Bakuchiol, explained
The plant-based ingredient often called a gentler alternative to retinol. Does it live up to the claim?
Promising evidence
What it is
Bakuchiol comes from the seeds of the babchi plant. It isn’t vitamin A, but lab studies suggest it switches on many of the same genes in skin as retinol does. It’s a cosmetic ingredient, so no prescription is needed.
What the research shows
In a randomised, double-blind trial, 44 people used either 0.5% bakuchiol twice a day or 0.5% retinol once a day for 12 weeks. Both reduced wrinkles and dark spots, with no significant difference between them, but the retinol group reported more flaking and stinging.
Dhaliwal and colleagues, British Journal of Dermatology, 2019 [1]
An earlier study found bakuchiol produced a gene activity pattern in skin similar to retinol, and improved lines and firmness over 12 weeks.
Chaudhuri and Bojanowski, International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2014 [2]
That’s encouraging, but it’s a handful of small studies, compared with decades of research behind retinoids.
Who it suits
Bakuchiol is a good option if retinol has irritated your skin, if your skin is sensitive or prone to redness, or if you prefer plant-based ingredients. If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, there’s little research on its safety, so check with your GP or midwife.
How to use it after 40
- Use once or twice a day, morning or night, then moisturise.
- Keep wearing sunscreen every day.
- It layers well with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and centella.
- Give it at least 12 weeks.
We’re adding bakuchiol products, including the SKIN1004 Probio-Cica Bakuchiol Eye Cream, to our price comparison soon.
Sources
- Dhaliwal S et al. Prospective, randomized, double-blind assessment of topical bakuchiol and retinol for facial photoageing. Br J Dermatol. 2019.
- Chaudhuri RK, Bojanowski K. Bakuchiol: a retinol-like functional compound revealed by gene expression profiling and clinically proven to have anti-aging effects. Int J Cosmet Sci. 2014.
This page is general information, not medical advice. Last updated 30 October 2026.
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