Beta-Arbutin
4-Hydroxyphenyl-beta-D-glucopyranoside / Arbutin
Beta-glycoside of hydroquinone; found naturally in bearberry; higher hydroquinone release than alpha-arbutin (SCCS concern); SCCS opinion (SCCS/1648/21 and 2021): safe at lower concentrations but recommends restrictions; TCS should flag and apply precautionary limits; not for baby/pregnancy products
Function & Common Use
Active (brightening)
Active Ingredient
Brightening serums bearberry extract products
Vegetable (bearberry leaves) / Synthetic
Concentration Limits
No formal limit
SCCS concern: greater hydroquinone release than alpha form, precautionary approach; max typically 7% in face
No specific 21 CFR cosmetic limit identified in source checked; EU limit reference: SCCS concern: greater hydroquinone release than alpha form, precautionary approach; max typically 7% in face
No specific MFDS limit identified in source checked; verify if ingredient is used in a Korean functional cosmetic category
Format restriction: Leave-on
Baby restriction: Higher hydroquinone release potential
Pregnancy: No specific restriction identified in source checked; standard cosmetic use
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Beta-Arbutin safe to use in skincare?
Beta-Arbutin has a Medium concern rating. Beta-glycoside of hydroquinone; found naturally in bearberry; higher hydroquinone release than alpha-arbutin (SCCS concern); SCCS opinion (SCCS/1648/21 and 2021): safe at lower concentrations but recommends restrictions; TCS should flag and apply precautionary limits; not for baby/pregnancy products
Is Beta-Arbutin allowed in India?
Beta-Arbutin is currently classified as "Permitted" under Indian cosmetics regulations. The maximum permitted concentration is No formal limit.
What is Beta-Arbutin used for in cosmetics?
Beta-Arbutin functions as: Active (brightening). It is commonly found in: Brightening serums bearberry extract products.
Is Beta-Arbutin safe for babies?
Beta-Arbutin has baby/child restrictions: Higher hydroquinone release potential. Avoid using products containing this ingredient on infants unless specifically formulated and labelled for baby use.
Regulatory Status
Cosmetic ingredient; standard TGA cosmetic framework applies; no therapeutic goods listing required unless therapeutic claims are made
Not specifically listed as restricted cosmetic ingredient in NHPID source checked; standard Health Canada cosmetic notification applies
Identifiers
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