The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA Serum

The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA Serum is a lightweight, water-based facial serum formulated to improve the appearance of dark spots, post-acne marks and uneven skin tone. It combines 2% alpha arbutin with hyaluronic acid to target visible pigmentation concerns while supporting skin hydration.

Alpha arbutin is a skin-brightening ingredient that helps reduce the appearance of discoloration associated with excess pigmentation. Hyaluronic acid, included as hydrolyzed sodium hyaluronate, helps attract and retain moisture, leaving skin feeling hydrated and looking smoother.

Unlike exfoliating acid treatments, this serum focuses on the appearance of pigmentation rather than removing dead skin cells through exfoliation. It can be incorporated into a routine for dullness, post-blemish marks and uneven-looking complexion.

Key Benefits

• Targets dark spots: Helps improve the appearance of localized discoloration and uneven pigmentation.

• Improves the look of post-acne marks: Suitable for a routine targeting lingering brown marks left after blemishes heal.

• Promotes a more even-looking complexion: Supports a brighter, more uniform appearance without functioning as a skin-bleaching treatment.

• Supports hydration: Hyaluronic acid helps maintain skin moisture and improve the appearance of skin smoothness.

• Lightweight water-based texture: Layers easily with a moisturizer and other compatible skincare products.

Key Ingredients

Alpha Arbutin 2%: The main brightening ingredient, included to target the appearance of dark spots and uneven skin tone.

Hyaluronic Acid: Present as hydrolyzed sodium hyaluronate, this moisture-binding ingredient supports hydration and helps the skin feel comfortable.

The formula also contains supporting ingredients that help maintain the stability and performance of the water-based formulation. The Ordinary notes that alpha arbutin is sensitive to degradation when the pH of a water-based formula is unsuitable, which is why formulation stability matters.

Who Should Use This Serum?

The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA Serum may suit people concerned about:

• Brown post-acne marks

• Uneven-looking skin tone

• Visible dark spots

• Dullness and lack of radiance

• Dehydration alongside pigmentation concerns

It is suitable for a variety of skin types, including oily, dry and combination skin. However, anyone with highly reactive skin should patch test before introducing it.

How to Use

1. Cleanse your face and gently pat it dry.

2. Apply a few drops to the face in the morning, evening or both.

3. Follow with a suitable moisturizer.

4. Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen during the day, particularly when targeting pigmentation.

Introduce the serum consistently and allow time for gradual improvement. The appearance of dark spots can take several weeks or longer to improve, depending on their cause, depth and your overall skincare routine.

Important Considerations

• This serum is designed to improve the appearance of pigmentation; it does not guarantee complete removal of dark spots or acne scars.

• It will not treat indented or raised acne scars, which are structural changes in the skin.

• Sunscreen is important because UV exposure can worsen pigmentation and undermine your efforts to achieve a more even complexion.

• Patch testing is recommended before first use. Discontinue use if persistent irritation develops.

Explore more options in our The Ordinary collection, browse face serums, or discover additional products in our Dark Spots & Pigmentation collection.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA Serum do?

It helps improve the appearance of dark spots, post-acne marks and uneven skin tone. The added hyaluronic acid supports hydration, making it useful for routines focused on pigmentation and dullness.

Is The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA good for acne marks?

It can help improve the appearance of flat, brown or dark marks left after acne. However, it is not an acne treatment and will not fill indented acne scars or remove raised scars.

How long does Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA take to show results?

Results vary according to the type of pigmentation, its severity and consistency of use. Allow several weeks to assess changes, and understand that stubborn pigmentation can take considerably longer to improve.

Can I use The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA every day?

Yes. The Ordinary recommends applying a few drops in the morning and evening. Start with a frequency your skin tolerates and follow the product directions.

Can I use Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA with Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%?

These products can generally be used in the same skincare routine. Alpha arbutin targets the appearance of pigmentation, while niacinamide supports the appearance of uneven tone and excess oil. Introduce new products gradually if your skin is sensitive.

Can I use Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA with retinol?

They can generally be included in the same overall skincare regimen. If your skin tolerates both, apply them carefully and introduce them gradually. If irritation develops, simplify your routine or use them at different times.

Is Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA suitable for oily skin?

Yes. It is a water-based serum rather than an oil-based treatment, making it a practical option for oily and combination skin concerned about dark spots or uneven tone.

Can dry skin use The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA?

Yes. The hyaluronic acid component supports hydration. Dry skin may benefit from following the serum with a moisturizer to help reduce moisture loss.

Does Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA remove acne scars?

It may help improve the appearance of flat, pigmented marks left after acne, but it does not remove indented or raised scars. Those concerns may require different treatments.

Does this serum bleach the skin?

No. It is formulated to target the appearance of dark spots and uneven pigmentation, not to bleach the skin or change your natural skin color.

Should I use sunscreen with Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA?

Yes. Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen helps protect against UV-related pigmentation and prevents existing dark spots from becoming more noticeable.

Can I use Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA on sensitive skin?

It may be suitable, but individual tolerance varies. Patch test before use and stop if persistent redness, burning or irritation occurs.

What is the difference between Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA and Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%?

Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA primarily targets the appearance of dark spots and uneven pigmentation. Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is more focused on visible excess oil, blemish-prone skin and uneven texture. The better choice depends on your main skin concern.

Does Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA contain hyaluronic acid?

Yes. The formula includes hydrolyzed sodium hyaluronate, a form of hyaluronic acid used to support skin hydration.