Everything you need to know about bakuchiol and how to use it.
– KEYS SOULCARE
Ready to meet the ingredient that’s taking anti-aging skincare by storm? We’re breaking down everything you need to know about bakuchiol.
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 Benefits: Anti-Aging for Sensitive Skin
Bakuchiol is a plant derivative and often called “nature’s retinol”, says Annie Corbett of Face Foundrie, who recommends it for clients with sensitive skin and specifically to target signs of aging.
For years, retinoids (which many of us know as “retinol,” (retin-A, or vitamin A) have been the go-to ingredients for boosting skin elasticity and firmness. Problem is, retinoids can cause irritation and inflammation. bakuchiol promotes skin cell turnover — minus the awkward aftermath.
“It functions just like retinol or topical vitamin A, without any of the harsh side effects of stinging and burning,” says Keys Soulcare consulting dermatologist Renée Snyder, M.D. And the benefits don’t stop there. “This is an antioxidant that also provides anti-inflammatory benefits. It is often more tolerated and stable than actual retinol. It will reduce fine lines and wrinkles, refine tone and texture,” adds Corbett.
How to Use Bakuchiol
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 — and the fact that it doesn’t render skin more sensitive in the process — means it can be worn 24/7. (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.)
Beauty pros recommend applying it topically (in serum or lotion form) before applying your regular moisturizer. As of now, the only way to use bakuchiol is to apply it topically as a serum or lotion.
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 shown to improve skin’s overall tone over time — from texture and wrinkle resistance, to sun damage — by mimicking the benefits of retinol while preserving and promoting skin’s natural lipids (a.k.a, collagen) levels.
How Bakuchiol Shows Up in Keys Soulcare
Dr. Snyder credits bakuchiol as the hardworking “secret weapon” behind the serious-yet-soothing results of our Skin Transformation Hydrating Face Cream, envisioned to not only moisturize skin on contact, but refine fine lines and leave it with a plumper, brighter texture with every use.
And one more thing? Because it’s plant-derived, products made from it are vegan by nature.
Can you tell we’re excited? Stay tuned as we keep sharing more info about our key ingredients and offerings. Don’t forget to share your other burning beauty questions in the comments!
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