Bakuchiol (pronounced buh-koo-chee-all) is an all-natural alternative to retinol that does not cause irritation and photosensitivity. This meroterpene phenol can be found in seeds of the Babchi plant (Psoralea corylifolia).
This plant has long been used in Indian Ayurveda and Chinese medicine as it contains depigmenting and anti-aging properties.
Benefits
Bakuchiol, a meroterpene phenol, has been demonstrated to possess anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, and antioxidant properties. Additionally, reports have also indicated its ability to reduce skin pigmentation and improve texture.
Psoralea corylifolia seeds, popularly referred to as “babchi”, have long been used in traditional Indian Ayurved and Chinese medicine as an effective non-irritating alternative to retinol for treating wrinkles, discolorations and acne. Today this powerful plant extract can also be found sold commercially as serums and creams sold over-the-counter in serum form for daily use.
Babchi seed oil is an ideal choice for eco-conscious skincare brands that wish to offer natural alternatives to Retinol without compromising their sustainability goals. As it isn’t listed on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of endangered plants, sustainable sources from various parts of the globe can be selected as sources.
Ingredients
Psoralea corylifolia, more commonly referred to in Hindi as “babchi,” has long been used as an ancient remedy in Indian Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine. Specifically, its seeds (known as “babchi oil”) have been employed for treating skin conditions like vitiligo, psoriasis and leucoderma.
Bakuchiol, the meroterpene phenol found in the seeds of this plant, has recently gained notoriety for its ability to stimulate collagen-producing receptors without irritation or photosensitivity. Now found in various skincare products such as serums and creams.
Be mindful that bakuchiol requires a special molecular extraction and purification process before being suitable for cosmetic use, so products simply containing babchi oil or crushed seeds may not work effectively and could actually harm your skin. Therefore, for maximum benefit and safety it’s wise to opt for certified products which state “Psoralea Corylifolia Seed Oil containing pure Bakuchiol” on their label as these will provide more long-term safety and efficiency.
Precautions
Psoralea corylifolia seeds can be cold-pressed into babchi oil for anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, including the meroterpene phenol bakuchiol with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties as well as coumarins, known to reduce inflammation while helping the skin protect itself against free radical damage.
Babchi seed oil contains essential fatty acids to nourish and enhance skin barrier function, as well as flavonoids which may help prevent oxidative stress and inflammation.
Babchi seed oil can be highly beneficial to skin health; however, when used incorrectly it can become phototoxic due to its content of psoralen, which makes the skin susceptible to sunlight exposure. Therefore, it is crucial that a patch test and/or sun protection measures be implemented after applying Babchi oil, particularly those who have history with rosacea or hyperpigmentation; additionally it would be wise to consult a healthcare provider prior to consuming Babchi oil.
Application
Psoralea Corylifolia Seed Oil, commonly referred to as Babchi Oil, can help minimize fine lines and wrinkles, uneven skin tone, discoloration and scars while simultaneously stimulating new cell production and improving elasticity.
This oil contains bakuchiol, which has been shown to have properties similar to those of retinol. For optimal use and purity levels, extraction must follow very specific procedures in order to produce high purity ingredients suitable for cosmetic use.
Babchi plant seeds are harvested during winter and then pressed to produce oil, which should be diluted prior to application on the skin. Due to its content of furocoumarins, which can increase photosensitivity after applying this oil directly on one’s face. However, this product may still prove effective at treating conditions like vitiligo and psoriasis.
