Comprehensive review of the skin use of bakuchiol: physicochemical properties, sources, bioactivities, nanotechnology delivery systems, regulatory and toxicological concerns

Abstract

Bakuchiol is a meroterpene that has recently aroused great interest in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. Its main source is the seeds of Psoralea corylifolia, a medicinal plant native to Asia, despite having a wide geographical distribution. However, this medicinal herb faces endangerment due to low seed germination rates and high seedling mortality. In this context, this review article highlights studies that have focused on describing plant regeneration from root fragments. Subsequently, given its morphological similarity to other species, a technique that can be used to verify the authenticity of the plant and prevent counterfeiting is also mentioned and explored. Additionally, a “green” extraction method for obtaining bakuchiol is presented, and the possibility of obtaining bakuchiol through chemical synthesis routes is also explored. Furthermore, we provide an exhaustive description of bakuchiol's wide range of biological activities, with particular relevance to the skin. The main skin bioactivities of bakuchiol include antifungal, antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiaging, depigmenting, and anticancer. However, the particular physicochemical properties of bakuchiol require and benefit from the development of innovative skin delivery systems that allow its encapsulation. These include micro- and nano-sized systems for therapeutic and cosmetic applications, which are also carefully described in this review article. Finally, regulatory issues, metabolic considerations, and toxicological concerns related to the use of bakuchiol in cosmetic and dermopharmaceutical formulations will be addressed, relating not only to the user but also to the environment.

Graphical abstract