Skincare Ingredient Bakuchiol May Do Wonders For Your Hair, Too

If you are a skincare enthusiast, you may already know about bakuchiol. For those who are unfamiliar, bakuchiol is a natural ingredient that, like retinoids, could have the power to increase collagen production (via Everyday Health). "While more studies are needed, I suspect that bakuchiol may improve skin tone and texture in a similar fashion to over-the-counter retinoids," explained board-certified dermatologist Dr. S. Tyler Hollmig. Adding bakuchiol to your skincare routine can have many benefits, but experts are discovering it may also be good for haircare.

Hair stylist Gabriel Llano told Glamour that incorporating bakuchiol into your haircare regimen can up your strands' shine and make them stronger. "The reason it adds shine is that, like when bakuchiol is used on the skin, it exerts a slight exfoliation on the hair fiber, which eliminates residues and enhances the hair's shine," he stated. Although it may seem like a simple addition, slotting bakuchiol into your routine can make a significant difference in the appearance of your hair.

If you want to add bakuchiol to your hair routine, there are several ways to do so. The most common method is to use scalp treatments. According to Living Proof, scalp treatments restore hair health by removing dead skin, adding hydration, and repairing any irritation. Over time, they should significantly improve your hair quality if you select the appropriate ingredients for your individual concerns. If you are not confident in doing it yourself, a licensed hairstylist who offers bakuchiol treatments can step in and monitor your hair and scalp.

Alternatively, you could apply serums to your hair. As explained by L'Oréal Professionnel, hair serums are liquid products that help safeguard the hair and address various challenges like frizz. When using a bakuchiol serum, you can apply it to your scalp every day. Per Napa Beauty, this can be a great way to keep your hair long and strong.

Though bakuchiol may prove to be a great ingredient for your hair, it should be used with caution. "There is still a risk of sensitivity, including redness, dryness, or stinging of the skin, especially with initial use," warned board-certified dermatologist Marisa Garshick, MD, while speaking to Everyday Health. Garshick advised to start using bakuchiol slowly to reduce the risk of these side effects and then work your way up to daily use. Pregnant women should consider steering clear of it altogether, as it hasn't been studied enough to determine if it will have a negative impact on their unborn children.

It's also important to be aware of what ingredients you mix bakuchiol with. Luma & Leaf stated that bakuchiol and glycolic acid don't play well together. This is because glycolic acid can hinder the effectiveness of bakuchiol. For the best results, it's recommended to use hyaluronic acid or squalene for moisturizing benefits.