Alpha Arbutin Brightening Serum | Complete Commercial Formulation & Manufacturing Guide

Learn how to formulate a professional Alpha Arbutin Brightening Serum with this complete commercial guide. Discover detailed ingredients, exact percentages, functions, stability tips, and a step-by-step manufacturing SOP designed for skincare brands, cosmetic formulators, and private-label businesses. This guide covers pigmentation control, dark spot treatment, pH optimization, and scalable production methods for high-performance brightening serums.

Product Description

Alpha Arbutin Brightening Serum is a lightweight, fast-absorbing water-based serum designed to reduce dark spots, hyperpigmentation, melasma, and uneven skin tone. Powered by Alpha Arbutin, a safe and effective tyrosinase inhibitor, this serum helps brighten skin while maintaining hydration and barrier health. Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

Primary Uses

• Reduces dark spots & sun damage
• Improves uneven skin tone
• Helps fade post-acne marks
• Supports bright, radiant complexion
• Safe for daily AM & PM use

Key Benefits

• Clinically proven skin brightening
• Non-irritating alternative to hydroquinone
• Lightweight, non-sticky texture
• Enhances skin clarity and glow
• Supports long-term pigmentation control

Commercial Formulation (1000 g Batch)

Phase A – Water Phase

Ingredient	%	Weight (g)	Function
Deionized Water	72.80%	728 g	Solvent, base
Glycerin	4.00%	40 g	Humectant, hydration
Propanediol	4.00%	40 g	Penetration enhancer, humectant
Xanthan Gum	0.30%	3 g	Gel structure, viscosity

Phase B – Active & Support Phase

Ingredient	%	Weight (g)	Function
Alpha Arbutin	2.00%	20 g	Brightening, pigmentation control
Niacinamide	4.00%	40 g	Skin tone correction, barrier repair
Sodium Hyaluronate	0.20%	2 g	Deep hydration
Licorice Root Extract	0.50%	5 g	Anti-inflammatory, brightening
Panthenol (Vitamin B5)	1.00%	10 g	Soothing, barrier support

Phase C – Preservation & Adjustment

Ingredient	%	Weight (g)	Function
Phenoxyethanol & Ethylhexylglycerin	1.00%	10 g	Broad-spectrum preservative
Disodium EDTA	0.10%	1 g	Chelating agent
Sodium Hydroxide / Citric Acid	q.s	As needed	pH adjustment (5.0–5.5)

Total: 100% = 1000 g

Target Specifications

• pH: 5.0 – 5.5 (critical for Alpha Arbutin stability)
• Texture: Light gel-serum
• Appearance: Clear to slightly translucent
• Skin Type: All skin types

Manufacturing SOP (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Preparation

• Sanitize all equipment, containers, and utensils.
• Use gloves, hair cover, and mask.
• Measure all ingredients accurately.

Step 2: Phase A – Water Phase

1. Add Deionized Water into the main mixing vessel.
2. Premix Glycerin + Xanthan Gum to avoid clumping.
3. Slowly add this mixture to water with moderate stirring.
4. Mix until a smooth, uniform gel forms.
5. Add Propanediol and continue mixing.

Step 3: Phase B – Active Phase

1. Dissolve Alpha Arbutin in a small portion of water (room temperature).
2. Add dissolved Alpha Arbutin to the main batch.
3. Add Niacinamide, mix until fully dissolved.
4. Add Panthenol, Licorice Extract, and Sodium Hyaluronate (pre-hydrated).
5. Mix gently to avoid air entrapment.

Step 4: Phase C – Preservation

1. Add Phenoxyethanol & Ethylhexylglycerin.
2. Add Disodium EDTA.
3. Mix for 10–15 minutes until uniform.

Step 5: pH Adjustment

• Measure pH using a calibrated pH meter.
• Adjust to 5.0–5.5 using:
  • Sodium Hydroxide (to raise pH)
  • Citric Acid (to lower pH)
• Mix thoroughly after adjustment.

Step 6: Final Processing

• Perform visual inspection (clarity, bubbles).
• De-aerate if required.
• Fill into airless pumps or amber glass bottles.
• Label and store away from heat & light.

Packaging Recommendation

• Primary: Frosted glass dropper / airless pump
• Secondary: UV-protected carton
• Storage: Below 30°C, away from sunlight

Usage Instructions (Consumer Label)

• Apply 2–3 drops on clean, dry skin.
• Use morning and night.
• Always follow with sunscreen during daytime.

Shelf Life

• 12–18 months (with proper storage and preservation testing)

Optional Premium Upgrades

• Add Tranexamic Acid 2% → Enhanced pigmentation control
• Add Glutathione 0.5% → Luxury brightening boost
• Add Beta-Glucan 0.3% → Sensitive skin support