Bakuchiol

What is it?

A meroterpene phenol derived from the seeds of Psoralea corylifolia (babchi), marketed as a plant-derived alternative to retinol.

What does it do?

Retinol-alternative anti-aging active -- functions as a retinol analogue through similar gene-expression effects despite having no structural resemblance to retinoids. Clinical studies show reductions in wrinkle depth, photodamage and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation comparable to topical retinol, with better tolerability (less scaling/stinging) reported than retinol.

Who may benefit?

• May help with: Fine Lines & Aging

How to use

Typically formulated at 0.5% (concentration used in the head-to-head RCT vs. 0.5% retinol).

Use with caution

• Retinol — Avoid combining

  Both are cell-turnover-promoting actives; combining a retinoid with a retinol-alternative compounds irritation risk without established added benefit over using one.

  Choose one cell-turnover active per routine rather than layering both.

Real products containing this

• Refine (Plant 'Retinol' Alternative) — Esse
• Bakuchiol Retinol Alternative Serum — Swiitch Beauty

Sources