Nobody likes being left out. Many of us know the quest to find effective anti-aging solutions where retinol rules the skincare roost. But retinol can certainly play faves among skin types and, sorry, sensitive types – you’re out.
That doesn’t mean retinol is too hoity-toity for your type or you have crybaby skin. No, you have skin that pushes for change, because not all rulers are fair to everyone. Enter plant-based bakuchiol. Now you can get your hands on a better and natural alternative to renowned retinol.
Although chemical-based retinol has had reigning status as an all-star anti-ager, bakuchiol oil has been ruling the natural skincare roost for its comparable anti-aging benefits without skin irritations. With bakuchiol’s crowning glory as an impressive and natural alternative to retinol, the reign of skincare exclusion for sensitive skin types has ended. Let’s dive into the world of bakuchiol!
Bakuchiol 101: Getting to Know the Ingredient
We’re now getting to know the anti-aging benefits of bakuchiol, the trending ingredient trended centuries ago. Derived from the seeds and leaves of the babchi plant (Psoralea corylifolia), bakuchiol oil has a fascinating origin deeply rooted in Indian Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine.
Babchi seeds were often ground into a paste and applied topically to address various skin issues, such as skin rashes, inflammation, and discoloration. In Ayurvedic medicine, these super seeds were used to treat multiple health issues like skin disorders, slow digestion, weak immune system, and brittle hair. These traditional applications laid the foundation for the modern skincare exploration of bakuchiol oil.
When it comes to the skincare show-down between retinol and bakuchiol, the crowning glory for its audience of many skin types – especially sensitive skin – is how well it plays nicely with everyone.
Bakuchiol oil has a winning reputation as a natural and gentler alternative to retinol, a widely used but potentially irritating skincare ingredient.
Bakuchiol oil offers similar benefits to retinol – promoting skin rejuvenation, reducing fine lines, and enhancing collagen production – but without the undesirable effects of retinol like dryness and irritation. The active properties of bakuchiol lie in its ability to stimulate collagen and elastin production, improving skin elasticity and firmness. It’s also rich in antioxidants, helping to combat free radicals that contribute to premature aging. This anti-aging all-star has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial for soothing sensitive or irritated skin. Now, that’s a skin win!
Bakuchiol vs. Retinol: The Key Differences
Ready for a seat back at that showdown between retinol and bakuchiol? Alright, let’s talk about the battle of the skincare heavyweights: Bakuchiol versus Retinol! Both these ingredients have gained quite a reputation for their anti-aging effects, but they differ in some important ways.
Skin Tolerance:
Retinol: Many people experience skin irritations and side effects when they first start using retinol. Therefore, they should slowly introduce retinol into their skincare routine and gradually work up the frequency it’s used.
Bakuchiol: One of nature’s gifts for nourishing, not nixing skin. Since it’s known for being gentler on the skin, just about anyone can safely use and tolerate it without the need for acclimation.
Suitability:
Retinol: The effective yet harsh vitamin A derivative is known for its potential to cause irritation, dryness, sensitivity, and peeling. Plus, it’s not for everyone. Retinol is not recommended for sensitive skin types, nursing or pregnant women, or for some individuals with rosacea, severe acne, or eczema.
Bakuchiol: This plant-derived ingredient has garnered a lot of popularity due to it being a natural and vegan alternative to retinol. People with skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, sensitive skin, or dermatitis couldn’t use retinol due to its side effects. Bakuchiol is generally suitable for all skin types!
Photostability:
Retinol: Unlike its natural skin opponent, retinol doesn’t have an edge in daytime use. Retinol makes skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it’s best to use it at night. Since dryness often occurs as a side effect when first using retinol, you’ll need a very nourishing moisturizer and sun protection for sure!
Bakuchiol: Since it’s not irritating, bakuchiol can be safely used during the day without any added sensitivity to sunlight. It’s also not known to have an interaction with other actives, so you can combine your bakuchiol with vitamin C, niacinamide, or your favorite BHA without worrying about irritation. Sensitive skin types might have to exercise some caution when mixing these actives.
PRO-TIP: But while it’s true that bakuchiol shouldn’t make your skin more photosensitive, make sure to always wear your SPF.
Natural Origins:
Retinol: The vitamin A derivative is mostly created in labs. Need we say more?
Bakuchiol: In the skin ring, bakuchiol has natural talents, like harnessing plant power! Bakuchiol is only taken from the Babchi or Bakuchi plant.
Benefits of Bakuchiol in Skincare
Alright, let’s talk a bit more about the skincare heavyweightBakuchioll oil and its skin-efits. As mentioned previously, it’s considered a safer alternative to retinol and one that’s just as effective. Numerous scientific studies have explored the positive effects of bakuchiol on the skin, highlighting its potential as a beneficial skincare ingredient.
