Bakuchiol, the Natural, Vegan, and Gentler Alternative to Retinol for Sensitive Skin
Many people suffer from bad skin, whether you are trying to treat your acne or reduce wrinkles. I used to suffer from bad acne on my face, not only does acne damage your self-confidence, I was very worried it would scar my skin for life, therefore, I had to turn to retinol, only to discover the product resulting in further redness, peeling of my skin, and even worsening my acne. Retinol is not natural, and is very harsh and unstable on the skin. It is true, many people cannot tolerate Retinol, and not realising how harsh this was on my sensitive skin, I decided to do a little research, and see what else was out there to treat my acne.
Bakuchiol, pronounced “buh-koo-chee-all” is a powerful, natural occurring alternative to retinol, commonly known in today’s industry as the ‘herbal botox’, or ‘natural retinol’, it is the only botanical extract thus far that has shown real, clinically-proven results which are similar to Retinol. Retinol is said to be the most studied ingredient we have to help aid common issues such as wrinkles and acne, so I was very surprised at the results Bakuchiol was proving to have. Bakuchiol stimulates collagen production strengthening the skin’s foundation, and minimising the appearance of lines and wrinkles, without the risk of irritation.
WHAT IS BAKUCHIOL?
Bakuchiol is an extract found in the seeds and leaves of the Psoralea Corylifolia, also known as Babchi, a plant native to India that’s known for its soft purple flowers. Its anti-oxidant and anti-microbial properties result in Bakuchiol being a gentler, natural and vegan alternative to retinol. Bakuchiol works with the same pathways to induce the production of new collagen formation in the skin, but unlike retinol, it does not decrease the size of oil glands or cause irritation and dryness according to doctors. Although Bakuhiol started to go main stream in the 70’s, it has only been recent research that has highlighted how effective this product actually is, and the problems it can solve for thousands of people around the world.
HOW DO I USE BAKUCHIOL?
To work Bakuchiol into the skin, you can use it just like you would with a typical retinoid. It is recommended using it in the evening before bed, generally in the form of a serum or night cream. Most importantly, you will need to ensure the skin you are apply Bakuchiol too is properly cleansed, and a gentle cleanser is perfect, such as the Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm. There is also no need to over use the product to begin with, it is suggested to start with a small pea size dollop, and over a period of time you can start using more often, however, due to the natural ingredients in Bakuchiol, you do not have to be as careful as you would need to be when using Retinol. You can use Bakuchiol twice a day to get even better results.
If you feel like putting your hands to a more DIY approach, you can even add Raw Bakuchi Seeds, which you can blend into a powder to add to your facial mask, however, keep in mind the powder is not the same thing as Bakuchiol, as Bakuchiol is the compound extracted from the seeds, however, it is not likely there are any downsides adding the powder to experiment in a face mask.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?
It is without doubt there are many benefits of Bakuchiol, I have highlighted some of these below for those considering using the product:
- Prevents fine lines and wrinkles
- Improves pigmentation
- Boosts elasticity and firmness
- Prolonged use decreases roughness and dryness
- Reported to have anticancer properties
- Diminishes signs of ageing
- Repairs Skin
- Remains Active in direct sunlight (photo stability)
- Pregnant woman can use the product
- Provides smooth youthful appearance
- Hydrates your skin
- Reduces acne and other inflammatories or bacterial breakouts
- Does not come with all downsides that Retinol brings
SHOULD I USE RETINOL?
Although we personally feel that the swap from Retinol to Bakuchiol will benefit you, especially for those wanting to live a more natural lifestyle, it is important to add that Retinol has, and will continue to provide positive results for many around the world. If you suffer from acne and are still not convinced to give Bakuchiol a go, then you can find some of the Retinol products best sellers that have helped many around the world, and hold many reviews via our blog post.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, your skin deserves all the care you can give it. Not only that you deserve to feel confident in your own skin, and i know acne can really put you down. Bakuchiol has been a life changer for many people, and is one of those products that you do not need to worry about, it’s amazing natural compound that has proven to help eliminate acne, fine lines and wrinkles, as well as functioning as an anti-ageing compound. A must try natural and vegan alternative.
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Originally published at heffshealth.com on February 15, 2019.
