Alpha Arbutin and Hydroquinone Compared

Given the fact that hydroquinone is now illegal in all areas of the world except the United States, the beauty industry has been looking for skin whitening alternatives that could be as effective, without the typical dangers associated with hydroquinone. . At one point Kojic Acid seemed promising but wasn't as powerful. Recently, they found this substance in, of all places, a weed in Canada The chemical is called Alpha Arbutin and many studies have found it to an effective alternative . Compared to other natural whitening ingredients how does Alpha Arbutin compare?

The Straight Dope on Alpha Arbutin

No one can dispute the possible dangers of hydroquinone . Many darker skinned women have found that using the substance can whiten skin but if abused, it could whiten the skin permanently. In a few cases, liver and kidney damage is the result. Finally, because it is labeled a poison, in a few cases of severe abuse, it has actually caused death .

Is Alpha Arbutin safer?

First, many women may think that just because A-Arbutin in a natural and organic material doesn't imply that it is a safe alternative . The reason for this is that when it is broken down in the body, it produces "hydroquinone . In other words, the synthesis and how it reacts to the body is the same. In fact, the chemical responsible for inhibiting melanin is broken down the same way regardless of what the two chemicals are labeled.

Furthermore, studies into the effects of A-arbutin over time have not been studied long enough to determine whether the side-effects are reduced. And to complicate matters, most researchers will agree that alpha arbutin is nothing more than a watered down version of hydroquinone and those willing to abuse it may see the same side effects.

There are some other bleaching ingredients that may be better for you though than either of the two . Kojic acid and some of the other beta hydroxies may be milder but exhibit none of the harmful side effects . While it is safer, the effects take longer to realize. For many women, the wait may seem too long though .

Hydroquinone is dangerous. But considering the alternatives, there is no other skin bleaching ingredient that is more effective. . And while Alpha Arbutin may appear to be a substance that could rival it, the jury is still out as to whether it is truly safer.