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.
Both ingredients provide the skin with similar results, therefore, using them together could potentially cause the skin to become irritated and sensitive. If you can use vitamin A, then use it. We suggest only using bakuchiol if you're intolerant to vitamin A or are pregnant and/or breastfeeding.
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.
Are there any contraindications to bakuchiol? There are no contraindications to this cosmetic active ingredient. Non-photosensitizing, it does not cause skin reactions following exposure to the sun.
The bottom line
If you've got sensitive skin, bakuchiol may be a good alternative to retinol. It may help address signs of aging, like fine lines and wrinkles, as well as improve your skin's tone and texture.
Retinol substitutes summary; Davin's Tips.
Azelaic acid is the go to ingredient for senscitive skin. Vitamin B3 is a great ingredient to reduce skin inflammation. Squalene is one of the best cleansers. Bakuchiol is a substitute for those who can't tolerate retinol.
Yes, bakuchiol can cause skin purging for some people. Skin purging is characterised by blackheads, whiteheads and pustules, often happening as a reaction to certain active ingredients in skincare products – including bakuchiol.
The bakuchiol facts:
✓ How often can it be used: Up to twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. ✓ Pair it with: Other hydrating and plumping ingredients, including hyaluronic acid, ceramides, PHAs and squalane. ✓ Avoid using it with: strong acids, like glycolic acid, which may reduce its effectiveness.
One of bakuchiol's advantages is that it does not cause the side effects that topical retinoids can, such as scaling and burning, according to a 2022 review . However, no studies have proven that bakuchiol is safer to use around the eyes than retinoids.
No redness, irritation, or increased sun sensitivity. Plus, Bakuchiol is “photostable,” meaning you can use it during the day without worrying about sun exposure.
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.
Can you use bakuchiol with vitamin C? Absolutely. When it comes to bakuchiol, team work makes the dream work.
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.
Cost: Due to the extraction process from the Psoralea corylifolia plant, Bakuchiol containing products can sometimes be more expensive than traditional retinoids. Combinations & Interactions: Not much is known about how Bakuchiol plays with other potent skincare products.
Research has shown that bakuchiol has a range of anti-ageing benefits for skin. It can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, help restore firmness, refine skin texture and even out skin tone. Bakuchiol helps to calm skin making it a good option for those whose skin shows signs of sensitivity.
According to Amin, 0.5-2% of bakuchiol is the most effective percentage. Beginners or those with skin sensitivities might look for a lower percentage, whereas experienced users or those with deep wrinkles may find a higher percentage more appropriate.
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.
While Tretinoin and Retinol are tried-and-tested ingredients for anti-aging and acne treatment with varying degrees of tolerance, Bakuchiol offers a gentler, plant-based alternative that's just as effective but with far superior tolerance.
Topical medications such as tretinoin or other prescription retinoids may not work well with bakuchiol. Using these medications together can lead to skin irritation, peeling, or increased dryness.
Bombard it with too much bakuchiol, and you're essentially causing a commotion, leading to irritation and compromised skin integrity.
Just like retinol, bakuchiol can cause purging, though it appears to be less common. Purging–which presents as blackheads, whiteheads, and other breakouts–can be a good sign because it means your skin is responding to retinol or bakuchiol.
How long does it take for bakuchiol to work? Based on the available research, it may take a couple of months for you to notice the effects of bakuchiol. Most studies seem to indicate that noticeable skin benefits are seen at around 3 months.
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.
Bakuchiol and hormones
Bakuchiol's molecular structure allows it to mimic certain hormonalactions, particularly estrogen-like effects. This makes it a potentially beneficial ingredient for those experiencing hormonal changes affecting their skin, such as during menopause.