The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + Hyaluronic Acid, Brightens Skin and Targets Dark Spots, 1 Fl Oz

I swapped this in place of a medical-grade brightening serum I used to use, and it’s been great. I use it every day, and it layers really well with the rest of my routine. It feels lightweight, absorbs quickly, and has helped keep my skin looking more even over time. Really happy with this as a more affordable option that still performs well.

just started using, it seems to be fading my spots and correcting my hyperpigmentation | Moisturizing | Quality |

I have seborrheic keratosis and age spots because I'm old, spent many years in the sun without sunscreen, and have a family disposition to such things. I started developing this fairly large spot on my face, and while I do not expect to be able to clear it completely, I would like for it to fade enough that I can cover it with makeup. I have tried many over the counter products, some high end expensive creams and serums without satisfactory results. The product that seemed to have the most promise, Peach Slices Dark Spot Microdarts, has a main ingredient of niacinamide. I also read about Alpha Arbutin. So I decided to go straight for the active ingredients in serum forms and found The Ordinary. The price point for both The Ordinary Niacinamide/Zinc and Alpha Arbutin/Hyaluronic Acid serums is spot on (pun intended). Excellent value for the money. The serums arrived quickly from my order and packaged well, no leaks or crushed boxes. I have been using the products for 2 weeks and I have noticed a dramatic difference in the appearance of my skin. While the spot is still there, it has definitely faded some. Many other smaller spots I honestly did not notice before - because I was so focused on the large one - are gone. The following is my daily routine: On a cleansed* face, I apply the Niacinamide: Smudge just a tiny bit of the serum on my pinky finger - just enough to wet it - and apply directly to target areas. I rub this in gently until it's absorbed. Slightly rub 3 drops of the serum into my palms, and pat all over the face. Wait about a minute for the Niacinamide to dry. It's thin and doesn't take long. Then I apply the Alpha Arbutin: Same process as the Niacinamide. Apply the tiniest bit with fingertips to target spots. Place 3 drops into palms and pat all over the face. The Alpha Arbutin is thicker and stickier, so it takes longer to dry. At this point I usually brush my teeth - the serum is dry by the time I'm finished. In the morning, I apply a daily sunscreen* as the last step. In the evening, I apply a moisturizer* as the last step. I am extremely happy with the performance of these serums and for once I am getting actual results. One thing I noticed was that as my face was lightening, the bridge of my nose looked darker because I was not patting enough product in that area, so now I pay attention. My skin feels great and have had no issues with purging. I plan to continue this routine and hope to update this review with more results. *Other products I use in my routine: Cleansers - Glossier Milky Jelly Cleanser or Kiehl's Ultra Facial Oil-Free Cleanser The Glossier product is a light cream-gel that can be used with or without water. It has a no-tears type of ingredient so it doesn't sting the eyes. I find it good for when I am really dirty from working in the garden or suffering from allergies and have some eye goop. The Kiehl's isn't a cheap product but it's probably my favorite cleanser overall. Very little is needed to wash your face (less than a pea size) It goes a long way and a full size tube lasts me over a year. It removes all oils and sebum without stripping. Sunscreen - Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 for face Another expensive product but it does everything I want and need. I wrote a separate Amazon review for this. Moisturizer - Walgreens Hydrating Water Gel This is the store brand like Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel. It has hyaluronic acid and a cooling effect when you apply it, which I feel soothing. They also have a cream-gel version, I don't like the texture of that one. This goes on smoothly and absorbs quickly.

Works great! Absorbs quickly and makes a noticeable difference in my skins redness and texture. It does have a fishy smell too it, so be prepared. I think this is a bargain for the quality. It does not cause irritation on my dry, sensitive, acne prone skin. I definitely recommend adding to your routine.

On my second bottle! I have super sensitive skin and I’ve had no issues with this product. My skin looks more even, smoother, and brighter. I use it with the hyaluronic acid and the combo is great quality. I’m so glad I don’t have to spend so much for good quality products.

Quality in keeping with what you'd expect from the ordinary. Keeps my skin clear, hydrated, blemish-free.

This stuff is just sooo good! I'm African American, 50+. I've spent a lifetime buying anywhere from drugstore brands and high end brands hoping to improve my skin. Then I discovered The Ordinary. I love that you can contact them and tell them your symptoms and they'll recommend the products. I'd never heard of Alpha Arbutin before and gave it a try. As with all products, it takes time. I first purchased in March 2024 and have been using ever since. I use it once daily in the morning with The Ordinary Niacinamide and then use Mandelic acid with Niacinamide at night. That's my "prescription". Of all the products I rotate in and out of my routine, this remains and it works. If this is your first time purchasing, I strongly suggest you take a few before photos, set a reminder for 3 months and then look again. I literally can leave my house with just a little concealer, lipstick and mascara feeling confident. And the bottle will last awhile you don't need to slather a lot on. I use it right after my essence, and I dispense approximately 5 to 7 drops in my palm and smooth it on all over. This magical elixir is so affordable and I'm eternally grateful to The Ordinary for making effective skincare at reasonable prices. Thank you so much. I've even written to them thanking them. Give it a try. The cost is less than a large coffee. What have you got to lose?

I bought this to remove my dark spots on my face but on my first use there is a weird smell on it so I stop using.

Très efficace sur les tâches d'acné ! Je pense malgré tout qu'il ne faut pas en abuser car il fait quelques petites imperfections (points blancs) si on l'utilise trop souvent sur un même endroit. Je pense qu'il faut espacer so' utilisation

Produto muito bom pra clareamento de melasma.

Works well on sensitive skin

Excelente producto, me ha ayudado a mejorar el estado de mi piel.

The best product I have used so far .....i see some changes on my acne 🙂 and the black sports from the acne before