"Chances are, if you’ve ever even stepped in a CVS beauty aisle, you’ve heard of retinol. It’s tried and true, it’s dermatologist-recommended, and it’s up there with sunscreen when it comes to benefits. It only makes sense that beauty brands have begun to explore plant-based alternatives to this results-driven ingredient, and they found one: bakuchiol.
Obvious pronunciation queries aside, bakuchiol (buh-cooch-ee-all—you’re welcome) is a retinol-like compound derived from the Indian babchi plant. It’s not new; in fact, Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine practitioners have long used bakuchiol to treat various skin ailments. Only recently has it become more popular on the retail scene, showing promise for its ability to improve signs of photodamage, just like retinol. I asked skin experts (and retinol enthusiasts) for their advice.
Retinol’s Storied Reputation
“In terms of topical ingredients, retinol is the closest thing doctors have to the fountain of youth,” said Dr. Lamees Hamdan, founder and CEO of Shiffa. “It helps boost collagen production, speed cellular turnover, and unclog pores.” She also explained that retinol reduces fine lines and wrinkles, evens out discoloration, and makes pores appear smaller—a pretty legit benefit list.
But retinol is not without downsides, namely its tendency to induce redness, sensitivity, and flaking. Prescription tretinoin (often called Retin-A) in particular “can be quite aggressive on the skin. Few people can tolerate it, especially those with sensitive or very dry skin types,” Dr. Hamdan said.
The Gentler Option
Like retinol, bakuchiol targets fine lines, wrinkles, and lack of elasticity and firmness. Lest you associate its natural origins with a downgrade in effectiveness, consider this: Findings from a double-blind, 12-week study published in the British Journal of Dermatology show that bakuchiol performed similarly to retinol. It significantly decreased wrinkle surface area and hyperpigmentation and was found to be less irritating, resulting in reduced stinging and scaling.
There are also some notable differences between the two ingredients. Bakuchiol is not retinol and has no structural resemblance to retinoids, according to a 2014 study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science.
In fact, “it’s an antioxidant-type ingredient similar in effect to resveratrol,” said Joanna Vargas, celebrity facialist and founder of Joanna Vargas Salons and Skincare. “Studies have shown that bakuchiol boosts collagen production without the worry of inflammation like you would have with retinol. It’s nice for anyone who has had trouble with retinol in the past.”
As anyone who’s experienced post-retinol burn, dryness, or itchiness knows, an ingredient that rivals its results without irritation is a pretty big deal. Worth noting: Bakuchiol is also vegan, unlike some retinol sources.
When to Use Bakuchiol
Should you make the switch to bakuchiol? “Bakuchiol looks very promising and is an alternative for those who can’t tolerate even the gentlest retinoids,” Dr. Hamdan said. But she advised sticking with vitamin A derivatives if you’re tolerating them well, calling them the “holy grail” of skincare.
To incorporate bakuchiol into your routine, Vargas suggested using it like you would a retinol serum and applying it at night after cleansing.
Expect to see more of this trendy ingredient popping up in natural formulations. In the meantime, here are a few standouts:
To get all the best benefits of bakuchiol, this serum pairs it with soothing niacinamide and hydrating hyaluronic acid to improve your skin now and as you continue to use it.
Most bakuchiol serums are paired with oils that might not be suitable for oily or acne-prone skin, but this one uses tramella mushroom to hydrate instead. It also included a polyhydroxy acid to lightly exfoliate, making this ideal for smoothing skin texture.
This hybrid product is the perfect moisturizer for oily skin or serum on dry skin. It's lightweight and hydrating but promises a big difference in skin after a few weeks.
Retinol is often very irritating on the under-eyes, which makes bakuchiol the perfect addition to your routine if you want firm, plump under-eyes. This one is ideal for all skin types and even contains brightening vitamin C.
Instead of adding another step to your skincare routine, this thick night cream will tighten and tone your skin over time (and leave you ultra-hydrated in the process).
If you're weary of an active ingredient that could make your ultra-dry skin somehow more dry (relatable), this oil contains 1% bakuchiol suspended in super moisturizing squalane oil.
Plus, this clean formula is at Target for less than $10. A steal.
If fine lines and wrinkles are your concern, the combination of pre and probiotics and squalane round out this bakuchiol oil.