Alpha Arbutin Powder (≥99.5% HPLC) — Cosmetic Grade Slow-Release Skin Brightening Active Supplier
Alpha Arbutin (α-Arbutin, CAS 84380-01-8) — the gentlest non-hydroquinone skin brightening active: synthetic slow-release competitive tyrosinase inhibitor with α-glycosidic bond delivering 10× stability over natural β-arbutin. Precision enzymatic glycosylation ensures sustained, irritation-free brightening for sensitive skin and daily-use formulations. Free hydroquinone verified at ≤1 ppm. ISO 9001:2015, ISO 22000, HACCP, FDA, HALAL, KOSHER, Non-GMO certified. Bulk manufacturer and wholesale supplier — premium alpha arbutin powder from UPOR Biotech.
Request a QuoteProduct Overview
Alpha Arbutin (INCI: Alpha-Arbutin, 4-Hydroxyphenyl α-D-glucopyranoside, CAS 84380-01-8, C₁₂H₁₆O₇, MW 272.25 g/mol) is a synthetic glycosylated hydroquinone derivative produced via enzymatic glycosylation — a precision biocatalytic process that attaches a D-glucose molecule to hydroquinone through an α-glycosidic bond. This α-glycosidic linkage is the critical structural feature that distinguishes alpha arbutin from its naturally occurring beta isomer (β-arbutin, extracted from bearberry leaves): the α-configuration confers approximately 10× greater stability against enzymatic hydrolysis by skin-resident β-glucosidases, ensuring the hydroquinone payload is released slowly and continuously over hours rather than in a single rapid burst. Alpha arbutin functions as a competitive tyrosinase inhibitor — its hydroquinone moiety structurally mimics L-tyrosine, occupying the tyrosinase active site (Km competition) and blocking melanin synthesis at the rate-limiting enzymatic step without the cytotoxic effects of free hydroquinone. The slow-release kinetics of the α-glycosidic bond cleavage — mediated by skin α-glucosidases at the stratum corneum — provide sustained, gentle tyrosinase inhibition at the enzyme’s catalytic copper center, making alpha arbutin the safest and most tolerable brightening active for sensitive skin and daily long-term use. Unlike beta arbutin — whose β-glycosidic bond is readily cleaved by abundant skin-resident β-glucosidases, producing a rapid hydroquinone spike — the synthetic α-arbutin resists premature hydrolysis, delivering consistent brightening efficacy across formulation pH ranges from 3.5 to 6.5. Alpha arbutin combines synergistically with tranexamic acid (TXA) and niacinamide for comprehensive three-pathway brightening: TXA blocks upstream plasmin activation signaling, α-arbutin competitively inhibits tyrosinase at the rate-limiting enzymatic step, and niacinamide prevents melanosome transfer to keratinocytes — together providing complete melanogenesis coverage with zero cytotoxicity, global regulatory compliance, and suitability for all Fitzpatrick skin types.
As a leading alpha arbutin manufacturer and bulk supplier, UPOR Biotech provides high-purity alpha arbutin powder (≥99.5% HPLC, cosmetic grade; ≥98% available) for B2B cosmetic brands, contract manufacturers, private-label formulators, and OEM partners worldwide. Alpha arbutin’s position as the gentlest tyrosinase inhibitor — combined with its exceptional formulation stability (pH 3.5–6.5) and 10× stability advantage over natural β-arbutin — makes it the preferred brightening active for sensitive skin product lines, daily-use formulations, and brands seeking hydroquinone-free brightening with maximum safety margins. OEM and private label formulations available with flexible MOQ starting at 1 kg. Free sample available for qualified B2B buyers. Every shipment includes full documentation: COA, MSDS, HPLC chromatogram, free hydroquinone quantification (≤1 ppm), and stability data.
Alpha Arbutin vs Beta Arbutin vs TXA — Three-Pathway Brightening: Why α-Arbutin Is the Gentle Tyrosinase Inhibitor for Sensitive Skin Formulations
Comparing the three leading non-hydroquinone brightening actives reveals complementary — not competitive — mechanisms, each targeting a distinct control point in melanogenesis. Beta Arbutin (natural, from bearberry) is a competitive tyrosinase inhibitor with a β-glycosidic bond that skin-resident β-glucosidases cleave rapidly — producing a fast hydroquinone spike, shorter duration of action, and higher irritation risk due to uncontrolled free HQ release; its natural extraction also means batch-to-batch variability and potential botanical allergen carryover. Tranexamic Acid (TXA) targets an entirely different pathway — blocking upstream plasmin activation in keratinocytes, the molecular “overproduction command” that triggers melanogenesis before tyrosinase even activates; TXA is the most clinically validated brightening active for melasma (28 RCTs) but does not directly inhibit tyrosinase. Alpha Arbutin is unique in combining gentle, sustained tyrosinase inhibition with exceptional stability: the α-glycosidic bond resists premature hydrolysis by skin β-glucosidases, delivering slow, continuous hydroquinone release for hours — 10× more stable than β-arbutin — with no irritation, no cytotoxicity, and the broadest formulation compatibility (pH 3.5–6.5). The optimal comprehensive brightening strategy: TXA (plasmin signal blockade) + α-Arbutin (sustained tyrosinase inhibition) + Niacinamide (melanosome transfer inhibition) = complete three-control-point coverage with zero cytotoxicity, safe for sensitive skin, daily use, and all Fitzpatrick skin types — fully globally compliant.
