Bakuchiol (pronounced buh-KOO-chee-all), is relatively new to skincare formulas, but has strong roots in traditional eastern medicine. Bakuchiol is often referred to as a vegan alternative to retinol. Derived from the seeds and leaves of Eastern Asia’s ‘babchi’ plant (officially the psoralea corylifolia plant), bakuchiol has been a mainstay in traditional ayurvedic and Chinese skin-healing treatments for centuries.

It’s long been loved for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties – the same characteristics that have led scientists to take a closer look at it in recent years.

While it doesn’t have the same make-up as retinol (it doesn’t come from vitamin A), in a 2019 study, no difference was found between retinol and bakuchiol in treating wrinkles and hyperpigmentation. The retinol users, though, did experience more skin dryness and stinging. Other studies have also reported improvement in elasticity, and firmness with bakuchiol and the latest research shows topical application has unique benefits for all skin types.

If you’re still in doubt, here are five proven benefits of bakuchiol as an ingredient in your skincare routine.

Benefits Of Bakuchiol In Skincare.

Even Skin Tone.

Bakuchiol deeply penetrates the skin to help lessen the appearance of dark spots or areas of hyperpigmentation.

Reduces The Appearance of Fine Lines.

Like retinol, bakuchiol tells your cells to make collagen, "plumping" your skin and reducing the look of lines and wrinkles.

Bakuchiol Doesn't Cause Dryness or Irritation.

While retinol and other skincare ingredients may dry out skin or cause irritation, bakuchiol is more gentle and isn't known to cause any irritation.

Bakuchiol Speeds Up Cell Regeneration.

Bakuchiol sends signals to your cells that it's time to amp up collagen production and cell turnover.

Bakuchiol Helps To Soothe and Heal The Skin.

By promoting cell turnover and healthy cell regeneration, bakuchiol helps soothe and heal your skin from the inside out.

Another bonus: While retinol has a reputation for not mixing well with other ingredients, bakuchiol is safe to use alongside your other favorite actives, including niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and, yes, even retinol. In fact, some studies suggest that bakuchiol may even have a stabilizing effect on retinol, thereby potentially increasing its efficacy when formulated together, although more research is still needed. To help ensure the best results, just be sure to always store your products in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

How To Use Bakuchiol 

If you’re using a serum with bakuchiol, then you should apply it to clean, dry skin before you apply a moisturizer.  As opposed to retinoids, which are advised to be used only every other night, bakuchiol can be incorporated into your daily skincare routine. Use twice a day—morning and night—without any worry of sensitivity. It also won’t react adversely to any other ingredients, unlike many retinol products. The Nashé Beauty anti-wrinkle serum contains bakuchiol and is great for you to incorporate into your skincare. All ingredients in this serum are clean and vegan including bakuchiol.

Using Bakuchiol During Pregnancy.

Some online sources indicate that using bakuchiol during pregnancy is fine, stating it’s a great alternative to retinol, which isn’t advised for use when you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.

Potential Side Effects of Bakuchiol.

While bakuchiol is considered a gentler alternative to retinoids, there is still a risk of sensitivity, including redness, dryness, or stinging of the skin, especially with initial use.

That means that until your skin becomes accustomed to bakuchiol, you may still notice some irritation. To mitigate that risk, ramp up use slowly. Apply it two or three times per week during the first week. If your skin tolerates it well, you can increase frequency as tolerated.

And for those with more resilient skin, you can still mix and match, depending on the products you choose. After your skin acclimates, you can add bakuchiol to the regimen in the future. In some cases, you can use both bakuchiol and retinol together for added benefits.

In conclusion,

Bakuchiol is a natural alternative to retinol which may help address signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles, as well as improve tone and texture. However, more studies are needed to see how it stacks up against prescription-strength retinoids. We recommend this Nashé Beauty anti-wrinkle serum for a start as it contains great active ingredients alongside bakuchiol which are all clean and vegan. 

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