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ALPHA ARBUTIN
SECTION 1: PRODUCT IDENTITY AND CHEMICAL IDENTIFICATION
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Alpha Arbutin |
| Chemical Name (IUPAC) | 4-Hydroxyphenyl-α-D-glucopyranoside |
| Synonyms (Turkish) | Alfa Arbutin, α-Arbutin, Hidrokinon-α-D-glukozid |
| Synonyms (English) | Alpha Arbutin, α-Arbutin, Hydroquinone-α-D-glucoside |
| CAS Number | 84380-01-8 |
| EC Number (EINECS) | 617-761-4 |
| Molecular Formula | C₁₂H₁₆O₇ |
| Molecular Weight | 272.25 g/mol |
| Chemical Class | Glycoside; Hydroquinone derivative; Phenolic glycoside |
| Source | Synthetic (enzymatic) or natural extraction (bearberry, blueberry) |
| Physical State (20°C) | Solid (crystalline powder) |
| Color | White to off-white |
| Odor | Characteristic faint odor |
| Taste | Slightly bitter |
SECTION 2: CHEMICAL STRUCTURE
CH₂OH
O
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/ \
/ O \
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/ | \
O | \
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| CH₂OH \
| \
| O |
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| / \ |
| / \ |
|/ \ |
HO \ |
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\ /
\ /
O
Alpha Arbutin
4-Hydroxyphenyl-α-D-glucopyranoside
C₁₂H₁₆O₇
Simplified Structure:
HO — (C₆H₄) — O — (C₆H₁₁O₅)
Alpha Arbutin
Glucose + Hydroquinone (α-linkage)
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C₁₂H₁₆O₇ |
| Molecular Weight | 272.25 g/mol |
| Chemical Class | Phenolic glycoside; Hydroquinone derivative |
| Structure | Hydroquinone (4-hydroxyphenyl) + Glucose (α-D-glucopyranose) |
| Glycosidic Bond | α-bond (alpha anomer) |
| Functional Groups | Phenolic hydroxyl (-OH), glycosidic bond, glucose ring |
| SMILES | C1=CC(=CC=C1O)O[C@@H]2C@HO |
| InChI | InChI=1S/C12H16O7/c13-5-8-9(15)10(16)11(17)12(19-8)18-7-3-1-6(14)2-4-7/h1-4,8-17H,5H2/t8-,9-,10+,11-,12-/m1/s1 |
| InChI Key | IDGUHHHQCWSQLU-RMPHRYRLSA-N |
| Hydrogen Bond Donors | 6 |
| Hydrogen Bond Acceptors | 7 |
| Rotatable Bond Count | 3 |
| Polar Surface Area (PSA) | 119.6 Ų |
| Optical Activity | Optically active |
| Anomer | α (alpha) |
SECTION 3: PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES
| Property | Value | Test Method / Note |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | White to off-white crystalline powder | Visual |
| Odor | Characteristic faint odor | Olfactometric |
| Molecular Weight | 272.25 g/mol | Calculated |
| Melting Point | ~195-198°C (decomposes) | DSC / Capillary |
| Density (20°C) | ~1.5 g/cm³ (estimated) | - |
| Water Solubility (20°C) | Soluble (~50-100 g/L) | General Method |
| Hot Water Solubility | Better soluble | General Method |
| Ethanol Solubility | Slightly soluble | General Method |
| Methanol Solubility | Soluble | General Method |
| DMSO Solubility | Soluble | General Method |
| Propylene Glycol Solubility | Soluble | General Method |
| Log P (Octanol/Water) | ~-0.5 to -1.0 (hydrophilic) | Calculated / Experimental |
| pH (1% Solution) | ~5.0 – 6.5 | pH Meter |
| Vapor Pressure (25°C) | Very low | - |
| Flash Point | >150°C | - |
| Thermal Stability | Stable up to 100°C; decomposes at higher temperatures | - |
| Hygroscopicity | Slightly hygroscopic | - |
| Optical Rotation [α]D²⁰ | +160° to +170° (c=1, H₂O) | Polarimetry |
| UV Maximum (λmax) | ~292 nm (water) | UV-VIS Spectrophotometer |
| Photostability | Light sensitive (photodegradation) | - |
| Heat of Solution | Exothermic (when dissolved in water) | - |
SECTION 4: ALPHA ARBUTIN vs BETA ARBUTIN vs HYDROQUINONE
| Property | Alpha Arbutin | Beta Arbutin | Hydroquinone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemical Name | 4-Hydroxyphenyl-α-D-glucopyranoside | 4-Hydroxyphenyl-β-D-glucopyranoside | 1,4-Dihydroxybenzene |
| CAS Number | 84380-01-8 | 497-76-7 | 123-31-9 |
| Glycosidic Bond | α (alpha) | β (beta) | None |
| Skin Lightening Potency | Highest (1.5-2x stronger than β) | Moderate | Highest |
| Stability | High | Moderate | Low |
| Water Solubility | Good | Good | Low |
| Toxicity | Low (safe) | Low | High (cytotoxic) |
| Skin Irritation | Low | Low | High |
| Usage Status | Widespread (cosmetics) | Restricted | Banned (EU, Turkey) |
