Tel: +86 13962653966 | Email： sales@szeasychem.com
Tel: +86 13962653966 | Email： sales@szeasychem.com
As the global demand for brightening skincare continues to rise, cosmetic developers face a key question: Should I use Alpha Arbutin or Beta Arbutin in my whitening formulation? Both ingredients are highly recognized skin-brightening actives, but they differ significantly in potency, stability, cost, and application suitability. Choosing the right form can directly influence your product’s performance, market positioning, and customer satisfaction.
As a professional manufacturer and global supplier of Alpha Arbutin and Beta Arbutin, we work with skincare brands, OEM/ODM factories, and global distributors. Based on years of technical experience and market insights, this guide explains everything you need to know before selecting the right type of arbutin for your cosmetic formulation.
Arbutin is a well-known derivative of hydroquinone that provides a safe and effective approach to controlling melanin production. It exists in two isomeric forms:
Beta Arbutin (β-Arbutin)
Though similar in chemical origin, these two ingredients differ greatly in performance and market application. The key lies in their structural difference—specifically, the type of glycosidic bond—which affects bioactivity and skin penetration.
Alpha Arbutin is widely seen as the most effective form of arbutin available in modern skincare. It is produced through controlled enzyme synthesis, allowing for extremely high purity and excellent stability.
Research shows that Alpha Arbutin offers significantly stronger tyrosinase inhibition than Beta Arbutin. This means faster visible results in:
Dark spot reduction
Hyperpigmentation correction
Skin tone improvement
Overall radiance enhancement
Alpha Arbutin remains stable under:
Light
Heat
Air exposure
Mildly acidic pH
This reduces degradation and ensures long-term potency in your finished formula.
Alpha Arbutin is approved for use in:
EU Cosmetic Regulation
US cosmetic products
China IECIC list
Korea & Japan
ASEAN markets
It is commonly used in:
Premium brightening serums
Dark spot correctors
Whitening creams
Dermatology-backed formulations
Because of its strong efficacy, even a 1–2% inclusion level can deliver impressive performance.
Beta Arbutin (also known as natural arbutin) is the traditional and more affordable form. It offers gentle brightening and is widely used in large-volume skincare and personal care products.
Beta Arbutin production technology is mature, making it significantly more cost-effective than Alpha Arbutin—ideal for large-scale manufacturing.
While not as strong as Alpha Arbutin, it delivers:
Gradual skin tone improvement
Lightening of superficial pigmentation
Daily brightening effect
Its mildness makes it ideal for:
Lotions
Sheet masks
Body whitening products
Facial cleansers
Mass-market brightening lines
Typical usage is 3–7%, depending on desired effect and target price point.
To help your R&D and purchasing team make informed decisions, here is a clear comparison:
| Property | Alpha Arbutin | Beta Arbutin |
|---|---|---|
| Whitening Strength | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Strong | ⭐⭐ Gentle |
| Recommended Dosage | 1–2% | 3–7% |
| Cost | Higher | Lower |
| Stability | Higher | Good |
| Ideal Market | Premium skincare | Mass-market skincare |
| Application | Serums, creams | Masks, lotions, cleansers |
| Safety | Excellent | Excellent |
For premium, high-efficacy formulas → Choose Alpha Arbutin
For cost-sensitive, high-volume formulas → Choose Beta Arbutin
Selecting between Alpha Arbutin and Beta Arbutin depends on three major factors: product positioning, formulation goals, and budget.
Need fast, visible brightening → Alpha Arbutin
Need gentle, progressive brightening → Beta Arbutin
Alpha Arbutin pairs well with:
Niacinamide
Vitamin C derivatives
Tranexamic Acid
Kojic Acid derivatives
Hyaluronic Acid
Beta Arbutin pairs well with:
Plant extracts
Peptides
Hydrating agents
Serums + creams → Alpha Arbutin
Masks + lotions → Beta Arbutin
Recent market data shows a clear shift:
Consumers seek fast results
Dermatology brands prefer scientifically proven ingredients
Premium product lines require stronger claims
Export markets demand stable and high-purity actives
As a result, Alpha Arbutin has become the top choice for new whitening launches worldwide.
As a alpha arbutin manufacturer, we provide:
Alpha Arbutin ≥ 99.0%
Beta Arbutin ≥ 99.5%
We eliminate middlemen and provide competitive prices for both small and large orders.
We support all markets with:
COA
TDS
MSDS
Heavy metal reports
Microbial tests
Stability information
Regulatory compliance documents
Stable supply with consistent quality — ideal for long-term cooperation.
We export to Europe, Middle East, Africa, Southeast Asia, South America, and more.
We help you with:
Dosage recommendations
Solubility guidance
Compatibility advice
Formula optimization
Alpha Arbutin: pH 4.5–6.5
Beta Arbutin: pH 5–7
Easily soluble in water
Recommended to add below 50°C
Protect from metal ions
Use chelating agents (EDTA), antioxidants, or encapsulation for advanced systems.
With HA + Niacinamide + TXA
Strong radiance-boosting formula
Cost-effective yet effective
Large-volume, daily-use formula
Targeted anti-pigmentation product
Choosing between Alpha Arbutin and Beta Arbutin depends on your brand strategy, budget, and whitening performance goals.
But no matter which you choose, the purity, stability, and supplier reliability are critical to your product’s final quality.
As a professional manufacturer and supplier of both ingredients, we help global brands create effective, safe, and competitive whitening products.
We offer:
High-purity Alpha Arbutin & Beta Arbutin
Competitive factory prices
Global delivery
Full documentation
Technical formulation support
Stable long-term supply
Contact us to request samples, quotations, or bulk order pricing today.
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Suzhou easy chemical co. ltd
388, Dengyun Road,Kunshan, Jiangsu, China
Email: sales@szeasychem.com
Contact： Joyce Yu
MB: +86 13962653966
Whatsapp&Wechat: +86 13962653966
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