Arctostaphylos Uva Ursi Leaf Extract
INCI: Bearberry
Reviewed by Kate · Last updated 14 Aug 2026
Also known as: Bearberry Extract, Bear grape, Mountain cranberry, Uva Ursi, Arbutin, Kinnikinnick, Rockberry, Red berry, Sandberry
Antioxidant-rich plant extract Helps visibly minimise premature skin ageing
EWG Safety Score
Arctostaphylos Uva Ursi Leaf Extract products at Skintique
View all →What Is Arctostaphylos Uva Ursi Leaf Extract?
Arctostaphylos uva ursi leaf extract is derived from the bearberry plant. It is increasingly recognized for skin benefits thanks to its antioxidant compounds, most notably arbutin and other polyphenols.
The rich arbutin content in Arctostaphylos uva ursi leaf extract is particularly well-documented in research for its ability to help minimize skin discolorations and uneven tone.
Additionally, by reducing oxidative stress on skin Arctostaphylos uva ursi leaf extract can help prevent visible signs of premature ageing and improve skin’s overall healthy appearance.
Further scientific literature indicates Arctostaphylos uva ursi leaf extract’s significant soothing effects can mitigate various skin concerns related to inflammation and skin sensitivity.
Recently researchers have started looking at Arctostaphylos uva ursi leaf extract’s potential to help interrupt certain underlying triggers of breakout-prone skin. While more studies are needed to validate this benefit, so far, it looks promising.
Arctostaphylos uva ursi leaf extract is used in a variety of cosmetics applications, including anti-ageing moisturizers, foundations, cleansing products, eye creams and products aimed at improving skin tone. The typical use level of this leaf in cosmetics ranges from 1–10% when part of a water-based blend.
Benefits for Your Skin
Clinical Evidence & References
- Personal Care Products Council, Accessed August 2024, ePublication
- Pharmaceutics, September 2022, pages 1-17
- Current Drug Delivery, January 2022, pages 706-720
- Molecules, December 2021, pages 1-22
- Plants, September 2020, pages 1-18
- PLoS ONE, October 2018, pages 1-27
- Phytochemistry, July 2015, pages 79-88
Published Research
-
Bearberry extract: Skin-lightening efficacy J Cosmet Dermatol, 2016
Frequently Asked Questions
From the Clinic
Not sure what your skin actually needs?
Two minutes, a few questions, and we’ll point you at what matters — no guesswork.
Take the skin quizRelated Ingredients
Arctium Lappa
Also known as burdock Contributes to skin’s environmental defense
Arctium Lappa Fruit Extract
A plant-derived antioxidant that may help reduce signs of ageing and support skin resilience
Arctium Lappa Root Extract
Also known as burdock root Contributes to skin’s environment defense
Argania Spinosa
Name of the tree from which argan oil is sourced Contains beneficial lipids and fatty acids (oleic acid, palmitic acid, linoleic acid)
Arginine Aminophosphonobutyric Acid
An amino acid derivative with antioxidant and conditioning properties
Argon
An inert gas with antioxidant potential, primarily used in medical skin treatments
Learn More About Skincare Ingredients
Explore our comprehensive ingredient glossary to understand what's in your products.
Browse All IngredientsShop Our Products
Find professional skincare solutions at Skintique.