| Melanin Inhibition | Effective | Less effective | Very effective (toxic) |
| Price | High | Low | Low |
SECTION 5: MECHANISM OF ACTION
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Melanin Inhibition | Competitively inhibits tyrosinase enzyme (competes with tyrosine); Blocks the first step of melanin synthesis; Reduces melanin production in melanocytes. |
| Tyrosinase Inhibition (IC50) | ~0.5-1.0 mM (alpha arbutin); 1.5-2 times stronger than beta arbutin |
| Hydroquinone Release | Slowly hydrolyzed to hydroquinone by skin glycosidase enzymes; Hydroquinone inhibits tyrosinase; Controlled release reduces toxicity. |
| DNA Protection | Reduces UV-induced DNA damage; Reduces oxidative stress; Exhibits antioxidant effect. |
| Anti-inflammatory Effect | Reduces inflammatory mediators; Prevents post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. |
| Antioxidant Activity | Scavenges free radicals; Protects skin from oxidative damage. |
| Melanocyte Toxicity | Less toxic to melanocytes compared to hydroquinone; Safe for long-term use. |
SECTION 6: COMMERCIAL GRADES AND VARIANTS
| Grade / Type | Purity | Appearance | Primary Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cosmetic Grade | ≥99.0% | White crystalline powder | Skin lightening creams, serums, lotions |
| Dermocosmetic Grade | ≥99.5% | White crystalline powder | Prescription skincare, melasma treatment |
| Research Grade (R&D) | ≥99.5% | White crystalline powder | Analytical standards, formulation development |
| Analytical Standard | ≥99.8% | White crystalline powder | HPLC reference standards |
| Naturally Derived | ≥99.0% | White crystalline powder | Natural cosmetic products (bearberry extract) |
| Synthetic (Enzymatic) | ≥99.0% | White crystalline powder | High purity, standard products |
SECTION 7: MAIN APPLICATION AREAS
| Industry / Application | Use | Typical Concentration |
|---|---|---|
| Cosmetics (Skin Lightening) | Even skin tone and brighter appearance | 0.5-2% |
| Cosmetics (Spot Removal) | Sun spots, age spots, melasma treatment | 1-2% |
| Cosmetics (Serums) | High concentration active ingredient | 1-3% |
| Cosmetics (Creams, Lotions) | Active ingredient in daily care products | 0.5-2% |
| Dermocosmetics | Hyperpigmentation disorder treatment | 2% |
| Anti-aging Products | Evening skin tone, brightening | 0.5-1% |
| Post-Sun Care | Prevention of UV-induced hyperpigmentation | 0.5-1% |
| Post-Acne Spot Treatment | Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation treatment | 1-2% |
SECTION 8: FORMULATION GUIDELINES
| Parameter | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Concentration | Typical concentration: 0.5-3%; Effective concentration: 1-2%; Maximum: 3% (CIR approved) |
| Addition Method | Dissolve in water phase; Add at final stage of formulation (40-50°C); Avoid high temperatures (>60°C) causing degradation |
| pH Range | Optimum pH 4.0-6.0; More stable in acidic medium; Degradation accelerates at pH >7 |
| Temperature Processing | Dissolve at 40-50°C; Avoid high temperatures (>60°C) |
| Light Protection | Light sensitive; Use amber glass or opaque containers; Protect with UV filters |
| Antioxidants | Addition of Vitamin E, BHT, BHA improves photostability |
| Compatibility | Compatible with most cosmetic ingredients; Avoid oxidizing agents; Color change with iron salts |
| Chelating Agents | EDTA addition binds metal ions and improves stability |
| Humectants | Can be combined with glycerin, propylene glycol, hyaluronic acid |
| Other Actives | Synergistic effect with vitamin C, niacinamide, kojic acid, retinoids |
| Color Stability | Slight yellowing may occur over time; Prevent by adding antioxidants |
SECTION 9: SAMPLE FORMULATIONS
Skin Brightening Serum:
| Component | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Alpha Arbutin | 1-2% |
| Water | 80-90% |
| Humectants (Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid) | 2-5% |
| Antioxidants (Vitamin E) | 0.1-0.5% |
| Preservatives | As required |
| pH Adjustment (pH 5.0-6.0) | As required |
Instructions: Dissolve alpha arbutin in water phase at 40-50°C; Add other ingredients; Adjust pH to 5.0-6.0; Package in amber glass bottle.
