If we could dive into the Fountain of Youth, we imagine it would be overflowing with a cascading amount of beauty benefits. But until we get our VIP access to that mythical fountain, we’ll thank our lucky stars for two ingredients that offer youth-boosting benefits. Retinol and bakuchiol are at the top of that gratitude list!

Bakuchiol oil has garnered much popularity in recent years, especially when it comes to reducing signs of aging, and being remarkably like retinol, but without the side effects. This is great news for others who may suffer from so many skin sensitivities to products that they’re seeing stars.

So, what does bakuchiol oil do for the skin that gives it so much hype? Let’s look at bakuchiol’s science, its benefits, and why it’s garnering so much attention as a game-changer in skincare.

Bakuchiol oil may seem like some new, trendy oil on the skincare block, but it has been around the block for a while. Discovered in 1966, bakuchiol (pronounced bah-koo-chee-all) is a unique compound that’s derived from the seeds and leaves of the bakuchi plant, hence the name “bakuchiol.” While it’s been found in a few other sources like vegetables and animal liver, bakuchiol’s key source is bakuchi plant, making it both vegan and all-natural.

As one of nature’s great skin gifts, bakuchiol oil is great for herbal remedies due to its anti-inflammatory properties. It has been cultivated and used in Indian Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for centuries. The best qualities of these plants can be found in India and China. Bakuchiol has recently garnered a lot of popularity due to its being a natural and vegan alternative to retinol.

Bakuchiol is often referred to as a “retinol-alternative;” and with all the potential side effects that retinol is known for, this makes it a welcome staple in many skincare routines. Why all the drama on the block with Retinol? Some of the most common side effects include dryness, the potential to cause discomfort, and irritation, which are worsened for sensitive and reactive skin types.

As a result, there was a massive oil hunt from beyond the skincare block to find a safe, effective, plant-based alternative that could provide the benefits of retinol without its undesirable effects and instability. Since bakuhiol’s initial discovery, our team at 100% PURE has been hard at work to make this plant-based all-star ingredient the ultimate addition to your beauty regimen.

Let’s talk about bakuchiol, the new “IT” ingredient in the beauty community. Bakuchiol is the latest anti-aging ingredient that many are calling a safer alternative to retinol. Before we dive into its mind-blowing benefits, let’s look at the science that backs the effectiveness of bakuchiol oil.

Bakuchiol doesn’t appear to bring on the same side effects as retinol, as some of the research below indicates. Bakuchiol is generally observed to be less irritating and may carry a lower risk of side effects like redness or flaking. Bakuchiol, unlike retinol which can aggravate some skin conditions, possesses anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties that may lead to improvements in acne and psoriasis. Due to the gentle nature of bakuchiol oil, it’s also tolerated and effective for sensitive skin types.

While bakuchiol has not been as extensively studied as ingredients like retinol, there has been other studies and evidence indicating the amazing benefits of bakuchiol oil:

Safe & Gentle:

Since Bakuchiol is known for being gentle on the skin, just about anyone can safely use it.

Even skin tone:

Bakuchiol is known to deeply penetrate the outer layer of the skin, which helps lessen the appearance of dark spots or areas of hyperpigmentation. This retinol alternative can help lessen the signs of photoaging.

Help with acne and marks:

Due to bakuchiol’s anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties, it can offer benefits to acne-prone skin in several ways, and it gets better: it may even help with acne scars.

In the case of superficial acne, scars tend to fade away evenly. But in the case of cystic acne, ruptured cysts have a higher chance of damaging the follicle wall, which can make inflammation worse. Some research has shown that the application of bakuchiol on the skin can reduce lesions while improving post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). This means clearer, smoother skin in a shorter period.

Reduce signs of aging:

Bakuchiol sends signals to your cells to regenerate and produce more collagen, promoting plumpness in your skin and reducing the look of lines and wrinkles.

Despite having fairly new research, the results examining bakuchiol for aging concerns are promising.

In one study in the British Journal of Dermatology, it was found that bakuchiol is just as effective at lessening the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles as well as improving skin tone as retinol, but with fewer of the side effects associated with retinol, like peeling and burning.

