A bearberry extract with arbutin. It evens tone and softens dark spots. Well tolerated.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
A brightening plant extract. Safe.
Arctostaphylos Uva-Ursi Leaf Extract (bearberry leaf extract) is a plant source of arbutin, a precursor that releases hydroquinone very slowly. In a formula it is used to even out tone and soften pigment spots. Its mechanism is plausible: arbutin partly inhibits tyrosinase, the key enzyme of melanin synthesis. Still, clinical evidence for the whole extract is modest and depends heavily on the arbutin concentration. It makes sense to treat it as a supporting component in a brightening routine alongside sun protection, not as a strong bleaching agent. Topically the systemic contribution is negligible, so it can be applied during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Tolerance is good: low irritation and allergy potential, suitable for sensitive skin. As with any tone active, pair it with sunscreen or the result fades.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeSuitable for
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Arctostaphylos Uva-Ursi Leaf Extract is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Arctostaphylos Uva-Ursi Leaf Extract suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
A bearberry extract with arbutin.
The INCI name is Arctostaphylos Uva-Ursi Leaf Extract. It may also appear as: Экстракт листьев толокнянки, Bearberry Leaf Extract.
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