Spot Removal Cream:
| Component | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Alpha Arbutin | 2% |
| Niacinamide | 2-5% |
| Oil Phase | 20-25% |
| Water | 65-75% |
| Emulsifiers | As required |
| Antioxidants | As required |
| Preservatives | As required |
Instructions: Dissolve alpha arbutin in water phase at 40-50°C; Emulsify with oil phase; Adjust pH to 5.0-6.0; Package in light-proof containers.
SECTION 10: QUALITY SPECIFICATIONS
| Parameter | Specification | Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | White to off-white crystalline powder | Visual |
| Assay (Alpha Arbutin) | ≥99.0% | HPLC |
| Melting Point | 195-198°C (decomposes) | DSC / Capillary |
| pH (1% Solution) | 5.0 – 6.5 | pH Meter |
| Water Content | ≤1.0% | Karl Fischer |
| Residue on Ignition | ≤0.1% | Gravimetric |
| Heavy Metals (Pb) | ≤10 ppm | ICP-MS |
| Arsenic (As) | ≤2 ppm | ICP-MS |
| Lead (Pb) | ≤3 ppm | ICP-MS |
| Cadmium (Cd) | ≤1 ppm | ICP-MS |
| Mercury (Hg) | ≤1 ppm | ICP-MS |
| Related Substances (Hydroquinone) | ≤10 ppm | HPLC |
| Related Substances (Beta Arbutin) | ≤1.0% | HPLC |
| Related Substances (Single) | ≤0.5% | HPLC |
| Related Substances (Total) | ≤1.0% | HPLC |
| Optical Rotation | +160° to +170° (c=1, H₂O) | Polarimetry |
| UV Spectrum | λmax 292 ± 2 nm (water) | UV-VIS |
| Particle Size | As per customer specification | Laser Diffraction |
| Microbiological Purity | TAMC ≤10² CFU/g; TYMC ≤10¹ CFU/g | USP <61> |
| E. coli | Negative in 1g | USP <62> |
| Salmonella spp. | Negative in 25g | USP <62> |
| S. aureus | Negative in 1g | USP <62> |
| P. aeruginosa | Negative in 1g | USP <62> |
SECTION 11: SAFETY PROFILE AND TOXICOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT
| Parameter | Value / Description |
|---|---|
| GHS Classification | Generally not classified as hazardous substance |
| Signal Word | None (not hazardous) or Warning |
| Hazard Pictograms | None (generally) |
| Hazard Statements (H-Codes) | H315 (Causes skin irritation), H319 (Causes serious eye irritation) |
| Acute Oral Toxicity (LD50, Rat) | >5000 mg/kg (very low toxicity) |
| Acute Dermal Toxicity (LD50, Rabbit) | >2000 mg/kg (low toxicity) |
| Skin Irritation | May cause mild irritation (rare) |
| Eye Irritation | May cause mild irritation |
| Skin Sensitization | May cause sensitization (very rare) |
| Carcinogenicity | Not classified as carcinogenic |
| Mutagenicity | Not mutagenic |
| Reproductive Toxicity | No reproductive toxicity |
| Target Organs | Skin, eyes |
| Hydroquinone Toxicity | Alpha arbutin is much safer than hydroquinone; Controlled hydroquinone release in skin; No cytotoxic effects |
| Side Effects (Topical) | Rarely mild irritation or sensitivity; Redness, itching, dryness |
| Pregnancy Category | FDA Category B (no risk in animal studies); Considered safe during pregnancy |
SECTION 12: GHS CLASSIFICATION AND LABELING
GHS Classification (in accordance with 1272/2008/EC):
| Hazard Class | Category | H-Statement |
|---|---|---|
| Generally not classified as hazardous substance | – | – |
| Skin Irritation | Category 2 (optional) | H315 |
| Eye Irritation | Category 2 (optional) | H319 |
Signal Word: None (Not classified as hazardous) or Warning (optional)
Hazard Pictograms: None (generally) or GHS07 (Exclamation mark)
NFPA 704 Hazard Classification:
| Health | Flammability | Reactivity | Special |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 0 | 0 | - |
| (Minimal health hazard) | (Non-combustible) | (Stable) | (None) |
SECTION 13: PRECAUTIONARY STATEMENTS (P-CODES)
| Code | Statement |
|---|---|
| P261 | Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas |
| P264 | Wash hands thoroughly after handling |
| P270 | Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product |
| P271 | Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area |
| P280 | Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection |
| P301+P312 | IF SWALLOWED: Call a POISON CENTER/doctor if you feel unwell |
| P302+P352 | IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of soap and water |
| P304+P340 | IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing |
| P305+P351+P338 | IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses if present and continue rinsing |
| P332+P313 | If skin irritation occurs: Get medical advice/attention |
