Question 1

How does Alpha-Arbutin actually fade dark spots?

Accepted Answer

Alpha-Arbutin works by inhibiting tyrosinase, the enzyme your skin uses to produce melanin. Less tyrosinase activity means less pigment is deposited, so existing spots fade gradually and new ones are less likely to form.

It is one of the most well-researched brightening actives in dermatology, and it works without the irritation that vitamin C can cause or the photosensitivity risk of stronger acids.

The result is progressive brightening that builds with consistent daily use rather than a dramatic overnight change.

Question 2

How long until I actually see results?

Accepted Answer

Honestly, it depends on how deep the pigmentation is and how consistent you are. Here is what most people experience:

Week one to two: Skin looks more even and hydrated overall. Week three to four: Existing spots begin to soften and fade at the edges. Month two and beyond: Spots are visibly reduced and new ones form less easily.

Dark spots took time to develop. They take time to fade. Anyone promising overnight results is not being straight with you. We would rather set the right expectation and have you see real results than oversell and leave you disappointed.

Question 3

Do I need to wear SPF with this?

Accepted Answer

Yes, every single morning. This is the most important thing you can do to protect your results.

UV exposure is one of the primary triggers for melanin production. If you are fading spots at night and then exposing unprotected skin to sun during the day, you are working against yourself. The serum cannot outpace daily UV damage without SPF backing it up.

Any broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher applied after your moisturiser in the morning will do. Think of SPF as part of the treatment, not an optional add-on.

Question 4

Can I use this alongside retinol or other actives?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Alpha-Arbutin plays well with most actives because it does not destabilise easily and has no known interactions with common skincare ingredients.

If you are using our Smoothing Moisturiser, the ideal order is: cleanse, apply the Perfecting Serum, then seal with the moisturiser. The serum goes on first as the lighter formula, the moisturiser goes on top to lock it in. Together they cover tone, texture, and wrinkles in a single routine.

If you are using stronger prescription actives like tretinoin, introduce the serum slowly and give your skin time to adjust. When in doubt, check with your dermatologist.

Question 5

Is this suitable for sensitive skin?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Alpha-Arbutin is one of the gentlest brightening actives available. It delivers results without the stinging, peeling, or irritation that stronger acids and vitamin C formulas can cause.

The rest of the formula is built around the same principle: Sodium PCA and Dual-Weight Hyaluronic Acid for hydration, Vitamin E for antioxidant protection, and no unnecessary fragrance ingredients beyond those from natural essential oils.

If your skin is especially reactive, patch test on your jawline for two to three evenings before full-face application.

Question 6

What makes this different from a vitamin C serum?

Accepted Answer

Both target pigmentation, but they work differently and have different tolerability profiles.

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is unstable and can oxidise quickly, losing potency before it reaches your skin. It also causes stinging and irritation for many people, especially at higher concentrations. Results depend heavily on the formulation quality and how the product has been stored.

Alpha-Arbutin is more stable, more predictable, and significantly gentler. It targets the melanin production enzyme directly rather than acting as an antioxidant, which makes it a more precise brightening tool. For people who have struggled with vitamin C sensitivity, this is often the serum that finally works.

Question 7

Is it safe during pregnancy and nursing?

Accepted Answer

Alpha-Arbutin is generally considered safe during pregnancy, and this formula contains no retinoids, no salicylic acid, and no high-risk essential oils.

That said, every pregnancy is different. Hyperpigmentation, often called the mask of pregnancy, is extremely common, and many customers have used this serum throughout pregnancy without issue. If you have any concerns, run the full INCI list past your OB or midwife before starting.

The full ingredient list is available on this page and on the packaging.

Question 8

What if it doesn't work for me?

Accepted Answer

Use it daily for 30 days. If your skin does not look visibly brighter and more even, we refund every cent. No questions asked. No restocking fee. No runaround.

Most customers notice their skin looking more even within the first few weeks. Significant spot fading typically happens by month two. If that is not happening for you after a full commitment, get in touch at help@velourahq.com.

See our return policy for full details.

Visibly Even Skin. Spot by Spot.

What's in the bottle,and what isn't.

How our formula changes your skin

A ritual, not a routine.Simple enough to actually stick.

What to expect,week by week

Trust is earned,not manufactured.

What pairs with itto do its best work.

Honest answersto the questions that matter.

Thirty days on your skin.The risk stays with us.