Bakuchiol vs. Retinol: Which One Will Transform Your Skin?

In an industry saturated with synthetic solutions to turn back the clock, bakuchiol has emerged as a revolutionary force in natural anti-aging skincare. While retinol has been the gold-star standard for reducing the signs of aging, it doesn’t quite check a five-star rating for those struggling to find the right wrinkle reducer, skin-plumper, and collagen do-getter ingredient without the irritation.

Many people are seeking gentler alternatives to retinol due to its harsh side effects. Bakuchiol not only answers this need but does so with remarkable efficacy, changing how we think about natural skincare ingredients.

Keep reading to learn the pros and cons of bakuchiol and retinol, how to choose the best one for your skin type, and which contender is the best anti-aging powerhouse for you – plus find the best night cream to incorporate into your routine. Your five-star ingredient skin routine is waiting!

What Are Bakuchiol and Retinol?

In the battle of anti-aging heavyweights, let’s first get bakuchiol into the ring and learn its skin strengths compared to retinol.

Bakuchiol: The Natural Retinol Alternative

Bakuchiol may seem like a rising star on the skincare block, but it has actually been around the block for a while. Discovered in 1966, it is a plant-based compound derived from the seeds and leaves of the Psoralea corylifolia plant, commonly known as Babchi. Originating from the Indian subcontinent, this plant has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine to treat skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.

Although bakuchiol bears no resemblance to retinol, it mimics retinol’s effects on the skin, reducing the signs of aging without the associated irritation. The plant-based all-star stimulates collagen and elastin production, improving skin elasticity and firmness. Its rich antioxidant content helps combat free radical damage, and its anti-inflammatory properties soothe skin sensitivities and irritation.

Unlike synthetic skincare ingredients, bakuchiol’s natural anti-aging, antioxidant, and soothing properties make it a preferred choice for those seeking gentle, effective skincare. The key difference lies in its plant origin and milder impact, offering a sustainable and gentler alternative to retinol with the garnered youth-boosting benefits of coveted retinol.

Retinol: The Vitamin A Derivative

Retinol is a form of vitamin A widely studied and regarded as the industry’s gold standard ingredient for keeping signs of aging at bay. The anti-aging powerhouse has many impressive skin-boosting benefits, such as increasing elasticity, accelerating cellular turnover, and boosting collagen production, making it a staple for those looking to improve various skin concerns.

Renowned retinol helps boost collagen levels, maintaining the skin’s elasticity and firmness. By enhancing collagen production, retinol helps to smooth out fine lines and wrinkles, giving your skin a firmer, more youthful appearance. Retinol promotes cell turnover, which helps to refine skin texture, even out skin tone, and diminish hyperpigmentation, resulting in a softer, more radiant complexion.

Although retinol’s crowning glory is its anti-aging powers, not all adornments are beneficial. Retinol’s harsh side effects often cause dryness, peeling, and sensitivity for some users. Retinol can also increase sun sensitivity, which makes adhering to a strict SPF routine and using the best night cream while using retinol non-negotiable. Our Retinol Restorative Overnight Balm is perfect for enhancing firmness, tone, and elasticity while you sleep.

With increased risks and side effects from retinol, many people are turning to none other than Mother Nature for safer alternatives, like our Bakuchiol Face Oil. This plant-based facial oil serum offers a gentler approach to skin rejuvenation, with minimal risk of irritation or dryness. Its antioxidant-rich composition combats free radical damage, fostering a healthy complexion without the harsh aftermath associated with retinol.

The Key Benefits of Bakuchiol vs. Retinol

Ready for a seat back at that showdown between skin-heavy weights retinol and bakuchiol? These superstar ingredients have gained quite a reputation for their anti-aging and skin-rejuvenation benefits. Let’s compare each anti-aging powerhouse and how to choose the best one for your anti-aging routine!

#1. Effectiveness in Anti-Aging

Bakuchiol: Reduces wrinkles, firms skin, and improves elasticity. Bakuchiol has been shown to stimulate collagen production, a crucial protein responsible for maintaining skin structure and elasticity. By promoting cell turnover, bakuchiol can help lessen the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. A study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science found that bakuchiol increased type I collagen synthesis in human skin cells, demonstrating its ability to promote a more youthful complexion.

