Bakuchiol has recently taken center stage as the latest skin-care breakthrough. A plant-derived alternative to retinol, this renewing compound comes from seeds of Psoralea corylifolia (or babchi) plants.
Retinoids have long been used by dermatologists as an effective remedy against fine lines and hyperpigmentation, yet these powerful medication often come at the price of dry, flaky, irritated skin.
How to Use
Bakuchiol is an incredible anti-ageing ingredient that reduces fine lines and wrinkles, smooths skin tone, and boosts collagen. You can incorporate Bakuchiol into your daily regimen in either serum or cream form; serum is more concentrated and usually provides faster results than cream.
Apply it twice a day – morning and night – on both your face and neck to cleanse away excess oil and dirt that could clog pores or cause breakouts.
Choose a cleanser designed specifically to address your skin type, such as NIVEA Cleanser range. After rinsing and patting dry, apply bakuchiol product.
As bakuchiol is not a retinoid, it does not cause the same side effects as prescription retinoids – such as irritation and peeling – however, for optimal results start slowly and increase usage gradually as your skin adjusts to it. Also be sure to speak to your ob-gyn regarding using any skin-care products during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Efficacy
Bakuchiol works to smooth fine lines and wrinkles by stimulating collagen production within the skin, as well as brightening and even out skin tone, reduce blemishes and hyperpigmentation, as well as being an alternative to retinol for people with sensitive skin. While retinoids may cause redness, peeling and sensitivity reactions; Bakuchiol appears less likely to do this and might even be safer during pregnancy studies; further research must be completed.
Bakuchiol may work similarly to retinoids by altering gene expression and impacting key anti-aging proteins, but is also thought to possess anti-inflammatory properties. Bakuchiol has long been used in Ayurveda and Eastern medicine traditions – particularly Tamil Siddha practices for treating vitiligo – though adding it into skin-care products is relatively new practice.
Garshick suggests beginning with small doses of products containing bakuchiol and gradually increasing usage over time, just as with any skincare ingredient. Bakuchiol-rich products are safe for all skin types but especially effective on mature and dry complexions.
Side Effects
Bakuchiol was first isolated over half a century ago from the seeds of Babchi (Psoralea corylifolia) plant seeds and has been widely used since to treat conditions like vitiligo, leprosy, inflammation and skin psoriasis for centuries in traditional Indian and Chinese medicine. Recently however it began making waves on the beauty scene when studies demonstrated its retinol-like properties for reducing wrinkles and improving firmness – without photosensitivity issues! Plus it doesn’t photosensitive either so use during daytime without worrying about sun reactions!
As with traditional retinol, glycolic acid has also been shown to reduce hyperpigmentation, increase skin elasticity and moisture levels, as well as improve the appearance of pores. Furthermore, unlike its counterpart, glycolic acid doesn’t cause dryness, peeling, or irritation, making it much easier for users to tolerate. Still, always conduct a patch test prior to adding it into your skincare regimen, particularly if other strong actives like Vitamin C or AHA/BHA acids are being used simultaneously; also consult your dermatologist prior to adding it into your skincare regime.
Bottom Line
Bakuchiol is an anti-aging ingredient with multiple uses: fine lines and dark spots relief as well as sun protection. Unlike Retinol, however, it does not produce vitamin A-related side effects and can be used by all skin types without irritation. Studies have demonstrated its effectiveness at stimulating collagen production as well as decreasing hyperpigmentation and photodamage; its soothing and stabilising properties complementing those of Retinol to increase its effectiveness further (1)
Bakuchiol is vegan-derived from the Psoralea corylifolia plant and offers an ideal vegan-based alternative to retinoids that may come from animal sources and cause skin irritation. As with all new skincare ingredients, however, it should be gradually introduced into your routine over time, monitoring for irritation or dryness as desired. Pregnant and breastfeeding women can safely use it during gestation; please check with their ob-gyn before beginning anything new during these periods. It can often be found in serums and creams and can be applied both morning and night for best results.
