By Dr. Nixcela Ares, Founder of Dr. NAR Beauty

Bakuchiol is a natural phenol first isolated in 1966 from the Psoralea corylifolia seed (a purple plant) and was called Bakuchiol. Psoralea corylifolia is widely used in India and China to treat a variety of diseases. In addition to Psoralea corylifolia, Bakuchiol has also been isolated from other plants such as Prosopis glandulosa among others. The first commercial uses in topical applications started in 2007.

What are the properties of Bakuchiol?

• It has been reported to have anticancer activities in preclinical models, possibly due to its structural similarity with Resveratrol (a potent antioxidant). Chinese studies suggest that Bakuchiol could protect against bone loss.
• Bakuchiol possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-bacterial properties. It has shown activity against numerous Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogens.
• Bakuchiol was found to have retinol functionality through retinol-like regulation of gene expression. Studies comparing Bakuchiol with Retinol showing that bakuchiol improves pho-aging (wrinkles, hyperpigmentation) but has a better skin tolerance than Retinol.
• Bakuchiol has been found to possess anti-androgenic activity in prostate cancer cell which inhibited cell proliferation.
• Bakuchiol products may help decrease acne lesions and lessen the appearance of hyperpigmentation left over by acne spots.
• Bakuchiol helps our skin to remove the dead skin cells and replace them with new, fresh skin cells giving the appearance of smoother skin, and a more even skin tone.
• Bakuchiol is a natural alternative and a great option for those who shop  for vegan and clean products with skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis.

Can Bakuchiol be used under the eyes?

Bakuchiol is safe even for sensitive skin. Moisturizers enriched with Bakuchiol visibly reduce dark circles, fine lines and wrinkles.

Does Bakuchiol build collagen?

Like retinoids, bakuchiol appears to stimulate collagen-producing receptors in the skin.

Does Bakuchiol cause sun sensitivity?

Bakuchiol studies have demonstrated that, it does not cause the skin irritation and sun-sensitivity that occurs in the skin of many who use retinol products.

Is Bakuchiol good for rosacea?

Bakuchiol is excellent for persons with sensitive skin such as rosacea due to the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

Is Bakuchiol good for Acne?

Bakuchiol has been clinically proven to be more efficient that salicylic acid and to reduce acne by 48% after 6 weeks. It could be an ally for both teenagers with sensitive skin and adults with oily skin.