Bakuchiol
INCI: Bakuchiol
Can make fine lines less visible – a plant-based alternative to retinol
Good evidence: randomised trials
At a glance
- Suits
- Normal, dry and mature skin
- Helps with
- Fine lines, Pigmentation spots
- Pairs well with
- Jojoba oil, Vitamin E
- Found in
- 1 ECOOKING product
What can bakuchiol help with?
Fine lines
In a 12-week double-blind study with 44 participants, both a cream with 0.5 % bakuchiol, used twice daily, and a cream with 0.5 % retinol, used once daily, reduced wrinkles and fine lines. The difference between the two was not statistically significant. Those who used retinol more often experienced skin peeling and stinging.[1]
Pigmentation spots
A systematic review described clinical studies in which products with bakuchiol reduced visible signs of sun damage, wrinkles and pigmentation. Some of the products also contained other active ingredients.[3]
How it works
How to use it
- Follow the product instructions. Bakuchiol can be used both morning and evening.
- Consistent use over several weeks is what gives visible results.
- If you have sensitive skin, try the product on a small area first.
- Use sunscreen during the day.
Products with bakuchiol
Firming face oil (Firming Face Oil) 30 ml
Get softer skin with a beautiful, natural glow. Firming Face Oil (fragrance-f...
Frequently asked questions
Bakuchiol is a plant compound from the babchi plant (Psoralea corylifolia). It is used in skincare as a plant-based alternative to retinol, including in serums and face oils.
Retinol is a form of vitamin A, while bakuchiol is a plant compound and not a vitamin A. In a small study, both made fine lines less visible, and skin peeling and stinging occurred less often among those who used bakuchiol.
Bakuchiol is not a vitamin A, but we are not aware of studies showing whether it is safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. If in doubt, ask your doctor or midwife.
Yes. Bakuchiol can be used both morning and evening. Always use sunscreen during the day.
Bakuchiol dissolves in oil, so it is naturally suited to face oils and serums containing oil. Choose the form you prefer to use. A face oil also nourishes the skin and makes it soft.
Sources
- Prospective, randomized, double-blind assessment of topical bakuchiol and retinol for facial photoageing (British journal of dermatology, 2019)
- Bakuchiol: a retinol-like functional compound revealed by gene expression profiling and clinically proven to have anti-aging effects (International journal of cosmetic science, 2014)
- Applications of bakuchiol in dermatology: Systematic review of the literature (Journal of cosmetic dermatology, 2022)