Arbutin
A cosmetic ingredient used as antioxidant, bleaching, skin conditioning - miscellaneous in skincare, haircare, and personal-care products sold in the European Union.
What is it?
4-Hydroxyphenyl-beta-D-glucopyranoside
What does it do?
Arbutin is listed in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with the following declared functions:
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Antioxidant
neutralises free radicals to slow oxidative damage to the formulation or skin
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Bleaching
lightens hair or skin tone by chemically reducing pigment
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Skin conditioning - miscellaneous
improves skin condition through mechanisms not classified under the more specific emollient or humectant subcategories
EU regulatory status
Arbutin is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the European Union under Regulation 1223/2009. It is not subject to a specific Annex restriction at the time of writing.
Frequently asked questions
What is Arbutin?
Arbutin is a cosmetic ingredient catalogued in the EU CosIng database. 4-Hydroxyphenyl-beta-D-glucopyranoside
Is Arbutin allowed in cosmetics in the EU?
Yes. Arbutin is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the EU under Regulation 1223/2009.
What does Arbutin do in cosmetic products?
Arbutin is declared in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with these functions: antioxidant, bleaching, skin conditioning - miscellaneous.
What is the CAS number of Arbutin?
The CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number for Arbutin is 497-76-7.
Related ingredients
Source: EU CosIng database (European Commission). This page is derived from public-sector information published by the European Commission. · Last updated: 07/08/2020