# The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA for sensitive skin

**Lovi Fit: High fit for sensitive skin.**
Normal Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: High · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/sensitive-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for the Netherlands.

Brand: [The Ordinary](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/brands/the-ordinary)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with sensitive skin: redness, stinging, and reactions to new products. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

One of the best serums for sensitive skin.

## Why this fit

- Highly suitable for normal skin as alpha arbutin effectively brightens and evens skin tone by inhibiting melanin production, while hydrolyzed sodium hyaluronate provides essential hydration.
- The formula offers general hydration benefits that can support your redness and irritation concerns, though it lacks specific ingredients to directly target these issues.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation for your normal skin due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/sensitive-skin): High (this page)
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/dark-spots): Superior
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Alpha Arbutin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Lactic Acid, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Chlorphenesin

## What the research says

- Encapsulation of alpha arbutin in an optimized ethosomal gel significantly improved skin melanin reduction, moisture content, and elasticity in human volunteers compared to conventional formulations. ([Heliyon, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37681127/))
- A non-hydroquinone topical formulation (SKNB19) improved hyperpigmentation by 28.5% in patient self-assessment and 27% in independent reviewer assessment compared with 4% hydroquinone in 18 adult subjects, while showing significantly less irritation and better tolerability. ([Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33022197/))
- Combining a home-based radiofrequency device and arbutin cream reduced mMASI scores by 25.6% and melanin index by 22.8% at 8 weeks compared to baseline in 38 participants. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39918262/))
- Polyvinyl pyrrolidone-K90/Eudragit RL100 dissolving microneedle patches loaded with alpha-arbutin and resveratrol enhanced intradermal delivery by approximately 2.6 times compared to cream and slightly decreased the melanin index in human participants without causing skin irritation. ([Biomaterials Science, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37183632/))
- Aziderm cream, Neostrata Pigment Lightening Gel, and an arbutin 5% formulation significantly reduced skin pigmentation in healthy female volunteers compared to untreated controls. ([The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35309879/))
- Topical application of 0.1% hyaluronic acid formulations of different molecular weights led to significant improvements in skin hydration and elasticity, with low-molecular-weight formulations also significantly reducing wrinkle depth in seventy-six female subjects compared to a vehicle control. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/))
- Topical application of hyaluronic acid in conjunction with free gingival graft significantly reduced donor site postoperative pain until day 7 compared to normal saline, with no significant differences in graft dimensions or patient satisfaction. ([Clinical Oral Investigations, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34623507/))
- Treatment with a hyaluronic acid-containing mouth rinse or topical gel led to significant lesion reduction, pain relief, and normalization of lesion color in adult patients with minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis, with the gel formulation showing an earlier healing onset at 3 days. ([BMC Oral Health, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31311529/))
- Application of a cream containing lactic acid 12% and pramoxine HCl 1% significantly improved skin dryness, hydration, and itch compared with a nontreated control in 24 women with a history of dry itchy skin. ([Cutis, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15027519/))
- Topical 12% ammonium lactate produced a significant sparing of epidermal and dermal atrophy induced by clobetasol propionate in human volunteers, without influencing the corticosteroid's bioavailability or antiinflammatory properties. ([Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1597538/))
- A lactic acid/ceramide lotion significantly improved skin moisturization and desquamation compared to no treatment in women with dry, rough skin on the anterior shins. ([The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33178384/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this serum is frequently used to address hyperpigmentation, acne scars, and uneven skin tone, with many users reporting visible fading after consistent, long-term use. The Hyaluronic Acid component offers hydration, particularly beneficial for dry skin. However, a significant number of users find the texture can be sticky or pill when layered with other products.

- Liked: Fades dark spots (often mentioned)
- Liked: Lightweight texture (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Sticky or tacky finish (often mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle and non-irritating (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Hydrating and plumping (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Pilling issues (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Slow or no results (sometimes noted)

## How to apply

- Use your serum in the PM routine, starting 3 times a week before building up to daily use if your skin is happy.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toning, but before putting on your moisturizer for the best results.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and wait a minute ⏱ for it to soak in.
- Since your skin is sensitive and easily irritated, apply the serum on completely dry skin to help keep it calm.
- Always do a patch test before your first use and avoid getting the serum too close to your eyes .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA a great fit for sensitive skin?

This product is a great fit for sensitive skin because it has an excellent safety profile with no harsh ingredients, making it very unlikely to cause irritation. It helps brighten your skin tone and keeps it feeling smooth and hydrated.
Sources: [Heliyon, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37681127/)

### Which ingredients make this serum a good fit for sensitive skin?

This serum is a great fit for sensitive skin because it has an excellent safety profile with no harsh ingredients that could cause irritation. Alpha arbutin helps even out your skin tone while sodium hyaluronate keeps your skin hydrated and smooth.
Sources: [Heliyon, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37681127/)

### What does Alpha Arbutin do for sensitive skin?

Alpha arbutin helps fade dark spots and uneven tone with a rare occurrence of irritation and a very gentle safety profile. This ingredient is unlikely to sting or cause redness, making it a well-tolerated choice for keeping sensitive skin calm while brightening.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33022197/)

### What does Hyaluronic Acid do for sensitive skin?

Hyaluronic acid helps calm and hydrate sensitive skin while supporting the skin barrier to keep it soft and comfortable. Clinical studies show it improves surface moisture and reduces dryness, roughness, and redness without irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41037531/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29356277/)

### Where does this serum go in a skincare routine for sensitive skin?

This treatment goes in the evening routine after your soothing toner and before your moisturizer. Putting it in the evening helps keep your routine simple and adds extra safety around sun exposure.

### Can I use this serum with vitamin C, and in what order?

You can use this serum with vitamin C by applying the vitamin C first in your morning routine and this treatment later or in the evening. This helps brighten your skin while minimizing the likelihood of irritation.
Sources: [Heliyon, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37681127/)

### How often should I use this serum?

This treatment is used in the evening once a week in your routine, and you can carefully use it more often if your sensitive skin tolerates it well and sees good results. The formula has an excellent safety profile with very low risks of irritation.

### Can this serum clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for sensitive skin?

This serum is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for sensitive skin because it has an excellent safety profile without harsh ingredients. It helps keep skin feeling smooth while remaining gentle.

### Is this serum fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for sensitive skin

- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — €160.00 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — €35.50 at Amazon
- [COSRX The Vitamin C 23 Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/cosrx/the-vitamin-c-23-serum/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — €19.00 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-hydrating-gentle-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €21.95 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [SKIN1004 Centella Asiatica Toning Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/skin1004/centella-asiatica-toning-toner/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €17.96 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [Bioderma Bioderma Photoderm Mineral SPF 50+](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/bioderma/photoderm-mineral-fluide-spf50/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €19.79 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.nl: €12.70 (https://www.amazon.nl/dp/B06XCZFCFZ?tag=lovi-care-web-product085-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Lookfantastic: €11.81 (https://www.lookfantastic.nl/p/the-ordinary-alpha-arbutin-2-ha-30ml/15464526/)
- Notino: €12.70 (https://www.notino.nl/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha-verhelderend-gezichtsserum-met-hyaluronzuur-7027928/p-16264584/)
Prices checked 19 Oct – 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Alpha-Arbutin, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Propanediol, Ppg-26-Buteth-26, Peg-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Lactic Acid, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Ethoxydiglycol, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/sensitive-skin (this page)
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/sensitive-skin