Many individuals swear by adding retinol to their skincare routine. This ingredient packs a powerful punch, but it can also come with potential side effects and safety concerns for usability amongst pregnant individuals.

Looking for a potentially safer alternative? Look no further! Bakuchiol is an ingredient that has been long used in traditional medicine as an alternative to retinol. Keep reading to learn more about bakuchiol, its benefits, and how to use it.

What is bakuchiol?

Bakuchiol is a derivative or extract from the plant Babchi, mostly found in India, explains Geeta Yadav, MD, board-certified dermatologist and founder of FACET Dermatology.

It’s been used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for many years, thanks to its skin and health benefits, she says. “It’s become very popular in current skincare culture for holding some of the main benefits of retinol, without some of the more negative parts, like irritation and even cost,” adds Yadav.

What are the benefits of bakuchiol?

“Like retinol, bakuchiol helps smooth and firm skin, fading fine lines and wrinkles, as well as decreases hyperpigmentation,” says Rebekah Star, master aesthetician at HyperFixx Health & Beauty.

Unlike retinol, however, bakuchiol can be gentler on the skin. “Studies show that it is as equally effective as retinol when used regularly but doesn’t come with the side effects of peeling or irritation nor the potential risks to pregnancy and breastfeeding,” notes Yadav.

What’s the best way to use bakuchiol?

Yadav recommends using serums containing this ingredient. That’s because serums contain higher concentrations of ingredients as opposed to moisturizers, leading to the best potential overall results. 

Star adds that bakuchiol is best used in combination with a hydrating ingredient like squalane or hyaluronic acid. You can find this combination premixed in a serum or you can combine the two yourself.

Have sensitive skin? You can still give bakuchiol a shot! Yadav says all skin types can “safely use it without concern of irritation or discomfort.” However, she always recommends to consult with your dermatologist prior to using a new product as they’ll know your particular skin and routine best!

What are the best bakuchiol serums to try?

Ready to give this product a try? Tula and Supergoop both make products contain this ingredient that Yadav personally recommends. The Supergoop option is tinted, allowing it to blend seamlessly into multiple skin tones and provide a light layer of coverage. Star, meanwhile, likes the bakuchiol serums from The Inky List, Paula’s Choice (which combines bakuchiol with retinol), and Beekman 1802.