Can This Retinol Alternative Change Your Skin?

by BR Amelia

Not since hyaluronic acid has a skincare ingredient's name twisted my tongue so much, nor have I ever mispelled a word so often while writing about it, but when bakuchiol started popping up here, there and everywhere in the skincare realm, I knew I needed to do a deep dive... including, how the heck do you say it!?

So what is bakuchiol? What can it do for our skin? And, most importantly, do we need it in our lives? If you're looking for a natural alternative to retinol, the answer is yes!

What is bakuchiol?

Bakuchiol is a plant-based ingredient that is found in the leaves and seeds of the Psoralea Corylifolia plant. 

What makes bakuchiol special?

You know how skincare lovers love antioxidants? Well, bakuchiol is a powerful one, with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, along with the ability to soothe skin, reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles, not to mention help with skin's firmness, even out skin tone and refine texture. Perhaps best of all, unlike retinol, it's kind to sensitive skin, and won't dry your skin out.

Is bakuchiol for everyone?

Considered safe for all skin types, bakuchiol is a winner for those of us who've skin that's tough as boots to skin that needs extra special care (although, as always, read the label and use as directed, and be sure to patch test products first and discontinue use if inflammation occurs). It's also fine to use both morning and night and, unlike retinols, you don't have to actively avoid the sun while using it - although you should still apply sunscreen because that's not just good skincare but good healthcare. However, if you're pregnant do check with your doctor or midwife before using. 

What products can I find bakuchiol in?

Serums, oils, eyecreams and moisturisers are the main places you can find bakuchiol, with easy to find products in New Zealand including Skinfood's Ageless Bakuchiol Booster Serum, RAWKANVAS's Lustre: Renewing Bakuciol & Champagne Decolletage Lotion, and Trilogy's Bakuchiol+ Booster Treatment, and dr.organic Pro Collagen Plus+ Bakuchiol Anti-Aging Moisturiser.

So, how is bakuchiol pronounced? Quite simply, bah-koo-chee-ol. At least, that's what the lady on the internet told me, and the internet never lies... 

So there you have it, my beauties! All you ever needed to know about bakuchiol! So, do tell, have you tried it? Is it a skincare ingredient fave of yours? Is it something you're now keen to try? Chat below!