If you're on the hunt for a plant-based alternative to retinol, bakuchiol is an effective and gentler alternative we can’t get enough of it. 

This high-performing botanical extract boasts skincare benefits similar to retinol but with fewer side effects, making it a compelling option for sensitive skin.

We've been reviewing research studies on the cosmeceutical efficacy of bakuchiol compared to retinol - in this article we uncover why this plant-powered retinol alternative will quickly become your new skincare savior!

What is Bakuchiol?

Bakuchiol is a concentrated extract derived the seeds and leaves of the Babchi plant (Psoralea corylifolia). Babchi is a staple in traditional Chinese and Indian medicine. It’s now gaining recognition in the skincare industry for its notable skin benefits as a natural retinol alternative.

Bakuchiol vs. Retinol: Side by Side Comparison

Retinol is an active form of vitamin A, renowned for its ability to improve skin texture, reduce wrinkles, and increase elasticity. Unfortunately it’a not suitable for all skin types. While effective, retinol is also known to cause side effects such as dryness, irritation, and increased sun sensitivity, particularly for those with sensitive skin.

if your goal is improving skin health, harsh treatments aimed at improving the surface appearance of skin issues isn’t the best approach.  

Bakuchiol offers similar benefits like improving hyperpigmentation, skin firmness and elasticity - without these adverse effects.

A 2019 study published in the Journal of Dermatology demonstrated that bakuchiol is as effective as retinol in smoothing wrinkles and hyperpigmentation but with significantly less irritation than retinol.

Another clinical study by the British Journal of Dermatology concluded that both bakuchiol and retinol are great at reducing wrinkles and hyperpigmentation. The big difference? People using retinol reported more skin scaling and stinging, while bakuchiol users didn't have those issues.

Benefits of Bakuchiol

Gentler on Skin

Bakuchiol is well-tolerated by individuals with sensitive skin conditions, such as rosacea or eczema. It causes less irritation compared to retinol.

No Increased Sun Sensitivity

Unlike retinol, bakuchiol does not increase the skin's susceptibility to sunburn. Nonetheless, using sunscreen remains essential.

Potential Safety During Pregnancy

While more research is needed, bakuchiol is considered a safer option for use during pregnancy compared to retinol, which is typically advised against.

Incorporating Bakuchiol into Your Skincare Routine

Its gentle synergy with skin makes bakuchiol easy to incorporate into your daily skincare routine. If you’re goals encompass achieving a smoother, firmer texture and reduce the appearance of sun-damage or hyperpigmentation it could be a great fit in skincare rotation. 

For optimal results:

- Apply bakuchiol once or twice daily. Since it doesn’t increase sun sensitivity, it can be used morning or evening. 

- Bakuchiol can be used in conjunction with other active ingredients, such as vitamin C, to enhance its benefits.

- If you’re using a moisturizing oil-based serum, apply it sparingly as your last Step (Step 3: Protect if you’re using other Love and Light Botanical skincare products). 

 The Bottom Line

For those with sensitive skin or anyone seeking a natural alternative to retinol, bakuchiol is a great option to level up your skincare routine. It provides similar targeted benefits without the common side effects associated with retinol. If you’re questioning if you should include bakuchiol into your skincare routine, book a free 1:1 skincare consultation to get a personalized 30-second skincare step-by-step recommendation.