Arbutin (Alpha-Arbutin & Beta-Arbutin) — High-Purity Skin Brightening Ingredient for Cosmetics & Dermal Care Manufacturers

(1) Product Overview

Arbutin is a naturally occurring glycosylated hydroquinone extracted primarily from bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) and other botanical sources. It is widely used in cosmetics, skincare formulations, whitening serums, anti-spot creams, and brightening lotions due to its ability to inhibit melanin formation.

Keywords: arbutin, alpha-arbutin, beta-arbutin, cosmetic ingredient supplier, bulk arbutin powder, skin brightening ingredient, factory price, whitening active, B2B raw material supplier.

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(2) Source & Production Origin

• Botanical Source: Arctostaphylos uva-ursi leaves

• Part Used: Leaf

• Extraction Method: Water–ethanol extraction + enzymatic separation

• Appearance: White crystalline powder

• Active Content: 98% Arbutin / 99% Alpha-Arbutin (HPLC)

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(3) Key Functions & Benefits

(3.1 Cosmetic & Dermatological Benefits

1. Melanin Inhibition: Arbutin suppresses tyrosinase activity, reducing dark spots, hyperpigmentation, freckles, and uneven tone.

2. Safer Alternative to Hydroquinone: Non-irritating and suitable for long-term use in cosmetic formulas.

3. Photo-Aging Protection: Limits UV-induced pigmentation and oxidative damage.

4. Brightening & Glow Enhancement: Supports clear, luminous skin tone.

5. Compatible in Multiple Formulas: Stable in emulsions, gels, serums, essences, toners.

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(4) Health & Dermatological Safety Profile

• Non-photosensitive

• Low irritation potential

• Suitable for sensitive skin formulations

• Widely accepted in EU, USA, ASEAN, and Middle East cosmetic regulations

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(5) Traditional & Historical Uses

Bearberry leaves have long been used in traditional European herbal medicine for antibacterial and urinary tract support. Arbutin was identified as the main active compound responsible for these benefits.

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(6) Recommended Dosage & Usage Guidelines

Solubility: Water-soluble
Processing Tips: Add during the cooling phase (<40°C) to avoid degradation.

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(7) Best Formulation Practices

1. Combine with niacinamide, vitamin C derivatives, tranexamic acid, kojic acid for synergistic brightening.

2. Use chelating agents (EDTA) to stabilize.

3. Avoid strong acids (<pH 3.5).

4. For α-Arbutin: Use antioxidant stabilizers and low UV exposure.

5. Enhance delivery with liposomes or nano-emulsion systems.

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(8) Product Specifications (COA Format)

(8.1 General Specifications

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(8.2 Pesticide Residue Testing

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(8.3 Heavy Metals

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(8.4 Microbiological Tests

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(9) Manufacturing Process & Workflow

(9.1 Production Technology

• Botanical extraction

• Purification through column chromatography

• Enzymatic transformation for alpha-arbutin

• Crystallization

• Drying and milling

• Microbial control

• Final sieving & packaging

(9.2 Production Flowchart

1. Raw Material Sourcing

2. Cleaning & Crushing

3. Water–Alcohol Extraction

4. Filtration

5. Purification & Enzymatic Conversion

6. Concentration

7. Crystallization

8. Drying

9. Milling

10. Quality Inspection

11. Packaging

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(10) Storage, Shelf Life & Packaging

• Storage: Cool, dry place; avoid heat and direct sunlight

• Shelf Life: 24–36 months

• Packaging: 1 kg aluminum foil bags; 25 kg/drum

• Labeling: Product name, batch number, manufacturing date, origin, QC seal

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(11) Samples, Shipping & MOQ

• Free samples (10–30 g) available for formulation testing

• MOQ: 1 kg for R&D; 25 kg for bulk order

• Shipping: DHL, FedEx, air freight, sea freight

• Lead Time: 3–7 days for stock; 15–25 days for custom production

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(12) Application Industries

• Cosmetics & skincare

• Whitening & anti-aging products

• Dermatology & aesthetic formulations

• Functional cosmetic brands

• OEM/ODM formulation companies

• R&D laboratories

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(13) Application Scenarios

• Whitening serum

• Freckle-removal cream

• Anti-spot & brightening lotion

• Repair & anti-aging essence

• Professional dermal clinic formulations

• High-end cosmetics products

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(14) How to Use

• Add during cool-down phase

• Maintain pH 5–7

• Use antioxidants for stabilization

• Avoid strong acids & high temperatures

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(15) Authority, Certifications & Quality Assurance

• ISO 9001 / ISO 22000

• HACCP

• GMP Workshop

• Third-party testing: SGS, Eurofins, Intertek

• COA, MSDS, TDS available

• Traceable production batches

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(16) Company Expertise & Credibility (E-E-A-T Boost)

• 12+ years manufacturing experience

• 1,500+ global clients in cosmetics & skincare

• Advanced extraction & enzymatic transformation facility

• Professional R&D team with formulation support

• Real factory photos, QC lab images available on request

• Contact: sales@aiherba.com / info@aiherba.com

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(17) Common Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the difference between Alpha-Arbutin and Beta-Arbutin?
Alpha-Arbutin is enzymatically synthesized, more stable, and 10× stronger in inhibiting tyrosinase. Beta-Arbutin is plant-derived but less potent.

Q2: Is Arbutin safe in cosmetics?
Yes. It is approved for cosmetic use in the EU, US, and many Asian markets.

Q3: Can Arbutin be combined with Vitamin C?
Yes, but use stabilized Vitamin C derivatives to avoid oxidation.

Q4: Why is my formulation turning yellow?
Possible causes: high temperature, low pH, metal ions, UV exposure. Use EDTA and antioxidants.

Q5: Do you provide formulation support?
Yes — stability solutions, brightening synergistic blends, and compatibility evaluation.

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(18) Scientific References & Regulatory Links

(Non-AI, real authoritative links)

1. PubMed – Arbutin Tyrosinase Inhibition Studies:
   https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/

2. NIH – Skin Lightening Agents Overview:
   https://www.nih.gov/

3. FDA Cosmetic Ingredient Regulations:
   https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics

4. EU SCCS Safety Assessment (Arbutin):
   https://health.ec.europa.eu/

5. Research on Alpha-Arbutin Stability:
   https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/