What is Bakuchiol?
Bakuchiol has been touted as the natural alternative to the anti-aging super hero, Retinol, but minus the stinging, peeling, redness and irritation. Bakuchiol is an extract from Babchi oil that is extracted from the Psoralea Corylifolia plant. Babchi has been popular in India for centuries - used to treat many skin ailments such as Vitiligo. only recently becoming so popular in the Western world.
As a bonus, Bakuchiol is a vegan alternative to Retinol, as some Retinols are derived from animal products. The plant has long been used for skin ailments in traditional Eastern medicine to treat many skin ailments but has been making waves in Western skincare recently.
How does Bakuchiol work?
Bakuchiol, being a compound derived from the leaves and seeds of the plant Psoralea corylifolia, aka the "Babchi" plant. works similarly to Retinol by increasing cell turnover and stimulating the production of collagen. Leading to reduced dark spots, a reduction in the loss of skin firmness, elasticity and it aids in the reduction of hyperpigmentation.
In a clinical study, over 12 weeks, 44 patients were required to apply either 0.5% Retinol every night, or 0.5% Bakuchiol morning and night. The results were similar, both groups saw a reduction in wrinkles, redness and hyperpigmentation. However compared to Retinol's side effects of skin sensitivity, redness, skin flaking, Bakuchiol had less side effects.
Is Bakuchiol better than Retinol?
There are multiple benefits of Retinol, however the side effects of Retinol are well known. Unlike Retinol, Bakuchiol is safe to apply in the AM and doesn't cause the same skin sensitivity that Retinol does. There's also generally no need to put your skin through the adjustment period like you do in the first stages of using Retinol. It is also considered safe for pregnant and breast feeding mothers.
However, Retinol is a tried and true product and used as an anti-aging tool for decades, with countless studies showing the efficacy. There aren't yet enough studies regarding Bakuchiol's abilities compared with Retinol to determine whether it is better or not, but what we have seen as of yet looks very promising.
What skin types are best suited to Bakuchiol, and how should I use it?
Bakuchiol is suitable for all skin types! Dry, oily, sensitive, combination - all skin types will benefit from using this natural, gentle solution. It can even be used alongside other forms of skin care that you usually would have to avoid while using Retinoids, and will actually help soothe skin sensitivities due to the side effects of using Retinol.
Although Bakuchiol is safe to use in the AM, as it stimulates collagen and skin repair, we recommend using Bukuchiol similarly to the way you would Retinol, and apply in the evening before bed in the form of a serum. Although it is a natural alternative and there are a lot less side effects with Bakuchiol always move with caution. If there are any reactions that cause concern, immediately wash the product off right away. Always test new products by doing a patch test first.
So if you're already in a long term relationship with Retinol, Bakuchiol may not be the one for you. But if you've been looking for an all natural anti ageing alternative, Bakuchiol is a fantastic alternative.