Alpha Arbutin - A secretive solution!
You might have heard of alpha arbutin being touted as one of the best solutions for hyperpigmentation. But, like there are two sides to every coin, alpha arbutin may potentially cause side effects. A derivative of hydroquinone, the active ingredient, delivers a skin-whitening effect but not a long-lasting one. Hence, it is not the ideal companion to have as part of your ongoing skincare journey. Alpha arbutin only prevents melanin production by reducing tyrosinase activity, an enzyme that helps in melanin synthesis. What you will need has to be more well-rounded than this.
Why is alpha arbutin not enough?
Alpha arbutin reduces dark spots caused by melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and hormonal imbalance. It is also considered to lighten the skin and help with uneven skin tone. However, reversing hyperpigmentation takes a few weeks; hence, you should not expect overnight results.
While alpha arbutin is claimed to be a safer alternative to hydroquinone and is said to be suitable for all skin types, it may cause adverse effects in some people. This includes skin irritation that may lead to rosacea or mild acne, sunburn, redness or itchiness, as it may act as an allergen.
Comparing other skin-lightening agents, yet incomplete ingredients
Popular skin lightening agents include hydroquinone, kojic acid, Vitamin C and alpha arbutin. Hydroquinone, from which alpha arbutin is derived, was considered the gold standard for skin lightening. Increased side effects after its usage prompted many countries to ban it altogether. Therefore, alpha arbutin also carries the same risk as it is naturally broken down into hydroquinone on contact with our skin.
Kojic acid is synthesised from fungi and is used to brighten the skin. However, it is less stable than alpha arbutin. According to research, higher concentrations of kojic acid and alpha arbutin cause paradoxical hyperpigmentation, i.e., they can darken your skin further when used in high concentrations.
Vitamin C, an antioxidant, restricts melanogenesis (melanin production). While it has negligible side effects, its depth of penetration in the skin is very low. Hence, it is ineffective in resistant cases of hyperpigmentation. Therefore, we can decisively conclude that alpha arbutin or any of the other ingredients, in comparison, fail to provide a wholesome and long-lasting solution for hyperpigmentation.
Is there something better than alpha arbutin?
Alpha arbutin works by blocking melanin biosynthesis in the body; therefore, it may harm the natural skin pigmentation in higher concentrations. Hence, you should not use it above the recommended dosage.
Is there an alternative better than alpha arbutin for hyperpigmentation?
To reduce hyperpigmentation caused by melanin overproduction, the focus should be on decomposing the pigment on the skin surface rather than reducing its synthesis. Scientists have formulated a stable solution for this exact reason and tackle hyperpigmentation at its roots. The latest scientifically validated VB3+HR+RPC depigmentation technology is infused with three potent ingredients– hexylresorcinol, retinyl propionate (a derivative of vitamin A) and niacinamide (vitamin B3), which work in synergy to reduce stubborn dark spots and acne marks and offer healthy skin. The combination targets the three root causes of hyperpigmentation by modulating melanogenesis, enhancing cell turnover and soothing skin irritation by locking the moisture within. This brilliant trio of HR+RPC+VB3 technology lightens dark spots, improves skin complexion and makes your skin smooth and supple within 8 weeks.
Hailed and clinically proven by dermatologists to be the most effective anti-hyperpigmentation formulation, the revolutionary VB3+HR+RPC technology is suitable for all skin types. It is as effective as prescriptive formulations without the adverse effects of compounds such as hydroquinone or cosmetic alternatives such as kojic acid and vitamin C. Furthermore, this triple combination is clinically proven to give an even skin tone in 4 weeks.
Hence, stop using ingredients that typically target only one of the underlying causes of hyperpigmentation and irritate and dry your skin. Choose clinically-proven, high-science remedies to holistically target hyperpigmentation and improve skin health in the long run.
