Why bakuchiol is a smarter alternative to retinol
Retinol has long been a go-to for visible results, but it comes with drawbacks. It’s one of the most recommended, tried-and-tested actives that’s proven to stimulate collagen production, smooth wrinkles, even texture and improve hyperpigmentation. Retinol can transform skin. But common side effects are redness, irritation, dryness and peeling. Because it’s so active, retinol needs to be introduced gradually, and skin often looks worse before it improves.
So the introduction of plant-derived, retinol-alternative bakuchiol has got the skincare world buzzing. It delivers the same benefits as retinol but none of the irritation.
How bakuchiol supports smoother, stronger skin
Extracted from the babchi plant native to India, bakuchiol has a long history in Ayurveda for its soothing, calming, antibacterial and antioxidant properties. Although not the same as retinol chemically, it encourages skin cells to behave in a similar way. It boosts collagen and elastin production, speeds up cell turnover and targets hyperpigmentation.
What makes bakuchiol effective
A 2018 study in the British Journal of Dermatology showed that bakuchiol achieves the same improvements to skin as retinol but without side-effects. It smooths lines and wrinkles, plumps, fades discoloration, evens skin tone, and helps improve overall skin texture and tone.
Why bakuchiol works for every skin type
Bakuchiol is gentle enough for all skin types, even sensitive, dry or inflamed, and during pregnancy. And as another major advantage over retinol which causes dryness and irritation, antioxidant-packed bakuchiol soothes and heals as it gets to work. It’s especially beneficial for darker skin tones, where retinol can trigger post-inflammatory pigmentation.
How to use bakuchiol in your daily routine
Gentle enough to use morning and evening, apply bakuchiol onto skin in a serum before moisturizer. Although it doesn’t increase sensitivity to the sun like retinol, you should always follow up with SPF in the mornings to prevent further damage to skin.