Arbutin comes from the leaves of certain fruits, like cranberries, blueberries, and mulberries. Arbutin can also be found in pears. Chemically it is a derivative of hydroquinone. When it is broken down by a process called hydrolysis, it actually releases hydroquinone. Therefore it is not much different from hydroquinone in terms of its functions, and side effects, although the extra step makes the overall whitening process more progressive and less irritative.