Retinol is the holy grail when it comes to combating signs of ageing and pigmentation in the expansive world of skincare, but that soft dappled light doesn't shine through the clouds for everyone. For those with sensitive skin types, Retinol might be a bit too harsh, causing redness, dryness, and peeling.
The question on everyone's lips, is there an alternative? There is! It’s the next best ingredient in the cabinet and it has a pretty impressive CV.
ENTER: BAKUCHIOL
Native to India and Sri Lanka, Bakuchiol derives from the seeds and leaves of the Psoralea Corylifolia AKA Babchi plant. It has been used in Indian Ayurvedic and Chinese medicines for centuries to help heal cuts, calm inflammation, and soothe irritated skin, thanks to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
SAFE FOR SENSITIVE SKIN
A comparable substitute to retinol, Bakuchiol will gently get to work on your fine lines and hyperpigmentation, no sweat… or should we say no stinging or irritation. Bakuchiol is stable to the effects of light and oxidative stress so you will be happy to know that it is a suitable option for those with sensitive skin, acne, rosacea or eczema. The anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties help to minimise the effects of acne as well as soothe, heal irritations and keep the skin hydrated instead of drying it out.
COLLAGEN BOOST
Bakuchiol doesn't chemically resemble retinol but much like it, bakuchiol is high in antioxidants, increasing cell turnover and boosting collagen production to reduce fine lines and enhance firmness and elasticity. Studies have shown that both "Bakuchiol and retinol significantly decreased wrinkle surface area and hyperpigmentation, with no statistical difference between the compounds". Although, the retinol users did report more facial skin scaling and stinging.
Great news if you find retinol too stingy for your skin!
WHAT ABOUT HAIR?
As for haircare? While we were unable to locate any studies to indicate the benefits of Bakuchiol specifically for the hair and scalp we believe the benefits of antioxidants will see a similar outcome because remember, your scalp is skin too! You might expect; protection against free radicals, reduction of scalp inflammation, moisturizing and conditioning skin to create a healthy scalp environment to promote hair growth. Sounds pretty good to us!
SHOP BAKUCHIOL
Sleep Masque by Salt By Hendrix aims to enhance overall skin health, hydration and texture. Avocado Oil, Sea Buckthorn Seed Oil and Hyaluronic Acid work together to hydrate from the inside out, aiming to promote skin elasticity and protect against dryness. Hero ingredient Bakuchiol aims to bolster brightness, and support balanced skin tone and texture whilst aiming for a firmer, more plump finish. Supercharged with partners Lactic Acid and Glycolic Acid, this active trio work together to help fight free radicals. They aim to target pores, and condition skin texture by exfoliating the skin. Get some well-deserved beauty sleep while Sleep Masque gets to work supercharging hydration, health and texture.
Soft Focus Scar Concentrate by Tronque is a complex of 26 bioactive superfruits and antioxidants that improves the formation of new tissue by increasing cell turnover and encouraging collagen production. Applied anywhere on the face or body, the non-irritating bi-phase formula intensely nourishes, rebuilds, reduces inflammation and fades stretch marks with powerful botanicals. Plant stem cells and nature’s retinol bakuchiol penetrate to boost elastin production - repairing the appearance, improving form and giving movement to scars.
This lightweight pre-styling crème, improves body and texture to all hair types. Designed to smooth, hydrate and enhance manageability the hair crème works to add softness and shine. The vitamin and antioxidant-rich formulation will nourish and protect hair from the use of heated styling tools and environmental damage while strengthening and hydrating.
