What Is Bakuchiol?
Bakuchiol seems to be a staple in Indian and Chinese medicine. It appears to be derived from plants. One example may be Psoralea corylifolia seeds. In the United States, this extract appears to be a common ingredient in skincare products. Many of these products seem to be available over-the-counter as a possible retinol alternative. It may be an effective alternative since it appears to cause fewer side effects. However, patients may still want to patch-test products first.
It seems that bakuchiol products may be a strong treatment for acne. Some individuals may use a bakuchiol serum as an anti-aging treatment as well. This may be effective. After all, this extract appears to be a plant-based retinol. However, individuals may want to understand more about how it should work first. If it is a potential treatment, they should be able to choose the best bakuchiol products with their knowledge.
How It Should Work
Bakuchiol appears to be a prenylated phenolic monoterpene. It seems to be a plant extract as well. Evidence indicates that it may fight bacteria and inflammation. Some studies suggest that it may work on both Gram-positive and -negative pathogens. Bakuchiol seems to stop the growth of Streptococcus mutans bacteria as well. This extract does not appear to have the same chemical structure as retinol. However, it may still act like retinol and reduce wrinkles and fine lines.
Researchers appear to believe that this extract is anti-aging due to its ability to try preserving cutaneous collagen. It seems that it was first marketed as a skincare treatment in 2007. Many of these benefits appear to be gaining traction. However, the way that bakuchiol works may need significant amounts of additional research.
Reveal information on the possible uses next.
Possible Uses
Bakuchiol appears to be common in Indian and Chinese medicine. It seems to treat many severe medical issues and skin conditions. Practitioners may recommend it for osteoporosis. This extract appears to help with cardiovascular disease as well. In some cases, bakuchiol treats cancer and kidney infections.
This ingredient may help relieve inflammation from several conditions. Two examples seem to be leukoderma and psoriasis. Bakuchiol appears to help relieve hyperpigmentation as well, so it may treat vitiligo. In good news, this extract does not seem to trigger sun sensitivity like retinol. As such, individuals may be able to apply it in the morning. Some patients appear to use bakuchiol to reduce acne breakouts. This seems to work due to its antibacterial properties.
Continue reading to uncover the potential side effects next.
Potential Side Effects
Bakuchiol appears to have a few potential side effects. Using it topically may mean fewer side effects than taking it orally. Thus, patients may only want to take it by mouth if they have discussed it with their doctor first. This extract seems to cause less skin irritation and redness than retinol. However, patients may still want to watch out for these side effects. Other potential side effects may include skin swelling, peeling, and pain. Patients may wish to visit a dermatologist if these effects appear.
Individuals may only want to apply this extract where it is necessary. In addition, they may only want to apply it for short periods. Extended use appears to increase the risk of side effects. Finally, they may need to combine bakuchiol with other products to achieve effective results.
Discover the possible precautions next.
Possible Precautions
Individuals may want to start using bakuchiol once every other day on their skin. They should consider checking for irritation. After a week or two, individuals may be able to increase to daily use if there is no irritation. Some doctors recommend combining bakuchiol with retinol where possible. The combination may result in significant collagen-boosting effects. Bakuchiol may be an appropriate substitute at night for retinol. However, some patients can use it in the morning. In both cases, it seems that clean skin is necessary before applying it. Patients may want to use a gentle cleanser. Of course, they should consider using a moisturizer after bakuchiol as well. It seems as if the quality of bakuchiol impacts its effectiveness at treating acne. Thus, patients may want a dermatologist's recommendation for a quality product. In addition, they should store it away from moisture, heat, and light.
Individuals with medical conditions, especially those who take any medication, may want to ask their doctor before adding bakuchiol to their skincare routine. They may want to do this when they are considering oral use as well. However, it seems conventional practices do not prescribe it orally. This may be why caution is recommended. Significant caution appears to be vital for patients with cancer, heart disease, diabetes, a weak immune system, and those who require chemotherapy.
Discover the details on the potential medication interactions next.
Potential Medication Interactions
Potential medication interactions may exist with bakuchiol. However, this is unclear with oral medications. Thus, patients may want to make a list of everything they take. It seems necessary to include prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements. Their doctor may be able to assess this list to prevent possible interactions. Some individuals may need to stop using bakuchiol with some of them. Others may need different doses.
Ingredients in skincare appear to carry a few potential interactions here. Dermatologists seem to recommend avoiding glycolic acid with bakuchiol. Together, the glycolic acid may make bakuchiol degrade. This may mean that it is less effective. PRescriptions for acne, eczema, and other skin issues may not be appropriate for use alongside bakuchiol. Patients should consider consulting their dermatologist first when they use any prescription treatments. Some over-the-counter products for these issues may also contain ingredients that can conflict with bakuchiol. Thus, patients may want to check these with their dermatologist as well.