Technical Specifications
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Alpha Arbutin Powder — Cosmetic Grade (≥99.5% HPLC) |
| INCI Name | Alpha-Arbutin |
| Common Name / Synonyms | α-Arbutin; 4-Hydroxyphenyl α-D-glucopyranoside; Alpha Arbutin; Hydroquinone O-α-D-glucopyranoside |
| CAS Number | 84380-01-8 |
| Molecular Formula | C₁₂H₁₆O₇ |
| Molecular Weight | 272.25 g/mol |
| Source | Synthetic — enzymatic glycosylation of hydroquinone with D-glucose via α-glycosidic bond formation |
| Key Advantage | Slow-release competitive tyrosinase inhibitor via α-glycosidic bond. 10× more stable than natural β-arbutin. Gentlest brightening active — safe for sensitive skin and daily use. Free hydroquinone ≤1 ppm. |
| Appearance | White to off-white crystalline powder |
| Assay (Cosmetic Grade) | ≥99.5% (HPLC, anhydrous basis) |
| Assay (Standard Grade) | ≥98.0% (HPLC, anhydrous basis) — available upon request |
| Identification (IR) | Infrared absorption spectrum conforms to Alpha Arbutin Reference Standard (USP/BP) |
| Identification (HPLC) | Retention time of major peak matches Alpha Arbutin Reference Standard; peak purity ≥99.5% (HPLC-DAD at 280 nm) |
| Loss on Drying | ≤0.5% (105°C, 2 hours) |
| Residue on Ignition | ≤0.1% |
| pH (1% Aqueous Solution) | 5.0 – 6.5 |
| Solubility | Soluble in water (~50 mg/mL at 25°C); soluble in propylene glycol and glycerin; practically insoluble in non-polar organic solvents |
| Optical Rotation [α]²⁰D | +173° to +182° (c=1, H₂O) |
| Melting Point | 199 – 204°C |
| Heavy Metals (Total) | ≤10 ppm (as Pb) |
| Elemental Impurities | Pb ≤2 ppm; As ≤1 ppm; Hg ≤1 ppm; Cd ≤1 ppm (USP <232> / ICH Q3D compliant) |
| Free Hydroquinone Content | ≤1 ppm (HPLC-UV at 295 nm; LOQ 0.5 ppm) — Critical quality parameter: verified in every batch COA |
| Microbial Limits | TAMC ≤100 CFU/g; TYMC ≤10 CFU/g (USP <61> / EP <2.6.12>); Pathogens (E. coli, Salmonella, S. aureus, P. aeruginosa) — Absent in 10 g (USP <62> / EP <2.6.13>) |
| Residual Solvents | USP <467> / EP <5.4> / ICH Q3C Class 3 compliant |
| Recommended Usage | 0.1 – 2.0% in leave-on formulations; 1.0% most common for visible brightening. Add to aqueous phase at ≤80°C. |
| pH Stability Range | Stable pH 3.5 – 6.5; optimal formulation pH 5.0 – 6.0 for maximum glycosidic bond integrity |
| Grade / Standards | Cosmetic Grade (≥99.5% HPLC); Standard Grade (≥98% HPLC) available for cost-sensitive formulations |
| Certifications | ISO 9001:2015, ISO 22000, HACCP, FDA Facility Registration, HALAL, KOSHER, Non-GMO, BSE/TSE-Free |
| Packaging | 1 kg / 5 kg / 10 kg sealed aluminum foil bags with PE liner; 25 kg fiber drums with double PE liner |
| Storage | 15 – 25°C, tightly sealed in original container, protect from light and moisture |
| Shelf Life | 2 years from date of manufacture under recommended storage conditions |
Key Benefits — Alpha Arbutin
Slow-Release Tyrosinase Inhibition — α-Glycosidic Bond Sustained Delivery
The α-glycosidic bond resists premature hydrolysis by skin β-glucosidases, delivering slow, continuous hydroquinone release over hours. 10× more stable than natural β-arbutin. Sustained competitive tyrosinase inhibition at the enzyme’s catalytic copper center — consistent brightening without the rapid HQ spike of β-arbutin.
