What Is Bakuchiol?
Source: Jayesh Pail via Flickr
What is Bakuchiol?
Nicknamed "Nature's retinol," Bakuchiol is derived from the leaves and seeds of the Psoralea corylifolia plant aka the "babchi" plant and has long been utilized in Ayurvedic practices as well as Chinese medicine¹.
Early clinical studies² have shown that Bakuchiol yields comparable results and improvements to those commonly associated with retinoid application. But unlike retinoids, these same studies have found that Bakuchiol does not cause excessive redness, irritation, or photosensitivity.
Reasons to Love Bakuchiol
Because Bakuchiol contains antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties, the list of use benefits³ is long. Here are our favorite reasons to incorporate this powerful plant-based ingredient into your skincare:
- It helps to improve and balance skin complexion and discoloration.
- It stimulates the production of collagen. Translation: it supports smoothing fine lines and helping to minimize the appearance of aging.
- It strengthens the skin foundation for healthy cell turnover.
- In some cases, Bakuchiol has reduced acne breakouts.
- It is suitable for all skin types.
- It effectively soothes and nourishes the skin.
Bakuchiol FAQ
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How do you pronounce Bakuchiol?
Buh-koo-chee-all — easy, right?
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How often should I use it for visible results?
We recommend using in the AM and PM daily for most effective and visible results. If you would like to apply once a day, we highly recommend using at nighttime.
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How long before I see a difference?
Through extensive testing and use, we've found that most will see noticeable results/improvements after using our Bakuchiol Treatment daily for 6 to 8 weeks.
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Can I use it with the retinol product I already use?
Yes! While Bakuchiol is frequently categorized as the "natural alternative" to retinol (Vitamin A derivatives), the two operate differently. It's OK to use both at the same time. In fact, when using Bakuchiol and retinol together, you'll receive double the skin-improving benefits. Always remember to apply proper and ample UV protection daily.
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I'm pregnant / I'm breastfeeding. Can I use a product that contains Bakuchiol?
There are not enough studies to say with certainty that Bakuchiol is safe for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. We know definitively that retinol is not safe to use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, but Bakuchiol is not a Vitamin A derivative and therefore, may be safe for use. Nevertheless, we strongly recommend consulting your doctor before using Bakuchiol.
References:
1. Chaudhuri, Ratan K. "Bakuchiol: A Retinol-Like Functional Compound, Modulating Multiple Retinol and Non-Retinol Targets." Cosmeceuticals and Active Cosmetics, no. 3, Sept. 2015, pp. 1-15.
2. The Department of Dermatology, University of California – Davis (United States); 2018 - Identifier DOI 10.1111/bjd.16918. A prospective, randomized, double-blind clinical trial examining topical bakuchiol and retinol for facial photoaging; 2018 June 17; [8 pages]. Available from British Journal of Dermatologists 2018.
3. Chaudhuri, R. and Bojanowski, K. "Bakuchiol: a retinol-like functional compound revealed by gene expression profiling and clinically proven to have anti-aging effects." International Journal of Cosmetic Science, Jan. 2014, pp. 1–10, doi: 10.1111/ics.12117.
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