The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA Versus S'he vec Bye Bye Stains Peptide Complex + Arbutin
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 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
The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA 15 ingredients
S'he vec Bye Bye Stains Peptide Complex + Arbutin 16 ingredients
About this product
About this product
At a glance
Click on any of the items below to learn more
The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA 15 ingredients
S'he vec Bye Bye Stains Peptide Complex + Arbutin 16 ingredients
Benefits
Benefits
Concerns
Ingredients Side-by-side
Water
Skin ConditioningAlpha-Arbutin
Antioxidant
Panthenol
Skin Conditioning
Acacia Seyal Gum Extract
HumectantSodium Hyaluronate
Humectant
Glycerin
Humectant
Phenoxyethanol
Preservative
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6
Emulsion StabilisingPalmitoyl Tripeptide-1
Skin Conditioning
Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7
Skin Conditioning
Butylene Glycol
Humectant
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract
Emollient
Hamamelis Virginiana Extract
Antiseborrhoeic
Ethylhexylglycerin
Skin ConditioningEDTA
Polysorbate 20
Emulsifying
Water, Alpha-Arbutin, Panthenol, Acacia Seyal Gum Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Butylene Glycol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Hamamelis Virginiana Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, EDTA, Polysorbate 20
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-ArbutinPolyacrylate Crosspolymer-6 is a texture enhancer and pH adjuster.
It is be used to thicken water-based products and create a gel-texture with a velvet feel.
One manufacturer claims this ingredient to have a pH range of 2-8 and to be biodegradable.
Learn more about Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6Polysorbate 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 20Phenoxyethanol 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.
Ingredient Ratings
Here's what our community thinks of the ingredients in these products.
When to use
The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA 15 ingredients
S'he vec Bye Bye Stains Peptide Complex + Arbutin 16 ingredients
Reviews
Here's what our community thinks
The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA 15 ingredients
S'he vec Bye Bye Stains Peptide Complex + Arbutin 16 ingredients
Didn't have the chance to properly test this one. Used it once and the next day I saw some small bumps on my face. I'm not 100% sure but it might be unsuitable for acne prone skin.
