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 preliminary opinion on the safety of arbutin in cosmetics (SCCS/1642/22) was released on March 15, 2022.

The final conclusion is as follows:

• SCCS believes that the maximum safe concentration of α-arbutin in face cream is 2% and the maximum safe concentration of α-arbutin in body milk is 0.5%. It is safe when used together.
• The maximum safe concentration of β-arbutin in face cream is 7%.
• 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, 3 parts per million (ppm) was the limit of quantification (LOQ) for hydroquinone and 1ppm for the limit of detection (LOD).
• Aggregate exposure of alpha-arbutin (2% in face cream and 0.5% in body lotion) with beta-arbutin (7% in face cream) is considered safe. It is worth noting that SCCS is temporarily unable to conclude α- Arbutin and β- The maximum safe concentration limit of arbutin in cosmetics.

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Further Information

SCCS - Final Opinion on the safety of alpha-arbutin and beta-arbutin in cosmetic products