Is Retinol Bad for Us, Even Potentially Dangerous in Long-Term Use?
Why switch to Bakuchiol?
Bakuchiol is an excellent retinol alternative for anyone sensitive to retinoids. With retinoids getting so much negative press lately and being pulled off the shelves in many markets Bakuchiol is a wonderful replacement.
We often hear skinfluencers and beauty bloggers talk about Retinol and Bakuchiol. While some of them recommend both, some of them choose one over the other. We understand that both ingredients might be new for skincare newbies and people venturing into anti-aging skincare routines. Worry not! We have some answers to common questions.
What is Bakuchiol?
Bakuchiol is a vegan skincare ingredient found in the leaves and seeds of an Ayurvedic plant, colloquially known as Babchi in the Indian and Chinese regions. Also known as Kushtanashini, which translates to skin disease destroyer in Sanskrit, this product has been widely used in skincare for centuries. Derived from this plant, the potent antioxidant Bakuchiol reduces wrinkles and the appearance of pores and improves overall skin texture.
How does Bakuchiol work?
Due to its soothing and relaxing properties, Bakuchiol fights acne, signs of aging, and other skin issues. Since Bakuchiol is a potent antioxidant, it targets free radicals, which cause skin sagging and wrinkles. Furthermore, Bakuchiol based products, when used regularly, can act as a barrier between your skin and external environmental stressors, like dust and pollution, which causes skin damage.
What are the skincare benefits of Bakuchiol Brightening Serum? How often can you use a Bakuchiol Brightening Serum?
In addition to the benefits of anti-aging, reducing signs of skin aging, and healing acne, Bakuchiol Brightening Serum also cools your skin down, making it calmer, more soothed, and healed. It is also said to be an excellent skincare choice for sensitive skin. You can use a Bakuchiol Brightening Serum twice a day after cleansing your skin well.
Is Bakuchiol better than Retinol?
The Bakuchiol vs Retinol or Bakuchiol vs Tretinoin: While Retinol is a highly marketed product for anti-aging and skin improvement, there is more than what meets the eye. Retinol is a type of Retinoid that is made from Vitamin A. While it treats mature skin concerns, it has heavy exfoliating properties that may cause skin peeling, dryness, itchiness, and redness. It is not advisable to be used on sensitive skin. Also, even for normal skin, Retinol should be used along with a calming moisturizer or serum to help the skin from purging. However, Bakuchiol is naturally calming and healing. Therefore, it is safe to say that Bakuchiol is definitely better than Retinol.
Does Bakuchiol cause purging and breakouts?
Unlike Retinol, Bakuchiol doesn’t cause skin purging and can be used twice daily on all skin types. Although purging and exfoliation can be beneficial for the skin, another alternative is a manual exfoliation with our Four Way Exfoliating Cleanser and our Glowing Glycolic Polish.
Both are safe and effective, and it is much easier to control the benefits without the long-term effects or causing sensitivity like Retinols.
Who should use Bakuchiol?
Anyone in their 20s and above can use Bakuchiol Brightening Serum for various skin concerns. It suits all skin types, colors, and textures.
Is Bakuchiol safe during pregnancy?
Many studies have shown that Bakuchiol is safe to be used during pregnancy. Some studies even show that Bakuchiol can be used as a Retinol alternative during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
How Can You Incorporate Bakuchiol Brightening Serum into your skincare routine?
If you are using only Bakuchiol Brightening Serum, the steps are simple. Cleanse your face, apply a good Bakuchiol Brightening Serum from BeautySmart Skincare. This product has the soothing and healing properties of Bakuchiol, without any purging retinoids and is safe for all skin types. Finish off your daycare regime with a moisturizer like our Get Back to Youth Complex or Aloe Me To Calm Moisturizer. During the nighttime, you can incorporate some Gua Sha stone massage and finish the routine off with our favorite Ultra Rich Drama Night Creme moisturizer.
Bakuchiol Brightening Serum can safely be used post-laser treatments targeting skin rejuvenation like the Picoway Filter or the eLos Plus Photofacial, both available at BeautySmart Medical Spa, The best Med Spa in Boca Raton.
Summary
Retinol and bakuchiol are both skincare ingredients known for their anti-aging properties, but they have some key differences:
- Source:
- Retinol is a form of vitamin A, typically derived from animal sources.
- Bakuchiol is a natural compound found in the seeds and leaves of the Psoralea corylifolia plant, also known as the babchi plant.
- Mechanism of Action:
- Retinol works by increasing cell turnover and stimulating collagen production in the skin. It can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation.
- Bakuchiol also works by stimulating collagen production but does not affect cell turnover in the same way as retinol. It has been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective for improving skin texture and tone.
- Potential for Irritation:
- Retinol is known to cause skin irritation, especially in the form of dryness, redness, and peeling, particularly when first starting to use it. Some people may experience sensitivity to sunlight while using retinol.
- Bakuchiol is generally considered less irritating than retinol, making it a suitable alternative for those with sensitive skin or who cannot tolerate retinol.
- Sun Sensitivity:
- Retinol can increase sensitivity to the sun, so it’s important to use sunscreen daily and avoid excessive sun exposure while using retinol products.
- Bakuchiol does not increase sun sensitivity to the same extent as retinol, although it’s still important to use sunscreen as part of a daily skincare routine.
- Availability:
- Retinol is widely available in various skincare products, including creams, serums, and treatments, and is a common ingredient in many anti-aging formulations, but has recently been taken off the shelf.
- Bakuchiol has gained popularity recently and is increasingly used in skincare products marketed as natural or plant-based alternatives to retinol.
- Efficacy:
- Retinol has been extensively studied and is considered one of the most effective anti-aging ingredients available in skincare, however European markets have banned the use of Retinols and many experience adverse effects like burning, redness, or peeling from retinol.
- Bakuchiol has shown promising results, but more research is needed to understand its long-term effects and efficacy compared to retinol fully.
In summary, retinol and bakuchiol can effectively improve the appearance of aging skin, but they have different mechanisms of action and potential for irritation. Individuals may choose one over the other based on their skin type, tolerance, and personal preferences.
