Name

Bakuchiol

Has some considerations

Description

Bakuchiol is a plant-based compound derived from the seeds and leaves of the Psoralea corylifolia plant, commonly known as babchi. It is gaining popularity in the skincare industry as a natural alternative to retinol due to its similar anti-aging and acne-fighting properties, but without some of the common side effects associated with retinoids, like irritation or sun sensitivity. Bakuchiol is a monoterpene phenol, and while it has no structural similarity to retinol, its effects on the skin mimic many of retinol’s benefits.

Benefits

Has been found to suppress the growth of cancerous skin cells. Can help with the production of collagen in skin, reducing hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, and other signs of aging.

Considerations

• Environmental Concerns High amounts of bakuchiol introduced in to the environment have long-lasting effects on aquatic life. • Skin Irritation Regular use can lead to skin sensitivity, scaling, and irritation. • Photosensitivity Can make skin more sensitive to the sun. Avoid sun exposure after a bakuchiol treatment. • Loses Effectiveness Over Time Your skin can acclimate to the use of bakuchiol and it can lose its anti-aging effects over time.

Synonyms

4-(3,7-Dimethyl-3-vinylocta-1,6-dien-1-yl)phenol 4-(3-Ethenyl-3,7-dimethyl-1,6-octadienyl)phenol (S)-(+)-Bakuchiol 4-[(1E,3S)-3-ethenyl-3,7-dimethylocta-1,6-dienyl]phenol Phenol, 4-[(1E,3S)-3-ethenyl-3,7-dimethyl-1,6-octadienyl]- (S,E)-4-(3,7-Dimethyl-3-vinylocta-1,6-dien-1-yl)phenol

Research Sources

https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/5468522 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4924739/

Summary

Generally safe as used in cosmeceuticals, phototoxicity and skin irritation being the main risks. Can lose effectiveness over time.