Retinol and Bakuchiol

One day, I received a sales call on my smartphone. Normally, I would hang up because I’m busy, but on that day, the salesperson's voice was pleasant, so I decided to listen for a bit. However, I was so focused on their voice that I didn’t pay much attention to the content. I’m really sorry about that.

 

The salesperson asked me, "Do you know about retinol?" I thought, oh, I need to respond… and I felt a bit flustered.

 

Retinol is an anti-aging ingredient, so it became clear that the salesperson knew my age was in my 40s. However, I only had a vague impression of retinol, and as someone who uses vegan cosmetics, I was concerned about whether it was animal-based or plant-based. When I asked the salesperson, "Is the retinol used animal-based or plant-based?" they hesitated, sounding uncertain. After all, not many people in Japan use vegan cosmetics.

 

Nevertheless, since I had heard about retinol, which I thought might be beneficial (I’d like to think it wasn’t just for their hourly wage), I decided to look into both retinol and its vegan alternative, bakuchiol.

What is Retinol?

Retinol is a type of vitamin A that is widely used in skincare as an anti-aging ingredient. It promotes cell turnover and helps stimulate collagen production, improving wrinkles, dark spots, and skin texture. It is also expected to smooth the skin and create an even tone, making it a popular ingredient for those aiming for anti-aging results.

Drawbacks of Retinol

Retinol has several drawbacks:

- Strong Skin Irritation: It can cause redness and dryness, especially for those with sensitive skin, and may result in a tingling sensation when first used.

- Increased Light Sensitivity: Retinol makes the skin more sensitive to sunlight, so caution is needed for daytime use.

- Often Animal-Derived: Retinol is frequently derived from animals, which may make it unsuitable from a vegan perspective, necessitating a check of ingredient lists.

What is Bakuchiol?

Bakuchiol is a plant-derived ingredient extracted from the seeds of the Babchi plant. Similar to retinol, bakuchiol promotes collagen production and supports the improvement of wrinkles and dullness, but it is characterised by being much less irritating to the skin. Bakuchiol is a natural ingredient with antioxidant properties that help keep the skin hydrated while maintaining elasticity, though individual results may vary. Importantly, bakuchiol does not contain animal-derived ingredients, making it a safe alternative for vegans.

 

Furthermore, bakuchiol has been traditionally used in Ayurveda. In Ayurveda, the Babchi plant is believed to promote skin health and reduce inflammation, making it a valued plant for skin healing and improvement since ancient times. Therefore, bakuchiol is a credible option in natural remedies, merging ancient wisdom with modern skincare.

 

Additionally, bakuchiol has been reported to be effective against acne. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties help balance the skin and inhibit the growth of bacteria that cause acne. By controlling oiliness and preventing clogged pores, bakuchiol is suitable for those struggling with acne.

Similarities and Differences Between Retinol and Bakuchiol

 

Both retinol and bakuchiol are effective for anti-aging, helping to reduce wrinkles and improve skin tone. However, their properties differ significantly. Retinol is a derivative of vitamin A, known for its strong effects but can easily irritate the skin, necessitating careful use.

 

In contrast, bakuchiol is plant-based, with very little irritation, making it appealing for those with sensitive skin or beginners. Additionally, bakuchiol can be used day or night, offering ease of use. While retinol, as a type of vitamin A, is prone to instability from UV rays, restricting daytime use, bakuchiol has no such limitations and is less affected by UV exposure. Moreover, while retinol can be too strong for sensitive skin, bakuchiol is milder, making it a good option for those who struggle with retinol.

How to Use Bakuchiol

Bakuchiol is incorporated into various skincare products, including creams, serums, and oils. Typically, after cleansing, you would apply toner to prepare the skin, then gently massage a bakuchiol-infused serum or cream into the skin. Bakuchiol is suitable for daytime use and can be safely used in the morning or evening since it’s less susceptible to UV damage compared to retinol. It is also a component that can be recommended to a broad audience, including those with sensitive skin or those following a vegan lifestyle.

 

Additionally, bakuchiol is effective for acne care, utilising its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties to suppress bacteria that cause acne and reduce inflammation. By using bakuchiol-infused oils or creams, you can maintain skin health while supporting the prevention and treatment of acne.

 

As a result, I regret to inform the salesperson that I do not use retinol-containing cosmetics. Both retinol and bakuchiol have beneficial effects on the skin, but considering vegan and sensitive skin perspectives, bakuchiol is a gentler and more sustainable choice. Furthermore, bakuchiol’s traditional use in Ayurveda highlights its appeal as a natural option for maintaining skin health. Its suitability for acne care also makes it very useful for a wide range of skin concerns.

 

I encourage you to choose the right ingredient that suits your skin type and lifestyle, and incorporate it into your daily skincare routine.