Meet the Bioactives: Bakuchiol

What is Bakuchiol?
Great question. This superstar ingredient of the skincare world is extracted from the leaves and seeds of the babchi plant (psoralea corylifolia), which grows on the Indian subcontinent in countries such as India and Sri Lanka.

Bakuchiol is not a newcomer to the skincare scene; it has been used in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic healing remedies for centuries, revered by those traditions for its ability to help calm and soothe skin. Bakuchiol’s recent popularity is thanks to evidence linking its benefits to those of retinol.

What is the Difference Between Retinol and Bakuchiol?
Retinol — also known as Vitamin A — has long reigned as the gold standard of anti-aging ingredients, thanks to its clinically-studied ability to help boost collagen production, clear skin, and even skin tone.

Yet, retinol has a reputation for causing sensitivity and irritation. It can be unsuitable for those with sensitive skin and pregnant or breastfeeding women. Additionally, some forms of retinol are derived from animal products, rendering them unsuitable for vegans.

Bakuchiol, on the other hand, is a natural, vegan retinol alternative. Unlike retinol, however, there is no evidence to suggest that bakuchiol degrades when exposed to the sun, and it hasn’t been shown to cause irritation. With all the benefits and potentially none of the side effects, it’s no wonder Bakuchiol has been so warmly embraced by the beauty industry.

Bakuchiol Benefits
Just like retinol, bakuchiol interacts with the retinoid receptors responsible for the synthesis of collagen (the protein that keeps your skin looking plumped and free from wrinkles). 

Bakuchiol’s powerful antioxidants protect skin by helping to neutralize free-radical damage. By defending against environmental pollutants, bakuchiol helps reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and evens out skin tone. As well, its anti-inflammatory properties make it an ideal ingredient for blemish-prone skin.

You’ll find bakuchiol featured in our new, Super Antioxidant Glow Oil (in Plastic-free packaging!). Bakuchiol does exactly what it’s supposed to do in this formulation because we’ve added in the correct concentration. Our Glow Oil is packed with a powerful blend of six plant-based active oils and antioxidants for rich hydration, brightening, and an instantly youthful-looking glow — we know you’ll love what it does for your skin.