The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA Review

Dark spots and hyperpigmentation are common concerns for many people, especially if you spend time in the sun or experience acne breakouts.

The Ordinary offers a solution to help reduce the appearance of dark spots and brighten skin tone: The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA.

Today I’ll discuss my experience with this serum in this The Ordinary alpha arbutin review.

In this article, I break down everything you need to know about The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA, including how long it takes to work, who should use it, and where you can buy it at a great price.

So if you’ve been wondering whether or not this product is suitable for your skincare needs, read on!

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Alpha arbutin is a compound that comes from a plant called the bearberry shrub. The compound is often used in skincare products for its skin lightening benefits.

Alpha arbutin inhibits the formation of melanin (pigment) in the skin by inhibiting the enzyme tyrosinase, which is involved in melanin production.

Alpha arbutin is not the same as beta arbutin (also known as arbutin). Studies conflict on which is more potent in skincare.

While both can help fade skin discoloration and hyperpigmentation, alpha arbutin is said to be more stable and possibly more effective.

Alpha Arbutin vs Hydroquinone

Alpha arbutin is an alternative to hydroquinone, an active used for skin lightening, but in recent years it has fallen out of favor because there have been safety concerns about hydroquinone related to cell toxicity.

Luckily, alpha arbutin is a low irritation active, especially when compared to other brightening actives like vitamin C, alpha hydroxy acids, retinoids, and retinol. Alpha arbutin can be used in conjunction with these actives as it has no contraindications.

The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA Ingredients and Formula Notes

The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA is a water-based serum that contains 2% alpha arbutin.

This high concentration of alpha arbutin goes to work on hyperpigmentation, age spots, and uneven skin tone.

Formulated at a pH of 4.50 – 5.50, this serum comes in the form of a transparent liquid gel.

This alpha arbutin serum also contains what The Ordinary describes as a “next-generation form of Hyaluronic Acid” to support product absorption. This type of hyaluronic acid is called hydrolyzed sodium hyaluronate.

Also known as miniHA, this chopped-up form of hyaluronic acid, per the manufacturer, is supposed to absorb deeper into the skin and provide better anti-aging, moisturizing, and antioxidant benefits.

Hydrolyzed sodium hyaluronate also helps plump up fine lines and wrinkles as it acts like a sponge binding water to your skin.

The Ordinary notes that alpha-arbutin can degrade in water if the pH of the formula isn’t ideal. The pH of this The Ordinary serum is designed to be the most suitable pH to minimize the degradation of alpha arbutin.

To get the most out of The Ordinary alpha arbutin, it’s best used under a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or greater.

Keep in mind that sun exposure causes much of the hyperpigmentation, age spots, and blotchy skin we experience in the first place.

The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA Ingredients

Aqua (Water), Alpha-Arbutin, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Propanediol, Ppg-26-Buteth-26, Peg-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Lactic Acid, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Ethoxydiglycol, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin.

The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA Review

The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA is a thick liquid gel that feels a bit tacky upon application. Once it sinks into my skin and dries, the tackiness goes away.

My skin feels slightly more hydrated after using this serum, thanks to the inclusion of hyaluronic acid. As long as I use a thin layer, it works well with other skincare products and under makeup.

I didn’t notice a dramatic improvement in the areas of hyperpigmentation and discoloration after using this serum for a few weeks, but after a few months, I’ve noticed some slight fading of sun spots on my chest.

Just note that it can take months to see improvements when using products formulated with alpha arbutin, so patience is necessary.

I really like this serum because it can be an additional active in your arsenal of actives to treat hyperpigmentation without causing tingling or irritation like vitamin C and retinol products can.

You can use it in conjunction with other brightening products without any conflicts. I like to use this serum in my morning skincare routine with vitamin C products to boost my antioxidant protection and help brighten my skin.

It did not irritate my skin at all, which is a nice change for once when it comes to brightening products. This alpha arbutin serum is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

Still, since everyone’s skin is unique, The Ordinary recommends patch testing for any new products before introducing them into your skincare routine.

Who’s It For?

This serum would be ideal for oily and acne-prone skin that experiences dark spots or acne scarring.

It’s also suitable for aging and mature skin dealing with age spots, sun spots, and an uneven skin tone, or anyone will dull skin looking for a brighter complexion.

How to Use The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA

Apply a few drops of The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin on your face in your morning and/or evening skincare routine. This is a water-based serum, so apply it after cleansing and toning your skin.

If you are using it with other water-based serums with a thinner consistency, apply this serum after those products with a thinner texture.

Apply a few drops of this alpha arbutin serum onto your face in gentle patting motions until it has been fully absorbed into your skin.

Be sure to apply a moisturizer afterward to seal everything in and a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher in your morning skincare regimen.

The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA Conflicts

The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA does not conflict with other actives.