Here are some key findings from research and the most amazing bakuchiol benefits:
Anti-Aging:
Our skin relies on collagen to keep it elastic and taut. But over time collagen production decreases as we age, and our skin is not as able to retain shape or “snap back.” Bakuchiol has been shown to stimulate collagen production, a crucial protein responsible for maintaining skin structure and elasticity.
By exfoliating old cells and promoting new ones, bakuchiol can help to lessen the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. A study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science found that bakuchiol increased type I collagen synthesis in human skin cells, demonstrating its ability to promote a more youthful complexion.
Acne-Fighter:
Bakuchiol has impressive anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Inflammation is one of the root causes of acne as well as excessive oil production. Oily skin is the result of sebaceous glands in the skin producing too much sebum, whether it’s by a reaction to a drying product, or genetics or hormones. Bakuchiol tackles breakouts and helps reduce oil production in the skin to keep it more in balance.
As a gentle exfoliator, bakuchiol can slough away dead skin so that the pores can properly clear out. And it gets better; it may even help with acne scars. In the case of cystic acne, ruptured cysts have a higher chance of damaging the follicle wall, which can heighten the potential for scarring. Bakuchiol oil can assist in smoothing the appearance of pitted scars.
Some research has shown that the application of bakuchiol on the skin can reduce lesions while improving post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). This means clearer, smoother skin in a shorter period.
Soother & Improved Skin Texture:
Bakuchiol is a powerful antioxidant, which can help to protect the skin from free radicals and sun damage. Research published in the British Journal of Dermatology compared the effects of bakuchiol and retinol on photoaged skin. The study revealed that bakuchiol was found to be comparable to retinol in its efficacy but without the associated side effects.
Damaged skin is susceptible to premature aging, uneven skin tone, and dull skin. Since bakuchiol is an anti-inflammatory, it calms and soothes the skin, making for a smoother complexion. On top of that, bakuchiol is also hydrating, which eliminates dryness and dry patches that can cause an uneven skin texture.
Bakuchiol has shown promise in improving the skin’s barrier function. It strengthens the skin’s protective barrier, reducing transepidermal water loss, and enhancing moisture retention. This was observed in a study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, which highlighted bakuchiol’s potential to improve skin hydration and integrity. The result: smoother, more radiant skin – for the skin win!
Boosted Collagen Production:
Over time, collagen production decreases as we age. At the cellular level, bakuchiol interacts with various components of the skin to promote rejuvenation. It has been shown to stimulate collagen production, which is vital for maintaining skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Bakuchiol also helps regulate cellular turnover, encouraging the shedding of dead skin cells and promoting the growth of fresh, healthy cells. Additionally, it possesses antioxidant properties, protecting the skin from damage caused by free radicals and environmental stressors, which can cause premature aging. These combined effects contribute to smoother, firmer, more youthful-looking skin.
A study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science found that bakuchiol increased type I collagen synthesis in human skin cells, demonstrating its ability to promote a more youthful complexion. In fact, the study indicated that “bakuchiol, having no structural resemblance to retinoids, can function as a functional analogue of retinol”.
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FAQs About Bakuchiol
Is bakuchiol safe for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals?
Bakuchiol is considered a safer alternative to retinol due to its lack of adverse side effects on the skin. Unlike retinol, bakuchiol is unrelated to vitamin A, which makes it a viable option for pregnant women and those who are breastfeeding, providing a safer choice for skincare during these periods. But it’s also recommended to let your doctor know of all medicines, including vitamins, that you’re on and/or interested in taking.
Can bakuchiol be combined with other active ingredients in a routine?
Bakuchiol oil can typically be used in conjunction with other natural skincare products. These ingredients often synergize seamlessly, harmonizing their properties for enhanced efficacy. Their compatibility can lead to a balanced blend that addresses multiple skincare needs.
However, while bakuchiol is generally well-tolerated by most skin types, there are a few ingredients that may not work well when used with bakuchiol for sensitive skin. These include exfoliating acids like AHAs and BHAs, vitamin C, stronger retinoids, or prescription retinoids.
How often should one use bakuchiol-infused products?
It depends on your skincare needs and concerns. You can use a bakuchiol-infused product during the day since it won’t sensitize your skin to the sun. But this should be paired with sun protection on top. If you have sensitive skin, start with a few times a week, and slowly build up from there.
You can also use this product at night or opt for a natural nighttime treatment – or alternate both products. With regular use of bakuchiol, individuals can typically expect to see noticeable improvements in their skin within 2-4 weeks.
Are there any side effects or skin reactions associated with bakuchiol?
Bakuchiol is mostly considered safe for most skin types. It is less likely to cause skin sensitivity compared to other active ingredients like retinol. Its gentle nature makes it suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin. However, individuals with specific allergies or sensitivities should exercise caution and conduct patch tests before using products containing bakuchiol.
How soon can results be seen with bakuchiol usage?
