You might have heard of Bakuchiol, the skincare ingredient on the rise. But what is it, and what are the best budget-friendly Bakuchiol products right now? Discover these vegan top picks.

What is Bakuchiol?

Bakuchiol is a plant extract, coming from the leaves and seeds of the Babchi plant. It’s been used for centuries in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine to treat inflammation and redness.

In skincare, Bakuchiol is often described as the plant-based alternative to Retinol.

Bakuchiol vs Retinol

Whilst Bakuchiol comes from a plant, Retinol is a vitamin A derivative. Both offer similar benefits: they help target signs of ageing, reduce hyperpigmentation and acne, improve skin firmness and elasticity.

But Retinol can be a little harsh on the skin, causing dryness and peeling. On the other hand, Bakuchiol is less irritating and would be more suitable for those who had irritation with Retinol or have skin conditions such as rosacea.

The ideal concentration of Bakuchiol is between 0.5% and 2%.

Bakuchiol can be used day and night, As it encourages cell turnover, it is important to finish your skincare routine with a layer of sunscreen!

The best budget-friendly Bakuchiol skincare right now

The INKEY List Bakuchiol Moisturiser

Suitable for all skin types, this moisturiser keeps your skin supple and hydrated whilst helping reduce the appearance of fine lines. The formula is infused with 1% Bakuchiol as well as Squalane and Sacha Inchi Oil.

Super lightweight, it’s the ideal day and night moisturiser in Summer.

RRP: £12.99 - Find it on The INKEY List, Cult Beauty or Sephora

Bybi Bakuchiol Booster Serum

This powerful booster serum is the perfect addition to your evening skincare routine. It only contains 2 natural ingredients: 1% Bakuchiol blended into a Squalane base (derived from Olive).

The lightweight fluid gets quickly absorbs by your skin and works while you sleep, improving your skin texture and elasticity.

RRP: From £13 - Find it on Lookfantastic, Holland & Barrett or Amazon

Versed Press Start Gentle Retinol Serum

This gentle night serum combines both Retinol and Bakuchiol (as well as another, less well-known Retinol alternative called Arophira.

With encapsulated Retinol that reduces irritation, the formula is especially designed for sensitive skin and those who are new to Retinol and want to refine their skin tone as well as skin texture.

RRP: £20 - Find it on Cult Beauty or Lookfantastic

Facetheory Bakuchiol Firming Daily Moisturiser

Particularly recommended for oily and combination skin, this mattifying moisturiser is brimming with highly effective ingredients.

The stars of the show are Bakuchiol to promote cell turnover, Rice Starch absorbs excess oil to help control shine, Vitamin C to improve skin brightness and plumping Hyaluronic Acids to retain moisture.

RRP: £24 - Find it on Facetheory

PSA LIQUID CLARITY BHA & Bakuchiol Blemish Recovery Booster

Packed with 2% BHA (an exfoliant), 2% Zinc PCA and 1% Bakuchiol, this treatment is perfect to target breakouts, brighten the complexion and refine skin texture.

The formula is also enriched with Willow Bark, Black Cumin Oil and Licorice Root Extracts which contribute to reducing the appearance of acne scars and tightening the pores.

RRP: £28 - Find it on Allies of Skin or Cult Beauty

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