Bakuchiol: The Best Naturally Derived Alternative to Retinol
Ready to meet the ingredient that’s taking anti-aging skincare by storm? We’re breaking down everything you need to know about bakuchiol, AKA “nature’s gentler retinol.”
Bakuchiol is rich in antioxidants, and this Ayurvedic plant extract helps plump the look of skin.
WHAT IS BAKUCHIOL?
Bakuchiol is an extract that’s harvested from the seeds and leaves of Babchi, a flowering plant with distinctly bright, violet petals. It is native to India and the Himalayan regions of Pakistan and China, and has been used in Ayurvedic and Asian health and beauty practices for centuries. (“Bakuchiol” is derived from the Sanskrit name of the plant.)
Bakuchiol is rich in antioxidants, and this plant extract helps plump the look of skin. It’s been studied for its anti-aging properties, specifically how it can help reduce the appearance of fine lines. Bakuchiol is also a solid choice for acne prone skin types who deal with redness, blemishes, or dullness.
DO I STILL NEED SUNSCREEN IF I USE BAKUCHIOL?
If you use something called “actives” in your skincare — these might be antioxidants like Vitamin C, retinoids, or alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) — remember to pair with sunscreen to minimize the chance of sun sensitivity. When skin is sun sensitive, you might experience skin feeling dry after sun exposure, and extended time in the sun may worsen discoloration or dark spots.
If you already have sensitive skin, you may reach for formulas with bakuchiol in it because it’s gentler than retinoids. However, that doesn’t mean you should skimp on the sunscreen!
After your daily soulcare ritual, you might apply bakuchiol as a serum or your favorite hydrating moisturizer, like the Skin Transformation Face Cream. Don’t forget to apply Protect Your Light SPF, applying evenly to your face and neck as the final step in your routine.
BAKUCHIOL VS. RETINOL
BAKUCHIOL BENEFITS: ANTI-AGING
Bakuchiol is a plant-based derivative of the Babchi plant, and often called “nature’s retinol”, says Annie Corbett of Face Foundrie, who recommends it for clients who specifically want to target signs of aging, like the appearance of fine lines.
“It functions just like retinol or topical vitamin A, without any of the harsh side effects of stinging and burning,” says board-certified dermatologist Renée Snyder, M.D, making it a promising option for skin types that may experience sensitivity to retinoids.
Some retinol/retinal users experience a period of time where skin is adjusting to this potent form of Vitamin A, which can lead to side effects like dryness, flakiness, and blemishes, whereas bakuchiol is gentler on skin.
“[Bakuchiol] is often more tolerated and stable than actual retinol. It will reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and refine the appearance of skin tone and texture,” adds Corbett.
HOW TO USE BAKUCHIOL IN YOUR SKINCARE ROUTINE
Unlike harsher counterparts like retinol and vitamin A, which don’t pair well with the sun’s UV rays, bakuchiol’s stability in the presence of sunlight means it can be applied day or night. (While scientific studies confirm that it’s most effective used both day and night, it’s also recommended to pair it with sunscreen, as you would most other topical face products.)
When in comes to your skincare shelf, beauty pros recommend applying bakuchiol topically in a serum, moisturizer, or lotion. Our Skin Transformation Cream is formulated with key ingredients like bakuchiol and ceramides, plus hyaluronic acid, to help skin feel moisturized. Plus, the gel-cream texture and the calming sage and oat milk scent make it an excellent option to help combat dry skin and provide hydration.
DOES BAKUCHIOL WORK?
We love bakuchiol for its multi-tasking versatility. While it’s been clinically proven to reduce the appearance of fine lines, it has also been studied for its brightening properties. Bakuchiol can improve skin’s overall tone over time by mimicking the benefits of retinol.
HOW BAKUCHIOL SHOWS UP IN KEYS SOULCARE
If you want to encourage a healthy-looking glow and tackle dry or dull skin texture, you don’t have to immediately reach for the retinol. Instead, give bakuchiol a chance.
Dr. Snyder credits bakuchiol as the hardworking “secret weapon” behind the serious-yet-soothing results of our Skin Transformation Cream, a nourishing gel-like moisturizer envisioned to not only provide hydration with ceramides plus hyaluronic acid, but also to help improve the appearance of skin’s tone and texture.
Have you tried bakuchiol? Let us know what other ingredients we should do a deep dive on, and drop your burning beauty and soulcare questions in the comments.
SPIRIT
MIND
BODY