Are you ready to commit to a potent skincare routine but the fear of retinoid side effects such as skin peeling, burning, and inflammation, is holding you back?
Meet Bakuchiol - the ancient herb that is taking modern skincare by storm.
90% of visible skin changes over time are attributed to photoaging. A proactive skincare routine can neutralize and minimize this damage.
Topical Retinol and Tretinoin play an established role in slowing and reversing the signs of aging, however Bakuchiol has come to the fore as a plant-based alternative offering similar benefits with superior tolerance.
This phytochemical is gaining widespread attention as an effective, yet gentle, alternative to retinoids with similar benefits in improving signs of photodamage and other wear and tear. Let’s explore how Bakuchiol can transform your skincare routine.
What is bakuchiol?
Bakuchiol is an active ingredient sourced from the seeds and leaves of the Psoralea corylifolia plant, also known as the Babchi plant, and has been used in traditional Indian and Chinese medicine for centuries. Bakuchiol has won its place in skincare routines for its ability to promote collagen production, improve skin elasticity, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Unlike synthetic retinoids, Bakuchiol is a natural, botanical ingredient that caters to all skin types and is also pregnancy-safe.
This ingredient can be easily incorporated into your day or night skincare routine, adding to its versatility.
An All-Star Ingredient Backed by Science
The benefits of Bakuchiol aren’t all hype. Clinical research on Bakuchiol has validated its potential in skincare.
A landmark study published in the British Journal of Dermatology found that 0.5% Bakuchiol cream, when used twice daily, offered similar anti-aging benefits to 0.5% Retinol cream, such as reduced wrinkles and improved pigmentation over 12 weeks.
The Retinol users reported a higher incidence of side effects such as dryness, scaling, and burning, while Bakuchiol had superior tolerability. Practically, this would translate into better compliance in the use of Bakuchiol as opposed to retinoids.
Consistency is key—only with regular use can a skincare product truly deliver its promised results. With Bakuchiol, better compliance is achievable due to its mild, irritation-free formula, making it seamless to incorporate into a regular regimen.
The benefits of Bakuchiol have been attributed to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. It acts on multiple pathways and mediators to reduce reactive oxygen species (ROS) and boost collagen production.
These ROS are one of the primary accelerants of skin aging, resulting in fine lines and wrinkles. Collagen loss is one of the major causes of chronological skin aging as we grow older. Hence, by upregulating collagen I, III, and IV, Bakuchiol helps retain firmer skin. Studies also confirmed that Bakuchiol has superior hydrating properties and helps retain moisture in the skin.
Several ongoing trials with larger sample sizes are underway to further elicit the effect of Bakuchiol on the skin. The results of these will serve to enhance our understanding of this molecule.
Why is Bakuchiol Better than Retinol?
The effects of Bakuchiol on the skin are similar to Retinol, although its structure and mechanism are completely different. Retinol is a vitamin A derivative that regulates the proliferation of skin cells called keratinocytes. In contrast, Bakuchiol has a partly phenolic and partly terpenoid structure and acts via its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
This is why Bakuchiol offers several additional benefits compared to Retinol as an anti-aging molecule.
One of the most significant advantages of Bakuchiol is its safety profile, especially for those with sensitive skin or during pregnancy.
All Skin Types: Since Bakuchiol does not cause the peeling and irritation seen with Retinol, it is particularly well-suited for people with sensitive, reactive or inflamed skin.
Mother-Friendly: Unlike retinoids, which must be avoided during pregnancy (and breastfeeding), Bakuchiol is considered safe for use at any time. It is a known Retinol alternative, and does not carry the risk factors such as teratogenicity associated with traditional retinoids. (Studies are underway to verify this).
Bakuchiol Serum vs. Bakuchiol Oil: Which format is best for you?
Bakuchiol can be incorporated in various formats, the most popular being serums and oils. Each format has its own benefits depending on skin types and goals:
Bakuchiol Serum:
Serums are lightweight, fast-absorbing, and suitable for all skin types, and especially sensitive skin. They tend to blend well with other ingredients, which can amplify the anti-aging and brightening benefits of Bakuchiol.
Bakuchiol Oil:
Bakuchiol oil works effectively as a part of a night skincare routine, locking in moisture and preventing water loss. People with oily skin need to be particularly careful while using oils as they are comedogenic and can clog pores and cause acne flares. Some essential oil formulations also have irritant potential.
In terms of effectiveness, both formats offer similar results. The concentration of Bakuchiol is an important factor in this regard and must be looked out for, especially in combination formulations. Serums with Bakuchiol tend to have a higher concentration of active ingredients, while oils are typically combined with nourishing carrier oils that may slightly dilute the Bakuchiol content.
Research indicates that concentrations as low as 0.5% to 1% are effective for visible skin benefits, including improved elasticity and reduced fine lines. It is important to note that some higher concentration formulations that may be commercially available easily could have irritant potential. It’s best to stick with the recommended strengths of up to 1% for best results. Typically, Bakuchiol is combined with other actives in serums such as Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide, or Vitamin C to boost its hydrating and skin brightening properties.
The formulation you choose depends most on your preference. Oils can feel heavy on the skin and should be used with caution to avoid side effects. Whilst, serums can be easier to incorporate and layer into a routine and often suit a wider range of skin types.
Incorporating Bakuchiol into your skincare routine
One of the advantages of Bakuchiol over Retinol and other retinoids is its effectiveness balanced by its gentleness, allowing it to be used more frequently without causing irritation. Most people can use Bakuchiol once or even twice daily, depending on their skin’s tolerance. Because Bakuchiol doesn’t typically cause dryness or peeling, it’s easier to maintain a consistent routine with this ingredient, leading to better long-term results.
The Motif Power Brightening Bicelle Serum contains 1% Bakuchiol. It also contains Oxyresveratrol (derived from Monkey Fruit) to reduce pigmentation, Ecklonia Cava (a red seaweed) to reduce oxidative stress, Azelaic Acid to reduce inflammation and Niacinamide - all composed into a soothing, hydrating formulation. Its proprietary Bicelle delivery system ensures the ingredients are being absorbed and activated by the skin. This multipurpose serum can simplify your antiaging skincare routine and can be used any time of the day.
Steps to incorporate Bakuchiol into your routine:
For Day Time:
Motif’s Power Brightening Bicelle Serum can be used in the morning after cleansing. Follow it up with a moisturizer (optional) and sunscreen*
*Bakuchiol helps protect against environmental damage but does not replace the need for UV protection.
For Night Time:
Motif’s Power Brightening Bicelle Serum can be incorporated as part of your evening routine too for maximum repair and regeneration while you sleep. Follow it up by a moisturizer to lock in hydration and protect the skin.
Conclusion
Whether you’re new to anti-aging products or looking for an alternative to Retinol, your hunt ends here. Embrace this natural, science-backed ingredient in your skincare routine to enjoy the benefits of a smoother, more radiant complexion. For best results, consider trying a high-quality Bakuchiol serum that packs in a punch while being well tolerated.
For those ready to experience the best of what Bakuchiol has to offer, our Power Serum with 1% Bakuchiol is a game-changer. Designed for all skin types and perfect for daily use, this formulation strikes the ideal balance between efficacy and gentleness, because your skin deserves the best of science and nature.
