Bakuchiol in Skincare: Benefits, Safety, % Ranges, Who Should Avoid It

Did you know that the global bakuchiol market is projected to reach a staggering $11.37 million by 2032? Recent reports from Polaris Market Research suggest that this market surge is being driven by an increase in consumer demand for plant-based, natural alternatives to synthetic ingredients in their cosmetic formulations. 

Many users have likely searched for that elusive "fountain of youth" feeling without experiencing the harsh redness associated with conventional invasive treatments. Thus, they may have asked themselves, What is Bakuchiol? 

Understanding bakuchiol benefits and incorporating bakuchiol skincare into your daily ritual can be the secret to achieving a glow that feels as good as it looks.

What is Bakuchiol?

To understand what is bakuchiol, we have to look at the Psoralea corylifolia (Babchi) plant. Used for centuries in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine, this ingredient is extracted from the seeds and leaves. Instead of synthetic compounds, Bakuchiol is a plant-derived ingredient that is considered to be a botanical powerhouse due to its numerous benefits for skin health. 

While Bakuchiol does not share a similar chemical structure to Vitamin A (retinol), it has garnered praise as a natural retinol alternative. It functions through the same gene expression pathways as retinol, meaning you get the skin-cell turnover you seek without the typical "retinol burn."

Benefits of Bakuchiol in Skincare

The list of bakuchiol benefits is extensive, making it a favourite for those seeking Skincare Ingredients for Healthy and Radiant Skin. Here are three reasons that Bakuchiol should be in your skincare collection:

1. Antioxidant Protection: Bakuchiol increases collagen production, which has a direct impact on reducing fine lines and wrinkles. It provides anti-aging benefits by shielding the skin from environmental stressors and oxidative transition.
2. Treat Acne: Due to its anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, Bakuchiol works incredibly well at calming and reducing breakouts and postinflammatory hyperpigmentation.
3. Helps produce a more Even Skin Tone: Bakuchiol has been shown to target areas of increased melanin production, which helps to diminish dark spots and the impact of sun damage.

Bakuchiol vs Retinol

When comparing Bakuchiol vs retinol, the biggest difference lies in the "ouch" factor. Retinol is famous for causing peeling, dryness, and photosensitivity. Unlike high-strength retinoids, Bakuchiol does not break down in sunlight, making it a photostable ingredient. Additionally, Bakuchiol is much more gentle on the skin barrier compared to retinol and other vitamin A-based products. While retinol is a synthetic derivative, bakuchiol is your go-to natural choice for those who want results without the downtime.

Safe % Ranges for Different Skin Types

Understanding bakuchiol percentage/concentration is vital for efficacy. Because it is potent, you don't need a high volume to see a change.

The "Purity First" Checklist

We must avoid the red flags associated with unrefined extracts to ensure a safe and effective product. Use this checklist to verify your composition:

• 99% Fully Refined: A manufacturer must use 99% pure Bakuchiol. This ensures all psoralens (the hazardous compounds in raw Babchi oil) are removed.
• Non-Photosensitizing: High-purity Bakuchiol is safe for daytime use. If a product claims "4% Bakuchiol" but contains unrefined oil, it can cause serious sun sensitivity.

Buffer Ingredients: For intensive treatments (2.0% - 4.0%), ensure the formula includes "buffer" oils like Squalane or Rosehip to protect the skin barrier. 

Regulatory Note: To ensure you use a product that is both safe and effective, it is imperative to know the regulatory requirements surrounding the formulation of Bakuchiol Skin Care products. In Australia (AU), New Zealand (NZ), and the European Union (EU), Bakuchiol has been classified as a safe cosmetic ingredient; thus, you will not have to deal with the significant barriers associated with having to obtain a prescription-only for the use of synthetic high-strength retinoids. 

Many of the regulatory authorities involved in regulating Skin Care in these regions require that manufacturers provide evidence of high purity levels of Bakuchiol to ensure no residual babchi oil (the primary extraction source for Bakuchiol) is left in the Bakuchiol Skin Care formulation. 

Who Should Avoid Bakuchiol

Despite the glowing bakuchiol side effects/safety profile, you might wonder who should avoid bakuchiol.

1. Allergy Sufferers: Do not use Bakuchiol if you have a documented allergy to the Bakuchiol plant & other legumes.
2. Extremely Compromised Barriers: If your skin is currently "raw" from a chemical peel or sunburn, wait until it heals before introducing any active ingredient. 
3. Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: During pregnancy and nursing, Bakuchiol can be a healthy, natural alternative to Retinol, although always check the ingredient list with your health practitioner first.

How to Use Bakuchiol in Your Routine

Learning how to use Bakuchiol is simple because it plays well with others. Bakuchiol is steady and does not clash with stabilized Vitamin C or Vitamin B3 as Retinol does. 

Step 1: Cleanse your face thoroughly.

Step 2: Apply your bakuchiol serum or booster to a little damp skin.

Step 3: Follow with a moisturiser to secure the goodness.

Timing: You can use it both morning and night! Since it isn't sun-sensitive, it's a great daytime anti-aging Bakuchiol treatment.

Top 4 Bakuchiol Products to Try

Finding the right formula is key. Here are four standout options, including local favourites from Moody Lemon and global leaders.

