If you're anything like us, your newsfeed is filled with all-natural goodness, and there's one particular ingredient that seems to be setting the skincare arena ablaze. This buzzy botanical has been popping up everywhere lately, and it's none other than one of our star ingredients, Bakuchiol. The natural powerhouse has been gaining global traction for its ability to deliver results that rival retinol, without any of the harsh side effects. But the reality is that Bakuchiol extract has been used in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine for centuries, and its benefits are just now being recognized by the mainstream. Read on to learn more about this skin-loving ingredient, and how it can help you to level up your natural skincare routine.

 

   Bakuchiol Basics: The What, How, and Why

Bakuchiol is a plant-derived compound that naturally occurs in the leaves and seeds of the Psoralea corylifolia, or babchi plant. The plant is native to India and has been prized for its medicinal properties for generations. In the production of clean beauty products, Bakuchiol is typically derived from the leaves of the plant and is then infused into natural skincare formulations. Recent studies have shown that Bakuchiol can have major anti-aging benefits for the skin, comparable to retinol, without any of the irritation or sensitivity that may arise as a result of using retinoids. Bakuchiol has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, making it one of those multi-tasking ingredients for natural skin care we simply can't get enough of.

Now that we know a little bit more about where Bakuchiol comes from and how it is used in natural skincare products, let's take a closer look at the top 3 ways this all-star ingredient can help improve the appearance of your skin.

 

   Reducing the Appearance of Fine Lines and Wrinkles

One of the most well-known Bakuchiol benefits is its ability to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. In a 2018 clinical study, participants used a Bakuchiol-based cream twice daily for 12 weeks. At the end of the study, participants saw a significant reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, as well as an improvement in skin elasticity. The primary function of Bakuchiol is to help stimulate collagen production in the skin, which is essential for keeping skin looking plump and lustrous. This is what gives Bakuchiol its wrinkle-fighting properties and ability to smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. In comparison to retinol, which is commonly hailed as the gold standard for anti-aging, it was found that Bakuchiol was just as effective, without any of the dryness, redness, and irritation often associated with using retinoids.

 

     Targeting Hyperpigmentation and Uneven Skin Tone

Hyperpigmentation is a common skin concern that can be caused by sun damage, inflammation, and hormonal imbalances. While there are a number of ways to address hyperpigmentation, Bakuchiol has shown promise in brightening the complexion and evening out skin tone. In the same 2018 study, the results showed that "Bakuchiol and retinol both significantly decreased wrinkle surface area and hyperpigmentation, with no statistical difference between the compounds." This was no surprise, as an earlier study had already shown "significant improvement in... pigmentation, elasticity, firmness and overall reduction in photo-damage... without usual retinol therapy-associated undesirable effects." The main difference between retinol and Bakuchiol was that Bakuchiol was much gentler on the skin, causing less scaling and stinging. Bakuchiol, therefore, makes for a great option for those with sensitive skin who look to natural skincare brands and pure ingredients for powerful results.

 

Keeping it Natural

Of course, the most significant of the myriad of Bakuchiol benefits is that it is a natural ingredient, with no harsh side effects. This is in contrast to retinol and other synthetic ingredients often used in skincare products that can cause a host of issues. When used in all-natural skincare formulations, Bakuchiol oil can provide all of the anti-aging benefits of retinol, without leaving you burning, itching, or covering up redness. Preliminary research has also shown that Bakuchiol for acne may be promising in complementing and enhancing the effectiveness of other acne treatments. And, perhaps, most excitingly, this natural ingredient has even been shown to have cell regeneration capabilities, which means it is effective at combating the signs of aging at a cellular level.

In a time where consumers are taking a firm stand against harsh chemicals, sulfates, and other synthetic ingredients, and making the move to natural beauty products, Bakuchiol is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after ingredients in clean beauty. re: Skin Ethos' re: Skin Ethos Botanical Serum is made with a unique blend of natural ingredients, including Bakuchiol, which work together to help you achieve and maintain radiant, youthful-looking skin. This natural, plant-based skin serum is formulated to be light and non-greasy, highly absorbent, and packed with the power of nature to help you look and feel your best, naturally.