AN Arbutin Niacinamide Serum
AN Arbutin Niacinamide Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A potent K-Beauty brightening serum combining 5% Arbutin and 5% Niacinamide to target hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and uneven skin tone while hydrating with Hyaluronic Acid and soothing botanical extracts for a radiant, even complexion.
Dual Brightening Power
Combines 5% Arbutin and 5% Niacinamide for enhanced skin brightening and dark spot reduction without harsh hydroquinone.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDual Brightening Power
Combines 5% Arbutin and 5% Niacinamide for enhanced skin brightening and dark spot reduction without harsh hydroquinone.
Hydration Boost
Sodium Hyaluronate draws moisture deep into skin layers for plump, supple skin while treating pigmentation.
Botanical Soothing Complex
Green tea, licorice root, and alpine flower extracts calm and protect skin while providing antioxidant benefits.
Barrier Support
Niacinamide strengthens the skin barrier, increases ceramide production, and helps skin retain moisture naturally.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEUse with caution. Arbutin is a natural derivative of hydroquinone. While considered gentler than hydroquinone, limited research exists on its use during pregnancy. Consult your healthcare provider before use. Niacinamide is generally considered safe.
This formula contains no fatty acids, oils, esters, or polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. Safe for those prone to fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5). Key ingredients like glycerin, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid have 0 comedogenic ratings. Unlikely to clog pores.
Contains concentrated actives. Cos de BAHA recommends testing under the chin for 24 hours before full application, especially for sensitive skin.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAlpha/Beta Arbutin 5%Proven
A plant-derived compound from bearberry that inhibits tyrosinase enzyme activity to reduce melanin production. Works similarly to hydroquinone but is gentler and considered safer for long-term use.
- Mechanism: Blocks tyrosinase enzyme, preventing melanin synthesis at the source
- Research: Studies show effectiveness in treating pigmentation, age spots, and UV-induced damage
- Synergy: Works well with vitamin C and AHAs for enhanced brightening results
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) 5%Proven
Multi-functional vitamin that addresses multiple skin concerns simultaneously. Strengthens skin barrier, reduces inflammation, regulates sebum, and fades hyperpigmentation.
- Barrier Function: Increases ceramide synthesis for stronger, more resilient skin
- Brightening: Inhibits melanosome transfer to reduce pigmentation visibility
- Anti-Aging: At 4-5% concentration, shown to reduce wrinkles and fine lines
- Pore Reduction: Regulates oil production and visibly minimizes pore appearance
Sodium Hyaluronate HumectantProven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid that penetrates skin effectively. Attracts and holds up to 1000x its weight in water for deep, lasting hydration.
- Hydration: Draws moisture from the environment into skin layers
- Plumping: Temporarily plumps fine lines by increasing skin hydration
- Compatibility: Works well with all skin types and other active ingredients
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate (Licorice Root) SoothingPromising
Active compound from licorice root with anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing properties. May help reduce redness and support an even skin tone.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Calms irritated and sensitive skin
- Brightening Support: May inhibit melanin production for additional brightening
- Barrier Repair: Helps strengthen and maintain healthy skin barrier
Allantoin HealingProven
Gentle, non-irritating compound that promotes skin healing, softening, and protection. Commonly used in wound care and sensitive skin formulations.
- Healing: Promotes wound healing and cell regeneration
- Softening: Smooths and softens skin texture
- Protection: Creates protective layer on skin surface
13 ingredients
*Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Propanediol, Arbutin, Niacinamide, Glycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Allantoin, *Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, *Momordica Charantia Fruit Extract, *Sambucus Nigra Flower Extract, *Leontopodium Alpinum Extract
*Organic Ingredients
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after toner, before heavier serums or moisturizer. Can be used morning and evening. Always follow with sunscreen during the day as brightening ingredients increase sun sensitivity.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Tone
Start with a clean face. Apply your toner and let it absorb completely before proceeding.
Apply 1-2 Drops
Dispense 1-2 drops into your palm. A little goes a long way with this concentrated formula.
Gently Pat Into Skin
Pat and press the serum onto face and neck. Focus on areas with dark spots or uneven tone. Avoid rubbing.
Wait & Layer
Allow 30-60 seconds for absorption before applying moisturizer. For sensitive skin, consider mixing with another serum or moisturizer.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want to fade dark spots, melasma, or post-acne marks
- You have uneven skin tone or dullness
- You want a hydroquinone-free brightening option
- You need a budget-friendly K-Beauty brightening serum
- You want multi-tasking benefits (brightening + hydration + barrier support)
- You have fungal acne and need a safe formula
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult doctor first)
- You prefer lightweight, water-thin serums (this has a thicker texture)
- You are extremely sensitive to niacinamide
- You need immediate, dramatic results (brightening takes time)
- You dislike any tackiness in your routine
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESNiacinamide helps regulate sebum production. Some users report slight tackiness, but it absorbs without adding excessive shine. Use sparingly.
Hyaluronic acid and aloe vera base provide excellent hydration. Pairs well with a rich moisturizer on top for extra nourishment.
Balances well across different face zones. Niacinamide helps normalize oil in T-zone while hydrating drier areas.
Contains concentrated actives. Patch test essential. Consider diluting with another serum or starting every other day. Some users report initial irritation.