| P337+P313 | If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention |
| P362+P364 | Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse |
| P403+P233 | Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed |
| P405 | Store locked up |
| P501 | Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local/regional/national/international regulations |
SECTION 14: FIRST AID MEASURES
| Route of Exposure | Action |
|---|---|
| Inhalation | If inhaled as powder, move to fresh air. Seek medical attention if respiratory symptoms persist. |
| Skin Contact | Remove contaminated clothing. Wash with plenty of soap and water. Seek medical attention if irritation develops. |
| Eye Contact | Rinse thoroughly with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. Keep eyelids open. Remove contact lenses if present. Seek medical attention if irritation persists. |
| Ingestion | Rinse mouth with water. Do NOT induce vomiting. Drink 1-2 glasses of water. Seek medical attention. |
| Note | Symptomatic treatment is administered. No specific antidote available. |
SECTION 15: ADVERSE EFFECTS AND MANAGEMENT
| Adverse Effect | Frequency | Severity | Management |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mild Irritation | Rare (1-3%) | Mild | Reduce frequency; combine with moisturizer |
| Redness | Rare (1-2%) | Mild | Temporarily discontinue use; cold compress |
| Itching | Rare (1-2%) | Mild | Antihistamine cream; consult physician |
| Dryness | Rare (1-2%) | Mild | Use with moisturizer |
| Allergic Reaction | Very rare (<0.1%) | Moderate | Discontinue use; consult physician |
SECTION 16: STORAGE AND SHELF LIFE
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Storage Conditions | Store in a cool (<25°C), dry, well-ventilated area; protect from direct sunlight and moisture. |
| Temperature Limits | 15-25°C (ideal); do not exceed 30°C |
| Humidity | Low humidity environment (slightly hygroscopic) |
| Light | Light sensitive - photodegradation; Light-proof containers (amber glass, aluminum, opaque HDPE) |
| Oxygen | Protect against oxidation; keep containers tightly closed |
| Incompatible Materials | Strong oxidizing agents, iron salts, strong bases |
| Container Requirements | Light-proof, moisture-proof containers: Amber glass bottles, aluminum foil bags, HDPE |
| Shelf Life | 24-36 months (unopened original packaging, under proper storage conditions) |
| Shelf Life (After Opening) | 12-18 months (under proper storage conditions) |
| Signs of Degradation | Color change (yellowing), caking, decreased solubility, HPLC impurity increase |
| Stability Warning | May degrade under light and moisture; Oxidized product may form colored impurities |
SECTION 17: PACKAGING OPTIONS
| Packaging Type | Quantity / Capacity | Material | Application Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aluminum Foil Bag | 1 kg, 5 kg, 10 kg, 25 kg | Aluminum / PE (light and moisture proof) | Cosmetic manufacturing, high purity |
| HDPE Drum | 25 kg, 50 kg | HDPE (opaque, moisture barrier) | Industrial supply |
| Amber Glass Bottle | 100 g, 500 g, 1 kg | Amber glass (UV protected) | Laboratory, high purity |
| PE-Lined Kraft Bag | 10 kg, 25 kg | Kraft paper / PE liner | Economical packaging |
| IBC Container | 500 kg, 1000 kg | UV-protected HDPE | Large-scale industrial supply |
SECTION 18: TRANSPORTATION INFORMATION
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| UN Number | Not applicable (not classified as dangerous substance) |
| Hazard Class | Not applicable |
| Packing Group | Not applicable |
| ADR/RID | Not classified as dangerous goods |
| IMDG Code | Not marine pollutant; not classified as dangerous goods |
| IATA (Air) | Not classified as dangerous goods; can be transported by air |
| Transport Temperature | Ambient temperature; protect from heat, moisture, and light |
| Transport Precautions | Light-proof packaging; keep away from strong oxidizing agents |
| Spill Cleanup | Collect mechanically; clean with absorbent material; avoid dust generation |
| Marine Pollutant | No |
SECTION 19: REGULATORY STATUS
| Region / Authority | Status |
|---|---|
| USA (FDA) | Approved as cosmetic ingredient; No OTC monograph available |
| European Union (EC) | Approved as cosmetic ingredient; Permitted under EC 1223/2009 (max. 3%) |
