Bakuchiol

I. General Information

A. Scientific Name:

Bakuchiol (derived from Psoralea corylifolia)

B. Alternative Names:

Babchi extract, Psoralea oil, Plant-based retinol, Corylifolia extract

C. Pronunciation:

bah-koo-chee-ol

II. Sourcing and Origin

A. Source:

Extracted from the seeds and leaves of the Babchi plant (Psoralea corylifolia), a leguminous plant valued in traditional medicine.

B. Geographic Origin:

Native to India and widely found in China, Sri Lanka, and other subtropical Asian regions.

C. Method of Processing:

Bakuchiol is obtained through solvent extraction or cold pressing of Babchi seeds and leaves, followed by purification and isolation to produce a stable, pure active compound suitable for skincare formulations.

III. Properties and Uses

A. Physical Properties:

Appearance: Pale yellow to golden oil or crystalline extract

Texture: Light and easily absorbed when used in skincare formulations

Aroma: Mild herbal, slightly nutty scent

Solubility: Lipid-soluble (dissolves in oils, not water)

B. Chemical Composition:

Primary compound: Bakuchiol

Other components: Flavonoids, psoralen derivatives (in raw Babchi), antioxidants, and natural phenols

Free from retinoic acid or vitamin A but mimics retinol’s cellular activity

C. Primary Uses:

Skincare:

Anti-aging, anti-wrinkle, and skin-renewing agent

Promotes collagen production and skin elasticity

Reduces hyperpigmentation and acne

Haircare:

Supports scalp health through antioxidant protection

May help reduce inflammation that contributes to hair thinning

Wellness:

Traditional use in Ayurveda for skin disorders like vitiligo and psoriasis

May support skin healing and regeneration when applied topically

Culinary:

❌ Not edible. Bakuchiol and Babchi extracts are not used in foods due to their potency and phototoxic compounds in raw form.

Household:

Occasionally used in eco-beauty formulations and natural product development, but not for general household use.

D. Key Benefits:

Natural alternative to retinol without irritation

Improves fine lines, texture, and firmness

Safe for sensitive and daytime use (non-photosensitizing)

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties

Biodegradable and sustainably sourced

IV. Safety and Considerations

A. Potential Allergies:

May cause mild irritation or redness in rare cases

Avoid unrefined Babchi oil on skin due to possible photosensitivity

Patch test recommended before first use

B. Best Practices for Use:

Use 0.5%–2% Bakuchiol in skincare formulations

Safe to apply both day and night

Store in dark glass bottles away from sunlight

Combine with nourishing oils like squalane, jojoba, or argan for balance

C. Special Precautions:

Avoid using raw Babchi oil directly on skin

Not recommended for internal use

Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult a healthcare professional before use

V. Fun & Educational Facts

A. Historical Context:

Bakuchiol’s source, the Babchi plant, has been used for over 1,500 years in Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine. It was known for treating skin conditions and promoting an even complexion. The isolated compound “Bakuchiol” was first discovered in 1966, and in recent years has gained recognition as a natural, vegan alternative to retinol in clean beauty formulations.

B. Did You Know?

🌱 Bakuchiol provides retinol-like results without increasing sun sensitivity, making it suitable for daytime skincare.

💧 It’s one of the few natural actives proven in studies to stimulate collagen at a cellular level.

♻️ Bakuchiol-based products support sustainable farming of Babchi plants, promoting biodiversity-friendly agriculture.

C. DIY Recipe Idea:

Simple DIY Bakuchiol Facial Oil

1 tbsp jojoba oil

1 tbsp squalane oil

4–6 drops of pure Bakuchiol extract (1–2%)

Mix and store in a dark glass dropper bottle.

Apply 2–3 drops to clean face at night.

(Always patch test before full application.)