Bakuchiol
What is Bakuchiol?
With so many tongue-twisting names claiming to offer amazing skincare benefits, you may feel overwhelmed to read about yet another one - Bakuchiol. To keep it simple, think of Bakuchiol as Natural Retinol, a Vitamin A-based product that (as I said earlier) offers amazing skincare benefits!
Bakuchiol is fast becoming popular as an alternative to Retinol. It is considered to be far milder, giving you a softer, smoother skin, without the harshness of Retinol that may cause irritation or redness. And, Bakuchiol is safe for Mums-to-be as it does not contain retinoids that should be avoided by pregnant or nursing women. It is ideal for sensitive skin and can be used both during the day and at night.
The science behind Bakuchiol
Many of today’s ‘magical’ ingredients have been known to ancient Chinese and traditional Ayurvedic healers for centuries, and Bakuchiol is one of them. It is obtained from the seeds of the Babchi plant (Psoralea corylifolia) making it a 100% natural, vegan product.
There are two methods of obtaining Bakuchiol. The first is extracted in the form of an oil which is cold pressed from the seeds. This oil is then incorporated into skincare products. The second is obtained through a proprietary extraction process and is marketed under the trade name Sytenol® A.
How does it work?
Bakuchiol works much like Retinol, speeding up the rate of cell turnover in the skin. Because the molecules are small, they can penetrate the deeper layers of the epidermis, neutralizing free radicals, and helping to boost collagen production. With more collagen, your skin immediately becomes plumper and smoother with a healthy glow.
There are many reasons why dermatologists and skincare experts are excited about Bakuchiol. Let’s take a look at some of them.
It reduces wrinkles and fine lines
Bakuchiol is a powerful antioxidant that stimulates the production of collagen. This increases the skin’s elasticity and resilience and causes fine lines and wrinkles to plump up and fade away. Wrinkles around the eyes, nose, and mouth are unwanted signs of aging and Bakuchiol offers a powerful solution to reduce this problem.
It has anti-bacterial properties
The antibacterial properties of Bakuchiol make it very effective for oily or acne-prone skin. It helps keep the oil on our skin in balance by maintaining the protective acid barrier. This reduces the oiliness that clogs up pores causing blackheads, pimples, and acne. Your skin will soon look clean, fresh, and clear.
It reduces inflammation
Bakuchiol is a natural mild product that soothes the skin. By speeding up healthy cell regeneration and promoting cell turnover, Bakuchiol soothes and heals the skin from deep inside the epidermis. This reduces redness, inflammation, and uneven blotches. It helps calm irritated skin, making it a great choice for sensitive skin types.
Reduces hyperpigmentation
Bakuchiol molecules penetrate the skin and lessen the appearance of dark spots and regions of hyperpigmentation. By boosting collagen production, age spots and sun spots will start to fade over time with regular use of a skincare product that contains Bakuchiol.
Gives you an even skin tone
By reducing dark spots, age spots, and hyperpigmentation, your skin acquires an even tone that is smooth, blemish-free, and glows with a healthy sheen.
It won’t cause dryness or irritation
Bakuchiol is a natural and gentle product and is not known to cause any skin irritation. It is ideal for sensitive and mature skin.
Speeds up skin cell regeneration
Bakuchiol sends signals into the deep cells in the epidermis, stimulating cell regeneration. This process boosts restorative and preventative measures against anti-aging. Your skin becomes more elastic, sags less, and plumps up to create a smooth and even complexion.
It is far milder than Retinol
While Retinol is an extremely popular skincare product, it does come with side effects that may include redness, irritation, dryness, and peeling. It is known to cause skin to become ultra-sensitive to sunlight and more prone to sunburn and sun damage. Bakuchiol does not have these side effects.
Who can use Bakuchiol?
Bakuchiol is suitable for all skin types. Because it is so mild, it is ideal for young skin, mature skin, and sensitive skin. It can safely be used for both day and night skincare routines.
When combined with Retinol in a professional skincare formula, Bakuchiol can stabilize Retinol and extend its effectiveness. Another benefit of using products that contain both Bakuchiol and Retinol is that Bakuchiol's calming ability protects the skin from the harsher side effects of Retinol.
Our skinChemists Youth Series Retinol & Bakuchiol Facial Serum is an innovative product that contains both Retinol and Bakuchiol. It smooths away fine lines, firms the skin, and combats signs of aging. You will love how it locks in moisture and absorbs excess oil, leaving you with a smooth, matte finish that will last through the day.
Who shouldn’t use Bakuchiol?
If you are unsure about using Bakuchiol or have a chronic skin condition, please consult your doctor or dermatologist for advice.
References
https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/how-does-retinol-work
https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/retinol-pregnancy#after-pregnancy
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bakuchiol
