Although they have different chemical structures, they both affect cell pathways by inducing similar gene expressions. Bakuchiol is less powerful than retinol but is better for sensitive skin types.
While bakuchiol is considered a gentler alternative to retinoids, says Dr. Garshick, “there is still a risk of sensitivity, including redness, dryness or stinging of the skin, especially with initial use.” That means that until your skin becomes accustomed to bakuchiol, you may still notice some irritation.
A study by the British Journal of Dermatology demonstrates that Bakuchiol is comparable with Retinol in its ability to improve photoaging. Moreover, Bakuchiol and Retinol both significantly decreased wrinkles and hyperpigmentation, with no statistical difference between the two.
The easiest way to use Bakuchiol is to adopt a skincare routine that features products containing it. As a gentle ingredient it is suitable for daily use in both the morning and evening, most commonly used in anti-aging routines. It pairs well with ingredients such as Hyaluronic Acid to form a powerful anti-age duo.
Bakuchiol is a plant-based retinol alternative with fewer side effects and is safer to be used for all skin types, making it easy for beginners. Formulated alongside with Hyaluronic Acid and ceramide, it works during your sleep so you can wake up to a visibly smoother, bouncier skin.
Bakuchiol: Nature's Answer To Retinol
Among beauty and skincare enthusiasts, the focus has shifted towards natural, plant-based ingredients that lend the same benefits as retinol. Bakuchiol, for instance, is regarded as one of the most effective natural retinol alternatives out in the market today.
The Korean approach to avoiding wrinkles is holistic, combining diet, disciplined skincare routines, and cultural practices that prioritise long-term skin health. By adopting some of these practices, even non-Koreans can benefit from the age-defying techniques that are rooted deep in Korean culture.
However, as with everything, there are a few ingredients that it's best not to use at the same time as bakuchiol. Those include retinoids, especially prescription-strength ones – like tretinoin – as well as benzoyl peroxide and strong vitamin C formulations, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Bakuchiol brightens and smoothes by helping to accelerate skin turnover. It also reinforces your skin's natural structure from within, boosting the strength of building blocks like collagen and elastin. This noteworthy ingredient offers antioxidant action as well.
Generally, you can start to see improvements in skin texture and tone after a few weeks of regular use. However, for more visible results in reducing wrinkles and fine lines, it may be necessary to use the product consistently for at least 8-12 weeks.
Overusing bakuchiol could potentially lead to signs of irritation, such as redness, dryness, or sensitivity. This is your skin waving a little flag, saying, “Hey, let's take it easy.”
Unlike retinol, bakuchiol is gentle and less likely to cause redness, dryness, or peeling, making it ideal for sensitive skin. It works by stimulating collagen production, boosting elasticity, and improving firmness, leaving the skin with a radiant, youthful appearance.
Skin purging is characterised by blackheads, whiteheads and pustules, often happening as a reaction to certain active ingredients in skincare products – including bakuchiol.
Can you use bakuchiol with vitamin C? Absolutely. When it comes to bakuchiol, team work makes the dream work.
Farm Rx Bakuchiol Eye Cream - Vegan Revitalizing Cream to Reduce Dark Circles and Wrinkles Under and Around the Eyes, an Alternative to Retinol (30ml/1 fl oz) Clean Beauty. The video showcases the product in use. The video guides you through product setup.
In your skincare routine, it's not so much about using Bakuchiol or Retinol first as it is about choosing one or the other. These two ingredients generally aren't used together in the same routine because they both serve similar purposes – anti-aging, skin renewal and lower, and higher concentrations.
Eat a healthy diet high in nutrients including vitamins A11 and C. Follow a daily skin care routine that includes sunscreen and topical retinol. Avoid smoking, as research shows that tobacco smoke reduces the production of collagen and elastin.
Bakuchiol
Derived from the seeds of the babchi plant, bakuchiol has gained popularity as a natural alternative to retinol. With the rise and popularity of clean skincare, Bakuchiol has become a go to for many of my patients looking for a retinol alternative.
Bakuchiol is most effective when paired with other hydrating ingredients, like hyaluronic acid and squalane. Ingredients to avoid? Glycolic acid has the ability to degrade bakuchiol's formulation. Avoid using these two together.
During the day, finish with a broad-spectrum sunscreen rated SPF 30 or greater. Bakuchiol is stable in sunlight and isn't known to make skin more sun-sensitive but, as with any anti-ageing ingredient, daily UV protection is essential to getting (and keeping) the best results.
Don't Skip Moisturizer: Hydration is Essential
Lock in the Moisture: After applying bakuchiol, always follow up with a moisturizer. This step is crucial to keep your skin hydrated and to lock in the benefits of bakuchiol. Plus, it helps counteract any potential dryness that bakuchiol might cause.