Non-comedogenic, fungal acne safe formula. Niacinamide helps reduce breakouts and post-acne marks. Great for clearing hyperpigmentation from old acne.
Results timeline
WEEK 12+Initial Hydration Boost
Skin feels more hydrated and slightly more radiant. Some may experience initial adjustment period with mild tingling. This is normal for concentrated serums.
70% noticed improved hydrationSkin Texture Improvement
Skin texture becomes smoother. Overall complexion appears brighter. Niacinamide begins reducing visible pores and regulating oil production.
60% noticed brighter complexionVisible Dark Spot Fading
Noticeable reduction in hyperpigmentation and dark spots. Post-acne marks begin to fade. Skin tone appears more even overall.
55% noticed fading dark spotsSignificant Brightening Results
Maximum brightening benefits visible with consistent use. Melasma and stubborn pigmentation show improvement. Continue use for maintenance.
50% saw significant improvementRatings by platform
6K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Effective 5% arbutin + 5% niacinamide combination
- Budget-friendly price point for K-Beauty quality
- Clean formula - free from parabens, sulfates, fragrance
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Fungal acne safe formula
- Hydrating without being greasy
- Gentle hydroquinone alternative
- KFDA certified manufacturing
Criticized
- Slightly sticky/tacky texture for some users
- Small 30ml bottle runs out quickly
- Results require 6-12 weeks of consistent use
- May cause irritation for very sensitive skin
- Not pregnancy/breastfeeding friendly
- Dropper packaging less hygienic than pump
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Higher concentration arbutin (2% alpha-arbutin) but lacks niacinamide. Thinner, more watery texture. Need to pair with separate niacinamide serum for full benefits.
Higher niacinamide concentration (10%) with added zinc for oil control. No arbutin - less focused on brightening. Best for oily, acne-prone skin.
Toner format with niacinamide, arbutin, and vitamin C derivative. Larger volume (120ml) but lower concentrations. More hydrating, less targeted treatment.
Same brand, different approach. Tranexamic acid targets melasma and stubborn pigmentation. Also contains 5% niacinamide. Consider for hormonal hyperpigmentation.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check expiration date printed on product sticker or bottom of bottle (format: EXP. year.month.day)
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep at room temperature. Refrigeration not required but acceptable.
Glass dropper bottle. Some color variation (clear to slightly amber) after opening is normal and does not affect efficacy.
Yes - under 100ml/3.4oz TSA liquid limit. Compact 30ml size fits easily in travel toiletry bag.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. Arbutin is a derivative of hydroquinone and, while considered gentler, has limited research on safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Most dermatologists recommend avoiding arbutin during these periods as a precaution. Niacinamide is generally considered safe. Always consult your healthcare provider before using any new skincare products while pregnant or breastfeeding.
Yes! This serum is fungal acne safe. The formula contains no fatty acids, oils, esters, or polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. Key ingredients like glycerin, niacinamide, and sodium hyaluronate are all safe for those prone to fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis.
Yes, but with care. Arbutin and niacinamide are generally compatible with most actives. For retinol: use AN serum in the morning and retinol at night. For vitamin C: they work synergistically for brightening - layer vitamin C first, then AN serum. For AHA/BHA: use on alternate days or different times of day to avoid over-exfoliation. Always introduce new combinations gradually.
This serum works well for all skin types but is especially beneficial for normal, combination, dry, and acne-prone skin. Those with oily skin may find the texture slightly tacky but will benefit from niacinamide's oil-regulating properties. Sensitive skin types should patch test first and may need to dilute the serum or use every other day initially.
Hydration improvements are often noticed within 1-2 weeks. For brightening and dark spot fading, expect to see initial results in 6-8 weeks with consistent twice-daily use. Significant improvement in hyperpigmentation typically occurs around 12 weeks. Individual results vary based on skin type, severity of pigmentation, and consistency of use. Always use sunscreen to maximize and maintain results.
Apply after cleansing and toning, before heavier serums or moisturizer. The order should be: Cleanser → Toner → AN Serum → Other serums (if any) → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM). This serum can be used both morning and evening. Wait 30-60 seconds for absorption before applying the next product.
No, this serum has a low comedogenic rating (1/5). The formula is oil-free and contains ingredients with 0 comedogenic ratings like glycerin, niacinamide, and sodium hyaluronate. It's unlikely to clog pores and is suitable for acne-prone skin. Niacinamide may actually help minimize the appearance of pores over time.
The serum has a 12-month PAO (Period After Opening). The expiration date is printed on a sticker or on the bottom of the bottle in the format: EXP. year.month.day. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Some color variation from clear to slightly amber after opening is normal and doesn't affect the product's effectiveness.
Verdict: The Cos De BAHA AN Arbutin Niacinamide Serum delivers solid brightening benefits at an affordable K-Beauty price point. The 5% arbutin and 5% niacinamide combination effectively targets hyperpigmentation without harsh hydroquinone. Clean, fungal acne-safe formula makes it suitable for most skin types. The slightly tacky texture and requirement for consistent 8-12 week use may be drawbacks for some, but for those seeking a budget-friendly, gentle brightening serum with multi-tasking benefits, this is an excellent choice.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 5 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract
Emollient, Humectant, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Arbutin
Skin Conditioning, Antioxidant, Bleaching
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
|
|
| 1 |
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|