Alpha arbutin (AA) is a skin care ingredient found in botanical extracts like bearberry, cranberry, and Japanese pear. It helps brighten dark spots by limiting tyrosinase, an enzyme in melanocytes. AA inhibits melanin production, which can contribute to skin issues like age spots and scars. Topical treatment with AA has been shown to treat melasma. Benefits include reducing age spots, freckles, and sun spots, and brightening, tones, and adding luminosity.
Additionally, alpha arbutin possesses antioxidant properties that help protect the skin from oxidative stress and environmental damage.
For professional use
Name: Alpha Arbutin Powder
Appearance: White crystaline powder
Molecular Formula: C₁₂H₁₆O₇
CAS number: 84380-01-8
Soluble:best in water
Usage rate: 0.5 to 2% 
Combining with Other Ingredients: You can also combine it with other ingredients like vitamin C or an AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) product. Combining it with an AHA may enhance absorption
Alpha arbutin is soluble in water, with a solubility of 151 g/L at 25°C. Additionally, it dissolves well in ethanol, propylene glycol, and glycerin. However, it is insoluble in chloroform, ether, and petroleum ether. So, if you’re formulating skincare products, consider using water-based or alcohol-based solutions to incorporate alpha arbutin effectively. 
Use alpha arbutin at a maximum concentration of up to 2% in face creams, serums, or lotions.
If you’re adding it to a facial cream, aim for a 2% concentration. Alpha arbutin can be potent on its own and may cause a burning or stinging sensation if used at a high percentage.
Body Applications:
For body products (such as body lotions), use alpha arbutin at a maximum concentration of up to 0.5%.
Here’s a straightforward example for creating a 2% alpha arbutin lotion:
Ingredients:
Alpha Arbutin Powder: 2 grams
Base Lotion: 100 grams
Instructions:
Weigh out 2 grams of alpha arbutin powder.
Dissolve the alpha arbutin in purified water (using a 5:1 ratio of water to arbutin).
Add the dissolved solution to your 100-gram base lotion.
Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution.