Modern skincare is increasingly based on effective yet well-tolerated active ingredients. In response to growing market expectations and the continuous development of formulation technologies, more attention is being given to ingredients inspired by the activity of retinoids. One of them is bakuchiol – a plant-based active ingredient widely used in modern skincare products.

Bakuchiol is derived from the plant Psoralea corylifolia and is increasingly described as a “retinol-like” ingredient. This means its activity focuses on supporting skin renewal processes, improving skin elasticity and helping to even out skin tone, while maintaining a high tolerability profile. Thanks to this, it is also suitable for products designed for sensitive skin.

The growing importance of bakuchiol in the context of market changes

With regulatory changes in the European Union regarding the use of selected forms of vitamin A in cosmetics, manufacturers and cosmetic brands are increasingly evaluating alternative technological solutions. In this context, bakuchiol is gaining importance as an ingredient that enables the development of effective skincare formulations while maintaining a high safety profile.

This does not mean replacing retinoids, but rather expanding the portfolio of active ingredients used in modern cosmetology and cosmetic manufacturing.

Properties of bakuchiol in skincare cosmetics

Bakuchiol is highly valued for its broad spectrum of skincare benefits. Key properties include:

• support of collagen synthesis and improvement of skin elasticity
• antioxidant activity supporting protection against oxidative stress
• support in improving skin tone uniformity
• high tolerability profile
• favorable stability in cosmetic formulations

From a technological perspective, bakuchiol shows good compatibility with many active ingredients used in cosmetics, such as peptides, ceramides, niacinamide and ingredients supporting the skin barrier.

Applications of bakuchiol in cosmetic manufacturing

Bakuchiol is widely used across different cosmetic product categories, particularly in facial skincare. It is most commonly used in:

• anti-aging serums and emulsions
• dermocosmetics supporting the skin barrier
• cosmetics designed for sensitive skin
• skin barrier repair products
• retinol-like formulations

Thanks to its formulation stability, bakuchiol is an attractive ingredient from the perspective of contract manufacturing and the development of stable, technologically repeatable formulations.

Bakuchiol – an ingredient still actively studied

Despite its growing market popularity, bakuchiol remains an actively studied ingredient. Current scientific research focuses on understanding its mechanisms of action, optimal use levels, interactions with other active ingredients and long-term safety profile.

Bakuchiol in modern cosmetic manufacturing

For cosmetic manufacturers, selecting the right active ingredient is only part of the process. Proper technological implementation is equally important. This includes selecting the appropriate concentration, delivery system, formulation stabilization and confirming performance through application and instrumental testing.

If you would like to learn more about manufacturing possibilities using retinol-like ingredients or implement bakuchiol into your product portfolio – contact us to explore manufacturing possibilities.