
Product overview
Key Ingredients
- Alpha-Arbutin: listed as the third ingredient on the full INCI panel (right after Water and Butylene Glycol), which is consistent with -- though not itself formal proof of -- the labeled 5% concentration. Alpha-Arbutin is a widely-used brightening ingredient that works by inhibiting tyrosinase activity, helping to even skin tone over time
- Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate and Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract: two licorice-derived ingredients included for their soothing and brightening-supportive reputation; exact concentrations are not disclosed
- Centella Asiatica Extract, Madecassoside, Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid, Madecassic Acid: a cluster of Centella-derived actives included for their calming and skin-barrier-supportive reputation
- Sodium Hyaluronate, Panthenol, Allantoin: included for hydration and skin-conditioning support
- Full confirmed INCI list: Water, Butylene Glycol, Alpha-Arbutin, Glycerin, Isononyl Isononanoate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Panthenol, Allantoin, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Centella Asiatica Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Sambucus Nigra Flower Extract, Momordica Charantia Fruit Extract, Leontopodium Alpinum Flower/Leaf Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract, Madecassoside, Asiaticoside, Madecassic Acid, Asiatic Acid, Ceramide NP, Bisabolol, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Caprylyl Glycol, Tropolone, Dimethicone, Carbomer, Tromethamine
Key Features
- Manufactured under the Cos De BAHA brand, a Korean skincare line founded in 2019
- Formulated by an unnamed contract manufacturer described in brand materials as a South Korean skincare specialist with over 30 years of manufacturing experience; MedEasy could not independently confirm the specific manufacturing facility
- Combines a brightening active (Alpha-Arbutin) with a soothing, barrier-supportive base (Centella Asiatica derivatives, Aloe, Panthenol)
Benefits
- Alpha-Arbutin supports a more even skin tone over consistent use by helping to inhibit excess melanin production
- Licorice-derived ingredients contribute additional soothing and brightening-supportive properties
- Centella Asiatica derivatives (Madecassoside, Asiaticoside) support skin calming and barrier comfort, which can help offset any irritation from active ingredients
- Sodium Hyaluronate and Panthenol help maintain hydration alongside the brightening actives
Who Can Use This Product
- Adults looking to address uneven skin tone or dark spots as part of a regular skincare routine
- Those with sensitive or reactive skin may appreciate the inclusion of Centella and Aloe-derived soothing ingredients, though a patch test is still recommended
- As with any brightening-active serum, daytime sunscreen use is recommended to protect treated skin and support results
- Not intended to replace medical treatment for diagnosed pigmentation disorders; consult a dermatologist for persistent or severe hyperpigmentation
How to Use
- Apply to clean, dry skin after cleansing and toning, before heavier creams or oils
- Use a few drops and gently pat or massage into the face and neck
- Can be used once or twice daily; introduce gradually (e.g., every other day) if new to active-ingredient serums
- Follow with a moisturizer and, in the daytime, a broad-spectrum sunscreen
Storage & Safety
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
- Keep out of reach of children
- Perform a patch test before first full-face use
- Discontinue use and consult a doctor or dermatologist if irritation, redness, or an allergic reaction develops
- Daytime sunscreen use is recommended while using brightening-active products
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Does this serum really contain 5% Alpha-Arbutin?
A: The full INCI panel lists Alpha-Arbutin as the third ingredient, right after Water and Butylene Glycol, which is consistent with a concentration in that range, though MedEasy could not find independent lab verification of the exact percentage.
Q: What does the "(AL)" in the product name refer to?
A: This appears to be a product-line or formula code used by the brand; MedEasy did not find an official explanation of this abbreviation from Cos De BAHA.
Q: Is this suitable for sensitive skin?
A: The formula includes several soothing ingredients (Centella Asiatica derivatives, Aloe, Panthenol, Allantoin), but a patch test is still recommended before regular use, as with any active-ingredient serum.
Q: Do I need sunscreen while using this product?
A: Yes, daytime sunscreen use is recommended alongside any brightening-active product to protect treated skin and support visible results.
Q: Where is this product manufactured?
A: Brand materials describe manufacturing by a South Korean skincare specialist with over 30 years of experience, though MedEasy could not independently confirm the specific facility.
The information provided is accurate to our best practices, but it does not replace professional medical advice. We cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy. The absence of specific information about a drug should not be seen as an endorsement. We are not responsible for any consequences resulting from this information, so consult a healthcare professional for any concerns or questions.