My Scheming 7% Alpha Arbutin Whitening Serum Versus The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA
Updated on March 07, 2025
Overview
What they are
These products are both cruelty-free and reef safe serums. They have a total of 5 ingredients in common
Suited For
They're both likely to be good for dry skin, sensitive skin, scar healing and dark spots
Free From
They both do not contain any harsh alcohols, common allergens, 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
My Scheming 7% Alpha Arbutin Whitening Serum 18 ingredients
The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA 15 ingredients
What's inside (and what isn't)
What's inside (and what isn't)
At a glance
Click on any of the items below to learn more
My Scheming 7% Alpha Arbutin Whitening Serum 18 ingredients
The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA 15 ingredients
Key Ingredients
Benefits
Benefits
Ingredients Side-by-side
Water
Skin ConditioningAlpha-Arbutin
Antioxidant
Glycerin
Humectant
Propanediol
Solvent
Dipropylene Glycol
MaskingCurcuma Longa Root Extract
Masking
Hydroxyacetophenone
Antioxidant
Xanthan Gum
EmulsifyingPhenoxyethanol
Preservative
Lactobacillus
Skin ConditioningAmmonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate
Emulsion StabilisingPolysorbate 20
Emulsifying
Butylene Glycol
Humectant
Disodium EDTA
Ethylhexylglycerin
Skin Conditioning1,2-Hexanediol
Skin Conditioning
Tocopheryl Acetate
Antioxidant
Diglucosyl Gallic Acid
Water, Alpha-Arbutin, Glycerin, Propanediol, Dipropylene Glycol, Curcuma Longa Root Extract, Hydroxyacetophenone, Xanthan Gum, Phenoxyethanol, Lactobacillus, Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Polysorbate 20, Butylene Glycol, Disodium EDTA, Ethylhexylglycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Diglucosyl Gallic Acid
Ingredients Explained
These ingredients are found in both products.
Ingredients higher up in an ingredient list are typically present in a larger amount.
Alpha-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-ArbutinPhenoxyethanol is a preservative that has germicide, antimicrobial, and aromatic properties. Studies show that phenoxyethanol can prevent microbial growth. By itself, it has a scent that is similar to that of a rose.
It's often used in formulations along with Caprylyl Glycol to preserve the shelf life of products.
Polysorbate 20 is made by combining ethoxylation of sorbitan, ethylene oxide, and lauric acid. It is a mild cleansing agent, surfactant, and emulsifier.
As a surfactant, it helps collect dirt and oils for washing. Emulsifiers prevent oils and water from separating.
Polysorbate 20 also adds scent to a product. Since it is made using sorbitol, it has a sweet scent. Sorbitol can also be found in fruits such as apples and peaches.
The lauric acid used to create Polysorbate 20 is often derived from coconuts.
Polysorbate 20 may not be fungal acne safe.
Learn more about Polysorbate 20Propanediol 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 PropanediolWater. 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 WaterIngredient Ratings
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When to use
My Scheming 7% Alpha Arbutin Whitening Serum 18 ingredients
The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA 15 ingredients
