Radiance Complex™
Our Hydroquinone-Free Brightening Engine
Radiance Complex™ is the patent-pending heart of GlowingOil™ Radiance — a carefully calibrated blend of advanced brightening actives designed to target discoloration from multiple angles, without using hydroquinone. At its core are three powerhouse ingredients: alpha arbutin, kojic acid, and citric acid.
Together, they help soften the look of dark marks, boost clarity, and support a smoother, more luminous complexion.
The Core Trio: Alpha Arbutin (precision targeting) + Kojic Acid (glow amplification) + Citric Acid (gentle renewal) = Multi-pathway brightening without hydroquinone
Alpha Arbutin
Precision Dark-Spot Fader
Alpha arbutin is a next-generation brightening active derived from bearberry. It's considered one of the most refined forms of arbutin, known for being both effective and gentle.
- Works by quieting tyrosinase activity, the enzyme that drives excess melanin
- Targets uneven tone and post-blemish marks without the harshness of old-school "bleaching" agents
- Offers controlled, gradual brightening that's suitable for most skin types when used with SPF
Within Radiance Complex™: Acts as the precision tool — helping to reduce the look of localized dark areas while keeping the overall complexion balanced.
The Precision ToolKojic Acid
The Glow Booster
Kojic acid is a naturally derived compound produced by certain fungi and through the fermentation of rice. In cosmetic science, it's loved for its melanin-interfering properties and its ability to enhance overall brightness.
- Helps interrupt melanin formation before it reaches the surface of the skin
- Pairs particularly well with alpha arbutin, enhancing the appearance of clarity and glow
- Favored in many brightening routines for melasma, sunspots, and dullness
Within Radiance Complex™: The amplifier — boosting the brightening effect while maintaining a sophisticated, well-rounded formula.
The AmplifierCitric Acid
Gentle Renewal + pH Harmony
Citric acid is an AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) naturally found in citrus fruits. Used at carefully controlled levels, it offers two key benefits:
- Surface renewal: Supports gentle exfoliation, helping to smooth texture and allow other actives to work more evenly
- pH optimization: Helps maintain a formula environment where brightening ingredients like alpha arbutin and kojic acid remain stable and effective
Within Radiance Complex™: The quiet architect — refining skin feel and helping the formula perform at its best.
The ArchitectWhy a Complex Matters (Not Just Single Ingredients)
On their own, alpha arbutin, kojic acid, and citric acid are powerful. In Radiance Complex™, they're combined in specific ratios and supported by additional botanical antioxidants and barrier-loving oils to create a system that is:
Targets different steps in the pigment cascade rather than relying on a single mechanism
Ideal for those who prefer non-hydroquinone options or are in regions where HQ is restricted
Designed to be effective yet compatible with sensitive and melanin-rich skin when used as directed and paired with sunscreen
The goal isn't to erase your natural tone — it's to soften the appearance of uneven patches, brighten dull areas, and reveal the healthiest version of your own skin.
How Radiance Complex™ Complements GlowingOil Original
In GlowingOil™ Radiance, Radiance Complex™ is the main brightening engine.
In GlowingOil™ Original, it works alongside 2% hydroquinone, vitamin C, and retinoic acid to:
- Enhance results without increasing hydroquinone strength
- Support antioxidant protection and barrier comfort
- Provide a more modern, layered approach to brightening
Think of Radiance Complex™ as the next-gen brain behind both formulas — smart, strategic, and designed for real-world skin.