1. Dream 2-in-1 Hyaluronic Acid Serum with Bakuchiol Oil

This multi-tasking bakuchiol skincare hero is a standout for those wanting a comprehensive glow. Found on Moody Lemon, it  sits right in the "sweet spot" with a 1% concentration, making it powerful enough to see real change while remaining gentle. The serum blends Bakuchiol with nutrient-dense oils like Rosehip and Argan to deeply feed the skin. This product is excellent for smoothing fine lines and improving your skin's texture. With the added benefits of Frankincense and Geranium essential oils, this serum imitates the luxurious feel of a spa treatment. This is a great product for anyone who wants to maintain a youthful, supple appearance by keeping their skin hydrated and glowing.

2. Scenturie: ‘Liquid Gold’ Super Boost Bakuchiol Serum

Commonly referred to as "Liquid Gold," this award-winning NZ serum is a top-tier choice for Bakuchiol for sensitive skin. The product contains 1% Bakuchiol (pure Bakuchiol) along with nine nutrient-rich oils, including Cacay Oil and NZ Hemp Seed Oil, at very high concentrations. The two oils complement each other, making them the most effective for rejuvenating your skin by smoothing out deep wrinkles and balancing skin tones. Its rich, golden hue and nourishing properties provide intense hydration, leaving the skin revitalised with a healthy glow that many reactive skin types struggle to find with traditional activities.

3. Agnes & Me: Restorative Face Serum with Bakuchiol & Kiwi Seed Oil

This lightweight, silky serum is a beautiful natural retinol alternative that also utilizes the industry-standard 1% concentration for maximum efficacy. It combines clinically proven Bakuchiol with New Zealand-grown Kiwi Seed Oil. The addition of Kiwi Seed Oil provides a boost of Vitamin C to the already effective Bakuchiol, which stimulates collagen production and gives your skin back its natural brightness. This product is designed to reduce the appearance of age spots and fine lines without irritating your skin. Because it uses Squalane and Meadowfoam oil, it absorbs beautifully without a greasy residue, leaving your face feeling conditioned and looking visibly refreshed.

Interesting Read: From Fine Lines to Firmness: Topical Approaches to Age-Defying Skin

4. Trilogy: Bakuchiol+ Booster Treatment

Trilogy’s booster is a "Treatment," Not a Daily Maintenance Product. Particularly, a two-week treatment that offers significant anti-aging benefits for those in a hurry for results. At 4% concentration of Bakuchiol, this product has one of the highest concentrations of Bakuchiol on the market. 

Like the other products, this Super-Oil Complex contains Squalane (derived from plants), which is rich in Omega 3 and Omega 6, to help combat signs of advanced aging, such as loss of elasticity and dullness. It is an ideal "reset" for your skin, working to speed up cell turnover and promote a firmer, smoother, and more youthful-looking complexion in just fourteen days of consistent use.

A 4% concentration of a raw active could be harsh, but Trilogy's formula is a Super-Oil Complex.

• The Bakuchiol is suspended in Squalane, Hemp, and Meadowfoam oils.
• These oils act as "buffers" that deliver the active ingredient slowly and nourish the skin barrier simultaneously. This "cushioning" effect is why 4% Bakuchiol can feel as gentle as a 1% water-based serum.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Bakuchiol safe for sensitive skin? 

Yes! Bakuchiol for sensitive skin is one of the most common uses for this ingredient. Because it lacks the acidic nature of many anti-aging actives, it provides the benefits of cell renewal without the inflammatory response.

2. Can I use Bakuchiol and Vitamin C together? 

Absolutely. Unlike retinol, bakuchiol is stable and doesn't lose efficacy when paired with stabilized  Vitamin C. In fact, they work together to brighten and protect the skin.

3. How long does it take to see results? 

Most users notice an improvement in skin texture and hydration within 4 to 6 weeks. For significant anti-aging benefits like wrinkle reduction, consistent use for 12 weeks is recommended.

4. Does Bakuchiol cause purging? 

Purging is very rare with bakuchiol. Since it is a plant-derived skincare ingredient that focuses on soothing as much as renewing, most people skip the "breakout phase" often associated with retinoids.

5. Should I use it on wet or dry skin? 

It is best applied to clean, slightly damp skin. This helps the bakuchiol serum penetrate more effectively before you lock it in with your facial oil or cream.

Final Words

Purchasing products from highly ethical natural skin care companies allow you to choose the most beneficial ingredients for your skin. These product lines have been supported through science and research demonstrating that they provide high-quality results.

To maximize safety, users should ensure that they use a Bakuchiol product that contains 99% fully refined Bakuchiol. Unrefined extracts could potentially contain phototoxic impurities that are known to produce adverse reactions on the skin. Using refined bakuchiol products, you can feel confident that it is a safe and effective ingredient to use daily on your skin type, which includes sensitive skin types. The anti-aging benefits of using Bakuchiol are comparable to those of Retinol, with no risk of redness and/or sun sensitivity associated with Retinol use.

References: 

Polaris Market Research - https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/bakuchiol-market

EU, NZ, & AU Regulatory - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1TgXnKxwQtSNVx9EhkYcJp7EDnhRWhvAk/view

Buffer Ingredients - https://sytheonltd.com/trustworthy-bakuchiol-product/