Retinol vs Bakuchiol - Everything You Need to Know
Retinol has been the wonder product of the skincare world for some time. It can work a treat by reducing fine lines, softening pigmentation and plumping up the skin for a youthful and healthy glow. However, it can also make the skin irritated and cause dryness. Cue bakuchiol – a natural alternative to retinol that is taking the beauty industry world by storm. We’re here to answer your burning questions and tell you everything you need to know about this exciting new product.
What is Retinol?
Retinol is a type of retinoid which is a product derived from vitamin A. Some retinol products are harvested from produce such as squash and carrots, and some are sourced from animal by-products. When used in skincare, retinol speeds up cell turnover and increases collagen and elastin production. Retinol works on a cellular level (rather than a surface level like some other skincare products) so it can deeply resurface your skin. This means younger and plumper cells can come to the skin’s surface, helping to create the appearance of healthier, fresher skin. While we love retinoids and know they create great results, they can be hard on those who have sensitive skin. It can also increase sun sensitivity, meaning sunscreen application during retinol use is absolutely necessary.
What Is Bakuchiol?
Bakuchiol is the new tongue-twisting skincare buzzword. Pronounced buh-KOO-chee-al, it’s an extract that comes from the babchi plant and is said to have been used in Chinese and Indian restorative medicine for many years. The babchi plant produces fruit that holds a small number of seeds - these produce an essential oil containing the bakuchiol compound. This is a potent ingredient that works to improve fine lines and wrinkles, reduce pigmentation, clear and prevent breakouts, and increase elasticity and firmness without irritating skin. Basically, it does everything retinol does, but without the annoying side effects. This makes it a great tool for treating the signs of ageing and protecting skin from free radicals. It also means it’s a perfect match for those who have sensitive skin or struggle with conditions such as rosacea. It’s also vegan.
How Does Bakuchiol Work?
While there is no technical structural resemblance to retinol, bakuchiol achieves similar results without irritating the skin. Studies have found that bakuchiol and retinol both boost the production of collagen types I, III and IV in skin cells. When applied, bakuchiol penetrates down to the deeper levels of the skin and encourages cell turnover. It also triggers the genetic pathways in skin cells to create collagen, a powerhouse for anti-aging and one of the building blocks for healthy skin.
What Does Bakuchiol Do For Your Skin?
If that wasn’t enough, bakuchiol also has antibacterial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory powers, making it a strong product for preventing acne and other inflammation. When you start using the product you will notice some immediate skin plumping as well as an overall radiance and brightness. In addition, you should notice a lightening of pigmentation. In skincare, consistency is key and over time, these benefits will increase. After using the product for about a month you should start to see a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles, and then continue to see improvements.
Is Bakuchiol Safe For Pregnancy?
It is currently unclear whether bakuchiol is safe for use during pregnancy. Doctors tend to recommend people avoid retinol products while pregnant, so at this stage, due to limited data and studies, we suggest the same for bakuchiol.
How to Incorporate Bakuchiol Into a Skincare Routine
Although bakuchiol is considered safe for all skin types, we always recommend that you start with a patch test to check for any skin reactions. We suggest clients who use retinol products use these in the evening (as they cause light sensitivity), however, bakuchiol products can be used both day and night. Bakuchiol is typically used in serums, which are best applied after cleansing the skin and then followed with a nourishing moisturiser (a good rule of thumb is to apply your products from thinnest to thickest). Bakuchiol can also be a great introductory product for those who haven’t used retinoids before. This gives you a chance to see what results you get from bakuchiol, and then possibly work your way up to a retinol product. And If you have in fact tried a retinol product and given up on it (think redness, irritation or flaking), bakuchiol is a great option for you to give a go.
Our Bakuchiol Must-Try – Skin Moderne Bio-Retinol-Multi Action
Containing bakuchiol and bio-retinol, this product rejuvenates, evens skin tone, and lightens and brightens. It does not cause skin irritation as some retinoids can do, meaning it is a great choice for those with sensitive skin. We recommend you use this product at night before cleansing.
Our Retinol Must-Try – Ultraceuticals New Ultra A Skin Perfecting Serum
This serum uses Ultra-RETI microparticle technology to deliver high levels of pure retinol to the skin. This works to reduce fine lines and wrinkles and plump the skin. This product is also available in two other strengths – mild and a booster version.
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