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For many, the anti-aging effects of retinol skin products are only a dream for their sensitive skin, which becomes inflamed by the powerful potency of the Vitamin A derived cosmetic ingredient.
Retinol can offer a combination of benefits for certain skin types, like improving fine lines and wrinkles, promoting collagen production, reducing acne and even protecting against sun damage.
Retinols are a type of retinoid, which the National Institute Health describes as “molecules that bind to and activate retinoic acid receptors to influence the proliferation and differentiation of cells.” For skin, this means that retinol moves beneath the outer layer of the skin for deep penetration that leads to new cell turnover and collagen production.
However, for some gurlies, this process doesn’t exactly go as planned.
Bakuchiol, a gentler plant-derived alternative to retinol, is a suitable option for those experiencing high levels of irritation from retinols. Plus, it layers with other skin-boosting ingredients that don’t tend to mesh well with retinol.
Azza Halim, MD, a board-certified physician and anesthesiologist told Hello Gurl why bakuchiol is such a standout skin superhero, and even shared her favorite bakuchiol products.
Bakuchiol Benefits Sensitive Skin
Whether someone has a diagnosed skin condition or just generally sensitive skin, bakuchiol can be a lifesaver and gamechanger.
“Bakuchiol has been an all-time fave for many, as it is less irritating and less harsh than retinol, therefore even sensitive skin or rosacea patients can use,” Dr. Halim told Hello Gurl.
“It is also more natural, as it is derived from the Psoralea corylifolia (babchi) plant, therefore fits in with the ‘clean beauty’ and botanical skincare movement,” the Northwestern University alumni added.
The rockstar ingredient’s anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects make it just as helpful as retinol without the added risks irritated skin.
“I personally use (bakuchiol), as the science and the results are there, bakuchiol activates similar gene expression pathways as retinol to stimulate collagen, elastin, and increase cell turnover along with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-bacterial properties,” Dr. Halim said.
Bakuchiol Blends With Other Products
One of the best perks of using bakuchiol is that it safely layers with other products that retinol does not play nicely with. This includes chemical exfoliating products (BHAs and AHAs), vitamin C and Benzoyl Peroxide and physical exfoliators, like skin sponges or brushes.
“It (Bakuchiol) can be layered with other actives without the harsh side effects retinoids can cause,” Dr. Halim said, adding that
younger consumers are seeking “retinol-like benefits” without the downtime or risk of irritation.
“It is safe to use with Vitamin C, peptides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide” Dr. Halim added.
Bakuchiol can also combine with retinol depending on the strength of each individual’s skin barrier. However, Dr. Halim advises that each person avoid “over-exfoliating skin,” as aging weakens what the skin barrier can withstand.
We believe the best rule of thumb is not too overdue it on anything and always consult a doctor.
Bakuchiol Product Picks
Some of Dr. Halim’s Bakuchiol Standouts
1. Ole Henriksen Goodnight Glow Retin-ALT Sleeping Crème – combines Bakuchiol
with AHAs for resurfacing. ($60)
2. BAKUCHIOL Retinol Alternative Smoothing Serum ($68)
3. Beekman 1802 Dream Booster Bakuchiol Better Aging Serum ($29)
Hello Gurl Bakuchiol Standouts
1. Replenix Retinol + Bakuchiol Concentrated Serum ($93)
2. InstaNatural 2.5% Retinol Bakuchiol Serum (around $30)
3. NeoGen Real Firming Bakuchiol Serum ($38)
4. SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Bakuchiol Eye Cream (around $18-21)
