Some cosmetic active ingredients are not recommended during pregnancy due to their harmful effects on fetal development. Retinol, known for its effect on skin aging, is one of them. Presented as a plant-based alternative, bakuchiol raises the question: should pregnant or breastfeeding individuals also avoid it? Find the answer in this article.
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Is bakuchiol an ingredient to avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding?
Summary
Published July 15, 2025,
updated on July 15, 2025,
by
Pauline, Chemical Engineer
—
5 min read
Should bakuchiol be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding?
Pregnant individuals know pregnancy brings dietary, exercise, and cosmetic restrictions. While raw fish, cured meats, soft cheeses, wine, and other foods and beverages are off-limits during pregnancy, the list of prohibited items does not end there and some cosmetic actives cannot be used. Even though these compounds do not penetrate beyond the epidermis in theory, some are suspected of entering the bloodstream and thus reaching the developing fetus or breast milk. This applies to retinoids, potent teratogens that can cause serious mental and physical congenital malformations. The bakuchiol, a natural alternative to retinol, also presents these risks?
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67,6%
of pregnant women over six months surveyed (out of a panel of 250) report not having changed their cosmetic routine during pregnancy.
44%
of pregnant women over six months surveyed (out of a panel of 250) declare seeking information before using a cosmetic product.
Extracted from the seeds of the plant Psoralea corylifolia, also called bakuchi, the bakuchiol shares several properties with retinol. Like retinol, it can stimulate collagen production by fibroblasts, strengthening skin firmness, reducing pigment spots and blemishes, and preventing photoaging. However, these two actives are not identical. Beyond its mild nature, which makes it suitable for sensitive skin, bakuchiol is not subject to any contraindication during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Unlike retinoids, bakuchiol is not classified as a risk during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Its plant origin and distinct chemical structure largely explain this distinction. Although it acts on biological pathways similar to retinol by stimulating collagen synthesis and promoting cell renewal, it does not cause known teratogenic effects. In addition, bakuchiol is associated with fewer irritative reactions than the retinol. It is better tolerated by sensitive skin, including during the pregnancy, a period when skin can be more fragile. Furthermore, the hormonal changes during this time can affect skin and result in blemishes and pigment spots (the so-called pregnancy mask). Capable of addressing these concerns, bakuchiol is a safer alternative to retinol during pregnancy.
Sources
MARCHIO F. & al. Bakuchiol in the management of acne-affected skin. Cosmetics & Toiletries (2011).
Thèse de Mathilde THÉRON. Cosmétiques et femme enceinte : étude prospective et multicentrique auprès de 250 femmes (2012).
CHAUDHURI R. K. & al. Bakuchiol: A retinol-like functional compound revealed by gene expression profiling and clinically proven to have anti-aging effects. International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2014).
DESESSO J. M. & al. Teratogen update: Topical use and third-generation retinoids. British Defects Research (2020).
DEWI N. K. & al. Skin changes and safety profile of topical products during pregnancy. Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology (2022).
SODHA P. & al. The use of bakuchiol in dermatology: A review of in vitro and in vivo evidence. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology (2022).
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