Alternatives to The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA

If you are looking for alternatives to The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin for brightening dull skin or for boosting the effects of alpha arbutin, consider these skincare products:

If you want a brightening serum that also calms redness, this serum is a great choice!

Formulated for post-acne marks and acne scars, the serum helps reduce the look of redness, enlarged pores, uneven skin tone and textural irregularities while strengthening your skin barrier.

Aloe barbadensis leaf juice powder and hydroxymethoxyphenyl decanone sooth irritation, while n-acetyl glucosamine targets hyperpigmentation and dark spots. Palmitoyl pentapeptide-4 helps reduce the look of textural irregularities.

If you want the benefits of vitamin C plus alpha arbutin, you can skip The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA and try The Ordinary Ascorbic Acid 8% + Alpha Arbutin 2% instead.

I like that the concentration of vitamin C isn’t super high, so the serum doesn’t irritate my skin.

See my complete review here.

The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane

Retinol is a type of retinoid that increases cell turnover to fade dark spots, discoloration, and sun damage to reveal a more even skin tone with continued use.

It’s an over-the-counter active that has been extensively studied for its anti-aging benefits.

This moderate-strength retinol serum targets the signs of aging like wrinkles and fine lines, while increasing cell turnover, which helps fade hyperpigmentation and dark spots.

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

Niacinamide is an effective over-the-counter brightening active. Rather than inhibiting the enzyme in melanin production, it inhibits melanosome transfer to reduce pigmentation.

Niacinamide also has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-aging benefits.

The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%

Derived from cereal grains like wheat, rye, and barley, azelaic acid is a naturally occurring organic compound that works as a multi-functional brightening agent for your skin.

It’s also an anti-inflammatory and offers benefits for oily and acne-prone skin.

The cream-gel also has skin-protective antioxidant benefits and is great for redness.

Alpha Hydroxy Acid: The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner

Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are a family of exfoliating acids that include glycolic acid, lactic acid, mandelic acid, and others.

AHAs exfoliate the skin’s outer surface for a brighter, more even, and radiant appearance.

Alpha hydroxy acids can help fade dark spots, discolorations caused by sun damage, age spots, and acne scarring.

Please note that since glycolic acid has the smallest molecule size of all AHAs, it can be irritating (depending on the concentration).

If you have sensitive skin, you may want to start with lactic acid or mandelic acid to build your tolerance.

The lightweight gel contains multiple actives to target dark spots and hyperpigmentation:

• 2% Tranexamic Acid
• 2% Acai Berry Extract
• 2% Ascorbyl Glucoside (Vitamin C Derivative)

Formulated for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

Related Post: Best Tranexamic Acid Serums

Glutathione: Paula’s Choice Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum

Glutathione is another skin brightener and antioxidant that reduces melanin production by interfering with the activity of the enzyme tyrosinase.

It helps to reduce the look of dark spots, sun spots, hyperpigmentation, and blotchy skin tone.

The serum targets dullness, uneven skin tone, and the signs of aging, making it an excellent multi-tasking product.

Licorice Root Extract

A powerful antioxidant, licorice root is a natural skin brightener that inhibits melanin production to reduce the appearance of dark spots.

Licorice root extract also has anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe the skin and reduce redness.

Kojic Acid

Kojic acid is a by-product of the fermentation process that produces sake or rice wine. It inhibits tyrosinase activity, which helps to reduce melanin (pigment) formation and fade dark spots and other discolorations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin every day?

Yes, you can use The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA daily. The product is formulated to be gentle enough for twice a day use. However, it’s important to perform a patch test first to avoid an adverse initial reaction.

Is Retinol or Alpha Arbutin better?

Both retinol and alpha arbutin serve different purposes and work differently on your skin. While retinol is usually used for its anti-aging benefits, alpha arbutin is used for skin lightening and reducing hyperpigmentation. Depending on your specific skin concerns, you may want to use both together.

How long does it take for The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin to work?

The effectiveness of The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA can vary from person to person. Generally speaking, you may start to see some results after a few months, but it could take several months for more noticeable improvements. Patience and consistent application are key!

Does The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA have any side effects?

This The Ordinary serum is formulated to be low-irritation. However, if you experience redness, itchiness, or any other adverse reaction, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.

Can I combine Alpha Arbutin with other skincare actives?

Yes, alpha arbutin is compatible with other skincare actives like vitamin C, retinol, and AHAs. But as always, introduce new combinations gradually and monitor your skin for any signs of irritation.

Where can I buy The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA?

You can purchase this product directly from The Ordinary’s website, as well as from retail stores like Ulta, Sephora, and Target.

Final Thoughts The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA Review

Although it took a few months to see a slight improvement in my hyperpigmentation while using The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA, I am keeping it in my skincare regimen to complement the other brightening actives that I use.

I make sure to use sun protection every day to reduce the formation of excess pigmentation in my skin.

For the incredibly low price, this alpha arbutin serum from The Ordinary is a no-brainer if you struggle with hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone.

Thanks for reading!