What is Bakuchiol? And why you should add it to your skincare regime now!
Bakuchiol, one the newest and most popular skincare ingredient is hailed for its similar skin-improving benefits to retinol, though make them more accessible to all skin types. Bakuchiol, pronounced (ba-koo-chee-ail) is a plant-derived ingredient extracted from the leaves and seeds of the babchi plant, making it suitable for vegans to use. Bakuchiol is a potent antioxidant that fights against free radicals and environmental damage that brings about sensitivity and the appearance of ageing skin. It has roots in multiple traditional South-East Asian medicinal practices (Chinese, Indian Aryuvedic, Tamil Siddha) to help heal and calm the skin.
Benefits
Soothes the skin
- As bakuchiol was previously used in various traditional medicinal practices, we can already tell of its soothing properties. It also contains anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help relieve discomfort and issues associated with sensitivity and reactivity.
Reduces acne
- Bakuchiol is not only for those with sensitive skin, it can also be beneficial for acne-prone skin as it helps calm the inflammation caused by acne breakouts. Helping soothe inflamed acne skin will help reduce the chances of future breakouts as irritated skin tends to have a weaker skin barrier, allowing easier penetration of harmful substances.
- It also inhibits the oxidation of sebum, which is said to be one of the driving forces of the progression of acne. Along with killing off acne bacteria and reducing swelling.
Protect against environmental factors
- As a potent antioxidant, it targets the free radicals in our body and others that we are environmentally exposed to that can cause oxidative stress, meaning the skin cells are robbed of needed electrons which leads to the degradation and death of skin cells.
Anti-ageing
- As an antioxidant that battles the damages caused by free radicals and other environmental stressors, bakuchiol has plenty of anti-ageing properties. It can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and restore the skin’s elasticity by boosting collagen production and cell turnover.
- It can also improve skin texture and even out any discolouration as melanin production is inhibited and cell regeneration is stimulated. Newer skin = brighter and healthier skin.
What to note?
- Research shows that a concentration of 0.5-2% is enough to see visible results.
- Bakuchiol is considered a natural alternative to retinol as both their benefits are similar, mainly targeting signs of ageing skin. However, it doesn’t work the same way as retinol, so it is completely fine to use both these ingredients in conjunction with one another. Bakuchiol’s soothing properties can help stabilize and improve the skin’s tolerance to retinol, as retinol is known to irritate sensitive skin, making it suitable for those with sensitive skin and ageing skin concerns.
- Do conduct a patch test prior especially if you have sensitive skin and your skincare regime includes AHA/BHA, vitamin C or other irritants.
Products we recommend and where to find them
The INKEY List Bakuchiol Moisturiser
A moisturiser containing both inchi oil and bakuchiol extract, this lightweight moisturiser will help improve your skin’s elasticity and hydration by stimulating collagen production. It also contains antioxidant properties that help protect and soothe the skin at the same time.
Join the conversation