Bakuchiol (pronounced 'bah-koo-chi-ol') has rightfully earned its reputation as the gold standard for natural retinol alternatives. It offers the collagen-boosting benefits of retinol without the irritation
Let's explore the many skin benefits of Bakuchiol, how to incorporate it into your routine, and if this superhero skincare ingredient is right for you.
What is bakuchiol?
Bakuchiol is an all-natural, vegan skincare ingredient that is a rich source of antioxidants. It is extracted from the seeds of the Babchi plant (Psoralea corylifolia), a wild plant that is native to the Himalayan region. It has been used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for centuries due to its various healing properties.
A natural alternative to retinol
One of the primary reasons Bakuchiol has garnered so much attention is because of its scientifically proven ability to mimic the effects of retinol. Studies show that Bakuchiol is a retinol-like multitasker that delivers results by stimulating cellular turnover and boosting collagen production. Regular use of Bakuchiol can help to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, fade pigmentation marks and acne scars, while also helping to keep pores clear.
Bakuchiol is less irritating than retinol
Perhaps the main advantage of bakuchiol is that you get all of the retinol benefits, but without the harsh side effects such as increased sensitivity to sunlight, redness, peeling, and dryness. This makes it an ideal choice for those with sensitive skin or those looking for a more natural alternative to retinol.
Bakuchiol is a powerful antioxidant
Bakuchiol is a powerful antioxidant that has the ability to repair free radical damage caused by daily environmental skin hazards such as UV light, pollution, or pesticides. It can also protect your skin from these factors, thus helping to prevent any future damage.
It has retinol-like acne fighting benefits
Studies show that Bakuchiol has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that act similar to retinol within the skin to treat acne. Combined with its exfoliating effects that remove excess build up in the pores, Bakuchiol has shown to lessen the impact of post-inflammatory pigmentation (PIH). This greatly reduces the severity of acne scars that can take up to 12 months or more to fade.
Bakuchiol's potential skin benefits
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Minimises the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles for a smoother, firmer appearance
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Protects the skin from environmental damage that leads to premature ageing
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Boosts collagen production and improves skin elasticity and firmness for plumper, healthier skin
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Acne-fighting properties help calm breakouts and reduce the appearance of acne scars
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Rejuvenating effects help to fade dark spots and pigmentation marks for a more even skin tone
How to add Bakuchiol to you skincare routine
As we mentioned, Bakuchiol is free from side-effects like irritation and photosensitivity. This means you can reap the antioxidant benefits by applying it in the morning.
After cleansing and applying water-based serums such as Illume Niacinamide Serum, take a few drops of Bakuchiol Antioxidant Serum into the palm of your hand. Gently rub your hands together and use the push/press method to apply the serum to your face, neck and chest.
If you prefer a lighter finish during the day, simply mix a drop or two into your moisturiser. Take your usual amount of day cream on clean fingertips or in the palm of your hand, add a couple of drops of serum, blend together, and apply as usual.
Is our Bakuchiol serum suitable for your skin?
Our Vitamin C + Bakuchiol Serum is formulated with 1% Bakuchiol and 20% Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (THDA), a highly stable form of vitamin C that can be tolerated by sensitive skin. THDA, another potent antioxidant, has been shown to inhibit pigment production and brighten the skin tone.
Bakuchiol is most effective when used twice a day, but we suggest starting slowly if you have highly sensitive skin. You’ll see the best results after three months of continued use.
This article was originally written by Bryanna Martonis PhD, an ethical content creator and beauty awards judge. It has since been updated by Gabrielle Richens, a veteran model-turned-NVQ-qualified skin therapist, and an online skin coach.
