Have you heard about the next biggest ingredient in beauty? It's called Bakuchiol. This tricky to pronounce ingredient (BUH-KOOCH-EE-ALL) is taking the natural and beauty industries by storm.
You may have heard it touted as a natural alternative to retinol. This is why we were drawn to Bakuchiol, but we fell in love with its overall ability to restore and revive skin. The powerhouse ingredient is plant-based and considered to be completely safe. Beauty connoisseurs have raved over the amazing results, all without the pesky side effects many experience from retinol.
Keep reading to learn all about Bakuchiol, who should use it, and if it's time for you to give it a try.
What is Bakuchiol?
Bakuchiol is an antioxidant found within the seeds of the babchi plant, which is native to India and has been used in Ayurvedic skincare remedies and Chinese medicine for centuries. Although new to the Western world, researchers are beginning to study the effects of bakuchiol, especially in comparison to retinol. Studies have shown that it helps prevent fine lines and wrinkles and helps with pigmentation, uneven skin tone, elasticity, and firmness. Bakuchiol even has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties, all of which are beneficial when combating acne.
You might be wondering how this natural ingredient can compare with retinol if it's a plant extract. Even though bakuchiol is not derived from vitamin A, it still works through the same receptors that retinol uses. This is how bakuchiol got its reputation as a natural retinol alternative.
Who should use it?
The greatest part about bakuchiol is that anyone can use it. We know it's hard to believe, but it's true. As a natural anti aging alternative, those who want to shop vegan and clean will be happy to learn that bakuchiol falls at a low and super-safe rating of just 1 on EWG's Skin Deep scale. In contrast, retinol is rated a 9 out of 10.
Sensitive skin sufferers can safely apply bakuchiol morning and night without any signs of irritation. This is the perfect solution for those looking to fight fine lines but who may also have eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis. A small trial of 44 participants found that the retinol users reported more stinging and a harsher skin texture, confirming that going natural is the safer bet.
Even though skin glows when pregnant, unfortunately, it still ages. But for the first time, those who are pregnant and nursing now have an anti aging product to add to their skincare routines. Dermatologists do not recommend using retinoids during pregnancy because they are classified as "class C" by the FDA, which is a risk rating to a mother and an unborn baby. You should, of course, run any new ingredient you use by your doctor, but according to the research, moms should be just fine adding bakuchiol to their natural skincare regimen.
Should you make the switch?
Facts are facts. There is literally no harm in trying out bakuchiol because it is safe for all skin types. If you have sensitive skin, prefer your skincare natural, or are pregnant, bakuchiol is the perfect multipurpose skin solution. It's also a great entry-level ingredient to try in your routine, especially if you're concerned about any chance of unwelcome side effects.
Not convinced yet? Check out the results from this recent study:
"Bakuchiol and retinol both significantly decreased wrinkle surface area and hyperpigmentation, with no statistical difference between the compounds. The retinol users reported more facial scaling and stinging."
Ready to start your bakuchiol skincare journey? Our Sleepy Beauty Bakuchiol + Biotic Serum helps restore a plump, smooth appearance and bouncy texture overnight. Did you know your skin's most active renewal period happens when you sleep? Take advantage of this opportune time by applying a few drops of the biotic and bakuchiol infused serum before bed. Wake up with a refreshed glow, smooth skin texture, and peace of mind knowing you used the natural healing power of plants for your skin.
Resources:
https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ingredients/706889-RETINOL_(VITAMIN_A)/
https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/bakuchiol-retinol-alternative#To-sum-it-up