Bakuchiol has become one of skincare’s most talked-about botanical actives - but unlike many trending ingredients, there is meaningful human research behind it.

Bakuchiol is a plant-derived molecule that is chemically different from retinol, although researchers have found that it can influence some of the same skin pathways.

In a prospective, randomised, double-blind clinical trial, 44 participants used either 0.5% bakuchiol twice daily or 0.5% retinol once daily for 12 weeks. Both groups showed significant improvements in wrinkle surface area and hyperpigmentation, while people using retinol reported more scaling and stinging.

There is an important distinction: this study investigated photoageing, not teenage acne. We therefore do not use it to claim that bakuchiol treats acne. What the study does provide is credible human evidence that topical bakuchiol is biologically active and can improve measured aspects of skin appearance.

Why we use it at Zanna

Bakuchiol - in the form of Sytenol® A - is a key active in Zanna Clarifying Moisturiser, selected as part of a formulation created to support clearer, smoother and balanced-looking skin.

Scientific references

• Dhaliwal S et al. British Journal of Dermatology. 2019;180(2):289-296. PMID: 29947134. DOI: 10.1111/bjd.16918.