Having a long history in Ancient Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, Bakuchiol has been part of the skincare world for ages. You can find the skin-loving ingredient in the plant Psoralea corylifolia. Its Bachi seeds are packed with antioxidants and are known to have anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties. Bakuchiol acts as a phytochemical that has demonstrated antiageing effects when applied topically, working similarly as Retinol, without the side effects.
What’s the difference between Bakuchiol and Retinol?
Bakuchiol and Retinol show similar gene expression in the skin, so they both up-regulate the production of collagen and elastin. They both help with reducing fine lines and wrinkles, fading scars and hyperpigmentation, and boosting cell renewal.
Probably the most notable difference between the two is that while Retinol can be irritating and cause redness, dryness, peeling, and sun sensitivity, Bakuchiol is not. Bakuchiol is promising as a more sustainable alternative to Retinol and is generally tolerated better. Moreover, Bakuchiol does not cause photosensitivity, so it’s safe to use even during the day.
Modern science is backing the ingredient, too. A study by the British Journal of Dermatology demonstrates that Bakuchiol is comparable with Retinol in its ability to improve photoaging. Moreover, Bakuchiol and Retinol both significantly decreased wrinkles and hyperpigmentation, with no statistical difference between the two. The only difference is that Retinol users did report more facial skin irritation and stinging.
Who will benefit the most from Bakuchiol?
Almost all skin types can benefit from the use of Bakuchiol. The ingredient is ideal for anyone who cannot tolerate Retinol, such as those with sensitive skin or rosacea, or anyone who is looking for a non-irritating, natural ingredient with anti-aging benefits.
The antioxidant-rich ingredient is known to have anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties, making it great for those with oily, acne-prone skin, and congested pores.
Products we love
Bybi Beauty Bakuchiol Booster
First of all, this is 12 British Pounds (15-16$ so great price point) and contains only two ingredients: 1% Bakuchiol and 99% Squalane. I assume nobody will have a problem using this, not even the most sensitive skin unless you have a particular allergy to one of these two ingredients. Bybi Beauty’s booster is a plant-derived, 100% natural and a vegan retinol alternative. A small but potent boost for your skincare routine, the Bakuchiol Booster stimulates collagen production, helps improve skin condition, and is a gentle retinol alternative. Wake up to rejuvenated, plumper skin, with reduced lines and signs of tiredness.
How to use it: Add a couple of drops to your serum or moisturizer and apply it to the face and neck. Alternatively, use it straight up by applying directly to the skin. Unlike conventional Retinol, Bakuchiol doesn’t increase the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight, but we do recommend you wear an SPF of at least 30 the following day anyway because that’s just best for your skin all around. Those with sensitive/reactive skin or eczema should do a patch test on the inside of the wrist before use, just to be safe.
AO Skincare RAW NURTURE PM TREATMENT
This nighttime treatment is an antioxidant and nutrient-rich blend that hydrates and stimulates collagen production. It’s formulated with peptides, fatty acids, and cell-renewal ingredients. The dynamic active is Bakuchiol, which stimulates collagen types 1,3, and 4 and has inhibitory activity against pro-inflammatory enzymes. Studies show improvement in roughness and dryness, fine lines and wrinkles, skin tone, elasticity and firmness, radiance, and brightening.
It also contains humectants such as Red Algae, Lactic Acid, and Honey to attract moisture and hydrate your skin.
The Harakeke Seed Oil and Totarol are powerful antioxidants that literally “feed” your face and protect against environmental damage. The Kiwi Seed Oil improves elasticity and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
The treatment also contains Vitamin C and Bearberry Leaf Extract to brighten your complexion and reduce photodamage. The Olive Leaf Extract is an oxygenating agent and is good enough to penetrate even thicker layers of skin to provide long-lasting moisture.
Herbivore Bakuchiol Retinol Alternative Smoothing Serum
This bouncy, jelly-textured water-based serum features gently resurfacing PHAs and deeply hydrating Tremella mushroom to boost the skin-refining effects of Bakuchiol for instantly hydrated and silky-soft skin. It reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The PHAs (Polyhydroxy Acids) resurface skin to enhance absorption while strengthening the natural barrier. It provides hydration and antioxidant benefits. Tremella mushroom extract hydrates the skin and retains moisture with its ability to hold up to 500 times its own weight in water.
How to use it: Add a couple of drops to your serum or moisturizer and apply it to the face and neck. Alternatively, use it straight up by applying directly to the skin. Unlike conventional Retinol, Bakuchiol doesn’t increase the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight, but we do recommend you wear an SPF of at least 30 the following day anyway because that’s just best for your skin all around. Those with sensitive/reactive skin or eczema should do a patch test on the inside of the wrist before use, just to be safe.