Can you use bakuchiol with squalane?

What does each ingredient do?

Bakuchiol is a plant extract used as a gentler alternative to retinol. It may help improve fine lines, wrinkles, uneven tone and texture. It tends to cause less irritation than retinol, making it an option for sensitive skin. Bakuchiol is not an established substitute for prescription retinoids.2

Squalane is a lightweight moisturizing oil that helps limit moisture loss. It can be useful when skin still feels dry after moisturizer or when a thick cream feels too heavy. Squalane itself is noncomedogenic, meaning it does not clog pores, but other oils in a formula can change how the finished product behaves.1

How do you layer bakuchiol and squalane?

Use the product's format to decide where it goes in your routine, rather than arranging bottles by how impressive their names sound. A bakuchiol serum goes before moisturizer; a bakuchiol cream goes after other serums.2

1. 1Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and gently pat dry.
2. 2Apply your lighter bakuchiol serum before moisturizer. Medication or other skin treatments generally go immediately after cleansing.
3. 3Apply moisturizer if needed, then layer squalane oil over lighter products to help hold moisture in.
4. 4Wear sunscreen during the day, including when using bakuchiol.

Bakuchiol can be used once or twice daily. If you use it twice, apply it in the morning and evening. You can keep moisturizer in the routine if you still need it; adding an oil is not a formal dismissal letter. Squalane also appears in moisturizing creams, so distinguish a separate oil from a cream that already contains it.12

Who should be careful?

Gentler does not mean irritation free: bakuchiol can still cause irritation or an allergic reaction. Fragrances, preservatives and dyes in either product can also trigger sensitive skin. If you use prescription skin treatments or other active products, ask your dermatologist about adding bakuchiol. During pregnancy, speak with your healthcare provider before using bakuchiol; its safety is not settled.12

Before facial use, test each new product on a small area under your arm or at the bend of your elbow. Apply the normal amount twice daily for seven to 10 days and leave it on as you normally would. If redness, itching or swelling develops, gently wash the product off and stop using it. A cool compress or petroleum jelly can soothe the area. See a dermatologist if the reaction is severe and those measures do not relieve it.4