Bakuchiol Serum vs Bakuchiol Oil – Which One Is Right for You?

You may now know of Bakuchiol as a standout ingredient, hailed as the plant based, natural alternative to retinol . But with both bakuchiol oil and bakuchiol serum being available in the market, you may wonder - what’s the difference? How does it benefit the skin? Can one use bakuchiol oil for acne?

To satisfy your curiosity, we’ve put together a brief guide explaining everything you need to know.

What Is Bakuchiol Oil?

Bakuchiol or Bakuchi oil is the latest obsession of the skincare experts. But it is not new, in fact , it has long been a prized component of ancient Chinese and Indian medicine for its gentle skin healing properties.

Bakuchiol oil is extracted by cold pressing the seeds of Psoralea corylifolia also known as Babchi plant . This light golden elixir obviously cannot prolong your life. But it can do plenty of other things . It can slow down the signs of aging, clear acne, dark spots and hyperpigmentation.

Bakuchiol contains the rich essence of powerful linoleic acid and antioxidants that activate the production of collagen and elastin in the skin making it soft and supple.
Mimicking the effects of retinol , bakuchiol oil can be an alternative for those with sensitive skin.

What Is Bakuchiol Serum?

Now, a serum is nothing but a skincare product that has been designed to target specific skin concerns like dryness, acne or wrinkles. Since it's lightweight, our skin absorbs it quickly and efficiently . Applying serums at the end of your skincare routine but before a moisturiser is the trick.

Bakuchiol serum is another derivative of Bakuchiol plant. Tough on results but gentle in approach, it's a formidable competitor to retinoids. With both having similar functions, who is the winner among the bakuchiol vs retinol discourse?

Well , for one, bakuchiol serum doesn't cause irritation and can even be used by pregnant women. It can be applied during both day and night time. 

High on the team spirit, bakuchiol serum can be coupled with vitamin C serum to double the benefits.

Though retinol shows better and faster results , bakuchiol takes a slow and steady approach. Above all, unlike retinol, bakuchiol has no adverse side effects on skin.
Now it comes down to you as a judge to decide who is the winner in your books.

Key Differences Between Bakuchiol Oil and Bakuchiol Serum

Though both bakuchiol oil and bakuchiol serum are the derivatives of the same plant their differences arise from their formulation, texture and purpose.

• Formulation

Where Bakuchiol oil contains bakuchiol and carrier oils , bakuchiol serum is a water based formula with a high concentration of active ingredients like bakuchiol, vitamin C or peptides.

• Texture 

Bakuchiol oil has a thicker texture. It feels richer and leaves a shiny glow on application . On the other hand, the serum has a lightweight and non-greasy formula that can be easily absorbed by our skin.

• Purpose or Use 

If you're looking to provide intense hydration and nourishment to your skin , bakuchiol oil is your pal. But, if your aim is to treat skin concerns like acne and hyperpigmentation you should opt for the bakuchiol serum.

How to Choose Between Bakuchiol Serum and Bakuchiol Oil

Still having difficulty deciding what aligns the best with your needs ? Here are some quick tips to sort out the confusion.

Consider your skin type - Is it oily? sensitive ? dry ? What concerns are you hoping to address ? What formulation do you prefer? And voila, we have your golden combination.

If you are searching for an easy to carry and non- oily blend then bakuchiol serum is the perfect option for you. It is lightweight and can be easily grouped with other skincare products. 

However, if you want intense nourishment, bakuchiol oil is what you need to go for . It is a natural agent without any additional concentration and has calming effects on the skin. A gentle moisturizing remedy, bakuchiol oil reverses sun damage and scars.

Can You Use Bakuchiol Serum and Bakuchiol Oil Together?

The answer is yes. A possible way of using both the ingredients together can be - prepare a face mask by mixing a few drops of bakuchiol oil with yogurt and rose water, and apply it on your face . Wash your face with water , then apply a few drops of bakuchiol serum and follow it up with a face cream.

Conclusion

Both bakuchiol oil and bakuchiol serum offer their own unique set of benefits . Though the full potential of this ingredient has still not been realised , it is highly valued for its rejuvenating properties that rival retinol. Including this skin booster to your skincare routine can be a much welcome move.