The strongest clinical evidence: a 2019 randomized, double-blind 12-week trial in the British Journal of Dermatology (n=44) found 0.5% bakuchiol and 0.5% retinol produced comparable reductions in wrinkle surface area and hyperpigmentation, with retinol users reporting significantly more facial scaling and stinging
Eng found that Gila monsters secreted a salivary venom peptide, now known as exendin-4
This combination promotes a natural, enzyme-based fat breakdown , with bromelain helping to degrade the proteins that support fat cells, lecithin acting as an emulsifier, and riboflavin supporting energy metabolism for gradual fat elimination
To achieve the best outcomes, more sessions could be needed for larger or more difficult-to-reach areas
Qi et al., 2005
Some patients also report hair thinning during rapid weight loss periods, which typically resolves once weight stabilizes