Retinol: Stimulates collagen production and speeds up cell turnover. This encourages the skin’s foundation of suppleness so that as we age, we’ve already worked to develop a defense against fine lines and wrinkles, making it harder for them to form. For mature skin, retinol can help increase collagen and stimulate cell turnover to slough dead skin layers that often lead to fine lines and dry skin. With repeated use, retinol can also diminish dark spots and improve skin texture.

#2. Skin Sensitivity & Irritation

Bakuchiol: Non-irritating, making it suitable for sensitive skin. Since bakuchiol is not a derivative of vitamin A, it’s much gentler on the skin and less likely to cause redness, dryness, or irritation; this makes it a popular choice for people with sensitive skin types who may not tolerate harsher active ingredients. 

Retinol: Can cause redness, peeling, and dryness, especially for beginners. Many people experience skin irritations and side effects when they first start using retinol. Therefore, they should slowly introduce retinol into their skincare routine and gradually work up the frequency that it’s used.

#3. Hydration & Skin Barrier Support

Bakuchiol: Hydrating, does not compromise the skin barrier. Bakuchiol is responsible for barrier function, essentially reinforcing the skin's moisture barrier. It’s gentler on the skin and can even help improve skin hydration levels without causing dryness or sensitivity. 

Retinol: Can cause dryness and requires extra moisture and sun protection. Retinol is notorious for causing overall irritation, especially when first introduced to a skincare routine. Its tendency to strip the skin's moisture barrier can result in more dryness, where additional moisture and sun protection is needed to protect and balance the skin.

#4. Sun Sensitivity

Bakuchiol: Safe for daytime use—doesn’t increase sun sensitivity. Since it’s not irritating, bakuchiol can be safely used during the day without any added sensitivity to sunlight. But while it’s true that bakuchiol shouldn’t make your skin more photosensitive, make sure to always wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen.

Retinol: Must be used at night and always paired with SPF. Unlike its natural skin opponent, retinol doesn’t have an edge in daytime use. Retinol makes skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it’s best to use it at night. Since dryness often occurs as a side effect when first using retinol, you’ll need a nourishing moisturizer and sun protection – plus the best night cream! Our Retinol Restorative Overnight Balm Improves the appearance of firmness, tone, and elasticity while you sleep!

#5. Suitable for All Skin Types?

Bakuchiol: Works for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone. This plant-derived ingredient has garnered a lot of popularity due to it being a natural and vegan alternative to retinol. People with skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, sensitive skin, or acne couldn’t use retinol due to its side effects. Bakuchiol is generally suitable for all skin types!

Retinol: This may not be suitable for very dry or reactive skin. The effective yet harsh vitamin A derivative is known for its potential to cause irritation, dryness, sensitivity, and peeling, especially for those with dry or sensitive skin.

The 100% PURE Retinol Rosehip Face Cream is an ideal option for sealing in essential moisture and hydration. This advanced hydrating formula delivers targeted anti-aging results such as lessening the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots, and is perfect for layering over actives.

Scientific Evidence: What Research Says About Bakuchiol vs. Retinol

When it comes down to it, skincare ingredients are only as good as their proven results. Bakuchiol and retinol are celebrated for their all-star anti-aging properties, but what does science say about their benefits?

Numerous scientific studies have explored their effects on the skin, highlighting their potential as beneficial ingredients. Let’s delve into the scientific evidence and key findings from research on retinol and bakuchiol.

Retinol Studies: There have been decades of research proving the effectiveness of retinol. The beloved vitamin A derivative is widely considered the "gold standard" for anti-aging ingredients due to extensive research demonstrating its ability to reduce fine lines and wrinkles by stimulating collagen production in the skin, making it a well-supported claim by dermatologists and scientific studies.

The primary mechanism behind retinol's anti-aging effects is its ability to increase collagen synthesis within the skin, which helps to plump up the skin and diminish the appearance of wrinkles. Decades of clinical trials have provided strong evidence supporting the effectiveness of retinol in reducing fine lines and improving skin texture. 

Bakuchiol Studies: New research suggests that bakuchiol provides similar benefits to retinol without irritation. Clinical studies have shown that bakuchiol offers comparable anti-aging benefits to retinol, such as wrinkle reduction, improved skin firmness, and increased collagen production.

A notable 2019 study published in the British Journal of Dermatology found that both bakuchiol and retinol significantly decreased wrinkle surface area and hyperpigmentation over 12 weeks, but bakuchiol had a better tolerability profile, causing less skin irritation and sensitivity.

