Resveratrol and Bakuchiol: Powerful Allies in Skincare
What is Resveratrol?
Resveratrol is a powerful antioxidant with healing and restorative properties. It belongs to a class of polyphenolic compounds found in grapes (especially red grapes), blueberries, cocoa powder, peanuts, and other legumes. This compound helps plants heal after injury and defend against parasites and fungi.
Benefits for Skincare
Resveratrol is a potent anti-aging ingredient when formulated correctly. It effectively traps free radicals, which are byproducts of natural physiological reactions and external factors like pollution. Free radicals can damage skin constituents like collagen and keratin, leading to premature aging. Resveratrol also has germicidal properties, preventing outbreaks and skin infections. Additionally, it absorbs UVB radiation, offering protection against harmful sunlight. Its small molecular weight and compact structure allow it to penetrate deeply into the skin, protecting collagen and maintaining skin elasticity and suppleness.
Incorporating Resveratrol into Your Routine
Resveratrol is best used in serums due to its solubility in alcohols rather than water. Look for products containing glycerin, butylene glycol, octyldodecanol, and dispersing agents like PEG-7 glyceryl cocoate or polysorbates. For optimal results, apply resveratrol serum 2-3 times a day, after cleansing and before moisturizing. Allow time for the serum to penetrate before applying moisturizer. An effective concentration of resveratrol in skincare products is around 1%.
Favorite Products with Resveratrol
Look for serums with the mentioned solvents and humectants. Light daily moisturizers with resveratrol can also be beneficial, but serums are generally more effective for deep penetration and collagen protection.
What is Bakuchiol?
Bakuchiol is a terpene with an alcohol group, found naturally in the “bakuchi” flower. Terpenes are known for their pleasant smells and are secreted by plants for defense against germs or to attract pollinators. Bakuchiol has not yet been synthesized in a lab.
Benefits for Skincare
Bakuchiol is an antioxidant and anti-aging ingredient with strong anti-inflammatory properties. It acts as a natural preservative for skincare products and is believed to promote collagen regeneration, similar to retinol but without the risk of irritation. Bakuchiol also has antibacterial properties, making it beneficial for skin health.
Incorporating Bakuchiol into Your Routine
Bakuchiol is best formulated in oil-based toners and serums containing alcohols and dispersing agents for better penetration. Combine with Vitamin E or BHT to preserve its properties. Apply bakuchiol after cleansing, followed by a moisturizer with Vitamin E. Optimal concentration is around 1%.
Favorite Products with Bakuchiol
Oil-based toners rich in squalene and triglycerides are ideal for delivering bakuchiol to the skin’s inner layers, protecting and restoring collagen for youthful elasticity.