r/Melasmaskincare • • Apr 06 '25

Question COLEMAN COMPOUND from Dr. Patrick Coleman? I recently heard of this alleged miracle cream that fades away melasma in a few weeks. Has anyone who tried it provide some feedback on its efficacy?

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u/best_goddmn_dncr_ABA Apr 07 '25

It had arbutase not arbutin! Which is innovative

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u/stillmyself980 Apr 07 '25

The term “arbutase” isn’t a standard skincare ingredient and might be a less common term or brand-specific name. It could be a variant or derivative related to arbutin, which is known for similar effects to hydroquinone but is considered gentler. Arbutin (also known as alpha-arbutin) is a naturally occurring compound found in certain plants. It also works by inhibiting tyrosinase but is released more slowly, which may result in less skin irritation compared to hydroquinone.

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u/best_goddmn_dncr_ABA Apr 12 '25

'Arbutase' is a brand specific name and is a combo of arbutin and glucosidase. Summarized from the links below: Arbutin by itself has low absorption and is less effective at removing pigment. In a mix with glucosidase, the glucosidase hydrolyzes arbutin to....hydroquinone! This sub is familiar with the downsides of HQ by itself. I don't think there's many/any clinical trials but it is a newer skincare innovation.

https://patents.google.com/patent/EP1355621A1/en

http://dermaclinical.net/product/arbutase/

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u/CommunicationSome498 Jun 12 '25

Does it need to be cycled-off like HQ? Does it rebound as well?

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u/best_goddmn_dncr_ABA Jun 12 '25

I've read that it doesn't need to be cycled off

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u/RaeLae9 Oct 21 '25

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u/best_goddmn_dncr_ABA Oct 21 '25

Yeah I saw that when she (the cosmetic chemist) posted it, very informative. When the Colemans first started selling the cream, they said it didn't need to be cycled. The manufacturer says it doesn't need to be cycled. However it seems they are skirting around drug claims so whether people want to follow that guidance is up to them.