Is Bakuchiol the Next Generation of Retinol?

Bakuchiol is less irritating than retinol

Retinol is a beauty ingredient that works against signs of aging. Many people who are concerned about age spots, wrinkles, and acne may have tried it.

Although it is a very popular ingredient, it has one drawback: it can be very irritating to the skin.
Some people may experience redness, peeling, or stinging.

In addition, repeated use can cause the skin to become accustomed to the product and the effect to weaken over time. This can lead to increased application, which can put even more strain on the skin.

Bakuchiol has been introduced as a new ingredient to replace retinol.
It is becoming popular because it is less irritating than retinol and is vegan .

Why is retinol so popular?

Before we talk about bakuchiol, let's first explain why retinol is so popular.

Retinol is the third most powerful retinoid, a derivative of vitamin A. It works to reduce wrinkles, fine lines, and dull skin. It also promotes skin cell renewal and collagen production.

Studies have shown that after 12 weeks of use, skin appears smoother and firmer.

Specifically, retinol is said to:

• Refine your skin texture
• Tone Up
• Increased moisture levels
• Reduces pigmentation and sun damage
• Soothes acne inflammation and breakouts

It's easy to see why this ingredient would make you want to try it!

However, it may be too harsh for people with sensitive skin , and strong irritation may lead to serious skin irritation.
Therefore, this ingredient is not recommended for people with sensitive skin due to atopic dermatitis or allergies .
In Canada and the EU, its use in cosmetics is restricted.

Why bakuchiol is attracting attention

Following in the footsteps of retinol, bakuchiol is a newly discovered plant extract that has been used for many years in restorative medicine in China and India.
This antioxidant is found in the seeds and leaves of the legume plant, Hollandia japonica. Research has shown that this antioxidant helps prevent fine lines, reduce pigmentation, and improve elasticity and firmness.

Bakuchiol is not a derivative of vitamin A. Therefore, its greatest feature is that it is not irritating like retinol.
However, because it is expected to have the same anti-aging effects, it is attracting attention as an easy option to try even for those whose skin does not agree with retinol.

What is the difference between bactiol and retinol?

A clinical trial was conducted on 44 people to measure the anti-aging effects of bactiol and retinol.

The study compared the effects of applying a 0.5% bactiol cream twice a day to the face after 12 weeks with those applying a 0.5% retinol cream once a day.

The results showed that both bactiol and retinol reduced wrinkles and pigmentation, with no difference in the rate of reduction.

However, people who used retinol were more likely to report roughness and irritation, suggesting that bactiol may be just as effective as retinol but may be a less irritating option.

Concerns about Bakuchiol

Looking back at all of this, bakuchiol seems like a great ingredient. Some people, especially those with sensitive skin who have had trouble with retinol, may want to try bakuchiol.

However, bactiol is still a new ingredient, and its safety and effectiveness have not yet been thoroughly tested.

It may be a good idea to try it little by little, carefully observing the condition of your skin, while keeping in mind that this is an ingredient that is still being tested.