With regular use of bakuchiol, individuals can typically expect to see noticeable improvements in their skin within approximately four weeks. Continued use for up to eight weeks may reveal more significant changes, such as a reduction in fine lines, improved skin texture, and a more radiant complexion.
Incorporating Bakuchiol into Your Skincare Routine
Incorporating bakuchiol into your skincare routine is easy and can provide amazing benefits for your skin. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to incorporate the best bakuchiol-infused products in your daily regimen, along with tips on combining it with other skincare products and using it as a spot treatment.
Step 1: Cleanser: Start by using a gentle cleanser like the 100% PURE Bakuchiol Cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and impurities from your skin. This gentle yet powerful cleanser provides a safer and more natural alternative to retinol to stimulate cellular turnover for a smoother, clearer complexion. Gently massage it onto damp skin, then rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry.
Step 2: Toner (optional): If you typically use a toner in your routine, try applying the 100% PURE Flower Water Toner after cleansing to balance your skin’s pH levels. This hydrating face toner employs undiluted floral ingredients like rose and calendula hydrosols, and witch hazel to calm and clarify skin for a healthy glow. This step is optional but can be beneficial for some individuals.
Step 3: Serum: Apply a few drops of the 100% PURE Bakuchiol Serum onto your fingertips and gently massage it into your face, neck, and décolletage. Focus on areas where you want to target signs of aging or improve skin texture. Bakuchiol oil’s properties, including collagen stimulation and antioxidant content, work to address concerns like fine lines, uneven skin tone, and elasticity. Allow the serum to fully absorb into the skin before moving to the next step.
Step 4: Moisturize: Follow up with the 100% PURE Bakuchiol Moisturizer to provide additional hydration and lock in the benefits of the serum and the benefits of bakuchiol. This antioxidant-rich moisturizer provides intense hydration to boost collagen production and lessen the appearance of lines and wrinkles. Apply a small amount to your face, neck, and décolletage, and gently massage it in using upward motions.
Step 5: Sunscreen: In the daytime, it’s crucial to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Finish off your routine by applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Sunscreen helps prevent sun damage and maintains the benefits of bakuchiol.
Step 6: Spot-Treat (optional): Have a pesky blemish or breakouts on an area of your face? You can use the bakuchiol serum and bakuchiol oil moisturizer to spot-treat the skin’s culprit or area.
Safety First
At 100% PURE, it’s safety first for us and our beloved skincare enthusiasts. That’s why our natural products do not contain harsh detergents, chemical preservatives, artificial fragrances, colors, or any other unhealthy toxins that can irritate the skin; they are perfect for sensitive skin. However, Individuals with specific allergies or sensitivities should exercise caution and conduct patch tests before using products containing bakuchiol to check for adverse reactions.
While bakuchiol oil has been shown to cause few side effects, it’s recommended for sensitive, super-dry, and reactive skin types that you start using a little at a time, typically 1-2 times per week. Start using at night first to allow your skin time to adjust, and then you can use the bakuchiol skincare products during the day and night.
Due to it being a plant-based ingredient, most of the bakuchiol formulas have a lightweight formula. They can be easily layered with other natural skincare products without feeling heavy on the skin. If you want to see the true power of bakuchiol, use our featured products to get its ultimate effect.
Sustainability Concerns: Is Bakuchiol Eco-Friendly?
100% PURE™ is a commitment to producing the purest, healthiest products and educating everyone on why being 100% PURE™ is environmentally sustainable and eco-friendly. We also go through a painstaking – but worth it – process to make sure each ingredient sourced is never animal sourced, and of course, responsibly sourced from the purest of origins.
Backuhiol was first discovered in 1966 and our team at 100% PURE has been hard at work to make this plant-based ingredient the ultimate addition to your beauty regimen. Babchi oil comes from those powerful seeds, and bakuchiol is an active chemical component found in the oil.
To ensure that every ingredient we use is closest to its pure form, we use unrefined, cold-processed oils and cold-processed ingredients. This ensures retaining a maximum amount of nutrients and more effective formulas. Formulas with minimal processing are purer, meaning they’ll be more beneficial for maintaining healthy, happy skin and a happier, healthier planet.
Bakuchiol has emerged as a winner in the skincare ring as a promising ingredient with a range of potential benefits that set it apart, particularly when pitted against retinol. Its ability to stimulate collagen production, lessen wrinkles, provide antioxidant protection, and exhibit anti-inflammatory properties makes it an attractive alternative to retinol, but with the distinct advantage of being kinder to various skin sensitivities.
Whether you’re seeking to address signs of aging or simply maintain a healthy complexion, bakuchiol oil offers a natural and effective option. As the skincare industry continues to evolve, it’s exciting to explore new ingredients like bakuchiol that can contribute to healthier, more vibrant skin for all. Now, that’s a skin win. Ding, ding!
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