Active A · Barrier Cofactors & BrightenersTier 2 Viscosity

Alpha-Arbutin

Ideal Formulation pH: 4.5 – 6.5
Preferred Routine Slot: AM/PM
Pregnancy Safety: CAUTION LOW DOSE
Typical Clinical Dose: 1% – 2%
Active B · Barrier Cofactors & BrightenersTier 2 Viscosity

Tranexamic Acid (Topical)

Ideal Formulation pH: 5 – 6.5
Preferred Routine Slot: AM/PM
Pregnancy Safety: PERMITTED
Typical Clinical Dose: 2% – 5%
🧪Viscosity & pH Application Order

How to Layer These Actives in Your Routine

Step 01Viscosity Tier 2

Alpha-Arbutin

Apply first to clean, dry skin. Operates at pH 4.5–6.5.

⏱️Wait 2 Minutes

Allows cutaneous acid mantle to equilibrate before the next step.

Step 02Viscosity Tier 2

Tranexamic Acid (Topical)

Layer over the initial active. Operates at pH 5–6.5.

Biochemical Mechanism & Pharmacology

Alpha-Arbutin and Tranexamic Acid (Topical) operate via distinct physiological mechanisms without reactive cross-oxidation or competing receptor antagonisms. They can be safely integrated into the same routine when sequenced properly from thinnest to thickest consistency.

Cutaneous pH Stability Note:

Apply Alpha-Arbutin (pH 4.5–6.5, Viscosity Tier 2) first. Wait 1–2 minutes for absorption, then follow with Tranexamic Acid (Topical).

Recommended 7-Day Routine Blueprint

Morning (AM) RoutineEvening (Night A)Evening (Night B)
✓Gentle Cleanser
✓Alpha-Arbutin
✓Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+
•Alpha-Arbutin
•Tranexamic Acid (Topical)
•Barrier Cream
•Alpha-Arbutin
•Tranexamic Acid (Topical)
•Barrier Cream

Obstetric & Pregnancy Safety Summary

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Alpha-Arbutin is classified as CAUTION LOW DOSE during pregnancy, while Tranexamic Acid (Topical) is classified as PERMITTED under clinical guidelines. Always cross-reference with your physician if expecting.

Clinical Studies & Pharmacological Citations