5 Bakuchiol Benefits for Skin
Discover the benefits of bakuchiol for skin and how to use it in your daily skincare routine.
From targeting signs of aging to improving uneven skin texture, there are so many ways bakuchiol benefits skin. Ahead, we explore what this plant-derived ingredient can do for your skin, how to use it, and the best bakuchiol products.
What is Bakuchiol?
Bakuchiol is a vegan skincare ingredient derived from the leaves and seeds of the Babchi plant, also known as the Psoralea corylifolia plant. It is a powerful antioxidant that increases collagen production and boosts cell renewal, helping to target signs of aging.
Its roots lie in Chinese medicine. However, it’s becoming increasingly popular worldwide, as people opt for gentler, plant-based ingredients.
It’s also an excellent retinol alternative. According to dermatologists, it offers many of the same advantages of retinol without the potential skin irritation. Bakuchiol is a gentler option that’s perfect for sensitive skin types.
5 Benefits of Bakuchiol for Skin
So, what does bakuchiol do for skin? While it’s commonly known for its anti-aging properties, there are numerous bakuchiol benefits for skin. Here are the top five.
#1: Fades Fine Lines and Wrinkles
Using bakuchiol on a regular basis can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It helps to boost collagen production and elasticity, improving visible signs of skin aging.
A study in the British Journal of Dermatology found bakuchiol to be equally as effective as retinol at treating fine lines but with less irritation. Another study found that a bakuchiol cleanser and moisturizer improved signs of aging in older women with sensitive skin.
This just goes to show that if you have mature skin and sensitive skin, using bakuchiol in your skincare routine is a better option than retinoids as you’re less likely to experience side effects.
#2: Improves Skin Firmness
Another benefit of bakuchiol for skin is its ability to firm the skin. It does this by increasing skin’s elasticity—the skin’s ability to stretch, bounce back, and remain firm.
As we age, skin naturally loses its elasticity. As a result, it’s less able to snap back into place and skin can appear to sag. Bakuchiol can stimulate collagen and elasticity, in turn, increasing firmness for a more youthful complexion.
#3: Smooths Uneven Skin Texture
Bakuchiol, like retinol, is a powerful skin smoothing product. It works to increase skin cell turnover, helping to plump out fine lines, unclog pores, and smooth textured skin.
Think of it like an exfoliator, except that it’s a lot gentler. By stimulating cell turnover, new cells replace old cells, giving the skin a smoother, more radiant appearance.
#4: Brightens Dark Spots
Some studies show that bakuchiol has the ability to treat uneven skin tone and hyperpigmentation. By encouraging cell turnover, it offers a natural brightening effect on dark spots and discoloration. As a result, skin appears more even.
Using bakuchiol for skin tone issues can be extremely effective as long as you’re using it regularly in your routine.
#5: May Reduce Blemishes
Alongside its ability to combat signs of aging, uneven skin tone, and loss of elasticity, bakuchiol may also reduce blemishes. Some studies have shown that bakuchiol’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe symptoms of mild acne.
Best Bakuchiol Skincare Products
Now you know the top benefits of bakuchiol for skin. Now it’s time to find your best bakuchiol product. Here are our favorites for smooth, luminous skin.
Key Ingredients: Bakuchiol, Niacinamide | Benefits: Plumping, Smoothing, Firming | Scent: Vanilla, Pear, and Caramel
Get a glistening pearlescent glow with this bakuchiol-powered body oil. It instantly transforms dull, dry skin with a hydrating blend of argan oil and niacinamide. This ultra-luxe and lightweight oil melts into skin with a boost of bakuchiol to plump out lines, tighten skin, and smooth roughness for fresh, glowing skin.
What People Say: “This smells amazing, leaves your skin so soft and gives the perfect amount of shimmer.” — Kristen T.
Key Ingredients: Bakuchiol, Vitamin C, Jojoba Oil | Benefits: Brightening, Protecting, Glow-Enhancing | Scent: Soap Bubble Accord, White Musk, and Coconut Milk
Get dewy, glowing skin with this lightweight body oil formulated with smoothing bakuchiol and brightening vitamin C. It combats dryness, discoloration, and enlarged pores, leaving skin irresistibly smooth and luminous while rapidly reducing redness and irritation.
What People Say: “This glass skin after shave serum is very luxurious, smells great, and is non sticky. It is the perfect finishing touch in your skincare routine to have picture perfect legs all night when going out.” — Krissy A.
How to Use Bakuchiol in Your Skincare Routine
The best way to use bakuchiol for skin is to adopt a skincare routine that includes high-quality bakuchiol products. As a super gentle ingredient, it pairs well with most ingredients including vitamin C and hyaluronic acid. Here's how to use bakuchiol for your skin.
Step 1: Cleanse
Always start with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt and impurities. Cleansing primes the skin for topical product application, allowing your serums and creams to penetrate better and ultimately work harder.
Step 2: Apply Bakuchiol Serum or Oil
Next, apply your bakuchiol serum or one of Truly’s bakuchiol body oils to combat signs of aging and uneven texture while protecting skin against free radicals. Our products contain clean, premium, vegan ingredients to give your skin the nourishment it needs to glow.
Step 3: Moisturize
Never skip hydration. Apply a lightweight face cream to seal in moisture, which will keep your skin soft and protected while strengthening the skin barrier.
Step 4: Protect
Finally, finish your routine with a quality sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to protect your skin against harmful UV rays which can contribute to photoaging.
Can You Use Bakuchiol Every Day?
Yes, because Bakuchiol is so gentle, it can be used daily in both morning and evening skincare routines. That being said, it’s important to pay attention to how your skin reacts when introducing a new ingredient into your routine. If you experience any irritation, refrain from using or consult a dermatologist for advice.
Is Bakuchiol Better Than Retinol?
When it comes to anti-aging skincare, bakuchiol and retinol both deliver impressive results. As for which one is best, it depends mostly on your skin’s specific individual needs.
Studies show that bakuchiol is equally as effective as retinol in reducing wrinkles and improving skin elasticity. However, bakuchiol shines as a gentler alternative. Unlike retinol, which can cause irritation, redness, and dryness, bakuchiol is plant-derived and ideal for sensitive skin or those prone to irritation.
While retinol, a vitamin A derivative, remains a go-to for dermatologists due to its extensive research and potent results, bakuchiol’s natural profile and ability to mimic retinol’s benefits make it a standout. Especially if you have sensitive skin. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your skin’s needs.
What Does Bakuchiol Do to Your Skin?
Bakuchiol is a plant-based alternative to retinol, offering similar skincare benefits without the irritation often associated with retinoids. It promotes cell turnover, helping to smooth fine lines, improve skin texture, and reduce hyperpigmentation. It’s also rich in antioxidants, which combat free radicals and support overall skin health.
Unlike retinol, bakuchiol is gentle and less likely to cause redness, dryness, or peeling, making it ideal for sensitive skin. It works by stimulating collagen production, boosting elasticity, and improving firmness, leaving the skin with a radiant, youthful appearance.
Perfect for all skin types, bakuchiol provides a natural, effective path to glowing, healthier skin while being vegan-friendly and compatible with other active ingredients. It’s the ultimate multitasker for a radiant complexion.
