Bakuchiol: A New Botanical Retinol Alternative
The Bakuchiol Plant
In the pursuit of youthful and radiant skin, Retinol has long been considered the gold standard in skincare. But what exactly is Retinol?
It is a derivative of vitamin A that addresses various concerns, including collagen production, fine lines, and skin texture. Retinol helps increase skin cell turnover, improving issues such as blocked pores, rough skin, and signs of aging by boosting collagen production. Unfortunately, it is often not used in concentrations that are effective for the skin.
An alternative to Retinol is Bakuchiol, a plant-based botanical ingredient that mimics the effects of vitamin A. Bakuchiol is derived from the Psoralea corylifolia plant, which is native to India and has been utilized in Ayurvedic practices as well as traditional Chinese medicine due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
But how does Bakuchiol compare to Retinol? Several studies have shown that Bakuchiol effectively addresses signs of aging and reduces hyperpigmentation. The results are comparable to those of Retinol, but without the flaking or irritation often associated with vitamin A use. Additionally, Bakuchiol has been shown to stimulate collagen production and promote cellular turnover, making it a promising alternative to Retinol. In recent years, the popularity of Bakuchiol has grown significantly, with interest increasing by 35% since 2023.
Face Serum with Bakuchiol oil
When used daily on the skin, most people see noticeable improvements within two months; however, the timeline may vary for different individuals. While Retinol is not recommended for daytime use, particularly in the summer, due to increased sun sensitivity, Bakuchiol is stable in sunlight and is not linked to heightened sun sensitivity. For best results, it is recommended to apply Bakuchiol in the evenings (2-3 times per week) to allow your skin to recover overnight. If you wish to see more impressive results, you may use it twice a day—both morning and night—but you should be aware that it may cause some irritation and dryness initially.
