Treatment
Beauty of Joseon
Glow Deep Serum: Rice + Alpha Arbutin
A brightening serum built on two pillars: 68.6% fermented rice bran water as the base and 2% alpha-arbutin as the active. Lightweight, watery texture. Addresses uneven tone without irritation — and without fragrance.
Active ingredient
Alpha-Arbutin (2%), Rice Extract, Bran Water (68.6%), Panthenol
Aesu’s POV
True benefit — 2% alpha-arbutin is a well-evidenced brightening concentration, and the rice bran base adds real antioxidant value. A gentle, gradual brightener for mild to moderate uneven tone, not a corrective treatment for deep melasma. Notably clean formula — reliable for daily use, including on sensitive skin.
What it does
The real benefit
Alpha-arbutin at 2% inhibits tyrosinase — the enzyme that triggers melanin synthesis — at a clinically supported concentration. A 2018 systematic review confirmed its efficacy in reducing hyperpigmentation with a better safety profile than kojic acid or hydroquinone. Fermented rice bran water (68.6%) contributes ferulic acid and gamma-oryzanol with modest antioxidant activity alongside the brightening action. Panthenol and glyceryl glucoside add a secondary hydration layer without adding weight.
What it does not
The honest limits
Does not treat post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from active breakouts — results require consistent daily use over 8–12 weeks minimum. At 2%, alpha-arbutin is gentle; it will not match the speed of tranexamic acid at 5% or azelaic acid at 10% for established melasma. Contains no niacinamide — if you want brightening plus barrier in one step, layer this with a separate niacinamide serum.
Ritual
How to use
Apply to cleansed skin before heavier serums and moisturizer. Two to three drops is sufficient. Can be used morning and evening — no photosensitivity concern with alpha-arbutin at this concentration. Layer under SPF in the AM for cumulative brightening protection.
Routine
Found in routine
Routine pairing coming soon.