Retinol has long been the gold standard for smoothing skin and reducing the appearance of fine lines. This vitamin A derivative boosts collagen production, fades dark spots, minimises wrinkles and helps to unclog pores. For some, however, retinol can also cause irritation, dryness and increased sensitivity to the sun, depending on the strength used.
Enter bakuchiol 🌿 – a plant-based antioxidant that delivers many of retinol’s benefits without the harsher side effects. Bakuchiol is known for smoothing the look of fine lines while helping to hydrate the skin. It’s also gentle, making it a great option for those with sensitive skin.
It’s quickly gaining popularity as a natural, gentler alternative to retinol in skincare. Read on to discover more about this emerging ingredient and why it’s appearing in products like Patchology’s On Ice Hydrogel Face and Eye Masks.
What is Bakuchiol?
Bakuchiol is derived from the seeds and leaves of Psoralea corylifolia, a plant used for centuries in traditional medicine. Also known as “babchi”, this Indian herb is rich in anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antioxidant properties.
Research shows that bakuchiol helps improve the skin by:
- Boosting collagen levels – Collagen is the protein that keeps skin looking plump and firm. By increasing collagen and elasticity, bakuchiol helps smooth the appearance of wrinkles.
- Evening skin tone – Its antioxidant properties help reduce excess pigment production, resulting in a more even-looking complexion.
- Helping to prevent breakouts – Bakuchiol can support balanced oil levels in the skin, which may reduce the likelihood of blemishes.
These effects are similar to retinol. However, unlike retinol, bakuchiol doesn’t typically cause dryness, peeling or photosensitivity.
Bakuchiol vs. Retinol: Key Differences
While bakuchiol and retinol offer similar benefits, there are a few key differences:
- Source: Retinol is a synthetic derivative of vitamin A, while bakuchiol is plant-derived.
- Side effects: Retinol is often associated with irritation, peeling and sun sensitivity. Bakuchiol is generally well tolerated with minimal side effects.
- How it works: Retinol binds directly to retinoic acid receptors in the skin, whereas bakuchiol works by influencing gene expression.
- Strength: At lower concentrations, bakuchiol can deliver comparable results to retinol with less irritation. At higher strengths, prescription retinol remains more potent.
In short, bakuchiol offers a natural alternative to over-the-counter retinol, with similar anti-ageing benefits and fewer drawbacks.
The Benefits of Bakuchiol for Skin
As a natural retinol alternative, bakuchiol offers a range of benefits:
- Clinically proven anti-ageing properties – Helps stimulate collagen and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
- Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory – The polyphenols in bakuchiol help neutralise free radicals and calm the skin.
- Protection against blue light – Helps shield skin from blue light emitted by screens.
- Improves signs of photoageing – Helps reduce the appearance of sun damage and discolouration.
- No dryness or irritation – Unlike retinol, it doesn’t typically compromise the skin barrier or cause redness.
- Suitable for sensitive skin – Its gentle nature makes it ideal for reactive skin types.
With all of these benefits and minimal side effects, it’s easy to see why Byrdie features bakuchiol as a go-to smoothing ingredient.
How to Use Bakuchiol
Bakuchiol is appearing more frequently in skincare products and is often promoted as a natural alternative to retinol.
Here’s how to incorporate it into your skincare regime:
- Look for bakuchiol in eye gels, face masks, serums and eye creams at concentrations of 0.5%–2%.
- Apply bakuchiol products in the evening after cleansing. Start two to three times per week and gradually increase usage.
- Pair bakuchiol with other antioxidants, such as vitamin C, to enhance results.
- As bakuchiol doesn’t increase sun sensitivity, it can also be used in the morning under SPF.
- Expect visible results after 4–12 weeks of consistent use. Be patient – bakuchiol works gradually, with less irritation than retinol.
Bakuchiol in Patchology Skincare
Patchology harnesses the power of bakuchiol in two of our Serve Chilled favourites:
These cooling, de-puffing hydrogel masks combine bakuchiol with peptides and cloudberry extract to hydrate and refresh your skin. Bakuchiol targets fine lines, crow’s feet, dark circles and under-eye bags, while peptides help smooth and plump. Cloudberry extract, rich in vitamin C, works to brighten the complexion.
Infused with bakuchiol, peptides, vitamin C and cloudberry extract, these eye gels help tackle dark circles, wrinkles and puffiness. These best-selling patches revive tired under-eyes, with bakuchiol working to even tone and reduce visible signs of ageing, while instantly brightening and smoothing the delicate eye area.
In both formulas, bakuchiol works alongside other high-performing ingredients to address visible signs of ageing for brighter, refreshed eyes.
The Takeaway
It’s easy to see why bakuchiol is gaining momentum. This plant-based ingredient rivals retinol for its rejuvenating benefits, without the drawbacks. Early research suggests bakuchiol:
- Helps smooth the skin
- Improves elasticity
- Evens skin tone
- Balances oil and sebum levels
With minimal side effects, bakuchiol is ideal for those with sensitive skin or for anyone looking to avoid retinol during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Expect to see bakuchiol featured in more moisturisers, serums and masks.
Try bakuchiol in Patchology’s On Ice Eye Masks and On Ice Hydrogel Mask to experience its skin-enhancing benefits. This natural alternative delivers impressive results without the redness and irritation often associated with retinol.