Retinol, a derivative of vitamin A, has long been hailed as the gold standard in anti-aging skincare. Its potent rejuvenating abilities help to improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, uneven texture, and even acne. However, retinol can cause irritation, peeling, and increased sensitivity in some individuals, leading to the search for a gentler and more effective alternative. Enter bakuchiol, a plant-based retinol alternative that is revolutionizing the skincare industry. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the benefits of bakuchiol, its comparison to retinol, and the top bakuchiol-infused products on the market, including offerings from Reviva Labs.
What is Bakuchiol?
Bakuchiol is a natural, plant-based skincare ingredient extracted from the seeds and leaves of the Psoralea corylifolia (babchi) plant, which is native to India and Sri Lanka. Historically used in Chinese and Ayurvedic healing treatments, bakuchiol boasts anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties that help to calm and restore the skin.
While bakuchiol behaves similarly to retinol in terms of its skin-perfecting benefits, it does not share the same chemical structure. As a result, bakuchiol is less likely to cause irritation or adverse reactions, making it an ideal alternative for those with sensitive skin, pregnant and nursing women, or anyone seeking a gentler, yet effective, anti-aging solution.
Bakuchiol vs Retinol: A Comparison
Although chemically distinct, both retinol and bakuchiol work to boost collagen production and inhibit the enzymes that attack collagen in our skin, ultimately leading to plumper, brighter skin with reduced fine lines and wrinkles. A 2018 study published in the British Journal of Dermatology found that using 0.5% bakuchiol twice daily produced comparable results to using 0.5% retinol once daily, but with significantly fewer side effects.
Unlike retinol, bakuchiol is less likely to cause skin sensitivity, dryness, or peeling, making it an attractive option for those who have experienced adverse reactions to retinol or prefer a more natural approach to skincare.
Starting Your Bakuchiol Skincare Routine
Incorporating bakuchiol into your skincare routine is simple and can even be combined with retinol for those who tolerate it well. Experts suggest using a bakuchiol product during the day, as it does not sensitize the skin to the sun, and a retinol product at night. Alternating days with retinol and bakuchiol can also help maintain the collagen-boosting benefits while minimizing potential irritation.
Consistency is key when it comes to experiencing the visible results of bakuchiol. With regular use, you can expect to see improvements in skin texture, tone, and overall appearance within six to 12 weeks.
Top Bakuchiol-Infused Skincare Products
1. Reviva Labs Bakuchiol Plus Serum
This potent serum from Reviva Labs combines the power of bakuchiol with other powerhouse ingredients like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and squalane to deliver a multi-targeted approach to anti-aging skincare. The lightweight formula absorbs quickly and helps to improve skin texture, tone, and hydration levels, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a more youthful, radiant complexion.
2. Reviva Labs Collagen Revitalizing Creme
Reviva Labs Collagen Revitalizing Creme is a rich and luxurious cream that combines the benefits of bakuchiol with collagen-boosting peptides to help firm and lift the skin. With its deeply nourishing formula, this creme targets the visible signs of aging while providing intense hydration, leaving skin feeling soft, smooth, and supple.
3. OleHenriksen Glow Cycle Retin-Alt Power Serum
This AHA- and bakuchiol-powered day serum from OleHenriksen refines the skin by gently exfoliating with glycolic and lactic acids while reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and other signs of aging. This serum is recommended for daily use and should be followed by an SPF during daytime.
4. Orvos Skin Science Satin Eye Gel Cream
Formulated by oculofacial plastic surgeon Dr. Robert Schwarcz, this targeted eye cream treats dark circles and fine lines with a combination of bakuchiol, green tea extract, coffee arabica seed, and kakadu plum. The cooling massage applicator helps to soothe and de-puff the delicate eye area for a refreshed, youthful appearance.
5. Pangea Organics Super Antioxidant Glow Oil
This plant-powered face oil features a blend of six active antioxidants and oils, including bakuchiol, squalane, and rosehip oil, to lock in hydration and soothe the skin. The lightweight formula absorbs quickly, making it an ideal addition to any skincare routine.
6. Graydon Phyto Clear
Designed for those seeking a lightweight, yet effective, moisturizer, Graydon Phyto Clear combines bakuchiol with moth bean extract, another plant-based retinol alternative, to target fine lines and wrinkles while promoting collagen production and cell renewal. The gel-cream formula glides on smoothly and leaves skin feeling hydrated and refreshed.
7. Indeed Labs Bakuchiol Reface Pads
For a convenient and easy-to-use bakuchiol option, these pads from Indeed Labs are an excellent choice. Simply swipe one over your face after cleansing and continue with your regular skincare routine. The pads are gentle enough for daily use and can help improve skin texture, tone, and overall appearance over time.
8. Paula’s Choice 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment
Ideal for those who can tolerate retinol, this treatment combines 0.3% retinol with 2% bakuchiol to enhance collagen production and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. The synergistic formula helps to improve skin texture and tone while minimizing the potential for irritation.
9. Mukti Organics Age Defiance Day Serum
Antioxidants and peptides in this day serum from Mukti Organics work together with bakuchiol to plump, smooth, and firm the skin. The lightweight formula absorbs quickly and is recommended for daytime use. For maximum results, pair with a retinol treatment at night.
10. Live Tinted Superhue Hyperpigmentation Serum Stick
This innovative balm-to-serum stick from Live Tinted contains 5% niacinamide, 1% bakuchiol, and 1% THD vitamin C to target hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone, and signs of aging. The convenient stick format makes it easy to apply and blend, while the potent formula delivers visible results over time.
Final Thoughts
Bakuchiol is a promising retinol alternative that offers many of the same skin-perfecting benefits without the potential for irritation. With a growing range of bakuchiol-infused products on the market, including those from Reviva Labs, incorporating this plant-based powerhouse into your skincare routine has never been easier. Whether you’re new to anti-aging treatments or looking for a gentler alternative to retinol, bakuchiol may be the answer to your skincare concerns.