Bakuchiol and retinol both influence skin cell pathways that promote cell turnover and collagen synthesis, yet bakuchiol’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties further distinguish it. This makes it especially suitable for individuals with sensitive skin or those prone to irritation from retinol. Moreover, its non-sensitizing nature makes bakuchiol a safer choice for long-term use.

Choosing Between Bakuchiol and Retinol: Which One is Right for You?

Although bakuchiol mimics the anti-aging effects of retinol, the two ingredients are different in terms of your skin’s needs and type. Let’s determine which options are best for each skin type and concern.

Choose Bakuchiol If:

You have sensitive, acneic, or reactive skin.

You want a gentler, pregnancy-safe alternative.

You prefer natural, plant-based, or vegan skincare.

Sensitive Skin – Acneic Skin – Reactive Skin
If your skin falls into the category of sensitive or reactive, it’s better to be safe and start with the gentler option. Bakuchiol not only provides anti-aging benefits in an inclusive way for sensitive skin types, but bakuchiol will help address the enlarged pores that can sometimes contribute to acne and breakouts.

Vegans
Bakuchiol makes for the better vegan option because it’s plant-based. Though there are other plant-based retinol options like sea buckthorn, bakuchiol is the ingredient of choice for many people because of its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to reduce redness and hyperpigmentation. As a strong antioxidant, bakuchiol also helps to protect your skin against the damage of free radicals. 

2. Choose Retinol If:

You’re looking for fast, proven anti-aging results.

You don’t mind a brief adjustment period with peeling and dryness.

You have stubborn hyperpigmentation, acne scars, or deep wrinkles.

Post-Acneic Skin
The feeling of finally getting to the bottom of our blemishes and breakouts is priceless, but this discovery often results in a skincare product revamp. If removing acne scars or stubborn hyperpigmentation is a huge goal, a retinol option will be more effective. Because retinol helps to diminish pores, regular use can also help with continuous acne control.

Aging Skin

If you’re looking for fast, proven anti-aging results, retinol is your skin win! It’s widely known for its ability to stimulate collagen production, increase cell turnover, and reduce the signs of aging on the skin. This wonder ingredient is not only effective in fighting wrinkles, it’s a highly sought-after ingredient for its ability to reduce the appearance of aging signs like wrinkles and loose skin. The transformation of retinol into retinoic acid when applied to the skin promotes collagen production and cell turnover, leaving your skin looking plump and hydrated.

PRO-TIP: There might be a brief adjustment period with peeling and dryness when starting retinol. Opt for the best night cream like our Retinol Restorative Overnight Balm to increase moisture and enhance firmness, tone, and elasticity while you sleep.

A deeply hydrating facial mask is an additional option for parched skin or while using bakuchiol or retinol. The 100% PURE Deep Hydration Sheet Mask features a water-drenching blend of botanicals that locks in long-lasting hydration and leaves skin ultra-plump, soft, and supple. It pairs well with both ingredients to support skin elasticity and hydration.

How to Incorporate Bakuchiol or Retinol into Your Skincare Routine

Incorporating bakuchiol or retinol into your skincare routine is a fantastic way to reap its benefits for your skin. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you seamlessly integrate these powerhouse ingredients:

Step 1: Cleanse Your Skin Thoroughly

Begin your day with the 100% PURE Bakuchiol Face Wash to remove dirt, oil, and impurities from your skin, taking a full minute to massage it gently into your skin. This not only ensures thorough cleansing but stimulates circulation and prepares your skin for the treatments and active ingredients that follow. 

Step 2: Apply Bakuchiol or Retinol

Use bakuchiol in the morning or night. Apply the 100% PURE Bakuchiol Face Oil which delivers the maximum clinically recommended concentration of bakuchiol in a sophisticated delivery system. This precisely calibrated formula penetrates deeply into the skin's layers, where it can most effectively stimulate collagen production and cellular renewal. The serum's lightweight texture allows for rapid absorption while providing sustained hydration throughout the day.

Use retinol only at night and introduce it slowly. Apply a generous layer of Bakuchiol Face Oil, taking time to massage it gently into your skin. The evening application can be slightly more generous than your morning application, as your skin does its most active renewal while you sleep.

Step 3: Hydrate & Moisturize to Support the Skin Barrier

You’ll need to hydrate and moisturize your skin while using these ingredients to prevent dryness and irritation, especially with retinol.

The 100% PURE Bakuchiol Moisturizer provides additional hydration and seals in the benefits of the face oil. This antioxidant-rich moisturizer provides intense hydration to boost collagen production and lessen the appearance of lines and wrinkles. Apply a small amount to your face and neck, gently massaging it using upward motions.

