Bakuchiol serum is becoming a go-to ingredient in many skincare products, with more brands incorporating it into their lines. You can even whip up your own all-natural version using babchi oil, which is derived from the babchi plant, and tailor it to suit your skin’s needs. This recipe is packed with antioxidants that help tackle signs of aging and blemishes.
I’ve explained before how bakuchiol differs slightly from babchi oil. Bakuchiol is a specific compound from the babchi plant, providing a powerful punch on its own, but the entire plant offers additional benefits when used together. While both are popular in skincare, babchi oil is the pure, pressed seed oil from the plant.
Many bakuchiol serums on the market come with lengthy ingredient lists and hefty price tags. That’s what inspired me to create a DIY version of this serum. I chose babchi seed oil because it’s less processed than bakuchiol and blends well with oils. Although bakuchiol can dissolve in oil, it tends to blend best with alcohol or specific chemicals. If you have bakuchiol, you can still use it—just a few drops should do, as it’s quite concentrated and could irritate your skin if overused.
Bakuchiol is often hailed as a good retinol alternative since both help reduce fine lines and enhance skin texture. However, people with sensitive skin sometimes experience side effects from retinol, and specialists advise against using it during pregnancy due to its potential toxicity.
Babchi oil or bakuchiol offers numerous skincare benefits. They both act as brightening moisturizers for various skin types and can improve skin tone. The babchi plant is also traditionally used in various medicinal practices. It’s a popular anti-aging ingredient because of its antioxidant and firming traits and also helps with breakouts and acne-prone skin. Unlike retinol, which can clash with other exfoliants or toners, bakuchiol pairs well with other skincare ingredients like vitamin C, squalene, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, aloe, or niacinamide.
In this recipe, I’ve mixed babchi oil with carrier and essential oils that are beneficial for mature skin. Even if you’re not in that phase of life, these oils can offer protection and help reduce aging signs. Many of these ingredients are versatile, also fitting oily and acne-prone skin. If your skin tends to be oily, grapeseed oil is a lighter substitute for avocado oil in this recipe.
A note of caution: Ylang ylang essential oil should not be applied topically above 0.8% according to safety guidelines. This formula keeps it at 0.5%, but if you have very sensitive or damaged skin, use it carefully or skip it altogether.
For those who prefer not to make their own serum or gather all the ingredients, there are some healthier options available. These natural bakuchiol serums are paraben-free, cruelty-free, and rated at least four stars.
Since this serum is oil-based, I apply it after cleansing and toning. Some experts suggest following up with a daily sunscreen, though I don’t personally use or advocate for sunscreen every day for various reasons.
The content here has been reviewed by Dr. Madiha Saeed, a board-certified family physician. Remember, this is not personalized medical advice, and it’s always best to consult with your doctor. What do you look for in a facial serum, and have you ever tried bakuchiol or babchi? Let me know in the comments!