In a twelve-week trial evaluating a blend of bakuchiol, melatonin, and the vitamin C derivative ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate and its effects, researchers observed fewer wrinkles, stronger firmness, and an overall improvement in complexion among the trial participants.

Meanwhile, in one systematic review examining the uses of bakuchiol in six pre-clinical studies, seven clinical studies, three commentaries, two narrative reviews, and one report on adverse events, it was concluded that bakuchiol is a retinol alternative with anti-aging, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties.

As mentioned previously, bakuchiol is pretty much considered a safer alternative to retinol and one that’s just as effective. Numerous scientific studies have explored the positive effects of bakuchiol on the skin, highlighting its potential as a beneficial skincare ingredient.

Here are some key findings from research and the most amazing bakuchiol benefits:

Anti-aging properties:

Bakuchiol has been shown to stimulate collagen production, a crucial protein responsible for maintaining skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of wrinkles. A study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science found that bakuchiol increased type I collagen synthesis in human skin cells, demonstrating its ability to promote a more youthful complexion.

Comparable effects to retinol:

Research published in the British Journal of Dermatology compared the effects of bakuchiol and retinol on photoaged skin. The study revealed that both ingredients significantly improved various signs of aging, including wrinkles, pigmentation, and elasticity. Bakuchiol was found to be comparable to retinol in its efficacy but without the associated side effects.

Soothing and moisturizing benefits:

While retinol is known to cause dryness and irritation, bakuchiol may actually soothe the skin, and it may even help with sensitivity. In addition to its antioxidant properties, bakuchiol is an anti-inflammatory agent, which means it’s gentle on sensitive skin and may even help soothe redness.

On top of that, bakuchiol is also hydrating, but not to the point that your skin will feel oily. Its gentle nature makes it an excellent choice for all skin types.

Antioxidant activity:

Bakuchiol possesses antioxidant properties, which help protect the skin from oxidative stress caused by free radicals and environmental factors. A study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology demonstrated the ability of bakuchiol to scavenge free radicals and inhibit lipid peroxidation, indicating its potential as a protective agent against skin damage.

Skin barrier enhancement:

Bakuchiol has shown promise in improving the skin’s barrier function. It aids in strengthening the skin’s protective barrier, reducing transepidermal water loss, and enhancing moisture retention. This was observed in a study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, which highlighted bakuchiol’s potential to improve skin hydration and integrity.

It is mostly considered safe for most skin types. Its gentle nature makes it suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin. However, individuals with specific allergies or sensitivities should exercise caution and conduct patch tests before using products containing bakuchiol.

Where can I buy quality bakuchiol oil?

Look for features such as cold-pressed, naturally derived, and from reputable natural brands.

Can bakuchiol oil be mixed with other skincare products?

While bakuchiol is generally well-tolerated by most skin types, there are a few ingredients that may not work well when used with bakuchiol. These include exfoliating acids like AHAs and BHAs, vitamin C, stronger retinoids, or prescription retinoids.

How quickly can I see results from using bakuchiol oil?

With regular use of bakuchiol, individuals can typically expect to see noticeable improvements in their skin within approximately four weeks. Continued use for up to eight weeks may reveal more significant changes, such as a reduction in fine lines, improved skin texture, and a more radiant complexion.

Can bakuchiol oil cause skin reactions?

Bakuchiol is considered safe for most individuals and is known for its gentle nature. It is less likely to cause skin sensitivity compared to other active ingredients like retinol. It is generally well-tolerated by most skin types.

Bakuchiol has emerged as a promising skincare ingredient with a range of potential benefits. Its ability to stimulate collagen production, lessen wrinkles, provide antioxidant protection, and exhibit anti-inflammatory properties makes it an attractive alternative to other active ingredients like retinol.

Whether you’re seeking to address signs of aging or simply maintain a healthy complexion, bakuchiol oil offers a natural and effective option. As the skincare industry continues to evolve, it’s exciting to explore new ingredients like bakuchiol that can contribute to healthier, more vibrant skin.

Whether you’re a skincare enthusiast or just dipping your toes in that mythical Fountain of Youth, albeit there are lots of pennies wishing for a natural ingredient that can work wonders on the skin. Let’s just say yours came true with bakuchiol oil!