The 100% PURE Retinol Rosehip Face Cream is another ideal option for sealing in essential moisture and hydration. This advanced hydrating formula delivers targeted anti-aging results such as lessening the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots, and is perfect for layering over actives.

Bonus: Don’t forget about your eyes! They’re one of the first areas to show the signs of aging. Incorporate 100% PURE Retinol PM Eye Cream for increased hydration and restoration. It features a potent concentration of anti-aging vitamins, stem cells, and peptides that promote collagen production and elasticity and lessen the appearance of wrinkles.

Step 4: Use a Night Cream for Extra Nourishment

It’s important to use the best night cream with bakuchiol or retinol to help lock in hydration and prevent moisture loss overnight. The 100% PURE Retinol Restorative Overnight Balm is designed to work its magic while you sleep. It delivers a nourishing dose of vitamins and antioxidants to your skin, helping to erase fine lines and impart a smooth, radiant complexion.

Step 5: Always Use SPF in the Morning

In the daytime, it's crucial to protect your skin from harmful UV rays, especially if you’re using retinol. Finish your routine by applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect against UV damage, which accelerates aging. The Yerba Mate Mist SPF 30 helps prevent sun damage and maintains the benefits of bakuchiol and retinol. It offers full UVA/UVB protection for all-over wear, plus it’s made with antioxidants that help protect against free radicals and environmental pollutants.

FAQs: Bakuchiol vs. Retinol

#1. Can I use bakuchiol and retinol together?

While both bakuchiol and retinol are anti-aging ingredients, they work differently on the skin. Retinol is a well-studied and proven ingredient that is effective in reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. Bakuchiol is considered a gentler and less irritating alternative to retinol, making it a good option for those with sensitive skin who may not be able to tolerate retinol. It’s best to start with bakuchiol for sensitive skin types, and let your skin get used to the all-star ingredient, and not combine the different forms.

#2. Is bakuchiol really as effective as retinol?

The comparison between bakuchiol and retinol reveals distinct advantages for bakuchiol:

Time of Use: While retinol must be used only at night due to sun sensitivity, bakuchiol can be safely used morning and night, potentially accelerating results.

Stability: Bakuchiol maintains its effectiveness without degradation from light or air exposure, unlike retinol which can become unstable.

Skin Barrier Impact: Rather than temporarily compromising the skin barrier like retinol, bakuchiol helps strengthen it, leading to healthier, more resilient skin over time.

#3. Can I use bakuchiol or retinol if I have acne-prone skin?

It is mostly considered safe for most skin types. Its gentle nature makes it suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin. However, individuals with specific allergies or sensitivities should exercise caution and conduct patch tests before using products containing retinol.

#4. How long does it take to see results with bakuchiol vs. retinol?

With regular use of bakuchiol oil, individuals can typically expect to see noticeable improvements in their skin within approximately three to four weeks. Continued use for up to eight weeks may reveal more significant changes, such as a reduction in fine lines, improved skin texture, and a more radiant complexion. However, individuals can expect quicker improvements in their skin with retinol since it

#5. Which one is better for deep wrinkles?

Yes! Retinol can penetrate deep into your skin's layers to activate collagen and elastin, which give your skin structure and support to prevent wrinkles. It also exfoliates the skin, unclogs pores, and increases skin cell production, making skin firmer and smoother.

Final Thoughts: The Best Anti-Aging Ingredient for You

Both bakuchiol and retinol offer incredible anti-aging benefits. These two skin powerhouses are great ingredients for addressing signs of aging, such as enlarged pores, fine lines, age spots and blemishes, and of course, wrinkles. But choosing the right one depends on your skin type and needs.

We also want to look at potency, effectiveness, and skin sensitivity. Bakuchiol is ideal for all skin types, including sensitive skin, but without the harsh side effects that retinol is known for. However, those individuals desiring quicker anti-aging results will see faster improvements using retinol but may experience harsh, drying effects.

Therefore, if you’re looking for a gentle, plant-based approach, try bakuchiol. Those individuals seeking fast, proven results should opt for retinol!

Whether you're seeking to address signs of aging or simply maintain a healthy complexion, bakuchiol and retinol offer effective options. Be sure to pair your skin powerhouses with other complementing products. Shop 100% PURE’s best anti-aging skincare and start your glow-up journey today. Your five-star ingredient skin routine is waiting!