Retinol has been praised in the beauty sphere for its ability to promote new cell growth, showing visible results for the skin in a matter of weeks. However, this potent ingredient doesn’t necessarily work for everyone, especially for those with sensitive skin. Despite its benefits, retinol is also known to cause irritation and even burns when applied in heavy dosages.
Enter bakuchiol – a plant extract that allows you to reap the results of retinol without leaving your skin in an angry, red state. The plant garnered a following with its use in traditional Ayurvedic medicine and is now making a strong showing in modern skincare.
“Bakuchiol functions similar to retinol, increasing cell turnover, thereby stimulating collagen production and diminishing signs of ageing such as fine lines, wrinkles, skin laxity and overall photo damage.”
Sejal Shah, New York-based dermatologist
With the support from industry papers and facts, these bakuchiol-infused products might just be the fix you need to tackle acne-prone skin or anti-ageing in general.
Biossance Squalane + Phyto-Retinol Serum
This creamy, lightweight serum with bakuchiol smooths the look of lines and wrinkles while stimulating collagen production for a youthful complexion. With the support of 100% plant-derived squalene and niacinamide, your skin tone will also improve in time.
Available on Sephora
Oskia Super 16 Serum
This fragrance-free serum is packed with 16 nutrients and bio-actives to strengthen the deeper layers of skin. With bakuchiol, the formula can suppress the effects of melanin-producing cells and help reduce the appearance of age spots and pigmentation.
Available on Net-a-Porter
StriVectin S.T.A.R Light Retinol Night Oil
The bakuchiol-infused product uses an advanced formula that combines three separate synergistic retinol technologies that mimic the skin’s natural processes for speedy results. This night oil also works perfectly for daytime, since it’s non-greasy.
Available on ulta.com
Alpyn Beauty PlantGenius Melt Moisturiser
A weightless super-hydrator that effortlessly preps the skin for make-up, this combo of bakuchiol and tripeptide-29 encourages collagen production, while using ceramides and squalene seals in moisture for hours to come.
Available on amazon.com
Ole Henriksen Goodnight Glow Retin-ALT Sleeping Crème
Looking for a quick fix for your groggy and slightly flaky complexion? This rich cream helps exfoliate the skin’s surface to allow fresher skin to glow through for that baby-butt-smooth sheen overnight. The introduction of Edelweiss stem cells helps firm and improve elasticity.
Available on boots.com
Bonus:
Esse Resurrect Serum
Created especially for sensitive and sensitised skin, the serum features extracts from Myrothamnus flabellifolia, a Namibian plant that is known as the ‘Resurrection Plant’, for its immense hydrating properties. The formula marries the power of probiotics with biotechnology for an anti-ageing and deep-hydrating effect that last up to 24 hours after a single application.
Available at Esse physical stores
See also: Add oil: The best facial oils for every complexion
