Retinol vs Bakuchiol: Which Is Best?

What is Bakuchiol?

Bakuchiol is a vegan skincare ingredient that comes from the leaves and seeds of babchi and is native to India. For centuries, bakuchiol has been used in Ayurvedic medicine and now it has made its debut in Western skincare products.

It is a naturally occurring antioxidant and is a herbal alternative version of retinol. The benefits of Bakuchiol are that it is vegan and natural. Not everyone knows that retinol can be derived from animals. Besides the benefit of bakuchiol being a vegan alternative to retinol, it is also a great antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties.

Whilst bakuchiol doesn’t have a structural resemblance to retinol, it has shown similar effects on the skin.

How Do Retinoids Work?

Retinoids work through specific receptors in the cell that trigger an increase in gene expression and production of collagen as well as aquaporin that increases your skin’s firmness and elasticity while reducing wrinkles and fine lines. On top of that, it speeds up cell turnover, which leads to younger-looking, more even skin tone and less hyperpigmentation.

However, using retinol comes with side effects as it can lead to retinoid dermatitis, a period of inflammation, dryness and flaking skin, typically occurring within the first four weeks of treatment. A way to combat this is to start by using lower concentrations, to slowly build up your skin’s tolerance or by using the products less often. But for some people, their skin can’t tolerate the potency of retinol.

Is Bakuchiol Better Than Retinol?

Retinol is amazing for anti-ageing and is hailed as a God in the skincare world for its ability to treat fine lines and wrinkles, fade dark spots and improve your overall complexion. However, using retinol can have adverse effects on your skin, by leaving it sensitive and worse off than it was before. Retinol can cause dryness and irritation and cannot be used at all during pregnancy as it has been found to cause birth defects in animals.  

Bakuchiol is different to retinol in many ways so you cannot say whether it is better or not. But for some people, retinol is simply too strong for their skin. Does this mean that these people have to live with unwanted wrinkles?

The answer is no, bakuchiol is a natural and less potent alternative. It promises to do everything retinol does but without the side effects.

The Dr Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Exfoliating Body Treatment is perfect for giving your body glowing, youthful skin. The Exfoliating Towels are an all-over polishing treatment that visibly improves the look of dry skin and helps reduce the appearance of uneven skin tone and blemishes. The Exfoliating Towels contain bakuchiol which helps with fine lines, wrinkles, and dull skin. Everyone talks about the face but what about all the other places you can age with timeThe bakuchiol in it is gentle enough to be used on your decolletage to brighten and even out your skin tone. Whilst helping to reduce ageing and sun-damaged skin.  

Deciding Whether Retinol or Bakuchiol Is Better

Retinol can be more effective as higher doses are available and bakuchiol is a gentler alternative. Also, if you have sensitive skin or are pregnant, bakuchiol is an effective alternative to retinol.

Bakuchiol is beneficial as its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties can help acne and blemishes. The great thing about bakuchiol is that it can be used morning and night and isn’t too harsh on your skin. Unlike retinol, which could lead to dryness and irritation. When using retinol, you have to be careful about exposure to UV rays as this can cause sensitivity and risk of sun damage if you are not wearing an SPF.

It is great to have products that showcase how great and effective bakuchiol is and have an alternative for pregnant or breastfeeding women as it is safe for them to use throughout their journey. Also, for those with sensitive skin, even though bakuchiol may not be as powerful as retinol, it can still help you fight premature ageing without side effects.