Bakuchiol - A new skincare trend that promises to make our skin glow and has been attracting a lot of attention recently. Often referred to as the gentle alternative to retinol, bakuchiol is gaining popularity in the cosmetics industry. In this blog post, I explain what makes this active ingredient so special and how effective it really is.
What is Bakuchiol?
Bakuchiol is a plant-based active ingredient extracted from the seeds of the Psoralea corylifolia plant, also known as babchi. It has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine and has recently found its way into the Western skincare world. Unlike retinol, which is derived from vitamin A, bakuchiol is a purely natural ingredient known for its skin-soothing and antioxidant properties.
Effectiveness of bakuchiol in skincare
Many of us love retinol for its anti-ageing properties. It promotes cell renewal, reduces wrinkles and improves the skin's appearance. However, retinol also has its downsides: it can irritate the skin, lead to dryness and is not suitable for every skin type. This is where bakuchiol comes into play. Studies have shown that bakuchiol can provide many of the benefits of retinol without causing the side effects often associated with retinol, such as skin irritation, dryness and redness. A study published in the British Journal of Dermatology compared the effects of bakuchiol and retinol over a 12-week period. The results showed that both active ingredients can improve wrinkle depth, hyperpigmentation and skin elasticity, but without the typical side effects of retinol.
New legal guidelines on retinol in cosmetics
Due to its potential side effects, there are new legal guidelines for the use of retinol in cosmetics. According to the European Commission, the concentrations of retinol in cosmetic products are regulated to ensure consumer safety. For facial care products, the maximum content of retinol will be limited to 0.3%. These new regulations are intended to minimise the risk of skin irritation and other undesirable effects. You can find more information on the new EU regulation here.
Conclusion: Is bakuchiol the new retinol? Bakuchiol is a promising ingredient in skincare, especially for those who want the benefits of retinol but are sensitive to its side effects. Thanks to its skin-soothing and antioxidant properties, as well as its ability to create synergistic effects when combined with other ingredients, bakuchiol has the potential to become a staple in the skincare routine. Given the new legal restrictions on retinol, Bakuchiol offers a safe and effective alternative.
Bakuchiol in peri beauty's incredib'oil
In our versatile facial oil, incredib'oil, which moisturizes the skin, protects the skin barrier and boosts elasticity, we aim for synergy effects with other natural ingredients to provide ageing skin with the care it needs. It has been dermatologically tested on sensitive skin and passed with an "excellent" rating.
Synergy effects of Bakuchiol in our face oil, incredib'oil:
Bakuchiol and Squalane
Squalane is a proven moisturiser that strengthens the skin barrier and keeps the skin supple. In combination with bakuchiol, squalane can help to support the antioxidant effect while maintaining the skin's moisture barrier. A study by Dhaliwal et al (2019) has shown that bakuchiol combined with a moisturising agent (such as squalane) improves skin texture, reduces wrinkles and at the same time promotes skin soothing. This combination can therefore be particularly beneficial for keeping the skin soft and hydrated while achieving anti-ageing effects.
Bakuchiol and Coenzyme Q10 (Ubiquinone)
Coenzyme Q10 is another powerful antioxidant that supports energy production in cells and helps prevent free radical damage. There is evidence that the combination of bakuchiol and coenzyme Q10 can help to slow down skin ageing and improve skin elasticity. Using them together can firm and tighten the skin while minimising the visible signs of ageing.
Bakuchiol and Pomegranate extract (Punica Granatum Seed Extract)
Pomegranate extract is rich in ellagic acid and antioxidants, which have anti-inflammatory properties and can protect the skin from UV damage. Although there are no specific studies directly relating to the combination of bakuchiol and pomegranate extract, the combination of the antioxidant properties of both ingredients can theoretically protect the skin from environmental stresses while promoting skin regeneration.
Bakuchiol and Astaxanthin (Haematococcus Pluvialis Extract)
Astaxanthin, extracted from the microalgae Haematococcus pluvialis, is one of the most powerful antioxidants known. It effectively protects the skin from damage caused by free radicals and UV radiation. A combination of bakuchiol and astaxanthin could work synergistically by not only protecting the skin from oxidative stress, but also improving skin elasticity and reducing fine lines. The combination could be particularly interesting for anti-ageing purposes.
You will find these and other nourishing properties in our 100% natural facial oil, incredib'oil. Bakuchiol is a great alternative to retinol, especially for sensitive skin. It offers many of the same benefits, but with less risk of side effects. So if you're looking for a new anti-ageing routine or want to gently nourish your skin, our incredib'oil with Bakuchiol is for you.
Have you had any experience with Bakuchiol? Let us know what you think in the comments!
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