10× StabilityGentlest Brightening Active — Safe for Sensitive Skin & Daily Use
Zero irritation, zero cytotoxicity, and free hydroquinone verified at ≤1 ppm in every batch. Unlike kojic acid (12–63% sensitization) and free HQ (cytotoxic/melanocyte death), α-arbutin is the safest brightening active for sensitive skin, rosacea-prone skin, and daily long-term use across all Fitzpatrick skin types.
Sensitive Skin SafeEnzymatic Synthesis — Superior Purity & Batch Consistency
Produced via precision enzymatic glycosylation — not botanical extraction. This results in ≥99.5% HPLC purity, consistent stereochemistry (α-anomer only), no botanical allergens or pesticide residues, ≤1 ppm free hydroquinone, and superior batch-to-batch reproducibility versus natural bearberry-derived β-arbutin.
≥99.5% HPLCMulti-Pathway Synergy — TXA + Niacinamide Compatible
α-Arbutin combines with tranexamic acid (plasmin blockade) and niacinamide (melanosome transfer inhibition) for complete three-control-point melanogenesis coverage. pH stable 3.5–6.5. Compatible with vitamin C derivatives, AHAs, peptides, and all standard cosmetic ingredients — the most formulation-flexible tyrosinase inhibitor.
3-Pathway SynergyApplications
Sensitive Skin Brightening Serums
α-Arbutin at 0.5–1% in gentle brightening serums for sensitive, reactive, and rosacea-prone skin types. The only tyrosinase inhibitor with near-zero irritation risk suitable for daily use. OEM and private label formulations available with flexible MOQ starting at 1 kg.
Daily Brightening Moisturizers & Sunscreens
α-Arbutin at 0.1–0.5% in daily moisturizers, sunscreens, and BB/CC creams for maintenance brightening and UV-induced pigmentation prevention. Stable across broad pH range — compatible with organic and inorganic UV filters.
Hydroquinone-Free Professional Brightening Lines
α-Arbutin at 1–2% as the primary tyrosinase inhibitor in hydroquinone-free professional and dermatologist-dispensed brightening systems. Combined with TXA and niacinamide for three-pathway coverage — the gold standard HQ-free protocol.
Brightening Body Lotions & Even-Tone Body Care
α-Arbutin at 1–2% in body lotions, underarm care, intimate area brightening, and full-body even-tone formulations. Gentle enough for large surface area application and sensitive body skin regions. Non-sticky, non-yellowing in emulsion systems.
Brightening Eye Creams & Targeted Spot Treatments
α-Arbutin at 0.5–1% in periocular brightening creams and targeted dark spot correctors. The gentlest active for the thin, sensitive under-eye area — no stinging, no redness, compatible with retinol and peptide co-actives for comprehensive anti-aging + brightening.
Sheet Masks, Essences & Leave-On Treatment Pads
α-Arbutin at 0.2–0.5% in hydrogel and bio-cellulose sheet masks, treatment essences, and pre-soaked brightening pads. Excellent water solubility for clear, non-tacky formulations. Sustained delivery on skin via slow enzymatic cleavage throughout wear time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Alpha Arbutin (α-Arbutin, CAS 84380-01-8, C₁₂H₁₆O₇, MW 272.25 g/mol) is a synthetic glycosylated hydroquinone derivative produced via enzymatic glycosylation — a precision biocatalytic process that attaches D-glucose to hydroquinone through an α-glycosidic bond. This α-linkage is the critical structural feature: it is approximately 10× more resistant to enzymatic hydrolysis by skin-resident β-glucosidases than the β-linkage in natural β-arbutin. The hydroquinone moiety is released slowly and continuously over hours as skin α-glucosidases gradually cleave the bond at the stratum corneum, providing sustained competitive tyrosinase inhibition. Alpha arbutin’s hydroquinone moiety structurally mimics L-tyrosine, competing for the tyrosinase catalytic site and blocking melanin synthesis at the rate-limiting enzymatic step. Because the active HQ is delivered gradually via enzymatic cleavage — not as free hydroquinone — α-arbutin achieves brightening efficacy without melanocyte cytotoxicity, making it the gentlest brightening active for sensitive skin and daily long-term use. UPOR Biotech provides α-arbutin at ≥99.5% HPLC purity with free hydroquinone content verified at ≤1 ppm in every batch COA.
