Specifications
| INCI name | Alpha-Arbutin |
|---|---|
| Chemical name | 4-Hydroxyphenyl alpha-D-glucopyranoside |
| Synonyms | a-Arbutin, Alpha Arbutin Powder |
| CAS number | 84380-01-8 |
| Grade | Cosmetic |
| Appearance | White to off-white crystalline powder |
| Assay | ≥ 99% |
| pH | 5.0 - 7.0 (1% solution) |
| Solubility | Soluble in water |
| Typical use level | 0.2 - 2.0% |
| Packing | 1 kg |
| Minimum order | 1 kg / 25 kg |
| Origin | China |
| Shelf life | 24 months from date of manufacture |
Storage. Store in a cool, dry place below 25 C, protected from light. Keep containers tightly sealed.
About this ingredient
Alpha Arbutin is the alpha-glucoside of hydroquinone and is significantly more stable and more effective than the beta form at comparable use levels. It is added to the water phase below 50 C and works best in formulations held between pH 5 and 7 — outside that band hydrolysis becomes a real risk over shelf life.
Benefits
- Inhibits tyrosinase, reducing melanin formation
- More stable and more active than beta-arbutin
- Water soluble and easy to add to the water phase
- Works well alongside niacinamide and vitamin C derivatives
Applications
- Brightening and anti-pigmentation serums
- Spot-correcting and dark-circle treatments
- Daily moisturisers with tone-evening claims
- Post-sun and post-procedure care
Documentation
- Technical Data Sheet (TDS)Request
- Safety Data Sheet (SDS)Request
- Certificate of Analysis (COA)Download PDF
The COA is generated from our current product data and reports conformance against the standard specification — a batch-specific Certificate of Analysis carrying the measured values, batch number and dates is issued with each consignment. TDS and SDS are shared on request. More on how we document.
About Alpha Arbutin
Frequently asked
Not covered here? Send the question with your enquiry and we will answer it directly.
01 What is the CAS number of Alpha Arbutin?
The CAS number for Alpha Arbutin is 84380-01-8 and the INCI name is Alpha-Arbutin.
02 What is the difference between alpha and beta arbutin?
They differ in the glycosidic linkage. Alpha arbutin is more stable and shows stronger tyrosinase inhibition at the same use level, which is why it is preferred despite the higher cost.
03 At what pH should Alpha Arbutin be formulated?
Hold the finished formulation between pH 5 and 7 and add it below 50 C. Outside that range hydrolysis becomes a stability risk across shelf life.
04 Can I get a small trial quantity?
Yes. Alpha Arbutin is one of the lines we can supply in 1 kg packs for R&D work, alongside standard 25 kg bulk. Raise an enquiry with the quantity you need.