Bakuchiol: 5+1 Benefits, How It Relates to Retinoids, and How to Choose
Contents
- What makes Bakuchiol special and why should you give it a chance?
- The 5+1 benefits of Bakuchiol
- What is the similarity between Bakuchiol and retinoids?
- Which is better, Retinol or Bakuchiol?
- Which one is better for you?
- References
- About the author
- FAQs
The focus of our article is Bakuchiol, a natural compound derived from the seeds and leaves of the babchi plant (Psoralea corylifolia), which originates from India and has been gaining increasing interest in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries.
What makes Bakuchiol special and why should you give it a chance?
What is the similarity between Bakuchiol and retinoids?
We can imagine some people thinking:
Here we go again with the latest cosmetic marketing gimmick!
Let's take a look.
What makes Bakuchiol special and why should you give it a chance?
Bakuchiol is a "phenolic meroterpene" that has been shown to have a wide range of biological activities, with particularly notable effects on the skin.
And you might say: What the heck is a "meroterpene"???
Well, that's it — a phenolic meroterpene; a plant metabolite that combines the characteristics of terpenes with those of phenolic compounds... And it seems like you’re still just as confused. 😊
In other words, the hybrid structure of the Bakuchiol molecule allows it to provide multiple skin benefits by interacting with various metabolic pathways. Among all these benefits, there is one in particular that grabs all the attention and relates it to another active ingredient you know very well...
Doesn't that pique your interest even more?
The 5+1 benefits of Bakuchiol
- High Antioxidant Power: neutralises free radicals and preserves the skin’s structure.
- Anti-Inflammatory Action: helps reduce irritation and inflammation, supporting the skin’s resilience.
- Depigmenting Effect: helps reduce hyperpigmentation and even out skin tone.
- Antibacterial Properties: supports skin balance and helps prevent blemishes.
- Antifungal Activity: shown to inhibit fungal growth effectively.
+1 Benefit
Bakuchiol also acts similarly to retinoids — stimulating collagen and elastin production, improving firmness, and promoting smoother, more luminous skin.
What is the similarity between Bakuchiol and retinoids?
Both can positively regulate retinoic acid receptor genes that play a role in key skin functions such as collagen synthesis, skin barrier repair, and cell renewal. This makes Bakuchiol a functional analogue to retinoids, offering similar benefits without their drawbacks.
Which is better, Retinol or Bakuchiol?
Paying homage to the Galician heritage that flows through UMOA's veins, our answer is: it depends.
Retinol is widely used in cosmetics and dermatology, proven to reduce wrinkles and treat acne — but it can cause dryness or irritation. Bakuchiol, on the other hand, provides similar anti-aging effects naturally, with greater tolerance for sensitive skin and no photosensitivity.
Which one is better for you?
If your skin is sensitive or reactive, Bakuchiol may be the ideal option. It suits all skin types — dry, oily, combination, and sensitive — and is safe during pregnancy.
At UMOA, we prioritise natural ingredients, which is why we created the Royal Bakuchiol Perfecting Serum, formulated with 1.5% Bakuchiol to maximise benefits for all skin types, even the most sensitive.
It promotes cell renewal, stimulates collagen synthesis, and helps improve firmness, smoothness, and luminosity.
References
About the author
Mafalda Soto, pharmacist and co-founder of UMOA Cosmetics, has over 15 years of experience working with some of the most sensitive skin in the world — albinotic skin. She also founded the NGO Beyond Suncare, recognised by the United Nations as a “Best Practice”.
Through UMOA, Mafalda promotes a new vision of cosmetics — effective, respectful, and purpose-driven.
FAQs
What is Bakuchiol?
Bakuchiol is a natural compound extracted from the babchi plant, known for its anti-aging, antioxidant, and calming properties.
Is Bakuchiol as effective as Retinol?
Yes, studies show it provides similar benefits — improved firmness, reduced wrinkles, and even tone — but with less irritation.
Can I use Bakuchiol if I have sensitive skin?
Absolutely. Bakuchiol is suitable for sensitive and reactive skin, and it’s non-photosensitizing.
Is Bakuchiol safe during pregnancy?
Unlike retinol, Bakuchiol is considered safe for use during pregnancy. Always consult your healthcare professional first.
What makes UMOA’s Royal Bakuchiol Serum different?
It contains 1.5% Bakuchiol combined with Niacinamide to boost renewal, brightness, and comfort, suitable for all skin types.
Lo estoy probando y me parece fabuloso¡ notas como se tensa la piel, absorbe rápidamente y huele genial. Lo considero ya imprescindible para mi
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