Bakuchiol is an ideal plant-based alternative to retinol as it’s less irritating and doesn’t cause photosensitivity. You’ll typically find this ingredient included in serums layered underneath your morning and evening skincare regimes.
Beloved anti-ageing ingredient Hyaluronic Acid has long been the star of skincare routines around the world, but one more potency-boosting solution has taken hold: Plant-based extracts. Find out more about this trendy plant extract that has quickly become part of skincare regimes across the board.
Antioxidant
Bakuchiol is a potent antioxidant that can combat signs of ageing such as fine lines and wrinkles by targeting free radicals. Furthermore, this supplement soothes skin while improving tone and texture through increased cell turnover.
Bakuchiol, a plant-based alternative to retinoids, can be safely introduced into skincare regimens gradually with starting with small doses and slowly building them up over time. You’ll find it in various serums and creams designed to promote anti-ageing, brightening or acne treatment.
Recent pilot study results demonstrated the efficacy of topical application of 0.5 percent bakuchiol on decreasing inflammation lesions and diminishing hyperpigmentation from healed acne spots, as well as showing its effectiveness against mild to moderate acne in skin of color. Formulated by celebrity aesthetician Angela Caglia’s lightweight serum which features glycolic acid to exfoliate dead skin cells from pores while elderberry extract fights acne-causing bacteria, and niacinamide for oil regulation to even out skin tone and texture.
Anti-inflammatory
Bakuchiol contains anti-inflammatory properties to soothe the skin, making it an excellent solution for acne-prone and redness/irritation/sensitivity from other skincare products. Furthermore, it has also been known to help reduce fine lines and brighten complexion for an overall better look.
Bakuchiol helps regulate sebum production, decreasing the likelihood of clogged pores that lead to acne breakouts and encouraging cell turnover to remove dead skin cells that trap oil and bacteria. Furthermore, it may help decrease post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation as well as improve skin elasticity.
Bakuchiol can be combined with other anti-ageing ingredients like peptides, vitamin C, and shea butter to form an effective skincare regime. Bakuchiol can also be safely used alongside exfoliators like AHAs and BHAs without irritating your skin; just remember to introduce new skincare products gradually to avoid skin sensitivity issues. It pairs nicely with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides for brighter and smoother complexions.
Anti-bacterial
Bakuchiol is an effective, yet gentle plant-based alternative to retinol that offers multitasking benefits, helping reduce fine lines, fade pigmentation marks and keep pores clear while being gentle on skin. Ideal for sensitive or acne-prone individuals as it does not cause redness and irritation typically associated with other retinoids; nonphotosensitizing means it doesn’t increase UV damage either.
Bakuchiol should be applied daily; however, for best results it’s wise to conduct a patch test prior to adding any new product to your routine. A serum application in the morning or evening before moisturiser application would be best.
Before using bakuchiol, it’s important to remember that research into its benefits is still underway and should always be discussed with a dermatologist or skincare expert for advice and assistance in selecting an ideal product and managing any concerns that may arise.
Anti-ageing
Bakuchiol is an innovative plant-based alternative to retinol. Suitable for most skin types – especially sensitive or irritated ones like those suffering from rosacea, eczema or acne – Bakuchiol does not increase sun sensitivity like retinol does so it can be safely combined with other active ingredients for use together, says Garshick.
Similar to retinol, bakuchiol promotes collagen production and increases cell turnover rate, leading to brighter skin tone, improved texture and reduced fine lines and wrinkles.
As with all skincare products, the most effective way to take advantage of bakuchiol’s benefits is through regular use. When looking for products containing it, pair it with vitamin C and squalane to reduce dark spots and uneven skin tone while providing hydration and non-comedogenic finishes. You may also try it around your eyes to reduce crow’s feet or under-eye bags – patch test any new product prior to using on face or when pregnant/breastfeeding and consult your ob-gyn first before adding it as part of routine skincare regime.
