If you’ve ever tried retinol and found yourself dealing with dryness, flaking, or redness, you’re not alone. Retinol, the gold-standard ingredient for smoothing fine lines and boosting cell turnover, has a reputation for both delivering results and causing a ‘purge period’ that can test even the most dedicated skincare lover’s patience. Enter bakuchiol (pronounced bah-koo-chee-all), a plant-derived compound that’s rapidly becoming the beauty world’s favourite retinol alternative.
What is bakuchiol?
Bakuchiol is extracted from the seeds and leaves of the Psoralea corylifolia plant, used in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. In skincare, it’s been gaining popularity for offering many of the same benefits as retinol. The benefits include improved skin texture, reduced fine lines, and a more even tone, but without the harsh side effects.
Several peer-reviewed studies have found that bakuchiol can stimulate collagen production and speed up cell turnover, much like retinol. The difference? Bakuchiol is gentler, making it ideal for sensitive skin types or for those who can’t tolerate retinoids during the day (yes, bakuchiol can be worn in the sun).
Bakuchiol has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which means it can help soothe the skin while it works. For people with rosacea, eczema, or reactive skin, it’s a game-changer.
Retinol vs. Bakuchiol
Bakuchiol is often called the plant-based retinol alternative, but what does that mean? While both ingredients work in similar ways, they’re far from identical. Retinol, a synthetic or animal-derived form of vitamin A, is celebrated for boosting collagen, smoothing fine lines, and improving skin elasticity, but it can also cause dryness, redness, and increased sun sensitivity. Bakuchiol, on the other hand, is plant-derived and offers similar benefits without sting or sensitivity.
Who should use bakuchiol?
Bakuchiol can work for almost every skin type, from oily to dry to sensitive. This is especially useful if you’ve experienced irritation from retinol in the past or want to start an anti-aging routine without the adjustment period. Bakuchiol is also a pregnancy and breastfeeding-safe option.
Bakuchiol was traditionally used for its soothing and healing properties, which means that if you have acne or rosacea, Bakuchiol can be a good option for you.
How to incorporate it into your skincare routine
Like any typical retinol, I advise that you slowly introduce bakuchiol into your routine. After all, your skin needs time to adjust to your new skincare regimen.
Because it’s gentle, you can layer it with other actives like vitamin C or AHAs. This will give you an all-around glow.
To maximise its benefits and protect your skin barrier, pair it with hydrating humectants like hyaluronic acid, moisture-sealing emollients such as ceramides or squalane, and calming niacinamide for added brightening and oil control.
My bakuchiol product recommendations:
Bakuchiol isn’t here to replace retinol entirely. Retinol is still the fastest route to visible results. But if you want a gentler path to smoother, brighter skin, this plant-powered alternative might just be the skincare world’s best-kept secret.
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