Depigmenting agent
Alpha Arbutin
Clear to white, smooth serum or cream
Typical Strength
1%–2%
Formulations
0 compounds
Formula
C₁₂H₁₆O₇
Mol. Weight
272.25 g/mol
How It Works
Mechanism of action
A glycosylated hydroquinone derivative that releases hydroquinone slowly, inhibiting tyrosinase with far less irritation. A gentler brightening option for sensitive skin or as a hydroquinone-free alternative in pigment protocols.
What compounding can change
When Alpha Arbutin is compounded for one patient, your prescriber can choose the concentration, combine it with other ingredients, and pick the base. Commercial products come in fixed strengths and bases.
Please note: Compounded medications require a prescription from a licensed prescriber for an individual patient. Compounded medications are not FDA-approved. The FDA does not review them for safety, effectiveness or quality. A compounded medication is not the same as, or a generic version of, any FDA-approved drug. This page is general information, not medical advice. Your prescriber decides whether a treatment is right for you and sets the final ingredients, strength and dosage form.