Why You Should Be Using Bakuchiol in Your Skincare Routine
Bakuchiol is a plant-based ingredient that helps smooth fine lines, even tone, and support collagen production without the irritation commonly linked to retinol. It's a smart choice for nearly any skincare routine, especially at night, and is well suited for sensitive or aging skin.
There’s been a quiet shift happening in anti-aging skincare. More people are looking for results without the side effects that come with harsh ingredients. Bakuchiol, a natural extract from the babchi plant, has quickly become a favorite for this reason. It delivers visible improvements in skin texture, tone, and firmness, all without triggering redness, dryness, or flaking.
If you haven’t added a Bakuchiol cream to your skincare routine yet, here’s why now is the right time.
What Does Bakuchiol Do for Your Skin?
Bakuchiol helps improve skin on several levels. It supports collagen and elastin production, smooths the look of wrinkles, and promotes a more even skin tone. It also helps refine texture by encouraging gentle cell turnover, giving the skin a fresher, more radiant appearance over time.
It’s especially helpful for those experiencing the early signs of aging or who are looking to maintain firmness and hydration in the skin.
Does Bakuchiol Actually Work?
Yes, and clinical studies support it. A 12-week double-blind clinical trial found that Bakuchiol provided results on par with retinol for reducing wrinkles and pigmentation, but with significantly less irritation. Participants using Bakuchiol reported less stinging and scaling compared to those on retinol.1
In another study, daily use of a Bakuchiol cream improved crow’s feet, skin hydration, and firmness, again with no irritation reported. Skin appeared more toned and comfortable, even with regular use.2
These results make Bakuchiol a dependable alternative for those who want real change without the risk of discomfort.
Is Bakuchiol as Effective as Retinol?
For many users, yes. Both ingredients improve fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven tone. The key difference is how the skin reacts. Retinol often causes dryness, peeling, and sun sensitivity, especially in the early weeks of use. Bakuchiol, by contrast, achieves similar outcomes with far fewer side effects, making it more tolerable for long-term use.
If you've had to stop using retinol because of irritation, or never started due to sensitivity, Bakuchiol may offer a more comfortable path to visible results.
When Should You Apply Bakuchiol?
Nighttime is the best time to use a Bakuchiol cream. This aligns with your skin’s natural repair cycle, which is most active while you sleep. Applying Bakuchiol before bed gives it time to absorb fully and begin its work supporting collagen and cell turnover overnight.
Our Dream Nighttime Phytocream was designed specifically for this. It combines Bakuchiol with deeply nourishing plant oils and natural actives to help calm, replenish, and visibly improve the skin while you rest.
How Long Does It Take Bakuchiol to Work?
Most people notice early improvements in skin tone and hydration within two to four weeks. Smoother texture and reduction in fine lines typically become more visible after six to twelve weeks of nightly use. These timelines are consistent with those seen in clinical studies.
Because it doesn’t cause irritation, Bakuchiol can be used consistently, which makes it easier to stick with a routine and continue seeing improvement over time.
Bakuchiol offers a clear advantage for those who want smoother, brighter, more even-toned skin without harsh side effects. It’s clinically supported, well tolerated, and fits naturally into a nightly skincare routine. Whether you’re starting to notice early signs of aging or are ready to switch from retinol to something gentler, a Bakuchiol cream can support your goals without compromising comfort.