If you’ve researched anti-aging skincare lately, you may have come across something known as bakuchiol (pronounced buk-koo-chee-awl). Bakuchiol is often described as a more natural alternative to retinol or as a plant-based retinol alternative. But what is bakuchiol, and why the need to replace retinol, an anti-aging powerhouse?
Retinol has amazing anti-aging benefits, but if you wax with us, you probably know that waxing and retinol don’t mix well. Essentially, both retinols and waxing are a form of exfoliation, however, retinols are known to cause irritation and make skin more fragile. Using retinol products and waxing simultaneously can damage the skin. We recommend that our clients stop using retinol products 7-10 days before coming in for a wax to protect the skin, ensuring the best results. So, does that mean you have to give up the anti-aging benefits of retinol in order to have the smoothest skin possible? Not anymore! Enter: bakuchiol. That’s why we love bakuchiol.
Bakuchiol is a more natural alternative to retinol. It’s derived from the seeds and leaves of the babchi plant and has been used in Indian Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine practices for years. Like retinol, it’s an antioxidant, but unlike retinol, it doesn’t lead to dryness or irritation, which means you don’t have to stop using it to wax.
What’s the Difference Between Bakuchiol and Retinol?
Retinol is the gold standard in anti-aging skincare, as it promotes skin cell renewal and stimulates collagen production. It’s the third strongest retinoid, a Vitamin A derivative, and the strongest that’s available without a prescription. While very effective, it can also lead to dryness and irritation, it isn’t safe to use before a wax or for people with sensitive skin. In a small study, participants who used retinol reported a rougher skin texture, and more stinging. Retinol can also make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. And, for the mamas-to-be out there, doctors don’t recommend using retinols during pregnancy, as they can have harmful effects on the baby’s health.
Like retinol, bakuchiol helps prevent fine lines and wrinkles, and help improve pigmentation, elasticity, and firmness. It works through the same receptors that retinol does, but without the harsh side effects. This plant-based alternative has proven to be a more tolerable alternative, particularly for users with sensitive skin. Vegan-approved, this plant-based alternative is a great choice for beauty lovers interested in a cruelty-free, more natural anti-aging product. And unlike retinol, bakuchiol doesn’t increase light sensitivity, which makes it a great choice for summer (but you still need to wear your sunscreen!). As for pregnancy, there hasn’t been enough conclusive research, but most sources agree that bakuchiol is safe to use during pregnancy.
Essentially, bakuchiol provides the same benefits as retinol, without the negative side effects. It’s a safe, natural alternative to retinol that you don’t have to stop using to wax!
Are Plant-Based Retinol Alternatives Better than Retinol?
If you ask us, this decision is as easy as deciding to add a lash lift to our lash tint! In the case of bakuchiol, the answer is definitely yes. Bakuchiol products have all of the benefits of retinol, plus more, with none of the side effects. If you’re looking for a retinol alternative that will deliver the same powerful anti-aging benefits, bakuchiol is for you! Even if retinol isn’t currently irritating your skin, we recommend giving bakuchiol a try for its natural benefits and the decreased sun sensitivity.
How to Use Bakuchiol
We love bakuchiol almost as much as we love waxing and we don’t think you should have to choose between achieving the perfect brow while enjoying the anti-aging benefits of retinol! That’s why we developed an exclusive line of bakuchiol based products so you don’t have to!. Most bakuchiol products, such as Herbivore’s bakuchiol serum, are serums or oils that you apply as part of your nightly skincare routine. We went beyond to bring you a comprehensive line. You can find them in our studios. Trust us, you won’t be disappointed.
Bakuchiol Eye Cream
Your under-eye area is the most delicate part of your skin, which is why our bakuchiol eye cream treats it that way! Full of antioxidants and moisturizers, it helps firm, brighten and de-puff under-eye skin. Like retinol, it has powerful anti-aging benefits, without irritating this sensitive area.
To use it, apply a pea-sized amount onto your ring finger. Gently pat along your lower eyelid, from the corner of your inner eye to your brow bone, to distribute it. Use morning and night for the best results.
Bakuchiol Face Oil
This bakuchiol face oil will be your new skincare go-to and anti-aging best friend. It helps prevent the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, maintains skin’s elasticity and smoothness, and gives you a gorgeous youthful glow. It’s fast-absorbing and full of restorative omegas and antioxidants, which makes it quick and easy to use.
Apply morning and night after cleansing and toning, but before moisturizing.
Bakuchiol Body Cream
You can enjoy bakuchiol’s benefits for your whole body with our bakuchiol body cream. Say goodbye to dry, itchy skin and hello to soft, supple hydration. Vitamin C works to brighten the skin, while caffeine reduces inflammation and puffiness. This body cream will help improve elasticity and tighten the skin, while also reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
To use it, simply apply as needed.
Bakuchiol Lip Balm
If you struggle to find non-irritating lip products, you’ll love our bakuchiol lip balm. It moisturizes, soothes and softens your lips, while helping to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
To use, apply a small amount as needed.
