Bakuchiol: Nature's Retinol Alternative
If you’ve been following along with our blog this year, you know we LOVE retinol. It’s an absolutely incredible ingredient that works in miraculous ways, treating fine lines, texture, acne and hyperpigmentation. Despite its amazing benefits, it’s not for everyone. Retinol users know that the baby soft skin comes at a price, which usually includes dry, flakey skin. Each time we recommend retinol, it’s immediately followed by a warning to ease into use slowly. This is our attempt to help clients avoid the unfortunate side effects but sometimes that’s still not enough. So, what are you supposed to do when you want to achieve the retinol glow, without irritation? Try bakuchiol.
What is Bakuchiol? (and what is it not)
Bakuchiol is a natural ingredient that comes from the psoralea corylifolia plant, or “babchi” plant. While it may be a new ingredient to you, it has been used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for years. Modern science turned to this gentle retinol alternative for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. This trending ingredient replicates many of the incredible benefits of retinol, though it IS NOT a form of retinol. In fact, it’s not an active ingredient, which means you are free to use it in your morning routine without worrying about sun interaction. But just because it won't make you hyper sensitive to the sun doesn't mean you can skip SPF.
Is Bakuchiol Right for Me?
Yes! Have you ever experienced dry, sensitive skin after trying a retinol? Or, have you completely avoided the popular ingredient in an attempt to avoid any mishaps? Whatever your retinol story, bakuchiol should absolutely join your daily routine. It’s ultra gentle and will give you a similar smoothing and firming effect, without any irritation.
For anyone who has no issues with OTC retinol or prescription retinoids, keep using them. The benefits of retinol and retinoids are still greater than bakuchiol, so there won’t be any benefit to switching. However, if you’re actively searching for a more natural option, or want to double dip on benefits, feel free to try it out! Since it’s not an active ingredient, you don’t have to worry about over use. And who wouldn’t want extra dewy, glowy skin? Pro tip: when layering, make sure to use your retinol product first, then bakuchiol on top.
Eye Restore Update
Ready to incorporate bakuchiol into your routine? New for 2020, we’ve updated Eye Restore eye cream to now feature this plant-based retinol dupe. Our team is thrilled to offer one of our best-selling products with a new and improved formula for even more benefits! We updated our Multi-Peptide Complex to strengthen, fight puffiness and hydrate and added in skin smoothing bakuchiol, plus Vitamin C to defend against blue light damage from digital devices. Are you ready to try bakuchiol in our new Eye Restore formula?!