When it comes to skin, keeping it happy and healthy with natural ingredients is the number one goal for many.
With so many different products on the market, it can be difficult to tell which one is best for you. One product that pokes its head out as a go-to for mature skin is retinol. Derived from vitamin A, retinol is a powerful skincare ingredient that addresses, hyperpigmentation and improves skin texture.
But it needs to be used with extra special care, since it can have some undesired side effects like stinging, irritation and sensitivity to light.
READ MORE | From when to start using it to Vitamin C compatibility - Here’s what you need to know about retinol
This is where bakuchiol comes in.
The plant-based powerhouse ingredient is quickly becoming a more popular alternative to retinol since it carries less risk of irritation. This makes it much easier to use on sensitive skin.
What are the differences between retinol and bakuchiol?
TRUELOVE got all the answers from educational specialist at Esse Probiotic Skincare, Kim Steyn.
Outlining the key distinctions between the two, Kim says, “Retinol is a form of vitamin A and a powerful anti-ageing ingredient but it comes with a price. It is associated with commonly experienced side effects such as dryness, flakiness, inflammation, redness etc. It is also not photostable and, thus, not suitable for daytime application.
“Bakuchiol is a natural ingredient derived from the seeds of the Psoralea corylifolia plant, native to Eastern Asia. Bakuchiol delivers all the same benefits as retinol without the side effects. It is also photostable and suitable for daytime application.”
The pros of using bakuchiol
Believe it or not, there aren't many no cons to adding bakuchiol into your skincare routine.
It is suitable for all skin types and a great addition to any skin routine. Bakuchiol has been shown to provide improvements in key ageing metrics and Kim explains them to be improvements in:
1. Wrinkle depth
2. Collagen and elastin support
3. Photoaging
4. Oxidative stress
5. Pigmentation
6. Hydration
7. Anti-inflammatory activity
“There is high-quality data showing the powerful anti-ageing utility of bakuchiol, so readers seeking a smooth, youthful appearance are sure to benefit greatly from it. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly skincare option,” Kim tells us.
READ MORE | Tips to take care of your skin in your 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond
Can you use bakuchiol on all skin types?
Short answer: Yes!
Because of its plant-based properties, Everyday Health shares that bakuchiol is a good ingredient that stimulates the growth of new skin cells.
You’ll tend to find bakuchiol in skincare products like serums, moisturising creams or facial peels that can be used as standalone products or in conjunction with your preferred skincare routine.
Diving into how bakuchiol effects people with sensitive, oily, combination and normal skin, Kim says, “It can reduce inflammation, improve fine lines, wrinkles, elasticity and skin firmness, improve tone and texture and reduce breakouts.
“The product itself is very light, absorbing quickly without leaving an oily residue. Users can adjust nourishment in their routine with the other products they use, this serum won’t influence different skin types in different ways.”
