Every one of us would love beautiful, well-nourished skin, and the choice on the market is truly wide. One of the much-praised ingredients is retinol, considered a modern elixir of beauty. Because it can care not only for the signs of ageing but also for various imperfections, it has become a favourite ingredient across age groups. Now, however, a new ingredient is coming onto the scene, one that experts are already calling an elixir of beauty. Let us introduce you to BAKUCHIOL.
Bakuchiol - a natural alternative to retinol
The babchi plant has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese practice for its many gifts. The seeds are the most interesting part, as they hold significant caring properties. Bakuchiol is a cosmetic ingredient considered a true natural alternative to retinol, without the irritation, photosensitivity or the general concerns associated with traditional retinol products. While retinol comes from vitamin A, bakuchiol comes from a natural plant. A 2014 study by the Society of Cosmetic Scientists comparing the two found that they have remarkably similar effects, including increased cell turnover, stimulation of collagen production, reduced hyperpigmentation and smoother fine lines and wrinkles.
The benefits and effects of bakuchiol
Unlike retinol, bakuchiol brings the skin these benefits without any unpleasant side effects. Bakuchiol can potentially be used by those with more sensitive skin. "Unlike classic retinol formulations, bakuchiol is non-irritating and is traditionally described as gentle enough to be used during pregnancy as well." The 2014 study showed that bakuchiol stimulates collagen formation and is also a strong antioxidant that protects the skin from oxidative stress and cell damage. It hydrates and comforts the skin and is rich in vitamin E. It also has antibacterial properties and is a lovely companion for skin prone to blemishes.
Bakuchiol suits every skin type
Although bakuchiol is described as gentler compared with retinol, that does not mean it is less effective. One advantage of bakuchiol is that it can be used alongside other skincare products, which is not always advisable with retinol. It is a natural ingredient well worth trying. It occurs naturally in plants, the richest source being the Indian plant Psoralea corylifolia. It has soothing qualities and is an antioxidant. According to studies it appears that bakuchiol is roughly as effective as retinol when it comes to supporting collagen formation and cell renewal. Its greatest benefit is that within just 6 weeks it can bring visible changes, including smoother deeper lines and expression lines, softened hyperpigmentation and improved skin elasticity. The greatest advantage of all, though, is that unlike retinol it can be used by every skin type, including the most sensitive.
Bakuchiol in practice
Most products using bakuchiol as their main ingredient are applied in the evening to cleansed skin. These are mainly serums, oils and creams, so anyone can easily weave them into their everyday skincare. Alongside the plant extract they also contain squalane, whose role is to soften and hydrate the skin. The benefits of bakuchiol:
- without side effects such as redness, flaking and irritation
- an anti-ageing effect
- lovely for softening hyperpigmentation
- supports skin prone to blemishes as it settles
- evens out the skin tone
- it is fragrance-free
- it has a soothing antioxidant effect
- suitable for all skin types, including the most sensitive
- it improves the skin's texture
Bakuchiol in our e-shop
Did you recognise yourself in at least one point? Then your skin is sure to adore bakuchiol. Bakuchiol is lovely to start using even after 25 - after all, prevention is wonderful in this case. And even more wonderful is that we have several products containing bakuchiol for you to choose from. These include, for example, the MAGIC NATURE - Antioxidant face cream or the BOSORKIN LEKTVAR - BAKUCHIOL facial serum. On Zdraviezkopanic.sk you will also find many other products containing bakuchiol, so you are certain to find your favourite.