Bakuchiol is a much-touted and sought-after skincare ingredient, and there’s no sign of its popularity slowing down. But what exactly is it, what does it do, and why should you incorporate it into your routine?
What does it do?
Bakuchiol is a powerful antioxidant that has noticeable effects on the skin with continued use, including a reduction in wrinkle surface area, pigmentation and photo-damage. It increases elasticity, firmness and skin texture. The main advantage of Bakuchiol is that it doesn’t cause peeling and irritation, and it can be used during the day because it does not cause photosensitivity.
Does science back this claim?
There are studies focused on the effectiveness of Bakuchiol as a treatment for photoaging. The most notable is a 12-week double-blind clinical study of volunteers using either Bakuchiol or retinol. It found that both groups saw similar results with no statistical difference between the two ingredients. However, the retinol group reported more scaling and stinging.
Is it right for me?
If you are looking to combat the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and/or pigmentation, Bakuchiol is for you. Our Bakuchiol products are suitable for all skin types, but they're particularly beneficial for those with dry or congestion-prone skin because the formula is non-clogging, free from sensitising essential oils, and they penetrate quickly, leaving no oily film on your skin.
How much Bakuchiol is the right amount?
The effectiveness studies were carried out using 1% Bakuchiol, which is the percentage recommended by the manufacturer. That’s exactly how much we use in our Bakuchiol products, which are all blended with Kalahari melon seed oil.
What is it?
Bakuchiol is extracted from the seeds of the babchi plant (Psoralea corylifolia), native to the Himalayan region. Babchi is an annual plant that grows in the wild and has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. In its raw extracted form, Bakuchiol is a thick dark liquid with a texture and colour that is similar to golden syrup.
How should I use it?
Bakuchiol is most effective when used twice a day. You’ll see the best results after three months of continued use.
After applying water-based serums, dispense two drops (or more for drier skin) into the palm of your hand, press your hands together and gently but firmly pat your hands onto face and neck.
Don’t worry if you’re not a fan of using oil-based serums during the day. You can easily mix a drop or two in with your daily moisturiser. Take your usual amount of cream or lotion on clean fingertips or in the palm of your hand, add a couple of drops of serum, blend together, and apply as usual.
