Brightening actives in skincare — what they do

Brightening actives target the look of dark spots and uneven tone for a more radiant, even finish.

8 brightening actives in the K-beauty INCI decoder

• Alpha-Arbutin — A gentle brightening ingredient that helps reduce the look of dark spots for a more even tone.
• Arbutin — A plant-derived brightener that helps support a more even, radiant-looking complexion.
• Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate — A yeast ferment that hydrates and helps refine the look of pores, tone, and radiance.
• Kojic Acid — A fungus-derived ingredient that helps support a brighter, more even-looking tone.
• Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) — A versatile vitamin B3 that helps brighten, support the moisture barrier, and minimize the look of pores.
• Rice Ferment Filtrate — A fermented rice liquid that hydrates and helps skin look more even and luminous.
• Saccharomyces / Rice Ferment Filtrate — A fermented rice-yeast liquid that hydrates and helps support a brighter, smoother look.
• Tranexamic Acid — An ingredient included to support a more even-looking tone and reduce the look of dark spots.

Decode any ingredient list free →

✍️ Written & reviewed by the KoreaPlus Editorial team — dermatologist-informed, cosmetic-science researched & source-cited. Last reviewed: 2026-08-08.

General educational information using cosmetic structure-function wording — not medical advice. Always patch-test new actives. © KoreaPlus.