Have you heard about Bakuchiol? It's gaining popularity in the skincare world for all the right reasons. It is often mimicked as a natural alternative to a vitamin A derivative - Retinol. Moreover, it offers many of the same skin benefits like reducing wrinkles and improving skin tone, that too without the harsh side effects. So whether you have sensitive skin or want something gentle, Bakuchiol could be your new skincare BFF. It's also a great alternative to retinol, which is harmful during pregnancy and not recommended for expectant moms.1
Curious to know more? Let’s dive into the incredible skin benefits of Bakuchiol!
Bakuchiol is a plant extract from the Babchi plant seed, Psoralea corylifolia, which is native to India. It has been used to treat many skin conditions like acne, hyperpigmentation, and more. Today, it is recognised by medical texts, such as the pharmacopoeias of China, Britain, the U.S., and India, for its skin benefits. 2 3
Discover these surprising reasons to add Bakuchiol to your skincare routine:
Bakuchiol helps boost collagen, reduce pigmentation, and smoothen wrinkles—just like retinol. It is also gentle on the skin and won’t cause irritation, making it a perfect choice for sensitive skin. 4
Bakuchiol helps to calm skin inflammation and irritation while fighting acne-causing bacteria. It also helps lighten scars and dark spots, leaving your skin looking smoother and more even-toned. 5 6
Bakuchiol is known for its ability to brighten and even out skin tone. It helps reduce melasma, a condition that causes dark, discoloured patches on the skin usually during pregnancy. 7 8
Bakuchiol is a plant-based ingredient known for its ability to complement various skin types. Its gentle action makes it suitable for dry, oily and sensitive skin. 9
Having so many amazing benefits, it’s no surprise that Bakuchiol is becoming a favourite in the skincare world. But to truly experience its benefits, it’s important to choose the right products.
To maximise the benefits of bakuchiol, look for products that also include active ingredients like hyaluronic acid and vitamin C. Hyaluronic acid helps keep your skin hydrated while vitamin C brightens skin and supports collagen production to diminish wrinkles and fine lines. Using a combination of these ingredients with bakuchiol will lead to noticeably smoother, firmer, and more radiant skin! 10 11
Buy a product with between 0.5% and 2% concentration of Bakuchiol. Studies suggest that this concentration of Bakuchiol in skincare products is optimal for reducing wrinkles and improving skin elasticity.12
Go for bakuchiol products that dermatologists recommend or have been tested for safety and effectiveness. This gives you peace of mind and the confidence to use, especially when you have sensitive skin.
Pick a formulation that matches your skin type—whether it’s a light serum or a rich cream for deep hydration. Making the right choice when buying the product ensures your skin gets exactly what it needs
Bakuchiol and Retinol are both recognised for their role in skincare particularly in addressing signs of anti-aging and improving skin tone. However, they differ in several ways, such as:
Factor | Bakuchiol | Retinol |
---|---|---|
Gentleness |
Gentle & suitable for sensitive skin |
Retinol can cause irritation, redness, or dryness, if you have sensitive skin |
Skin Compatibility | It is safe for all skin types including during pregnancy | It's advisable to use Retinol minimally and only after consulting with the doctor |
Sun Sensitivity | Does not cause sun sensitivity; safe for daytime use. | Causes sun sensitivity; should be used at night with sunscreen applied during the day. |
Now that you’re familiar with the powerful benefits of Bakuchiol, it’s time to give your skin the love it deserves. If you're looking for smoother, brighter, and more hydrated skin—AreoVeda’s Skin Brightening Serum could be a great addition to your skincare routine. It is packed with Pentavitin and Bakuchiol, which hydrates the skin for up to 72 hours, helps reduce dark spots, and shows visible results in just 28 days of regular use. Additionally, it’s completely safe for pregnant women and breastfeeding moms!
Interested in learning more about pregnancy-safe skincare solutions? Explore our blog for helpful tips and advice here.
Bakuchiol is generally well-tolerated and seen as a milder alternative to retinol. Nevertheless, like any skincare ingredient, some people might experience minor sensitivity or allergic reactions. However, Always patch-test a new product before incorporating it fully into your skincare routine. 19
Yes, Bakuchiol reduces acne and lightens acne scars. It helps soothe skin inflammation and fights off acne-causing bacteria giving a smoother, even-toned complexion. 5 6
Bakuchiol is a gentler version of retinol, providing anti-aging and skin-smoothing benefits without causing irritation or sensitivity. That is why it is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, and can be used safely during pregnancy. 9 16
It is suitable for all skin types, including dry, oily, combination, and sensitive skin. Its gentle nature makes it versatile for use in skincare routines, even during pregnancy. 9
Yes, you can use Bakuchiol in the morning. Bakuchiol is not a photosensitizer, unlike retinol. This means that it won't make your skin sensitive to sunlight. You must, however, follow up with a broad-spectrum sunscreen for the best result. 16
Bakuchiol is often known for its gentle nature, providing a safer alternative to retinol with many fewer side effects. However, people with very sensitive skin may sometimes have mild irritation or an allergic response to bakuchiol. It is always advisable to consult a doctor and perform a patch test on a small area of skin, such as the inner arm, before using any new skincare product. 4