Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA
A water-based brightening serum designed to target uneven tone, dark spots, and skin radiance.
A smart brightening serum for people who want a more focused pigmentation-support step without jumping straight to stronger exfoliating acids.
Alpha-arbutin at a relevant 2% concentration in a clean water-based formula at under $10. For something targeting hyperpigmentation specifically, this price point is exceptional compared to brightening serums from premium brands.
After cleansing and toning, before moisturizer. Morning and evening use is ideal for consistent brightening results. Daily SPF is essential — any brightening serum is undermined by sun exposure.
People with post-acne marks, sun spots, or uneven tone who want a targeted brightening step without the irritation risk of AHA exfoliants. Also perfect for layering with niacinamide for a dual-mechanism brightening approach.
If used inconsistently — alpha-arbutin is a commitment product, not a quick fix. Also, if the skin is chronically in the sun without SPF, results won't accumulate no matter how consistently you use the serum.
Alpha-arbutin is very gentle — if your skin is overwhelmed, something else in the routine is the culprit. Continue cautiously and simplify the surrounding routine first.
- Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% (exceptional dual brightening mechanism)
- SPF 30+ every morning — essential for any brightening routine
- A hydrating serum underneath to ensure good skin hydration while brightening
Best For
- Dark spots
- Uneven tone
- Post-acne marks
- Dullness
- Hyperpigmentation support
How to Use
Apply after cleansing and before moisturizer in the morning and/or evening. Use consistently and pair with daily sunscreen.
Key Ingredients
Slows the production of melanin by inhibiting the activity of tyrosinase, reducing the formation of new hyperpigmentation at the source rather than exfoliating existing pigment. Works best on fresh, actively forming dark spots.
Provides deep hydration by penetrating multiple skin depths, complementing the surface-level hydration of larger HA molecules.
At active concentrations (5–10%+): exfoliates the skin's surface, improving texture and tone. At low concentrations: acts as a humectant and pH adjuster.
Ingredients to Note
May be a concern for some skin types. Tap to learn more.
May be a concern for some skin types. Tap to learn more.
May be a concern for some skin types. Tap to learn more.
Full Ingredient List
About This Product
The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA pairs alpha-arbutin — a stabilized glycoside derived from bearberry that inhibits tyrosinase (melanin production enzyme) — with hydrolyzed sodium hyaluronate for surface hydration. It works differently from AHA brighteners: instead of exfoliating away pigment, it targets the melanin formation process itself, making it compatible with sensitive skin types and safe for daily use.