The truth is, at some point in our late 20s-30s, we all start seeing some fine lines and wrinkles over our skin, and as we might like to age gracefully, there’s no harm in supporting our skin with powerful natural ingredients, and what better ingredients to do the job than Retinol or Bakuchiol. From boosters to serums, masks, or even moisturisers, let’s get deep into these two beloved ingredients.
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What is Retinol?
Retinol is the name for the entire vitamin A molecule. Retinol is a powerhouse ingredient that has value for the skin on several fronts: It’s a skin-restoring, wrinkle-smoothing, firming ingredient and an antioxidant, allowing it to improve a variety of skin concerns, most related to visible signs of ageing.
How To Use Retinol?
- Low-strength formulas: These are best for those starting with retinol, as they target early signs of ageing and give skin an overall healthy look.
- Medium-strength formulas: These are a bit more intense and address noticeable signs of ageing as well as uneven skin stone for those who are looking for a more powerful fix.
- High-strength formulas: These are for skin types that are used the consecutive uses of retinol. With a higher %, it can target advanced signs of ageing, from blotchy tone and deep lines to wrinkles and lack of firmness.
Be aware that retinol formulas are not best advised for pregnant or breastfeeding women, but no worries, we have a natural alternative of retinol for those who don’t tolerate this active well or are pregnant, called bakuchiol.
Bakuchiol vs Retinol
Given that bakuchiol can be used by everyone, even those with sensitive skin. While retinol is not for everyone but has been seen to deliver similar results.
Retinol is perfectly fine to use for those who can tolerate it. Rather than saying one is better than the other, it is great that we now have effective options for everyone.
What is Bakuchiol?
Bakuchiol became a buzz ingredient seemingly out of nowhere – But where does it come from all this hyped love?
Bakuchiol interestingly, isn’t that new of an ingredient. Over the past few years, however, more studies were concluded and published to demonstrate bakuchiol’s effectiveness when compared to retinol. Retinol is in a lot of beauty products. It’s known because of its ability to stimulate collagen and reduce fine lines; however, it can be harsh for people with sensitive skin. In recent times, there has also been an increase in those who identify as having sensitive skin or are seeking plant-derived ingredient alternatives, and bakuchiol presented a solution to this.
A natural antioxidant and anti-aging ingredient found in the seeds and leaves of the plant Psoralea corylifolia. This plant, also known as babchi, is native to and grows throughout India, where it plays a role in Ayurvedic medicine, and is also found in China (where it’s used in Chinese natural medicine) as well as parts of Africa.
How to use Bakuchiol?
Ongoing in vitro (Petri dish) and in vivo (on the skin) research has shown that bakuchiol seems to have the skin-restoring ability when applied twice daily in the morning before moisturizer and at night before any serums. And that it may also have a brightening effect on the skin. Research has also shown this plant ingredient has soothing and anti-wrinkle properties as well as helps to visibly improve skin colour and tone.
CF TIP: Avoid using it with Glycolic acid
Benefits of Bakuchiol for Skin
- Speeds up skin cell regeneration
- Safe to use twice a day
- Evens skin tone
- It doesn’t cause dryness or irritation
- Reduces the appearance of fine lines
- It helps soothe and heal skin
- Safe for pregnant women and breastfeeding
7 Best Bakuchiol Products
1. Squalane + Phyto-Retinol Serum
Biossance decided to use bakuchiol for its incredible skin benefits without the often harsh side effects that retinol can cause like redness, flakiness, irritation, and sun sensitivity. A serum that is effective and also safe to use during the day.
As mentioned previously, bakuchiol is the plant-derived retinol alternative, a non-irritating substitute for all skin types, including sensitive skin, is also non-comedogenic, vegan, and cruelty-free. This lightweight, anti-aging serum targets the look of lines and wrinkles while addressing collagen-related firmness, thanks to a formula based on Squalane, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, and Neroli Essential Oil.
2. BYBI Beauty 1% Bakuchiol in Olive Squalane Booster
This tiny serum combines two of our favourite ingredients, bakuchiol and squalane, for some serious hydration. You only need to add a few drops in your moisturiser or serum for a real nighttime boost to your beauty routine.
3. The Jojoba Company Skin Balancing Oil
Using Bakuchiol and Calla lily extracts, this clinically proven jojoba-based oil will reduce fine lines, wrinkles and oil production, among other key benefits. Best applied to clean, damp skin after cleansing and before your moisturiser, with a lightweight formula, it can definitely be used morning and night. It supports the skin in sebum reduction and reduces pore size while improving skin softness & moisturisation.
4. Medik8 Bakuchiol Peptides
This oil-based serum harnesses the gentle power of 1.25% pure bakuchiol. The lilac-hued formula is also infused with cica (Centella Asiatica), an ingredient perfect for soothing inflamed, sensitive skin. The conditioning serum is incredibly soothing and calming on the skin, helping to reduce inflammation and redness. Visibly plumped and supple, the skin will be left feeling soft and smooth.
5. The INKEY List Bakuchiol Retinol Alternative Moisturiser
Plant-derived, and with antioxidant properties, this natural Retinol alternative helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and even skin tone. Formulated with the Omega-3 packed Sacha Inchi oil and Squalane, it also works to hydrate and nourishes your skin. It does not cause any sun sensitivity, so it can be used in both the AM and PM and is safe to use during pregnancy.
6. Paula’s Choice Clinical 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment
A triple-action blend of retinol, bakuchiol, and peptides supports collagen-depleted skin to target fine lines, deep wrinkles, and loss of firmness. Mid-strength 0.3% retinol fights wrinkles; 2% bakuchiol amplifies retinol’s wrinkle-fighting power; Peptides support healthy collagen for improved firmness; Light lotion texture absorbs quickly.
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