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

**Lovi Fit: High fit for dry skin.**
Dry Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: Low Risk.

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

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

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

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dry skin: flakiness, tightness, dehydration, fine lines, and wrinkles. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A great choice for dry skin; a few serums fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate brightening for your dry skin due to alpha arbutin, which helps even skin tone, and provides general hydration with hydrolyzed sodium hyaluronate to combat dryness and flakiness.
- Lactic acid offers mild exfoliation and hydration, further supporting your dry skin type.
- The product is generally safe for your skin, with a low risk of irritation from lactic acid.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/dry-skin): High (this page)
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/dark-spots): Superior
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/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/))
- Profhilo treatment led to significant improvements in superficial skin hydration and transepidermal water loss over time in Chinese females, while demonstrating good product tolerability. ([Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40921777/))
- 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/))
- 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

- Apply this serum PM, starting 3×/week and working up to daily use as your skin adjusts.
- Place the serum after cleansing and toner, but right before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the serum on slightly damp skin to help lock in extra moisture.
- Avoid the eye area and do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin a great fit for dry skin?

This treatment is a great fit because it offers moderate brightening to even your skin tone with alpha arbutin and tackles dryness and flakiness with hydrolyzed sodium hyaluronate. Lactic acid also provides mild exfoliation and hydration, all while keeping the risk of irritation low for your dry skin.
Sources: [Heliyon, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37681127/)

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

Alpha arbutin and sodium hyaluronate make this serum a great fit because they help even your skin tone while combating dryness and flakiness. Lactic acid also helps by providing mild exfoliation and hydration with a low risk of irritation.
Sources: [Heliyon, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37681127/)

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

Alpha arbutin helps fade dark spots and uneven areas while keeping the skin calm, but for dry skin it needs to be paired with heavy moisturizers and hydrating ingredients to ensure the face stays soft and smooth.
Sources: [Heliyon, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37681127/), [Antioxidants, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34356362/)

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

Hyaluronic acid draws moisture into dry skin, giving an immediate and lasting boost in hydration that helps smooth out fine lines and soften rough patches. It is very gentle and unlikely to cause irritation while improving overall skin smoothness and plumpness.
Sources: [Dermatology and Therapy, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34176098/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/)

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

This treatment serum goes in your evening routine, applied after cleansing and before your moisturizer. Putting it in the evening keeps things simple and helps avoid extra sun sensitivity.

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

You can use this serum with vitamin C by applying vitamin C first in your morning routine and this treatment at night. Using them at different times helps your dry skin stay smooth and bright while keeping irritation low.
Sources: [Heliyon, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37681127/)

### How often should I use this serum?

This treatment is applied in the evening during your routine, starting once a week to see how your skin responds. It is unlikely to cause irritation, and you may carefully use it more often if your skin tolerates it well.
Sources: [Facial Plastic Surgery, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24488631/), [Heliyon, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37681127/)

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

This serum is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for dry skin. The formula provides hydration and mild exfoliation without heavy oils that typically trigger blemishes.
Sources: [Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40921777/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for dry skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 226.83 at Amazon
- [Paula's Choice RESIST Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/paula-s-choice/resist-super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 461.00 at Amazon
- [ma:nyo Bifida Biome Complex Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/ma-nyo/bifida-biome-complex-ampoule/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 145.51 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-hydrating-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 297.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Enrich Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-probio-cica-enrich-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 48.00 at Amazon
- SPF: [d'Alba Piedmont Waterfull Mild Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/d-alba/piedmont-waterfull-mild-sunscreen/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 75.00 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.sa: SAR 63.55 (https://www.amazon.sa/dp/B0DF7N3R2D?tag=lovisa02-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 5 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/dry-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/dry-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/dry-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/dry-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/dry-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/dry-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/dry-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/dry-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/dry-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/dry-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/dry-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/dry-skin (this page)
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-ordinary/alpha-arbutin-2-ha/for/dry-skin