SCCS Opinion on the Safety of Alpha-Arbutin and Beta-Arbutin in Cosmetic Products

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SCCS Opinion on the Safety of Alpha-Arbutin and Beta-Arbutin in Cosmetic Products

Source: European Commission

On February 1, 2023, the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) of the European Union issued the final opinion on α-arbutin and β-arbutin.

The final conclusion is as follows:

1. The SCCS is of the opinion that alpha-arbutin used in face creams up to a maximum concentration of 2% and in body lotions up to a concentration of 0.5% is safe, also when used together.

2. The SCCS is of the opinion that beta-arbutin used in face creams up to a maximum concentration of 7% is safe.

3. Hydroquinone should remain as low as possible in formulations containing alpha-or beta-arbutin and should not be higher than the unavoidable traces in both arbutins. In the new studies, submitted by the applicant, 3ppm was the limit of quantification (LOQ) for hydroquinone and 1ppm for the limit of detection (LOD).

4. Aggregate exposure of alpha-arbutin (2% in face cream and 0.5% in body lotion) with beta-arbutin (7% in face cream) are considered safe. It is worth noting that SCCS is temporarily unable to conclude α-Arbutin and β-Arbutin the maximum safe concentration limit in cosmetics.