Alpha-Arbutin: what it is in skincare
⏱ 1 min read
⚡ Quick answer: A gentle brightening ingredient that helps reduce the look of dark spots for a more even tone.
A gentle brightening ingredient that helps reduce the look of dark spots for a more even tone.
What it does
Function: brightening. Brightening actives target the look of dark spots and uneven tone for a more radiant, even finish.
Heads-up flags
- pregnancy-caution
How to spot it on a label
On a Korean product's INCI list, look for Alpha-Arbutin. Ingredients are listed high-to-low by amount, so its position hints at how much is in the formula. See all brightening actives →
Explore more K-beauty guides → ⏭ Up next🍊 Ferulic Acid: what it is in skincare✍️ 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.