EV
01 / 02 Anti-Pigmentation
B-Glow Vit C Serum
RELY ON PHARMA
25ML
Clinical Efficacy Markers
- 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid 3%
- Alpha Arbutin 1%
- Hyaluronic Acid
The Science of Anti-Pigmentation
REGALIZ B-Glow Vit C Serum (25ml)
Drug Facts
INGREDIENT · DEPIGMENTING AGENT / TYROSINASE INHIBITOR
Alpha-Arbutin
also known as Alpha-Arbutin, α-Arbutin
Function
May help support skin brightening and even tone through tyrosinase inhibition and melanin synthesis modulation
How it works
Alpha-arbutin undergoes hydrolysis to release hydroquinone, which research indicates may inhibit tyrosinase enzyme activity and potentially reduce melanin production in melanocytes. Studies suggest the ingredient works through competitive inhibition of tyrosinase, the key enzyme responsible for melanin synthesis. The mechanism may involve downregulation of melanin-synthesis-related genes, supporting its use in addressing hyperpigmentation concerns.
⚑ For Indian skin (Fitzpatrick IV–VI)
Alpha-arbutin has been shown in research to support melanin reduction across diverse skin types and may be particularly relevant for Fitzpatrick IV-VI individuals in Kerala where high UV exposure and genetic predisposition contribute to melasma and PIH. Studies indicate the ingredient's efficacy is not compromised in darker skin phenotypes; however, practitioners should monitor for delayed or uneven depigmentation patterns common in Indian skin, as PIH risk remains significant during treatment. The tropical Kerala climate with intense UVB exposure necessitates concurrent daily broadspectrum sunscreen use (SPF 50+) and consideration of sequential therapy; alpha-arbutin alone may be insufficient for moderate-to-severe melasma in this population. Combining with other tyrosinase inhibitors or tranexamic acid may enhance efficacy, though patch testing is advisable given variable skin sensitivity in pigmented populations.
Effective concentration
2–4 % (optimal ~2%)
Clinical evidence
Research indicates alpha-arbutin was used as a comparative standard for tyrosinase inhibitory activity and skin-brightening applications. The study evaluated Reishi extract against alpha-arbutin, suggesting both ingredients have potential for anti-aging and depigmenting formulations.
Authors not listed International Journal of Cosmetic Science. 2026. PubMed →
Studies indicate certain botanical compounds demonstrated tyrosinase inhibition superior to alpha-arbutin in vitro, with liquiritigenin reducing pigmentation by 22-41% in melanoma cells. The research suggests alpha-arbutin remains a relevant comparative benchmark for depigmenting efficacy evaluation.
Authors not listed Natural Product Research. 2026. PubMed →
Research indicates that Cinnamomum burmanni essential oil nanoemulgel demonstrated anti-photoaging effects comparable to alpha-arbutin in vivo and through computational modeling. Findings suggest alpha-arbutin remains a relevant clinical standard for evaluating anti-aging and depigmenting formulation efficacy.
Authors not listed Natural Product Research. 2025. PubMed →
Studies indicate tranexamic acid demonstrated additive melanin-inhibitory effects when combined with alpha-arbutin in B16 melanoma cells. Research suggests the combination may enhance depigmenting efficacy, supporting sequential or combination therapeutic approaches for melasma management.
Authors not listed Cell Biology International. 2026. PubMed →
Research indicates advanced nanocarrier encapsulation of alpha-arbutin achieved 95.65% melanin inhibition rate in zebrafish models and demonstrated enhanced skin penetration and melanin reduction in C57BL/6J mice. Studies suggest improved delivery systems may enhance alpha-arbutin's transdermal bioavailability and depigmenting efficacy compared to conventional formulations.
Authors not listed ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces. 2025. PubMed →
Pairs well with
Tranexamic Acid · Kojic Acid · Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) · Niacinamide · Glycolic Acid · Salicylic Acid
Avoid combining with
Benzoyl Peroxide (may reduce efficacy) · High concentrations of vitamin A derivatives (retinol/retinoids may increase irritation risk)
INGREDIENT · HUMECTANT, HYDRATING AGENT
Sodium Hyaluronate
also known as Hyaluronic Acid Sodium Salt
Function
May help support skin hydration and moisture retention through hygroscopic properties
How it works
Sodium hyaluronate is a sodium salt of hyaluronic acid that may help bind water molecules in the stratum corneum and dermis, potentially enhancing skin hydration. Research indicates it can penetrate the skin barrier when formulated with appropriate adjuvants and amino acids. Studies suggest the ingredient maintains structural stability during gastrointestinal transit and may exert antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects when combined with complementary actives. The molecule's ability to modulate CD44 receptor expression has been shown in in vitro keratinocyte models.
⚑ For Indian skin (Fitzpatrick IV–VI)
Sodium hyaluronate has been shown to support hydration in deeper skin tones where transepidermal water loss may be elevated, particularly relevant in Kerala's humid tropical climate where excessive moisture can paradoxically lead to dehydration due to osmotic stress. Research indicates the ingredient does not increase melanin synthesis or phototoxic potential in Fitzpatrick IV-VI skin types. However, formulations should be carefully evaluated as combination products (particularly those with amino acids or cross-linked derivatives) may require stability testing under tropical humidity and heat conditions to prevent degradation. Clinical consideration should be given to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation risk with injectable formulations in darker skin types, requiring careful injection technique and avoidance of trauma.
Effective concentration
0.1–2 %w/w (optimal ~0.5%w/w)
Clinical evidence
Research indicates that sodium hyaluronate combined with amino acids (glycine, alanine, proline) may enhance moisturizing performance compared to mono-component formulations. Studies suggest this combination strategy may reduce dosing frequency and improve hydration efficacy in skin rejuvenation applications.
Not specified in abstract Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. 2026. PubMed →
Research suggests that hyaluronic acid derivatives demonstrate high structural stability across gastrointestinal stages and may exert superior antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Studies indicate efficient intestinal barrier penetration without increased enzymatic degradation, with potential upregulation of CD44 receptor expression in keratinocytes.
Not specified in abstract Foods (Basel, Switzerland). 2026. PubMed →
Studies indicate sodium hyaluronate can be successfully formulated in hydrogel systems with complementary ingredients such as xanthan gum, demonstrating adequate physical and microbiological stability over extended storage periods. Research suggests these formulations maintain tunable rheological properties suitable for dermal administration.
Not specified in abstract Gels (Basel, Switzerland). 2026. PubMed →
Pairs well with
Glycerin · Propylene Glycol · Amino Acids (Glycine, Alanine, Proline) · Xanthan Gum · Panthenol · Niacinamide · Ceramides · Lactic Acid
Avoid combining with
High concentrations of alcohol (may cause osmotic dehydration) · Strong chemical exfoliants at high pH (may impair hyaluronic acid stability) · BDDE cross-linked derivatives in certain formulations (safety considerations)