In the world of skincare, few ingredients have earned as much acclaim as retinol. Popular for its ability to minimize fine lines, improve texture, and boost collagen production, retinol has become a staple in anti-aging routines. But there's a catch — many people experience irritation, redness, and sensitivity when using it. Enter bakuchiol, a plant-derived alternative that’s rapidly gaining attention for delivering similar results, without the side effects. If you’re seeking a gentler, plant-powered option, bakuchiol may just be the skincare breakthrough you’ve been waiting for.

What Is Bakuchiol?

Bakuchiol (pronounced buh-koo-chee-all) is a natural compound extracted from the seeds and leaves of the Psoralea corylifolia plant, commonly used in traditional Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine. Although it's relatively new to mainstream Western skincare, bakuchiol has centuries of history for treating skin concerns such as inflammation and hyperpigmentation.

Unlike retinol, which is derived from vitamin A, bakuchiol is a vegan, botanical ingredient — making it a clean beauty favorite. It mimics many of retinol’s benefits, but with a much lower risk of irritation.

How Does Bakuchiol Compare to Retinol?

While bakuchiol and retinol are chemically different, research shows they yield very similar results when it comes to promoting cell turnover and improving visible signs of aging. A 2018 study published in the British Journal of Dermatology compared bakuchiol and retinol head-to-head over a 12-week period. Participants using bakuchiol showed improvements in fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation, and elasticity — just like the retinol group — but reported significantly less irritation [1].

This means bakuchiol can offer:

• Improved skin texture and tone

• Reduction in fine lines and wrinkles

• Boosted collagen production

• Fewer breakouts

• Minimal risk of peeling, dryness, or redness

For people with sensitive skin or conditions like rosacea or eczema, bakuchiol is an appealing option that doesn’t compromise on results.

Benefits of Bakuchiol for All Skin Types

One of the standout advantages of bakuchiol is its versatility. It’s well-tolerated by nearly all skin types, including dry, oily, and acne-prone skin. Here’s why it’s becoming a favorite:

1. Gentle Yet Effective

Unlike retinol, bakuchiol doesn't cause photosensitivity, which means you can use it both day and night. This is a huge advantage for those who want streamlined routines or are exposed to sun often.

2. Rich in Antioxidants

Bakuchiol is naturally high in antioxidants, helping defend the skin from environmental stressors, free radical damage, and premature aging — much like vitamin C or green tea extract.

3. Supports Collagen and Elastin

In vitro studies suggest that bakuchiol stimulates collagen production and regulates gene expression similarly to retinol, helping maintain skin’s firmness and elasticity over time [2].

4. Safe During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Because bakuchiol is not a vitamin A derivative, many dermatologists consider it safe to use during pregnancy and lactation — a time when retinoids are typically off-limits [3].

How to Use Bakuchiol in Your Routine

Bakuchiol can be found in serums, creams, facial oils, and even cleansers. If you’re new to this ingredient, here’s how to get started:

• Cleanse and tone as usual.

• Apply a bakuchiol serum or oil after cleansing.

• Follow up with moisturizer and SPF during the day.

You can safely pair bakuchiol with other skincare ingredients like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and peptides. For best results, use it consistently, ideally twice a day.

Is Bakuchiol Right for You?

If you’ve tried retinol in the past and struggled with flaking, redness, or dry patches, bakuchiol could be the ideal solution. It offers a gentle, natural route to smoother, firmer, and more radiant skin — and does so without compromising your skin barrier.

For those with more resilient skin, bakuchiol can also be used alongside retinol to help buffer irritation or offer support on off-days.

Final Thoughts

Bakuchiol is more than just a trendy skincare buzzword — it's a plant-powered active backed by research and rooted in tradition. As more people seek natural, clean alternatives that don’t sacrifice results, bakuchiol has firmly earned its place in the spotlight.

Whether you’re committed to vegan beauty, looking for a pregnancy-safe retinol alternative, or just want effective skincare with minimal irritation, bakuchiol is a game changer that deserves a spot in your routine.

References

1. Dhaliwal, S., Rybak, I., Ellis, S. R., et al. (2018). Assessment of bakuchiol as a retinol alternative in cosmetic formulations. British Journal of Dermatology, 179(2), 289–296. https://doi.org/10.1111/bjd.16605

2. Chaudhuri, R. K., & Bojanowski, K. (2014). Bakuchiol: A retinol-like functional compound revealed by gene expression profiling and clinically proven to have anti-aging effects. International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 36(3), 221–230. https://doi.org/10.1111/ics.12117

3. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2020). Safe skin care during pregnancy.https://www.acog.org