β-Arbutin is used as a skin lightening agent in cosmetics. Through metabolic processes the substance can be split in the skin into D-glucose and hydroquinone. Hydroquinone is suspected to be carcinogenic and is prohibited in cosmetic products like skin bleaching agents in Europe. The Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) of the EU Commission is currently re-evaluating the active substance. From the point of view of the BfR, the use of β-Arbutin is to be viewed critically because of its property to release hydroquinone. The BfR evaluates the use of β-Arbutin in cosmetic products as being of health concern.

The authors of the study conclude that a 10% aqueous solution of β-Arbutin can be considered non-irritating to the skin. They also conclude that a 10% aqueous solution of β-Arbutin has little potential for eye irritation.

Hydroquinone, which is produced from arbutin, has a liver-damaging effect in higher doses and is suspected of having mutagenic or possibly even carcinogenic effects.

Study dated 27 May 2015: FOURTH CONCLUSION: (1) On the basis of the scientific data submitted, does the SCCS consider the use of α-arbutin for consumers in cosmetic products at concentrations up to 2% in face creams and up to 0.5% in body lotions? The SCCS considers the use of α-Arbutin for consumers in cosmetic products in a concentration up to 2% in face creams and up to 0.5% in body lotions to be safe. (2) Does the SCCS have further scientific concerns regarding the use of α-Arbutin in cosmetic products? A possible combined use of α-arbutin and other hydroquinone releasing substances in cosmetic products has not been assessed in this opinion.