| Turkey | Approved as cosmetic ingredient; Ministry of Health approval required; Subject to KKDIK regulation |
| CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review) | Considered safe (up to 3%) |
| ECHA (REACH) | Registered substance |
| TSCA (USA) | Listed |
| FDA (Food) | Not approved as food additive |
| California (Prop 65) | Not listed |
| Halal | Yes (synthetic, not animal-derived) |
| Kosher | Yes (with certification) |
| Vegan | Yes (synthetic) |
SECTION 20: OTHER NAMES AND SYNONYMS
| Type | Name |
|---|---|
| Chemical Name (IUPAC) | 4-Hydroxyphenyl-α-D-glucopyranoside |
| Common Names (Turkish) | Alfa Arbutin, α-Arbutin |
| Common Names (English) | Alpha Arbutin, α-Arbutin, Hydroquinone-α-D-glucoside |
| Trade Marks | Alpha Arbutin (bulk), α-Arbutin, Arbutin Alpha |
| CAS Number | 84380-01-8 |
| EC Number | 617-761-4 |
| PubChem CID | 98098 |
| FDA UNII | 8MNL1J9R56 |
| HS Code | 2938.90 |
SECTION 21: SUMMARY TABLE
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 84380-01-8 |
| Molecular Formula | C₁₂H₁₆O₇ |
| Molecular Weight | 272.25 g/mol |
| Appearance | White to off-white crystalline powder |
| Melting Point | 195-198°C (decomposes) |
| Water Solubility | Soluble (~50-100 g/L) |
| Log P | ~-0.5 to -1.0 (hydrophilic) |
| Primary Function | Tyrosinase inhibitor; Skin lightening |
| Typical Concentration | 0.5-3% |
| Maximum Usage Rate (EU) | 3% |
| Shelf Life | 24-36 months |
| Storage | Cool (<25°C), dry, light-protected |
| GHS Classification | Generally not hazardous |
| FDA Status | Approved as cosmetic ingredient |
| Halal / Kosher / Vegan | Yes |
| Main Applications | Skin lightening, spot removal, melasma treatment |
SECTION 22: CRITICAL WARNINGS AND BEST PRACTICES
CRITICAL WARNINGS:
Light Sensitivity: Alpha Arbutin is light sensitive. Store in light-proof containers (amber glass, aluminum, HDPE).
Temperature Sensitivity: Degrades at high temperatures (>60°C). Add to formulations at 40-50°C.
pH Sensitivity: Stable in pH 4.0-6.0; degradation accelerates at pH >7.
Hydroquinone Content: Hydroquinone impurity should be ≤10 ppm (toxicity risk).
External Use Only: For external use only. Not for ingestion.
Do Not Confuse with Hydroquinone: Alpha arbutin is a glycoside derivative of hydroquinone; do not confuse with hydroquinone (toxic).
Oxidizing Agents: Do not contact with oxidizing agents (color change).
Iron Salts: Color change may occur with iron salts; use chelators (EDTA).
BEST PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS:
Concentration: Typical concentration 0.5-3%; Effective concentration 1-2%; Maximum 3% (CIR approved).
pH Adjustment: Keep formulation pH at 4.0-6.0.
Temperature: Dissolve at 40-50°C; avoid high temperatures (>60°C).
Antioxidant Use: Add Vitamin E (0.1-0.5%) or BHT (0.01-0.1%) to formulations; improves photostability.
Chelator Use: Add EDTA (0.05-0.1%) to bind metal ions; improves stability.
Light Protection: Use amber glass, aluminum or opaque HDPE containers; protect with UV filters.
Combination with Other Actives: Synergistic effect with vitamin C, niacinamide, kojic acid, retinoids.
Storage: Store in cool, dry, light-proof containers. Keep tightly closed after opening.
Quality Control: Regularly perform assay (HPLC), hydroquinone content (≤10 ppm), melting point, pH, optical rotation, microbiological purity tests.
Patient Education: Inform patients about external use only, regular application, sunscreen use, and treatment duration.
LEGAL DISCLAIMER:
The information provided in this document is based on our current knowledge and experience and is presented in good faith. However, as all conditions of use are beyond our control, it does not constitute a binding specification or guarantee. This Technical Data Sheet is for informational purposes only. Users are responsible for testing suitability for their own applications and for complying with all local, regional, and national regulations. For complete safety, storage, use, handling, waste, and regulatory compliance information, please refer to the official Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) provided by the manufacturer/supplier. Alpha Arbutin is a cosmetic active ingredient; its use should be according to a healthcare professional's recommendation.