Arbutin
The cosmetic market demands from new skin lightening products to act faster and more efficient than existing ones. Moreover these actives must be absolutely safe for cosmetic use. In a press release from the IFSCC congress (August 2002) Arbutin and Alpha Arbutin show impressive in-vitro tyrosinase inhibition on human cell lysate. Arbutin is an extract of the bearberry plant. It has been found to be a popular product used for de-pigmentation and is a non-irritating to the skin. Arbutin is used to prevent liver spots and freckles, to treat sunburn marks and to regulate melanogenesis. Arbutin inhibits the formation of melanin by inhibiting tyrosinase activity, Arbutin is known as an anti-inflammatory and an anti-bacterial ingredient. It is well tolerated and does not cause irritation to the skin.