If you are looking for a natural way to up your skincare game, Bakuchiol (pronounced ba-koo-chee-all) could be a great choice. This plant-based, skin-friendly alternative to Retinol is derived from the Psoralea corylifolia plant, better known as the "babchi" plant. It has been used for centuries in Indian and Chinese medicine to treat a variety of skin problems and diseases.
While Bakuchiol has no structural resemblance to retinoids, research shows that it works as a retinoid analog, meaning it mimics the effect of Retinol, such as by stimulating cell turnover, combating dark spots, and re-densifying the skin. In addition, both Bakuchiol and Retinol can stimulate the production of the same collagen type (type I, type II, and type IV).
Bakuchiol was tested in a clinical case study by a twice-a-day facial application in this same research. The results showed that, after 12 weeks of treatment, there was a significant improvement in lines, wrinkles, and pigmentation—
Research 1. In a 2019 study, Bakuchiol and Retinol significantly decreased wrinkle surface area and hyperpigmentation with no statistical difference. The retinol users reported more facial scaling and stinging.
Research 2.
Bakuchiol and Retinol are powerful ingredients used to improve the appearance of aging skin. However, there are some key differences between the two.
Retinol is a form of vitamin A derived from either animal or plant sources.
It is a powerful anti-aging ingredient that can help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin texture, and even out skin tone. However, Retinol can also irritate some people's skin, especially those with sensitive skin. The initial stages can include a surge of acne, rashes, flaking and intense redness.
Bakuchiol is gentler and less likely to irritate the skin. Bakuchiol is also a potent antioxidant that can help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals.
In fact, Bakuchiol has been shown to be very effective in protecting mitochondrial functions against oxidative stress.
Research 3.
Over-the-counter retinol and prescription retinoids have long been proven effective remedies for acne. Bakuchiol possesses anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which can help with acne. Bakuchiol downregulates
5-a-reductase, an enzyme that triggers oil production in the skin. By normalizing sebum levels, Bakuchiol can prevent the growth of acne bacteria Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes). Regular use of Bakuchiol can not only
treat acne, but it can help prevent it from happening.