Bakuchiol is an extract derived from the seeds and leaves of the Babchi plant (Psoralea corylifolia). Over time, its use can reduce dark spots and pigmentation as well as even out skin tone over time.
Bakuchiol is generally safe for most skin types; however, as with any new skincare ingredient it’s advisable to conduct a patch test prior to full introduction and observe how your skin responds. Please avoid benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, and strong vitamin C products while using Bakuchiol.
1. Antioxidant
Bakuchiol can be an effective treatment for acne scars due to its strong antioxidant properties and ability to combat oxidative and inflammatory stress, helping even out skin tone and texture, fade hyperpigmentation (PIH), prevent premature aging and provide anti-ageing benefits. Bakuchiol offers less-irritating alternatives to traditional acne remedies like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide that treat and prevent blemishes such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide.
Bakuchiol is an excellent anti-aging ingredient, providing all of its benefits without irritating side effects. Bakuchiol serum should be applied morning after cleansing and applying other skincare products, layering thinnest to thickest for maximum benefit and always performing a patch test prior to adding any new product to your routine.
2. Anti-inflammatory
Bakuchiol contains anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe the skin, while at the same time helping reduce discoloration and redness from acne scars. According to one study, subjects using cream containing bakuchiol showed significantly greater improvement in self-grading their youthful skin appearance compared to those using placebo creams.
Bakuchiol can be an ideal alternative to retinol for those who can’t tolerate its side effects. Retinoids increase skin cell turnover rates, leading to irritation and dryness; but bakuchiol does not lead to those same side effects.
Bakuchiol is mild enough for everyday use, though incorporating it slowly into your routine and listening to what works for your skin may take time. Bakuchiol works best when combined with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, peptides and niacinamide; to prevent irritation it should not be combined with powerful actives such as benzoyl peroxide or strong vitamin A formulas.
3. Exfoliating
Bakuchiol works to boost skin cell renewal and smooth out fine lines and wrinkles while improving acne scar appearance. Furthermore, its antioxidant properties offer protection from free radical damage.
Gentler than retinol, glycolic acid tends to cause less irritation and redness on skin. More research must be conducted into its efficacy against acne scarring.
One small study demonstrated how topical bakuchiol cream successfully reduced inflammatory lesions and hyperpigmentation left behind from healed acne spots in people with mild to moderate acne, acting as an effective alternative to prescription retinoid treatments.
As with any skincare ingredient, it’s wise to gradually introduce bakuchiol into your routine and perform a patch test prior to doing so. Choose a formula which includes it alongside alpha hydroxy acids, edelweiss stem cell extract and lemon, sugarcane and chamomile extracts for maximum efficacy.
4. Anti-bacterial
Bakuchiol works to inhibit 5-a-reductase activity in sebum glands and decrease sebum overproduction that contributes to acne breakouts and oily skin conditions, helping heal micro-lesions caused by blemishes as well as reduce acne scarring significantly.
Bakuchiol is less likely to cause irritation than retinol, making it an excellent option for those with sensitive skin. Furthermore, its greater stability means it won’t degrade over time or lose potency over time.
To maximize the benefits of bakuchiol, look for products formulated in serums or oils. This will enable maximum absorption while limiting interaction with other skincare ingredients in your routine. Apply one or two applications a day of the product on the face, neck and decolletage; patch test any new product prior to full usage to ensure skin tolerance.
5. Soothing
Bakuchiol helps relieve skin from damage caused by acne scarring and other common blemishes like blackheads and whiteheads. The plant-based ingredient works similarly to traditional acne fighters (like salicylic acid) but without irritating or drying out the skin – and can even reduce brown spots caused by hyperpigmentation, even out skin tone and texture, reduce brown spots caused by hyperpigmentation, reduce brown spot appearance due to hyperpigmentation, even out skin tone and texture.
As interest in clean beauty increases, bakuchiol may become an essential skincare ingredient. “Bakuchiol can be an ideal alternative to retinol for those with sensitive skin,” according to Thomas, who suggests using products containing it twice daily before moisturizing for best results. Unlike retinol products however, bakuchiol doesn’t increase your vulnerability to sun damage so always wear broad spectrum sunscreen during daylight hours!
