Bakuchiol: 5 Things To Know About This Anti-ageing Active Ingredient

Have you heard of bakuchiol? This new anti-ageing active ingredient has properties similar to those of retinol. It is very popular in cosmetics for its high tolerance and antioxidant effects that help fight against skin aging and blemishes. Here are 5 things to know about the new star of anti-aging actives.

1- It is a substance of vegetable origin

The bakuchiol (pronounced 'bakukiol') is extracted from the seeds of a plant called Babchi, Bakuchi or Psoralea corylifolia.

This plant, endemic to the Himalayan region, is traditionally used in Ayurvedic and Chinese pharmacopoeia to treat skin problems.

This molecule, which recently entered our cosmetic products, is still undergoing several studies. But it is already recognized as a good alternative to retinol.

2- It is a kind of vegetable retinol

Bakuchiol is an effective anti-ageing active ingredient when dosed between 0.5% and 2%.

This molecule can be used alone or combined with other anti-aging actives like peptides or niacinamide for a synergistic effect.

But it constitutes on its own a complete anti-aging whose action is similar to that of retinol. This is why it is sometimes nicknamed plant retinol.

In fact, it acts on cell renewal, protects the skin's collagen and elastin fibers and soothes inflammation. A true collagen booster, it helps preserve skin firmness.

3- It is also used to reduce stains

Bakuchiol not only helps to fight against skin aging, but also against brown spots which are one of the most visible signs of it.

This antioxidant molecule regulates the synthesis of melanin: it limits the excess of this dark pigment that is the cause of brown spots.

It also has a slight lightening action that helps make spots less visible and therefore the complexion more even.

4- It beautifies the skin

Known for its anti-aging action, bakuchiol does not only fight against the visible signs of skin aging.

It is a true multifunctional active that contributes to the beauty of the skin on several levels.

Thanks to its anti-inflammatory action, this active ingredient helps to fight redness and blemishes.

Its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties help limit pimple outbreaks and improve the quality of acne-prone skin. This active ingredient would even reduce acne scars.

This anti-aging agent is therefore very suitable for oily or combination skin.

5- It is better tolerated than retinol

While it is true that bakuchiol is less effective than retinol against wrinkles and signs of aging, its great advantage is that it is much better tolerated.

Even if you have sensitive and reactive skin, you can apply it without fear in the morning and/or evening because it doesn't dry out the skin.

This molecule is also much less irritating than retinol and not photosensitizing.

Last but not least, bakuchiol is not contraindicated during pregnancy or breastfeeding.