- Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation
- Fine Chemicals / Additives & Fine Chemicals Dept.
β-Arbutin is used as a whitening agent in cosmetics.
Characteristics
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β-Arbutin is used as a whitening ingredient for controlling the generation of melanin pigments, which are substances causing discoloration and freckles.
It is known as a substance contained in ericaceous herbs called bearberry leaf. Discoloration and freckles occur due to reactive oxygen produced in skin by exposure to UV in sunlight, stress, atmospheric pollution, etc., which activates tyrosinase and the activated enzyme promotes the conversion of tyrosine in melanocytes (pigment cells) to melanin pigments. β-Arbutin is said to demonstrate whitening effects by reducing the production of melanin pigments by working directly on tyrosinase in melanocytes.
| Chemical name | 4-Hydroxyphenyl-β-D-glucopyranoside |
|---|---|
| Chemical name in English | 4-Hydroxyphenyl-β-D-glucopyranoside |
| CAS number | 497-76-7 |
| Molecular formula | C12H16O7 |
| Molecular weight | 272 |
| Structural formula |  |
| Classification by functional group, compound | Benzene ring, hydroxyl group (alcoholic hydroxyl group, phenolic hydroxyl group) |
| Melting point (°C) | 198–202°C |
| Aqueous solubility | Soluble、13%/room temperature |
| Industrial Safety and Health Act | 8-(4)-1030 |
Applications
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Used as a whitening ingredient reducing the generation of melanin pigment, a substance causing discoloration and freckles.
