Rated 4.8 out of 5 from 67 reviews
vegan
- vegan
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Ingredient glossary
Bakuchiol: What It Is and What It Does
Bakuchiol is a plant-derived ingredient extracted from the seeds and leaves of the Psoralea corylifolia plant, used in skincare as an alternative to retinol. It is chosen by people who find retinol irritating, and is generally associated with a gentler tolerance profile, though it works through a different mechanism rather than being a direct chemical equivalent.
What it does
Bakuchiol is used for effects on skin texture and the appearance of fine lines broadly comparable to those associated with retinol, without retinol's characteristic dryness, flaking and sun-sensitivity profile. Its exact mechanism is less studied than retinol's well-established pathway, and it is not a retinoid itself, so it should be understood as a different ingredient with a similar marketing position rather than a proven substitute. As with most actives aimed at texture and ageing, results are associated with consistent use over weeks and months rather than an immediate change.
Who it suits
Bakuchiol tends to suit people who want retinol-like skincare benefits but find retinol too irritating, including sensitive skin and skin new to actives. It is also commonly chosen during pregnancy and breastfeeding as a gentler alternative, though anyone in that situation should still confirm suitability with a doctor or midwife rather than assuming any active ingredient is automatically safe.
Cautions
Bakuchiol is generally well tolerated, with a lower reported rate of irritation than retinol, though sensitive skin can still react to any new active and patch testing is sensible. Evidence behind bakuchiol is smaller than retinol's, so marketing claims are worth treating with some caution. It is not a proven substitute for prescription retinoids, and anyone with a persistent skin condition should consult a dermatologist.
Products with Bakuchiol
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cruelty-free
- cruelty-free
- fragrance-free
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fragrance-free
- fragrance-free
Frequently asked questions
- Is bakuchiol as effective as retinol?
- Bakuchiol is generally associated with effects on texture and fine lines broadly comparable to retinol at a cosmetic level, but the evidence behind it is smaller and less established than retinol's long research history. It works through a different mechanism rather than being a direct chemical substitute, so results and tolerance can vary between the two.
- Can I use bakuchiol during pregnancy?
- Bakuchiol is often chosen as a gentler alternative during pregnancy and breastfeeding, when retinol is generally advised against, but it is not automatically guaranteed to be appropriate for every situation. Anyone pregnant or breastfeeding should confirm any active skincare ingredient, including bakuchiol, with a doctor or midwife first.
- Can bakuchiol be used with retinol?
- Some people combine the two, but since both target similar concerns, many others use bakuchiol as a full replacement rather than layering it with retinol, particularly if retinol alone already causes irritation. Introducing either gradually and watching how skin responds is a sensible approach either way.
This is general information about a cosmetic ingredient, not medical advice. It does not describe any specific product, and does not diagnose, treat or cure any condition. If you have a persistent skin or scalp concern, speak to a pharmacist, GP or dermatologist. See our editorial policy for how we handle claims.