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Can This Retinol Alternative Change Your Skin?

13 February, 2022 - 09:50am by - Head Pixie | 9 Comments

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!

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Comments

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26th January, 2023

Have now tried RAWKANVAS lustre and I absolutely adore it. It's a wonder product (and it smells great too)

11th November, 2022

Definitely going to try this one. RAWKANVAS have amazing products, but I haven't tried Lustre yet. It will be in my next order for sure.

9th March, 2022

I have considered using retinol products to treat pigmentation, however I'm concerned about potential irritation and breakouts, so perhaps bakuchiol might be a good alternative.

21st February, 2022

I use the Herb Farms bakuchiol oil most nights and it is awesome!

16th February, 2022

I've never tried bakuchiol as an ingredient in a product. However, since it reduces fine lines and wrinkles I'd definiltey like to give it a go!

16th February, 2022

Love the sound of something natural, gentle and (maybe?) as effective as retinol. Never used it, but the inexpensive Skinfood option is looking pretty good as a way to try it out. I've already stuck it on my shopping list...

15th February, 2022

Definitely looking for a retinol alternative as my skin is quite sensitive. Love the idea of using something during the day (you can't do that with retinol), and the fact that it is plant based sounds very interesting. I must look out for the products above, esp the decolletage lotion.

15th February, 2022

This sounds perfect for me... reduce the lines and wrinkles, help firm the skin, even out skin tone and refine texture!!! Plus its gentle and won't dry out my skin!! Bring it on!!!

14th February, 2022

Not yet but l would definitely love to try it one day !

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