THE 5 +1 BENEFITS OF BAKUCHIOL
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?
Which is better, Retinol or Bakuchiol?
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—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?
5+1 benefits of Bakuchiol
Bakuchiol has five intriguing properties that work together to enhance its effectiveness as a key ingredient in skincare:
- High Antioxidant Power
The antioxidant activity of Bakuchiol is attributed to its specific molecular structure. The hydrogen present in the Bakuchiol molecule is available to neutralize unstable molecules like free radicals. This available hydrogen acts like the "bouncer" at a party, calming the free radical and preventing it from disturbing other proteins or lipids, thereby preserving their properties
It's important to remember that the antioxidant activity of a cosmetic is a must-have in any skincare regimen.
- Anti-Inflammatory Action
Various studies confirm Bakuchiol's anti-inflammatory capabilities. This compound has proven effective in reducing pro-inflammatory mediators such as nitric oxide, prostaglandin E2, and the macrophage migration inhibitory factor. The anti-inflammatory effect of Bakuchiol is closely linked to its anti-aging properties, as it helps slow down the skin aging process.
- Depigmenting Power
Bakuchiol exhibits an inhibitory effect on melanogenesis by blocking the activation of the melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH) and tyrosinase, leading to a reduction in skin pigmentation.
Topical application of Bakuchiol has shown significant results in reducing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, such as that caused by acne. This depigmenting benefit makes it a highly sought-after active ingredient for addressing various pigmentation disorders.
- Antibacterial Activity
Bakuchiol also has significant antibacterial activity, making it a potentially effective therapeutic tool for managing bacterial skin infections. In vitro studies have demonstrated, for example, its efficacy in inhibiting the proliferation of bacteria such as Staphylococcus epidermidis.
- Antifungal Action
It has also been shown that Bakuchiol possesses notable antifungal properties, requiring a lower concentration than other traditional antifungals to achieve the same inhibitory effect.
Benefit +1
The previously explained points are five benefits of Bakuchiol, but if you have heard about this ingredient, it is likely in the context of comparisons with retinoids and their properties.
Retinoids play a fundamental role in maintaining the health of our body and, of course, our skin.
Within this group of natural compounds, the most important are retinol and retinal, which are transformed into retinoic acid, the active molecule that performs various functions
Among other processes, retinoic acid regulates skin homeostasis, which also relates to:
- Maintaining the integrity of the skin
- Proper functioning of the skin's barrier function
- Renewal and repair of keratinocytes
- Regulation of sebum production.
Any deficiency or excess of retinoic acid can disrupt the natural balance of the skin, and then...
What is the similarity between Bakuchiol and retinoids?
The similarity lies in their ability to positively regulate the retinoic acid receptor gene, which, in specific cases of imbalance in the functioning of our skin (acne, psoriasis, rosacea...), is present in lower amounts.
In this case, Bakuchiol can achieve greater bioavailability of retinoic acid, and thus we speak of functional analogy with other retinoids. .
In summary, Bakuchiol, like retinoids, can act on genes involved in the synthesis of collagen, elastin, fibronectin, and epidermal hydration; resulting in a visible improvement in skin firmness, elasticity, and luminosity.
What’s 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. Its effectiveness is indisputable, with numerous studies supporting its results in reducing wrinkles, treating acne, and combating imperfections.
On the other hand, Bakuchiol is a natural ingredient that, while less known than retinol, possesses similar effects, acting as a "natural retinol" with anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties. Moreover, due to the growing interest in it, there is increasingly more scientific evidence backing these claims. In fact, studies show that our "bio-retinol" has superior antioxidant action.
We love that Bakuchiol is a much gentler and more skin-friendly alternative for sensitive skin. It is well known that, in some cases, retinol can cause irritation, dryness, and peeling, especially at the beginning of use and in high concentrations. Recently, the EU has restricted the use of products containing more than 0.3% of this active ingredient in facial cosmetics.
However, Bakuchiol is well-tolerated and is not photosensitizing, allowing you to use it without worry when exposed to the sun.
Although the number of studies is still limited compared to retinoids (which began in the 1980s), preliminary results are promising. As more research is conducted, our understanding of its benefits and applications in skincare is likely to expand.
Which is Better for Me?
Much will depend on your skin type and individual tolerance to active ingredients. If your skin is somewhat reactive or you’ve had issues with retinol in the past, Bakuchiol could be an excellent option. If you are already familiar with retinol, it remains a very effective active ingredient. One of the advantages of Bakuchiol is that it is suitable for all skin types: dry, sensitive, oily, and combination. Unlike retinol, Bakuchiol is safe to use during pregnancy.
If you are a fan of natural cosmetics, Bakuchiol is your go-to molecule.
At UMOA, we prioritize the use of natural ingredients in our formulations, which is why we created Royal Bakuchiol Perfecting Serum. This treatment features a high concentration of Bakuchiol (1.5%) to maximize the benefits of this active ingredient in a formula suitable for all skin types, even the most sensitive.
The Royal Bakuchiol promotes cellular renewal and helps reduce collagen degradation while stimulating its synthesis. This contributes to improved skin firmness and decreased visibility of wrinkles and fine lines.
Royal Bakuchiol is a potent antioxidant and, thanks to its depigmenting properties, helps improve the appearance of dark spots and even out skin tone.
Another of its properties is its sebum-regulating and anti-inflammatory action, making it beneficial for improving the condition of acne-prone skin.
Learn more about the Royal Bakuchiol Perfecting Serum from UMOA.
References
Here are some studies we consulted in writing this article:
Recent Advance Bakuchiol Application as a Potential Alternative to Retinol in Skincare and Cosmetics
A Clinical Study Evaluating the Efficacy of Topical Bakuchiol (UP256) Cream on Facial Acne
Bakuchiol: Does it make skin look younger?
Scientific evidence at the forefront.
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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