Bakuchiol: A Natural and Effective Anti-Aging Ingredient
Bakuchiol, which has gained popularity as a safer and more natural alternative to retinoids, has become one of the most wondered ingredients of recent times. We have compiled information about this versatile and exciting ingredient for you.
What is Bakuchiol?
The seeds of the Psoralea corylifolia plant, called Babchi , have been used for many years in Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine to treat various skin conditions. Bakuchiol, which takes its name from the Sanskrit word "bakuchi", is an active ingredient isolated from the seeds of the plant by purification through various processes.
Bakuchiol’s effectiveness has been supported by scientific research as well as its centuries-old history. Before we get into the details of this promising ingredient, let’s take a quick look at retinoids, which are considered the gold standard in anti-aging skin care.
Retinoids: The Gold Standard in Skin Care
Retinoids are active ingredients derived from vitamin A and come in various forms, including retinol, retinal, and retinyl palmitate, with the most effective form being retinoic acid. Clinical studies have shown that retinoids are effective on wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, acne, and other skin problems. However, their use may be problematic for some skin types due to side effects such as irritation, dryness, peeling, redness, and burning.
Effects of Bakuchiol on the Skin
Although bakuchiol is not chemically similar to retinoids, it shares some similarities in its anti-aging and anti-blemish effects. A 2014 study found that bakuchiol, like retinol, stimulates anti-aging genes.
Bakuchiol has also been scientifically proven to have skin rejuvenating, anti-inflammatory and anti-acne effects. It blocks the tyrosinase enzyme involved in melanin synthesis, supports skin tone evenness and has an anti-blemish effect. It also reduces hyperpigmentation thanks to its powerful antioxidant properties. In addition, it increases hydration by supporting the synthesis of hyaluronic acid, which helps improve the skin's moisture balance.
Effects Supported by Clinical Research
A 2019 clinical study by Dhaliwal and his team compared 0.5% Bakuchiol to the same amount of retinol. After 12 weeks, Bakuchiol reported similar improvements in wrinkles and blemishes to retinol, but more flaking and sensitivity in the retinol group.
Another study tested a lotion containing 1% Bakuchiol on 16 volunteers aged 41 to 60. After 12 weeks, significant reductions in wrinkle depth and skin roughness were observed. Significant improvements were noted in elasticity, firmness and skin tone. These positive effects began to be seen from the 4th week of the study and became more pronounced by the 12th week.
How We Used Bakuchiol
Bakuchiol is a revolutionary ingredient in skin care with its versatile effects. One of its biggest advantages is that it can be used safely on sensitive skin and during pregnancy, and that it does not cause sun sensitivity. We have combined this valuable ingredient with rosehip seed oil, oil-soluble vitamin C, sea buckthorn oil and nutritious herbal extracts such as astaxanthin in our Baku Glow Renewing Oil serums.
By taking advantage of the natural and effective skin care benefits offered by Bakuchiol, you can experience a safe and effective anti-aging care experience!
References
- Chaudhuri RK, Bojanowski K. Bakuchiol: a retinol-like functional compound revealed by gene expression profiling and clinically proven to have anti-aging effects. Int J Cos Sci 2014; 36: 221-230.
- Dhaliwal S, Rybak I, Ellis SR et al. Prospective, randomized, double-blind assessment of topical bakuchiol and retinol for facial photoaging. Br J Dermatol 2019; 180: 289-296.
- Chaudhuri RK, Marchio F. Bakuchiol in the management of acne-affected skin. Cosmet Toilet 2011; 126: 502-510.
- Bluemke A, Ring AR, Immeyer J et al. Multidirectional activity of bakuchiol against cellular mechanisms of facial aging – experimental evidence for a holistic treatment approach. Int J Cosmet Sci 2022; 44: 377-393.
- Sadgrove NJ, Oblong JE, Simmonds MSJ. Inspired by vitamin A for anti-aging: searching for plant-derived functional retinoid analogues. Skin Health Dis 2021; 1:e36.
