Retinol or vitamin A is, arguably, the most revolutionary skin care ingredients to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles in the last decade. Why? It’s designed to improve the plumpness of your visage that diminishes overtime as we lose collagen.
However, retinol is not a one size fits all solution. There’s a catch: Retinol can wreak havoc on sensitive skin types. Causing irritation and rendering a host of creams and serums as too harsh.
Finally, there’s an alternative. Cue: Bakuchiol. A completely natural retinol alternative that’s vegan, super gentle and causing a buzz in the beauty world.
The plant derivative was first used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine and is derived from the Indian babchi plant. “Bakuchiol has been shown to have antioxidant and soothing properties, as well as antibacterial properties,” Sejal Shah, a certified dermatologist, told Allure.
“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 photodamage,” she says.
Moreover, the British Journal of Dermatology found that bakuchiol is just as effective as retinol when it came to addressing signs of ageing, but that it was also was less irritating. Like retinol, bakuchiol targets the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and lack of elasticity and firmness. In the studies, it significantly decreased wrinkle surface area and helped with hyperpigmentation.
Here, the best bakuchiol products to add to your skincare routine.
The Best Bakuchiol Products To Buy In Australia
Habitual Beauty Rejuvenating Facial Oil, $120, Sephora
This facial oil swiftly absorbs, targeting hyperpigmentation and wrinkles. It contains Bakuchiol, a rival to retinol in treating fine lines.
- Delivers instant hydration and plumping
- Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Support skin barrier function
Medik8 Bakuchiol Peptides 30mL, $110, Adore Beauty
Promotes a more youthful-looking complexion, this lightweight serum harnesses the power of 1.25 per cent bakuchiol in an oil-based formula.
- Helps to plump the skin
- Helps to calm and even skin tone
- Give a visibly brighter, more even complexion
- Suitable for use both day and night
Cosmedix Bakuchiol Complete Plant-Based Retinol Alternative Serum 30ml, $84.50, Adore Beauty
A deeply hydrating retinol alternative, this formula is designed to diminish the look of fine lines and wrinkles, leaving skin revitalized. Designed to be gentle, for a more radiant complexion.
- Vegan, botanical alternative to retinol
- Helps to reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles
- Helps skin appear brighter
- Improves skin tone and texture
KORA Organics Plant Stem Cell Retinol Alternative Serum 30mL, $104, Adore Beauty
This milky serum is designed for dual action: skin smoothing and firming as well as antioxidant protection. It’s made to provide anti-aging support without irritation and is certified organic.
- Targets visible signs of ageing
- Restores skin’s firmness
- Protects against environmental aggressors
- Provides antioxidant protection
Mesoestetic Age Element Anti-Wrinkle Night Cream, $179, Adore Beauty
This night treatment cream is designed to smooth and plump the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It’s renewing to the skin, helping it appear rejuvenated.
- Revitalising night cream
- Helps improve the look of fine lines, wrinkles, tone and elasticity
- Nourishing formula with rich cream texture
The Inkey List Bakuchiol Moisturiser, $26, Sephora
This plant derived moisturiser has antioxidant properties to reduce the appearance of ageing and plump the complexion, as well as evening out the tones in your skin.
- Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- A natural alternative to retinol
- Hydrating and nourishing
