DropBrigt® AAB | Alpha-Arbutin

DropBright® AAB is a highly effective skin-lightening agent and one of the safest and most reliable alternatives to hydroquinone. Alpha-Arbutin is a glycosylated hydroquinone derivative that prevents melanin synthesis by inhibiting tyrosinase activity in melanocytes. Compared to Beta-Arbutin, Alpha-Arbutin demonstrates superior stability, higher efficacy, and better safety, making it an excellent choice for advanced skin-brightening formulations.

INCI Name: Alpha-Arbutin
CAS Number: 84380-01-8
Function: Whitening Agent
EWG Score: 1 (Low Hazard)

Benefits

1. Highly Effective Whitening:

   • Inhibits tyrosinase activity with an IC50 of 1.0 mmol/L, compared to 9.0 mmol/L for Beta-Arbutin.
   • Blocks melanin synthesis and deposition for visibly brighter skin.

2. Gentle and Safe:

   • Does not inhibit or damage cell growth, making it safer than Beta-Arbutin.
   • Free from cytotoxicity and well-tolerated by sensitive skin.

3. Enhanced Stability:

   • Stable under temperature and neutral pH conditions.
   • Better solubility and resistance to environmental factors compared to Beta-Arbutin.

4. Versatile Applications:

   • Suitable for face and neck care, body care, and other whitening-focused formulations.

Suggested Usage

• Concentration:
  • Daily Care: 0.5%–3.0%
  • Effective Care: 3.0%–5.0%
  • Special Care: 5.0%–10.0%
• Applications:
  • Whitening creams, serums, and lotions.
  • Anti-aging products targeting pigmentation and dark spots.
• Method of Incorporation:
  • Add to the aqueous phase of formulations at temperatures below 40°C.
  • Ideal pH range: 5.0–7.0

Features

• Superior whitening efficacy compared to Beta-Arbutin.
• Safe and non-irritating, suitable for sensitive skin.
• Highly stable in water-soluble formulations.

Physicochemical Properties

• Appearance: White or off-white powder
• Assay (HPLC): ≥99.5%
• pH (1% Water Solution): 5.0–7.0
• Melting Point: 202°C–210°C
• Loss on Drying: ≤1.0%
• Heavy Metals: ≤10 ppm
• Hydroquinone Content: ≤10 ppm
• Microbial Safety:
  • Total Plate Count: ≤1000 cfu/g
  • Yeast & Mold: ≤100 cfu/g
  • E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa: Negative

Cautions

• Storage:
  • Protect from light and humidity; store between 2°C–8°C.
  • Keep the container tightly sealed to avoid microbial contamination.
• Stability:
  • Avoid exposure to strong acids, alkalis, and UV light.

Packaging and Shelf Life

• Packaging: Available in 1 kg and 25 kg containers.
• Shelf Life: 2 years under recommended storage conditions.