Alpha arbutin (α-arbutin) and beta arbutin (β-arbutin) are stereoisomers with fundamentally different stability and safety profiles driven by their glycosidic bond configuration. The α-glycosidic bond in α-arbutin is 10× more resistant to enzymatic hydrolysis by skin-resident β-glucosidases than the β-bond in β-arbutin. This translates to four practical advantages: (1) Slow, sustained HQ release — continuous brightening over hours, not a rapid single burst. (2) Free HQ ≤1 ppm — near-zero free hydroquinone accumulation in the stratum corneum, eliminating irritation risk. (3) Superior formulation stability — α-arbutin resists thermal and pH-induced hydrolysis during manufacturing and storage that causes β-arbutin degradation. (4) Consistent purity — enzymatic synthesis delivers ≥99.5% HPLC, α-anomer only, no botanical allergens or pesticide residues; β-arbutin is extracted from bearberry leaves with natural batch variability. For formulators targeting sensitive skin, daily-use products, or hydroquinone-free claims, α-arbutin is unequivocally the safer and more predictable choice.
Recommended usage rate: 0.1–2.0% in leave-on formulations. 1.0% is the most common and clinically validated concentration for visible brightening efficacy. α-Arbutin is water-soluble (~50 mg/mL at 25°C) — add to the aqueous phase at ≤80°C; avoid prolonged heating above 85°C to preserve α-glycosidic bond integrity. pH stable from 3.5–6.5; optimal formulation pH is 5.0–6.0 for maximum stability. Compatible with niacinamide, TXA, vitamin C derivatives (ascorbyl glucoside, ethyl ascorbic acid), AHAs, peptides, and most standard cosmetic ingredients. The gold-standard sensitive-skin brightening combination: α-Arbutin 1% + Niacinamide 4–5% + TXA 2% — covering all three melanogenesis control points: plasmin activation blockade (TXA), sustained tyrosinase inhibition (α-arbutin), and melanosome transfer inhibition (niacinamide). For maximum epidermal penetration, pair with glycols or low-MW humectants. Always formulate with broad-spectrum sunscreen — UV exposure upregulates tyrosinase and counteracts α-arbutin’s competitive inhibition.
These four actives target different control points in melanogenesis — they are complementary, not competitive. Alpha Arbutin is a slow-release competitive tyrosinase inhibitor — the gentlest option with near-zero irritation, 10× more stable than β-arbutin, free HQ ≤1 ppm, ideal for sensitive skin and daily maintenance (visible results 6–12 weeks). Tranexamic Acid (TXA) blocks the upstream plasmin activation signal — the melanogenesis “overproduction command” — with 50× vitamin C molar potency and the strongest melasma clinical evidence (28 RCTs, 2024 meta-analysis). Kojic Acid chelates copper at the tyrosinase active site — fastest initial brightening (4–8 weeks) but 12–63% contact sensitization risk and oxidative yellowing; best used at night with antioxidants. Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid) is a potent antioxidant reducing dopaquinone back to L-dopa and scavenging UV-induced ROS — requires low pH (≤3.5), limiting sensitive-skin compatibility. Optimal multi-pathway strategy: α-Arbutin (gentle tyrosinase) + TXA (plasmin blockade) + Niacinamide (transfer inhibition) + stabilized vitamin C derivative (antioxidant) = comprehensive brightening with minimal irritation. Unlike hydroquinone, all four are non-cytotoxic and globally compliant.
Every shipment includes: COA (HPLC purity ≥99.5%, full impurity profile, free hydroquinone content ≤1 ppm quantified by HPLC-UV at 295 nm with LOQ 0.5 ppm, heavy metals ≤10 ppm with Pb ≤2 ppm / As ≤1 ppm / Hg ≤1 ppm / Cd ≤1 ppm, residual solvents per USP <467> / EP <5.4> / ICH Q3C Class 3, microbial panel per USP <61>/<62> and EP <2.6.12>/<2.6.13>), MSDS, HPLC Chromatogram (signed and dated, including free HQ quantification and peak purity analysis), IR Identity Confirmation (spectrum matched to Alpha Arbutin Reference Standard), BSE/TSE-Free Statement, Non-GMO Statement, Allergen Statement, HALAL Certificate, KOSHER Certificate, ISO 22000 + HACCP, ISO 9001:2015, FDA Facility Registration, Stability Data (25°C/60%RH real-time 24-month and 40°C/75%RH accelerated 6-month), and Complete Lot Traceability from enzymatic synthesis raw materials through finished product release. Free sample available for qualified B2B buyers. MOQ: 1 kg. All documents provided in English.