Meet Bakuchiol: The Retinol Alternative You Need to Add to Your Skincare Routine Posted 21.11.2022 We all know and love retinol, however, there’s no secret that it isn’t suited for all skin types. This is where plant-based alternative bakuchiol comes in. With the same anti-ageing benefits as retinol, bakuchiol is perfect for acne and sensitive skin types, or for somebody who is just starting to add active ingredients into their skincare routine. What is bakuchiol? Bakuchiol (pronounced buh-koo-chee-all) is an extract derived from the seeds and leaves of the babchi plant which can be found in India and Sri Lanka. The babchi plant has been used for decades as an Ayurvedic remedy to help soothe and treat the symptoms of psoriasis. What are the skin benefits of bakuchiol? Anti-ageing - Just like retinol, bakuchiol has many anti-ageing benefits for the skin. Bakuchiol boosts collagen production which increases skin cell turnover resulting in the reduction of the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Firms, plumps, and hydrates - As much as we love the anti-ageing benefits of bakuchiol, it also firms, plumps, and hydrates the skin. Improves skin texture and appearance - Bakuchiol helps to restore the appearance of the skin for a luminous and even complexion. Helps with acne - Bakuchiol contains anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties meaning that it can help to unclog pores and oil build-up which are significant contributors to acne. When should I use bakuchiol? Making the switch to bakuchiol has never been easier! Due to its gentle tolerant properties, bakuchiol can be used up to twice a day (morning and night) daily. Recommended evening bakuchiol skincare routine: In the evenings, cleanse your skin with your favourite cleanser and cleansing balm. Exfoliate the skin and then apply 2-3 drops of your bakuchiol serum onto your face. Follow up with an eye cream, night cream and some oil. Why switch from retinol to bakuchiol? Although retinol and bakuchiol have like-for-like benefits for the skin, bakuchiol gets first place from us for several reasons. Pregnancy safe -Unlike retinol, bakuchiol is completely safe to use throughout pregnancy, so mums-to-be don’t need to sacrifice any anti-ageing benefits for 9 months! Gentler and well-tolerated - Bakuchiol is also much gentler than retinol meaning that those with acne and/or sensitive skin can happily use bakuchiol without the worry of it causing redness and irritation. Due to this, the skin does not need to build up a tolerance to bakuchiol and can be used every day (even twice a day) immediately unlike retinol. It’s natural - Bakuchiol is a 100% natural active ingredient unlike retinol which goes through chemical processes to be extracted. It’s not photo-sensitive - Retinol is known to make you more sensitive to UV rays hence why it is always recommended to be applied throughout your evening skincare routine. Bakuchiol on the other hand is not photo-sensitive meaning that it does not make your skin sensitive to UV rays and can be used throughout your morning routine too! Shop our retinol-alternative bakuchiol range here.
