Bakuchiol as Retinol Alternative: Benefits, Usage, and Combination
Question
I'd like to share information about Bakuchiol as a new ingredient in Thailand, which is popular abroad and serves as an alternative to Retinol (not prescription retinoic acid) for individuals with sensitive or easily irritated skin, pregnant women, or those who react poorly to Retinol. Based on research:
- Bakuchiol may be comparable or better than Retinol in some aspects for anti-aging.
- It's not Retinol but acts similarly with potentially broader mechanisms.
- Research supports its use for wrinkles (0.5%), acne (1-2%), Antioxidant effects (0.5%), and Photoaging (0.5%).
- It can be applied during the day and enhances Antioxidant effect.
- Collagen stimulation: Bakuchiol inhibits MMP-1 + 12 better than Retinol, Bakuchiol stimulates collagen 1,3,4 better than Retinol.
- Hydration and barrier: Bakuchiol can stimulate Aquaropin3, which opens water channels.
- Acne: 1% Bakuchiol shows better results than 2% BHA over 2, 4, and 6 weeks and inhibits P-acne. It can be used with BHA.
- Whitening: Don't expect too much from whitening, it might help a little.
- Results require continuous use for at least 3 months.
My specific question is: Can Bakuchiol be used together with Retinol?
Answer
Thank you very much for sharing this valuable information about Bakuchiol! It's truly great that Bakuchiol is a good alternative for those with sensitive skin, pregnant individuals, or those who have issues using Retinol.
Here are the key points you shared about Bakuchiol:
- It is a good alternative or potentially better than Retinol in some aspects for anti-aging.
- It is not Retinol but acts similarly with potentially broader mechanisms.
- Supported by research for wrinkles (0.5%), acne (1-2%), antioxidant effects (0.5%), and Photoaging (0.5%).
- Can be used during the day and enhances antioxidant effects.
- Stimulates certain types of collagen (Collagen 1, 3, 4) and inhibits MMP-1 + 12 better than Retinol.
- Helps with hydration and skin barrier by stimulating Aquaporin3.
- Effective for acne (1% Bakuchiol is better than 2% BHA over 2-6 weeks) and inhibits P-acne. Can be used with BHA.
- May help with whitening to some extent, but it's not its primary strength.
- A good Retinol alternative for those with sensitive skin, who cannot use Retinol, or are pregnant (excluding prescription Retinoic acid).
- Requires continuous use for at least 3 months to see results.
Regarding your question, "Can it be used with Retinol?"
Based on the information you shared, yes, it can be used together with Retinol or Retinal. This is because Retinol is still better in some mechanisms, and using them in combination can be beneficial, especially for older individuals, to achieve more comprehensive results.
Thank you again for this valuable contribution!
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