BENEFITS:
Bakuchiol is a plant-derived compound (from Psoralea corylifolia seeds) often promoted as a gentler, natural alternative to retinol for anti-aging skincare. It functions as a "retinol-like" ingredient by regulating similar gene expression pathways related to collagen production and skin renewal, without binding directly to retinoic acid receptors.
Evidence-based benefits for skin primarily come from preclinical (in vitro), small-scale clinical trials, and reviews, with emerging but limited human data compared to decades of retinol research. Key supported benefits include:
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Anti-aging and photoaging improvement — Reduces fine lines, wrinkles, and signs of photodamage (e.g., decreased wrinkle surface area and depth, improved elasticity/firmness). A landmark 2019 randomized, double-blind trial (44 participants, 12 weeks) found 0.5% bakuchiol comparable to 0.5% retinol in reducing wrinkles and hyperpigmentation, with better tolerability (less scaling/stinging). Other studies show improvements in skin smoothness, radiance, and firmness after 8–12 weeks.
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Hyperpigmentation and brightening — Helps fade dark spots and even skin tone via melanin inhibition. Clinical evidence supports reductions in hyperpigmentation, with potential benefits for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), especially in darker skin tones (Fitzpatrick III–VI).
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Anti-inflammatory and soothing effects — Reduces redness, irritation, and inflammation (e.g., via TNF-α inhibition), making it suitable for sensitive skin. It shows lower irritation than retinol in direct comparisons.
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Collagen support and firmness — Promotes collagen synthesis (e.g., upregulation of COL1A genes) and improves skin elasticity/hydration (e.g., 16% moisture increase in sensitive skin studies).
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Additional benefits — Antibacterial (e.g., against acne-related bacteria like P. acnes), antioxidant protection, and potential acne lesion reduction (often in combinations).
Bakuchiol is generally well-tolerated, photostable (usable daytime), and causes minimal side effects (no significant peeling/burning vs. retinol). However, most human trials are small (often <50 participants), many unblinded or combination-based, and lack large-scale/long-term data or meta-analyses. Systematic reviews note promising efficacy for photoaging, acne, and PIH but highlight the need for more rigorous, independent studies.
For best results, use in stable formulations (e.g., 0.5–1%) consistently, paired with sunscreen. It's especially ideal for sensitive skin or retinol-intolerant users. Consult a dermatologist for personalized advice.
REFERENCES:
2018 Prospective, randomized, double-blind assessment of topical bakuchiol and retinol for facial photoageing
2022 The Use of Bakuchiol in Dermatology: A Review of In Vitro and In Vivo Evidence
2014 Bakuchiol: a retinol-like functional compound revealed by gene expression profiling and clinically proven to have anti-aging effects
2022 Applications of bakuchiol in dermatology: Systematic review of the literature
2022 Multidirectional activity of bakuchiol against cellular mechanisms of facial ageing - Experimental evidence for a holistic treatment approach
2020 Clinical Evaluation of a Nature-Based Bakuchiol Anti-Aging Moisturizer for Sensitive Skin
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Is this pure 100% Bakuchiol oil?
Yes.
Is this oil cold-pressed?
Yes. That is why is rich, dark, and thick but will absorb/melt into the skin.
Where is the bakuchiol oil sourced from?
Northern Australia
How is bakuchiol oil similar to retinol?
Like retinol the effects of bakuchiol oil include improved skin texture, renewal, pigmentation and anti-aging. Your skin will be more sensitive to the sun when using this product, please always use sunscreen when using this product.
How is Bakuchiol oil different from retinol?
Bakuchiol is generally found to be gentler on skin than retinol. The results from bakuchiol oil vary from traditional retinol, some people prefer bakuchiol oil and vice versa. Pure Bakuchiol oil is a dark oil that absorbs/melts right into the skin (see the video in the listing) only drops of this oil is needed because it is a pure and potent product.
Is Bakuchiol oil a moisturizer? No. It really works much the same way that retinol works. Bakuchoil (which contains natural vitamin A) can be drying just like retinol (which contains synthetic vitamin A) and we use bakuchiol oil in a similar way to how we use retinol: We only use a small amount, pair it with moisturizer and always use sunscreen.
How soon until I start noticing results?
You should start noticing a difference in your skin's appearance within the first two weeks of using this product.
Is skin cycling recommended with bakuchiol oil?
Yes, as with all active ingredients skin cycling is recommended but not necessary.
Is a patch test recommended for when using bakuchiol oil?
As with all new skin products, do a small test and wait 24 to make sure you have no reactions before applying to your face.
Do I need to use a carrier oil with bakuchiol oil?
You do not need to use a carrier oil. It can be used directly on the skin. You can add bakuchiol oil to your moisturizer/carrier oil if you want to take fewer steps in your routine.
