Acure Brightening 2% Alpha Arbutin Serum Versus The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA
Updated on March 07, 2025
Overview
What they are
These products are both vegan, cruelty-free, and reef safe serums. They have a total of 4 ingredients in common
Suited For
They're both likely to be good for scar healing and dark spots
Free From
They both do not contain any harsh alcohols, common allergens, fragrances, oils, parabens, silicones or sulfates
We independently verify ingredients, and our claims are backed by peer-reviewed research. Spot a product that needs an update? Let us know.
Ingredient Info
Acure Brightening 2% Alpha Arbutin Serum 16 ingredients
The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA 15 ingredients
About this product
About this product
At a glance
Click on any of the items below to learn more
Acure Brightening 2% Alpha Arbutin Serum 16 ingredients
The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA 15 ingredients
Benefits
Benefits
Ingredients Side-by-side
Water
Skin ConditioningAlpha-Arbutin
Antioxidant
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Skin Conditioning
Sodium Hyaluronate
Humectant
Sambucus Nigra Fruit Juice
AstringentGlycerin
Humectant
Sclerotium Gum
Emulsion StabilisingXanthan Gum
EmulsifyingSodium Levulinate
Skin ConditioningPolyglutamic Acid
Skin Conditioning
Hydroxyethylcellulose
Emulsion StabilisingPropanediol
SolventSodium Phytate
Ethylhexylglycerin
Skin ConditioningSodium Anisate
AntimicrobialCitric Acid
Buffering
Ingredients Explained
These ingredients are found in both products.
Ingredients higher up in an ingredient list are typically present in a larger amount.
Water. It's the most common cosmetic ingredient of all. You'll usually see it at the top of ingredient lists, meaning that it makes up the largest part of the product.
So why is it so popular? Water most often acts as a solvent - this means that it helps dissolve other ingredients into the formulation.
You'll also recognize water as that liquid we all need to stay alive. If you see this, drink a glass of water. Stay hydrated!
Learn more about WaterAlpha-Arbutin is made from hydroquinone and glucose. It may also be derived from the fermentation of soybeans.
This ingredient an antioxidant, meaning it helps protect your skin cells against damage.
Studies show this ingredient helps improve hyperpigmentation and fade discoloration.
Alpha-Arbutin may be used with other ingredients that help with hyperpigmentation. These ingredients include retinol, Vitamin C, niacinamide, and tranexamic acid.
Learn more about Alpha-ArbutinPropanediol is an all-star ingredient. It softens, hydrates, and smooths the skin.
It’s often used to:
Propanediol is not likely to cause sensitivity and considered safe to use. It is derived from corn or petroleum with a clear color and no scent.
Learn more about PropanediolCitric Acid is an AHA derived from citrus fruits (think oranges, lemons, and limes!).
As an AHA, Citric Acid removes the top layer of skin cells from the newer layer of skin underneath. This helps skin to remove dark spots and even out skin tone.
If you spot Citric Acid near the end of an ingredient list, it's likely there as a pH adjuster rather than an active ingredient.
Read more about some other popular AHA's here:
Learn more about Citric AcidIngredient Ratings
Here's what our community thinks of the ingredients in these products.
When to use
Acure Brightening 2% Alpha Arbutin Serum 16 ingredients
The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA 15 ingredients
Reviews
Here's what our community thinks
Acure Brightening 2% Alpha Arbutin Serum 16 ingredients
I have fungal acne and a damaged moisture barrier. I find that this serum doesn’t sting or irritate my skin. It is gentle, hydrating, and soothing. My skin has brightened up after two weeks of use. I love that this serum has aloe fruit juice and elderberry extract. They are such soothing ingredients for my skin. In terms of texture, this serum is watery with a slight slip to it. It has a pleasant Show more
I got a small 10ml tester size of this, and while I don't think I was able to use it long enough to see any results, I also didn't have any negative side effects while using it either. No irritation or breakouts. I mixed it with the Cosrx snail mucin essence in my hand before application to combine two steps in one.
