Bakuchiol

What is bakuchiol?  

Bakuchiol has earned the title of ‘the plant-based alternative to retinol’, and with good reason. If you're wondering what bakuchiol is, imagine an active ingredient that offers many of the benefits of retinol, such as improved firmness, texture and signs of aging, but without the possible side effects. Sounds good, doesn't it? 

This ingredient is extracted from the seeds of the Psoralea corylifolia plant, which has been used for centuries in traditional Indian and Chinese medicine. In cosmetics, it has become popular thanks to its tolerance on all skin types, including sensitive. And the best part: it is safe even during pregnancy and breastfeeding, making it a perfect choice for those looking to try without taking risks. 

In Korean cosmetics, where gentle but effective formulas are a priority, bakuchiol has found its niche as one of the top active ingredients for well-aging, brightening and regulating treatments. 

 

What is is used for?    

Bakuchiol acts as a multitasking ingredient. It stimulates collagen production, helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles, improves elasticity and evens skin tone. All this without causing flaking, redness or sun sensitivity, which is common with traditional retinol. 

It also has anti-inflammatory and sebum-regulating properties, so it is also useful for combination or oily skin. If you are prone to acne or hormonal breakouts, this ingredient can help keep your skin more balanced without irritating it.  

Because of its mild and complete profile, many formulas combine it with other moisturising or soothing actives, such as Centella Asiatica, to boost its effects without saturating the skin.

 

Benefits of bakuchiol  

  • Stimulates collagen production and improves firmness. 
  • Helps blur fine lines and wrinkles without irritation. 
  • Evens skin tone and improves superficial blemishes. 
  • Regulates sebum production, ideal for combination or oily skin. 
  • Has antioxidant action, protecting against environmental stress. 
  • Does not sensitise the skin to sunlight. 
  • Suitable during pregnancy and breastfeeding

Which is better, bakuchiol or retinol?   

There is no universal winner here. It all depends on your skin, your goals and your tolerance to the actives. Retinol is more popular and has more long-term clinical studies, especially at higher concentrations. But it can also cause dryness, sensitivity and even flaking if not used carefully. 

Bakuchiol, on the other hand, offers similar results, although more progressive, but with a much better tolerance. It does not cause flaking, does not alter the skin barrier and can be used day or night, even with other active ingredients. 

If your skin is already used to retinol and tolerates it well, you can continue with it or alternate it with bakuchiol for the days when you need to be gentler. But if you're just starting out, have sensitive skin or are looking for something suitable during pregnancy, bakuchiol is a good choice. 

How to use bakuchiol in your routine?  

You can introduce bakuchiol into your daily routine without any major breaks or adjustments. As it does not generate photosensitivity, you can use it both day and night, and it goes well with other active ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, vitamin C or niacinamide. 

Most bakuchiol products come in the form of a serum or cream. Ideally, apply after toner and before moisturiser. If you use other specific skincare products, apply it just before or after, depending on their texture (remember: from the lightest to the thickest). 

You don't need to reserve it for special days or use it alone. It can be your daily active ingredient to improve firmness, texture and tone in a continuous and gentle way. 

Best suited for which skin types?   

The best about bakuchiol is its versatility. It is suitable for all skin types, but there are some that will particularly benefit from it:  

  • Sensitive skin: improves wrinkles and texture without causing a reaction. 
  •  Acne-prone skin: regulates sebum and calms inflammation. 
  • Mature skin: combats flaccidity and improves radiance. 
  • Dry or dehydrated skin: can be used in combination with nourishing ingredients without drying. 

If you find that your skin reddens easily or cannot tolerate exfoliants or retinoids, bakuchiol is one of the best alternatives for you.

 

When to start using it?  

Even if you do not have pronounced wrinkles or visible signs of aging, you can start using bakuchiol from the age of 25-30 as a form of prevention. The earlier you start taking care of collagen and strengthening the skin barrier, the firmer and smoother your skin will remain over time. 

 

And if you are already dealing with lines, dullness or loss of elasticity, bakuchiol can help you maintain results without compromising tolerance.

Products that contain Bakuchiol