Bakuchiol, a plant-based skin care ingredient, has recently received widespread media coverage. A study published by the British Journal of Dermatology discovered it to be as effective at erasing fine lines and smoothing skin as retinoids without redness, dryness or peeling issues associated with them.
There are five compelling arguments why you may wish to give it a try:
It’s less harsh than retinol
Bakuchiol is an age-delaying super-ingredient derived from plants. It works to improve cell turnover and stimulate collagen production while being less irritating than Retinol – which may cause peeling and redness – making it suitable for sensitive skin types. Furthermore, bakuchiol’s photoprotective qualities help it protect against sun damage while its retinol-like functionality enhances vitamin A’s effects in anti-ageing products; additionally it can also be combined with ingredients such as Squalene to increase activity.
Danusia Wnek of GH Beauty Lab’s Senior Chemist Danusia Wnek is an industry expert with two decades of research, testing, and evaluation on thousands of beauty products. She’s the author of Best Serums for Your Skin Type as well as offering additional skincare advice via Twitter and Instagram. Follow her for the latest on skincare advice, product recommendations, tips & more.
It’s safe to use during pregnancy
Bakuchiol may be an appropriate choice for pregnant and lactating women who cannot tolerate traditional retinoids; however, according to Hollmig more research must be conducted regarding its safety during gestation so it’s wise to speak to your OB-Gyn about using it before making changes in your skincare regime.
Beginning use of products containing bakuchiol gradually can also help you assess how it reacts with your skin, so slowly introduce it into your daily and evening skincare regimes while layering it with other active ingredients such as vitamin C or AHA acids.
At night, when your skin naturally repairs itself, is the optimal time for using products containing bakuchiol. Furthermore, it’s also vitally important to use broad spectrum sunscreen every day; using bakuchiol won’t make your skin more susceptible to sun exposure – daily UV protection should still be prioritized! Furthermore, strong exfoliators and chemical peels should always be used alongside products containing bakuchiol for maximum effectiveness.
It’s available in serums and creams
Bakuchiol can be found in various serums and creams with various potencies of bakuchiol. When searching for products containing at least 0.5% bakuchiol, consider mixing it with ingredients that improve complexion such as vitamin C or rosehip oil to further boost results. However, avoid layering these ingredients with products such as benzoyl peroxide, retinol or AHA/BHA acids which could cause skin irritation.
Bakuchiol, made from seeds and leaves derived from an Indian babchi plant (Psoralea corylifolia), has long been used in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine to treat leukoderma or vitiligo, hyperpigmentation, skin rashes, as well as to address anti-aging benefits. Now more people are discovering its anti-ageing advantages.
Reduce fine lines and wrinkles, boost collagen, improve skin tone and texture, decrease hyperpigmentation, and lessen hyperpigmentation with this ingredient. Plus it may even help prevent sun damage! It is wise to introduce any product containing this ingredient slowly into your routine while monitoring how your skin responds.
It’s less expensive than retinol
Bakuchiol may not have as much scientific research behind it as its more renowned competitor retinol, but it’s quickly gaining in popularity as an anti-ageing wonder. A natural alternative to retinol, this plant-derived ingredient brightens and smoothes by speeding up cell turnover – even while reinforcing natural skin structure from within! Furthermore, it is less irritating than retinol while pregnancy (though always consult with your physician beforehand!). Additionally, pregnancy-friendly skincare ingredients.
As it doesn’t cause redness or peeling like prescription retinoids can, glycolic acid could be an ideal alternative if dryness and irritation from prescription retinoids bother you.
To maximize its benefits, look for a cream or serum that features it in a lightweight formula, like this restorative night cream from Ole Henriksen which combines it with niacinamide and ashwagandha to reduce pigmentation while increasing firmness – it even comes equipped with UVA/UVB protection to ensure optimal sleep conditions!
