aging aren’t natural. While some people feel concerned about fine lines and wrinkles, a lot more get worried about dark spots, uneven skin tone, and hyperpigmentation. Considering the intensity of this skin issue, the different brands have come up with brightening skincare products that might include ingredients like vitamin C, kojic acid, liquorice, etc., which claim to deliver noticeable results on all skin types. But, people with sensitive skin know what they go through while trying new brightening skincare routine.
Ingredients like vitamin C, liquorice, kojic acid, etc., are all excellent brightening agents, but alpha arbutin tops them all. Arbutin is a compound that is naturally produced from different plant sources, like mulberry, bearberry, and pomegranate, and it is found to be one of the most effective skin lightening agents.
What is the difference between arbutin and alpha arbutin?
Abrutin and alpha brutin are the two different names of the same ingredient, and these terms are often used interchangeably. In fact, the raw compound is called abrutin, and its chemically synthesized version is known as alpha arbutin.
Besides, there’s yet another variant of arbutin available in the market, known as beta arbutin. However, the dermatologists advice that you should completely ignore this variant as the alpha arbutin is ten times more effective than the latter.
What are the benefits of using alpha arbutin in topical form?
Skincare products including alpha arbutin have become immensely popular off-late. People have started vouching for this ingredient because of its multiple benefits. Let us take a look at the advantages of using alpha-arbutin daily.
Reduces dark spots and hyperpigmentation
Alpha arbutin limits the production of melanin on your skin. Dermatologists suggest using it daily to see results within a few weeks. With regular application, this active ingredient can fade away dark patches and pigmentation on your skin. Furthermore, people find this ingredient useful in combating aging signs, such as acne scars, age spots, post-acne redness, liver spots, and freckles.
Lightens skin
Alpha arbutin starts targeting the tyrosinase enzyme, which is responsible for melanin production in the skin. It focuses on inhibiting tyrosinase activity, which reduces melanin production. As a result, the skin gets lighter and looks more even.
Safe ingredient
There are a lot of skin-lightening agents that produce results, but they also get harsh on your skin, especially sensitive skin. Alpha arbutin, on the other hand, is an organic compound produced naturally, which stays calm on your skin and doesn’t leave any skin side effects.
What are the dos and don’ts of layering with alpha arbutin?
Now, let’s get into the core of the topic, and discuss the things you need to follow while layering your skincare products. So, let us first read the ingredients that you can normally layer with alpha arbutin.
Vitamin C
Alpha arbutin goes well with vitamin C, as it is the powerhouse of antioxidants. Vitamin C neutralizes the free radicals in your skin, and both these ingredients work in the same direction, producing great results in less time.
Niacinamide
This ingredient is a water-based lightweight compound that matches the texture of alpha arbutin. It promotes collagen production, making your skin look firmer, healthier, and more glowing. Niacinamide boosts the cell-turnover rate, which works in favor of alpha arbutin.
Hyaluronic acid
This active ingredient has an excellent skin-hydrating property, which provides the necessary moisture to the skin. Hyaluronic acid prepares your skin to absorb alpha-arbutin more effectively, letting it produce better results.
Kojic acid
This ingredient is yet another skin-lightening agent, and it works well with alpha arbutin. When you include both of these ingredients in your skincare routine, you see great results in a quick span.
Things to avoid while layering alpha arbutin
Layering different active ingredients can deliver good results on your skin, but if you don’t do it mindfully, you might invite skin issues. The experts suggest that you should not pick more than three active ingredients together, as it will lead to skin concerns. Besides, even with two ingredients, you need to be careful. For instance, niacinamide and ascorbic acid don’t go well together.
Therefore, it is advised that you consult your dermatologist to get the best results.
References:
https://doi.org/10.1271/bbb.59.143
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3663177/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5426667/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16029679/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3468271/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3468271/
