Alpha arbutin and niacinamide are both ingredients commonly found in skincare products. Here are some details about each ingredient and their positive and negative aspects:
Alpha Arbutin
- Alpha arbutin is a naturally occurring substance derived from the bearberry shrub.
- It is a derivative of hydroquinone and works by inhibiting the production of melanin, which contributes to dark spots on the skin.
- Alpha arbutin is a potent skin lightener that helps to brighten skin tone and improve skin texture.
- It can potentially cause skin irritation and dryness, especially when used in high concentrations.
- It is recommended to use alpha arbutin before niacinamide because it is more potent.
Niacinamide
- Niacinamide is a derivative of Vitamin B3 and is a powerful antioxidant that improves the appearance of skin and helps to keep it moisturized.
- It helps inhibit the production of melanin, similar to alpha arbutin.
- Niacinamide is known to promote collagen production, which makes the skin healthier, firmer, and more resilient.
- It is generally well-tolerated by most skin types and does not cause skin irritation or dryness.
- Niacinamide can be used in combination with alpha arbutin to treat many skin problems.
Ingredients or Materials
- Alpha arbutin and niacinamide are both water-based lightweight serums that can blend quite well.
- It is recommended to choose a maximum of three active ingredients to cater to most of your skin concerns.
- It is not recommended to mix alpha arbutin with vitamin C as they both deliver similar results for the skin, which results in them counteracting each other and diminishing their potency and performance on the skin.
In summary, alpha arbutin and niacinamide are both beneficial ingredients for the skin, and they can be used together to treat various skin problems. However, alpha arbutin can potentially cause skin irritation and dryness, while niacinamide is generally well-tolerated by most skin types. It is recommended to use alpha arbutin before niacinamide and to choose a maximum of three active ingredients to cater to most of your skin concerns.
