There’s no shortage of active ingredients to treat dark spots and discoloration these days. But even so, the best alpha arbutin serums still stand out on the shelf. That’s because unlike the competition, among them tranexamic acid , niacinamide , vitamin C , and kojic acid , alpha arbutin brings something a little different to the table: it’s incredibly gentle and very stable.

Contrary to hydroquinone, a prescription-level brightening agent, it doesn’t break down—and therefore remains potent (and effective). “It also sets itself apart from other brighteners like vitamin C, hydroquinone, and retinoids by being gentle enough for all skin types, including sensitive skin,” says Carmen Castilla, MD , a board-certified dermatologist in New York, NY.

Vogue ’s Favorite Alpha-Arbutin S

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