Is Bakuchiol Safe During Pregnancy?
Bakuchiol is often marketed as a "plant-based retinol alternative." It is not a retinoid and does not carry the known pregnancy risks of retinol, but published data in pregnancy is limited. It is generally considered lower risk, so many choose it as a gentler option while keeping routines simple and well moisturised.
How bakuchiol works
- It is a phenolic compound from the babchi plant (Psoralea corylifolia).
- Studies show retinol-like effects on collagen and pigmentation without the same irritation profile in non-pregnant users.
- No teratogenic signal like retinoids has been established, but pregnancy-specific data is sparse, so caution is prudent.
How to use it gently
- Start 2-3 nights a week, then increase if your skin tolerates it.
- Pair with a hydrating moisturiser and daily mineral sunscreen.
- Avoid combining with strong peels or high-dose vitamin C if you are sensitive.
When to avoid or pause
- If you are already irritated or peeling from other actives.
- If your clinician prefers you skip all "retinol-like" products; lean on niacinamide, peptides, and azelaic acid instead.
- If you notice stinging or redness, pause for a week and focus on barrier care.
Good companions
- Niacinamide: for tone and barrier.
- Ceramides and hyaluronic acid: to keep skin calm.
- Mineral sunscreen: protects progress and prevents pigmentation.
- Gentle cleansers and balms from our safe list:
- Apotheke • Pure Castille Facial Wash • 100 (use diluted if dry).
- CeraVe • Hydrating Cleanser • 76 (bland base AM/PM).
- Doctor Rogers RESTORE® • Doctor Rogers RESTORE® Restore Healing Balm • 100 (seal in moisture).
Simple routine example
- AM: Gentle cleanser → Niacinamide serum → Moisturiser → Mineral SPF 30/50.
- PM (2-3x/week): Gentle cleanser → Bakuchiol serum/cream → Moisturiser.
- PM (off nights): Gentle cleanser → Ceramide or peptide serum → Moisturiser.
Evidence and references
- Overview of bakuchiol as a retinol alternative (PubMed): https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/
- ACOG on skin changes in pregnancy: https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/skin-conditions-during-pregnancy
- NHS guidance on pregnancy skincare basics: https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/related-conditions/common-symptoms/skin-changes/
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FAQs
Is bakuchiol safe while pregnant?
Bakuchiol is not a retinoid and has no known teratogenic risk, but data is limited. It is generally considered lower risk than retinol.
Can I replace retinol with bakuchiol?
Yes, if you want a milder routine. Pair with sunscreen and moisturiser; avoid stacking with strong peels.
Can I use bakuchiol while breastfeeding?
Evidence is limited; most consider it lower risk than retinoids, but discuss with your clinician.
