Bakuchiol
A plant-derived compound from Psoralea corylifolia seeds that provides retinol-like benefits without retinoid chemistry. Bakuchiol does not bind to retinoic acid receptors — it achieves similar gene expression changes through a completely different mechanism, making it safe during pregnancy and for skin too sensitive for any retinoid. Clinical studies show comparable improvements in wrinkles and pigmentation to 0.5% retinol.
Concentration & Usage
Concentrations: 0.5%-2%. Can be used morning and/or night (not photosensitizing like retinoids). Apply after cleansing. Can be combined with retinoids for enhanced effects. Safe to use without SPF specifically for this ingredient, though daily SPF is always recommended.
Application
Topical (serum, oil, cream). Stable in formulation. Not photosensitizing.
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99%+ purity · third-party lab tested
Mechanism of Action
Bakuchiol (meroterpene from Psoralea corylifolia) achieves retinol-like effects through RAR/RXR-independent pathways. It upregulates collagen I and III in fibroblasts via TGF-beta/Smad signaling and possibly ER-beta cross-talk. Bakuchiol downregulates MMP-1, preserving dermal collagen. It accelerates keratinocyte differentiation and stratum corneum turnover through distinct pathways. Direct antioxidant activity scavenges ROS and inhibits lipid peroxidation. Anti-inflammatory effects may involve NF-kappaB modulation. Clinical studies show comparable wrinkle reduction to 0.5% retinol; combination with retinol shows synergy. Safe during pregnancy—does not activate retinoic acid receptors.
Ingredient Interactions
Bakuchiol has retinol-like effects through a different mechanism (no RAR binding). Some studies show the combination is more effective than either alone, with less irritation. Good for retinol-sensitive skin.
See our full Ingredient Interactions Guide for more combinations and timing strategies.
Regulatory Status
Cosmetic ingredient. Available OTC worldwide. No prescription required.
Risks & Safety
Common
Very few — bakuchiol is exceptionally well-tolerated. Mild tingling in some users initially.
Serious
None documented. Safe during pregnancy.
Rare
Allergic reaction (rare plant allergy).
Compare Bakuchiol With
Research Papers
10Published: November 30, 2020
AI Summary
Patients with sensitive skin find topical retinoid use for anti-aging purposes challenging due to irritation. Bakuchiol, a meroterpene from the Psoralea corylifolia seed, has retinol functionality through retinol-like regulation of gene expression.
Published: February 20, 2019
AI Summary
Bakuchiol is a phytochemical that has demonstrated cutaneous antiageing effects when applied topically. No in vivo studies have compared the two compounds for efficacy and side-effects.
Published: December 30, 2022
AI Summary
Bakuchiol (BAK), a meroterpene phenol abundant in the plant Psoralea corylifolia, is an emerging cosmeceutical agent with promising anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. The trend for "clean" skincare products and search for anti-aging retinoid alternatives have poised BAK as
Published: March 31, 2024
AI Summary
Bakuchiol is a topical cosmeceutical marketed as a retinoid alternative. Human clinical trial data on bakuchiol’s efficacy for the treatment of dermatologic conditions has not been thoroughly evaluated.
Published: June 5, 2014
AI Summary
The study was undertaken to compare the skin care related activities of retinol and bakuchiol, a potential alternative to retinoids. Retinoic acid is the major physiologically active metabolite of retinol regulating gene expression through retinoic acid receptor - dependant and independent pathways.
Published: June 17, 2024
AI Summary
Research has demonstrated the anti-photoaging properties of glabridin and bakuchiol.
Published: March 20, 2023
AI Summary
Bakusylan (bakuchiol salicylate) is a bipartite compound obtained by merging two skin-active entities with complementary bioactivities-bakuchiol and salicylic acid-for the purpose of generating a new class of functional retinoids with enhanced skin benefits.
Published: May 16, 2024
AI Summary
This systematic review aims to examine published clinical studies involving the use of cosmeceuticals for antiaging to provide evidence-based recommendations based on available efficacy and safety data.
Published: November 15, 2024
AI Summary
Aging is a physiological phenomenon in the process of life, and skin aging has a significant impact on human appearance. Therefore, the search for methods to delay skin aging is of great significance for improving the quality of human life.
Published: May 31, 2022
AI Summary
Bakuchiol’s anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative properties also may lead to improvement in psoriasis and skin cancers, yet more clinical evidence is needed to elucidate these effects. This review will detail the current evidence for bakuchiol as an alternative treatment in dermatologic conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bakuchiol used for?
A plant-derived compound from Psoralea corylifolia seeds that provides retinol-like benefits without retinoid chemistry. Bakuchiol does not bind to retinoic acid receptors — it achieves similar gene expression changes through a completely different mechanism, making it safe during pregnancy and for skin too sensitive for any retinoid. Clinical studies show comparable improvements in wrinkles and pigmentation to 0.5% retinol.
What are the side effects of Bakuchiol?
Common: Very few — bakuchiol is exceptionally well-tolerated. Mild tingling in some users initially. Serious: None documented. Safe during pregnancy. Rare: Allergic reaction (rare plant allergy).
How is Bakuchiol administered?
Bakuchiol is administered via topical (serum, oil, cream). stable in formulation. not photosensitizing..
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