With the clean beauty movement having picked heat over the last decade or so, the industry has been abuzz with plant-derived powerhouses that claim to give their chemical counterparts a run for their money.
One such plant extract, referred to as bakuchiol (pronounced bak-ooh-chi-ol), has been touted as a natural, potent alternative to retinol, which occurs naturally in the seeds and leaves of the plant Psoralea corylifolia in the Indian subcontinent. The wonder ingredient is aided by a long history of Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine use—boasting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that make it an essential component in cosmetic formulations.
Bakuchiol vs. Retinol
So, to answer your burning question, while the two lend similar benefits to your skin, their dissimilarities may compel you to pick one over the other. Known to boost type I, III, and IV collagen in the skin, both bakuchiol and retinol work to improve fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, elasticity, and firmness. However, retinol is harsher on your skin and can cause excessive dryness, peeling, and skin irritation.
The Benefits Of Bakuchiol
- Suitable For All Skin Types: This compound is suitable for dry, sensitive, oily, and combination skin—minus the skin irritation that often results from the consistent use of retinol-infused products.
- Can Be Layered With Beneficial Ingredients: Bakuchiol can be paired with vitamin C and acids in creams and serums. Plus, it doesn’t make your skin photo-sensitive and can be applied in daylight too. However, avoid pairing it with acid peels due to over-stimulation.
- Curbs Acne: The antioxidants in bakuchiol help curtail 5-alpha-reductase, an enzyme that can be held responsible for sebum overproduction, and also limit the growth of other acne-causing bacteria.
- Diminishes Hyperpigmentation: The magic ingredient is also known to reduce dark spots and hyperpigmentation, giving way to an even skin tone.
- Halts Premature Ageing: Owing to its collagen-boosting powers, bakuchiol dwindles the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while facilitating skin elasticity and firmness.
- Helps Heal And Soothe Skin: Bakuchiol offers anti-inflammatory properties, which makes it ideal for calming redness and soothing irritated skin.
Bakuchiol-Infused Products To Add To Your Skincare Regime
Bakuchiol-Infused Serum
Fitting in your night routine, revel in the goodness of retinol, squalane, and tripeptide complex, along with amla and saffron, with inde wild’s Sunset Restore Serum that promises overnight restoration and rejuvenation.
Bakuchiol-Infused Face Wash
Detoxify and deeply cleanse your skin with Quench Botanics Matcha Better Skin Detox Gel Face Wash, boasting matcha green tea, bakuchiol, chamomile, and mandarin orange peel oil, which are power-packed with antioxidants and super-gentle on your skin.
Bakuchiol-Infused Eye Serum
Depuff and brighten tired-looking eyes with the Wishful Eye Lift & Contour 1% Bakuchiol & Peptide Serum Refill. The dermatologist-approved formulation is 98% naturally-derived, vegan, and fragrance-free, too.
Bakuchiol-Infused Night Cream
This one’s worth the splurge if you’re looking to strengthen your skin barrier and boost firmness and elasticity. Harnessing the power of 13 antioxidants, 14 botanical extracts, and 4 active ingredients, Ras’ Super Recharge Night Cream moisturises and smoothens your epidermis—giving way to flawless, radiant skin.
Bakuchiol-Infused Face Emulsion
This day-and-night formulation is imbued with bakuchiol and niacinamide for the reduced appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and skin discolouration. Plus, consistent application promises plump, smooth skin, and improved texture.
Bakuchiol-Infused Face Oil
Replenishment, rejuvenation, and skin revival are just one product away! Formulated with 100% certified organic bakuchiol, Lotus Organics’ Bakuchiol Plant Retinol Miracle Facial Oil will stimulate your skin renewal process in an instant.
