Bakuchiol (inci)

Bakuchiol (CAS number: 17015-60-0) is a meroterpene phenol that occurs abundantly in the plant Psoralea corylifolia. Bakuchiol is classified as a "cosmeceutical" active ingredient with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. In traditional Chinese and Indian medicine, Psoralea corylfolia is used to treat diseases such as psoriasis and leprosy. Recently, Bakuchil has been offered as an "effective and gentle retinol alternative".

Although bakuchiol has no structural similarity to retinoids, it can act like a retinol analog by regulating gene expression in a retinol-like manner (Puyana C et al. 2022). Bakuchiol has been studied primarily for its effects on photoaging, acne and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and has shown positive results comparable to those of topical retinoids. Notably, bakuchiol does not cause any of the adverse effects commonly associated with topical retinoids, such as burning and flaking, allowing for wider use in patients with sensitive skin (Greenzaid J et al. (2022).

1. Greenzaid J et al. (2022) The Use of Bakuchiol in Dermatology: A Review of In Vitro and In Vivo Evidence. J Drugs Dermatol 21:624-629.
2. Puyana C et al. (2022) Applications of bakuchiol in dermatology: Systematic review of the literature. J Cosmet Dermatol 21:6636-6643.