Comparison of the Cosmetic Effects of Bakuchiol and Retinol

Comparison of the Cosmetic Effects of Bakuchiol and Retinol

Subjects will be assigned to a retinoid cream or bakuchiol to compare the cosmetic effects. This will take place over a 12 week period.

Bakuchiol is a phytochemical that has demonstrated cutaneous antiageing effects when applied topically. Early studies have suggested that bakuchiol is a functional analogue of topical retinoids, as both compounds have been shown to induce similar gene expression in the skin and lead to improvement of cutaneous photodamage. No in vivo studies have compared the two compounds for efficacy and side-effects.

The aim of this study is to compare the cosmetic effects of Bakuchiol to Retinol over a 12-week period.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Individuals aged 30-55

Exclusion Criteria:

• Adults unable to consent
• Individuals who are not yet adults (infants, children, teenagers)
• Pregnant or breast feeding women
• Prisoners
• Those with acne, eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, rosacea or polycystic ovarian syndrome
• Those who have used isotretinoin in the last 6 months
• Those who have used products containing salicylic acid, beta hydroxyl acids or vitamins A, C, or E in the last 14 days
• Those who have used topical antibiotics or topical retinoids in the last 30 days
• Those who are currently smoking or have smoked within the past 3 years.
• Those who have had a recent surgical or cosmetic procedure in the last 3 months that can affect facial wrinkles or facial hyperpigmentation, such as botulinum toxin injections, chemical peels, laser based therapies to the face, or face lift surgeries