| Name | Bakuchi |
| INCI Name | Psoralea Corylifolia |
Bakuchi is also known as Babchi, which is known for its purple blossoms and has been used in Chinese and Indian medicine. It’s often used as a gentler alternative to retinol, particularly for people with sensitive skin. It aids in exfoliation, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
What is Bakuchi?The plant from which Bakuchiol is primarily derived is called Psoralea corylifolia. It's also commonly known as Bakuchi in Ayurveda, and sometimes Babchi. It's native to India, where it grows widely, especially in the semi-arid regions of Rajasthan and parts of Punjab and Uttar Pradesh. You'll also find it across Southeast Asia (like China, Malaysia, Vietnam) and some parts of Africa.
Bakuchi has a very long history of use in Ayurvedic medicine (India) and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), dating back thousands of years.
In traditional Ayurvedic practice, Bakuchi was often used with caution due to its "Ushna Virya" (hot potency) and the presence of furocoumarins (like psoralen) which can cause sun sensitivity. This is why modern Bakuchiol is often processed to remove these compounds for safer cosmetic use.
Bakuchiol is the specific meroterpene phenol (a type of natural chemical compound) that is isolated and extracted from the seeds and leaves of the Psoralea corylifolia plant.
It's called "nature's retinol." Even though its structure is different, research shows Bakuchiol activates similar genetic pathways and receptors in skin cells that retinoids do. Bakuchiol directly encourages skin cells (fibroblasts) to produce more collagen types I and VII. Collagen is the main protein that gives skin its structure, firmness, and elasticity.
Unlike retinoids, Bakuchiol rarely causes dryness, peeling, redness, or sensitivity. This makes it suitable for people with sensitive skin and individuals looking for a gentler anti-aging option. Unlike retinol, Bakuchiol does not increase your skin's sensitivity to the sun. This means you can use it confidently both in your morning and evening skincare routines.
Bakuchiol is generally compatible with most other active skincare ingredients (like Vitamin C, AHAs, BHAs, Niacinamide), unlike retinol which can have specific compatibility issues. This makes it easier to integrate into existing skincare routines.
What does Bakuchi do to your skin?Bakuchi offers significant anti-aging benefits by stimulating collagen production, which effectively reduces fine lines and wrinkles. It also visibly brightens skin by reducing hyperpigmentation and uneven tone, all while being gentle and well-tolerated, unlike traditional retinols.
Found in WHITE SLATEFound in Silk Cream which gently refines skin texture, reduces the appearance of fine lines, and promotes a smoother, more radiant complexion without irritation.
