SKINLUMIS
← Skinlumis Library

Bakuchiol

INCI: Bakuchiol
Also known as: Babchi extract, Psoralea corylifolia extract
RetinoidsantioxidantbotanicalModerate evidencePregnancy safe
86
Skinlumis Rating
Comedogenic
1/5
Irritancy
1/5
Best applied
Both
Effective range
0.5%–2.0%
How It Works

A meroterpene from Psoralea corylifolia seed that produces retinol-like effects on gene expression without retinoid irritation. Functionally validated as a pregnancy-safe alternative to retinol.

Activates retinoid-response genes (collagen I, III, IV; aquaporin-3) without binding RAR receptors directly. Acts as a potent antioxidant and inhibits 5-α-reductase peripherally.

pH Range
4.0–8.0
Benefits
  • Retinol-like anti-aging without irritation
  • Pregnancy-safe
  • Antioxidant
  • Gentle on sensitive skin
  • Suitable for AM and PM use
Proven For

What the evidence supports.

Fine linesPhotoagingHyperpigmentation
Best For
  • Sensitive
  • Mature
  • Normal
  • Reactive
Avoid If

No notable contraindications reported.

Layering Order
6/10

Later treatment or moisturiser step.

Max Safe Concentration
2.0%

Concentration range in well-formulated products: 0.5%–2.0%

Seasonal Use

Year-round; especially valuable in summer when retinoids are tapered.

Nutrition Connection

Plant-derived; no dietary equivalent.

Skin Signals When You Need It
  • Loss of elasticity in retinoid-intolerant skin
For Estheticians & Professionals

True pregnancy-safe retinoid alternative. Layer freely with acids, bakuchiol is pH-stable from 4–8.

Notable Research
  • Dhaliwal et al. 2019, split-face vs 0.5% retinol; equivalent wrinkle reduction with less irritation
  • Chaudhuri & Bojanowski 2014, gene-expression overlap with retinol >80%
Clinical Evidence

The research behind Bakuchiol.

4 peer-reviewed studies

Every claim on this page traces to published research. Findings below are drawn from randomized trials and systematic reviews, each links to the study on PubMed.

Systematic Review
Oral collagen peptides at 2.5-10g daily significantly improved skin elasticity and reduced wrinkle depth after 8-12 weeks across 11 RCTs.
Choi FD, Sung CT, Juhasz MLW, Mesinkovska NA
Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2019
View Study →
Systematic Review
Estrogen deficiency following menopause causes 30% reduction in skin collagen within the first 5 years.
Wilkinson HN, Hardman MJ
Maturitas, 2017
View Study →
Systematic Review
Chronic psychological stress elevates cortisol, accelerating skin aging through collagen degradation and barrier disruption.
Chen Y, Lyga J
Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets, 2014
View Study →
Randomized Controlled Trial
Daily sunscreen use reduced photoaging markers by 24% over 4.5 years compared to discretionary use.
Hughes MCB, Williams GM, Baker P, Green AC
Annals of Internal Medicine, 2013
View Study →
Pairs Well With
Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid)Hyaluronic AcidNiacinamidePeptides (Matrixyl)
Conflicts With

No flagged conflicts. Still, patch-test new actives.

Your Skin Compatibility

Sign up to see how Bakuchiol fits your skin archetype and personalised protocol.

The science behind Bakuchiol

3 studies from the Intelligence Vault that discuss Bakuchiol.

Browse the Vault →