BAKUCHIOL: THE PLANT-BASED RETINOL ALTERNATIVE THAT WILL TRANSFORM YOUR SKIN

There is a new skincare hero in town! If you’ve been following the buzz, you will have heard about bakuchiol. This gentle, plant-based skincare ingredient is definitely worth the hype! If you’ve ever searched for anti-ageing solutions, how to reduce fine lines or breakouts or get rid of hyperpigmentation, you will most likely have come across this gem – retinol. If not, retinol is a vitamin A derivative that increases skin cell turnover and boosts collagen production, in turn giving you smooth, soft, almost flawless skin. The downside? It can cause some redness, dryness and flakiness. It is also not recommended to use retinol in pregnancy. Hey, we can’t have everything, can we? Actually, that’s exactly where bakuchiol comes in! Great for sensitive skin, this gentle herb is taking skincare by storm.

FEW SKINCARE BENEFITS OF BAKUCHIOL THAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

An extract derived from the seeds and leaves of the babchi plant which grows mostly in India (yay for local!), this fragrant herb has been touted as the gentler, natural alternative to retinol – meaning all the benefits but without the irritating side effects. No wonder this herb is quickly becoming a staple in the skincare industry, especially in Korean skincare. Here are a few of its benefits:

• Boosts skin cell turnover and regeneration
• Stimulates collagen production and smoothens fine lines and wrinkles
• Improves hydration and keeps the skin moisturized while reducing the appearance of pores
• Smoothens skin texture and reduces hyperpigmentation or dark spots
• Reduces breakouts and blemishes
• Restores skin elasticity and keeps the skin firm by preventing sagging
• Keeps whiteheads and blackheads at bay
• Is a potent antioxidant that prevents damage from environmental stressors like pollution
• Does not increase sensitivity to sun, making it safe for day time use
• Soothes redness and heals broken or irritated skin

BAKUCHIOL VS RETINOL: WHAT SHOULD YOU PICK?

So, which skincare ingredient should you pick? Think of bakuchiol as a plant-powered retinol alternative. If you want to reap twice the benefits, try retinol at night and use bakuchiol in the day. Since it doesn’t make the skin photosensitive like retinol, so you can wear it daily – but still follow up with sunscreen, of course.

Moreover, it does not irritate the skin, making it a godsend for those with sensitive skin who cannot tolerate retinol. Whenever you use a new ingredient, always do a patch test by applying the product behind your ear and wait for 24 hours. If you do not face any side effects, you can then use it on your face. Also, it is good to play it safe when using a new product. Start by applying it thrice a week before moving on to daily application so that your skin can accustomize itself to it.

When used with other super ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide or vitamin C, its efficacy is boosted further. It deeply hydrates the skin, giving it a healthy glow. It is also safe to use for pregnant and lactating women. Plus, it is also 100% vegan, toxin free and cruelty free! What’s not to love?

HOW TO USE BAKUCHIOL FOR SKIN

Try the Bravocado Intense Brightening Serum which is loaded with the natural goodness of avocado, pomegranate, rice water, bakuchiol and niacinamide, it brightens skin while hydrating it from within. It has a beautifully silky, lightweight texture that absorbs almost instantly, without any greasy feeling. Plus, the rice water and niacinamide only boost these benefits! Make this serum a part of your daily skincare routine to reap the benefits!