Bakuchiol has been a buzzword in the skincare world for a while, and it looks like it’s still well-loved now.
Most people know it as the “natural alternative to retinol” – but what is it, really?
Let’s take a closer look at bakuchiol, which is one of the hottest star ingredients in our favourite skincare ranges.
What is Bakuchiol?
This ingredient isn’t exactly “new”. The plant-based ingredient has long been used in Ayurveda and the claim about it being a natural alternative to retinol came from studies in the last few years that showed that it has similar benefits as retinol.
However, if you look at the molecular structure of bakuchiol, it doesn’t look anything like retinol at all. The effects, however, are similar; both can help soften the look of fine lines and wrinkles, improve firmness and elasticity, and even out skin tone.
And the reason why there’s such a buzz around bakuchiol is more than just the benefits it seems to carry.
Most people who have used retinol know that it is a great anti-ageing ingredient, however, it is very irritating on the skin, especially if it is dry and sensitive. Retinol also responds negatively with sun exposure, which is why you can only use it at night. Doctors also generally won’t encourage the use of retinoids during pregnancy.
Bakuchiol, on the other hand, is known to be gentler on the skin. It doesn’t respond to the sun so you can use it in the day and at night. And most doctors wouldn’t stop you from using it during pregnancy (although you’d want to check with your doctor if you’re intending to do so.)
Top Bakuchiol Skincare Products to Try
The Inkey List Bukuchiol Moisturizer 4.1 stars
This moisturiser is packed with Bakuchiol, Inchi Oil, and Squalane to help target fine lines and wrinkles, as well as smoothen skin texture.
Reviews
I have eczema and it doesn’t irritate my skin. It reduces my fine lines and wrinkles but you have to be consistent. -Jasmin, Sephora
I love this product, it’s lightweight on my skin and does not give me redness like retinol does. -J, Sephora
What We Love
- Affordable anti-ageing solution
- Lightweight texture that doesn’t feel too oily
What To Consider
- Some reviewers feel that it’s not moisturising enough
- Some reviewers dislike the smell.
Purchase Details
The Inkey List Bukuchiol Moisturizer retails for RM78 at Sephora.
Eqqualberry Bakuchiol Plumping Serum 4.9 stars
In a gorgeous purple bottle, this serum contains a high amount of pure bukuchiol and promises to deliver anti-ageing benefits while minimising the appearance of pores.
Reviews
Been using for 2 weeks & I can see a difference in my skin. Pores have [shrunken], skin looks brighter, my cystic acnes which bothered me for months even shrank. -H, Shopee
Skin feels plump the next day and doesn’t irritate your skin. -K, Shopee
What We Love
- Beautiful packaging that makes you look forward to using it.
- Good online reviews
What To Consider
- Somer reviewers say that it caused a reaction and itch on their skin.
Purchase Details
Eqqualberry Bakuchiol Plumping Serum retails for RM73.30 at Shopee. A discount is available at the time of writing.
Facetheory Bukuchiol Firming Daily Moisturiser 5 stars
This moisturiser targets at dryness, uneven skin tone, and sagging skin with its infusion of bakuchiol, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin C.
You’ll also like that it’s gently scented with cold-pressed mandarin essential oil.
Reviews
I use this daily moisturiser daily and it helps with hydration and provides my skin with vitamin C. -Koko, Sephora
Helps with acne scarring. [It’s] a light moisturizer [that’s] not oily. -Cheng Canlas, Sephora
What We Love
- Vegan formula
- A do-it-all product with multiple benefits
What To Consider
- Addition of essential oil could be irritating to sensitive skin.
Purchase Details
Facetheory Bukuchiol Firming Daily Moisturiser retails for RM158 at Sephora.
Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Bakuchiol Eye Cream 4.7 stars
Designed to reduce wrinkles and dark eye circles, this eye cream contains Bakuchiol, Carrot Collagen, and low-molecular Hyaluronic Acid.
Reviews
The formula is SO silky, it’s incredibly hydrating without feeling heavy and blends easily. -F, iHerb
It doesn’t irritate my eyes and keeps the skin well moisturised. I also noticed that that the skin under the eyes looks brighter since using it. -Customer from United States, iHerb
What We Love
- Hydrating texture that absorbs quickly
- No noticeable scent
What To Consider
- There is a reviewer who has developed a reaction to the product, causing swelling.
Purchase Details
Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Bakuchiol Eye Cream retails for RM119 and is available at Watsons.
Esmi Skin Minerals Afterglow Rejuvenating Bakuchiol Serum 4.8 stars
This gentle serum is packed with bakuchiol, squalane and blue tansy, offering rich antioxidants to the skin.
The brand promises that it is safe for pregnancy and breastfeeding, but if you’re concerned, always check with your doctor.
Reviews
Really impressed with this product. [Glowing] finish, so radiant and brightening. -Yasmin, Sephora
I am currently pregnant so I can’t use retinol and this is the perfect alternative, even when I’m not pregnant I will stick with this. I swear my skin already looks better after 3 uses. -Vic, Sephora
What We Love
- Pregnant and breastfeeding safe formula
- Lightweight texture that absorbs quickly.
What To Consider
- You’ll need to follow up with a moisturiser or oil if you need extra nourishment.
Purchase Details
Esmi Skin Minerals Afterglow Rejuvenating Bakuchiol Serum retails for RM195 at Sephora.
