Under what conditions does a-Arbutin turn into hydroquinone?
It is hydrolysed in dilute acids, yielding both d-glucose and hydroquinone. High temperature may also produce the same effect. Skin microflora, in particular Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus have been shown to promote hydrolisation, but also increase skin-lightening, likely due to a heightened antioxidant action.