What is Bakuchiol?
Want the smoothing, firming benefits people love about retinol, without the dryness or the need to hide from the sun? Bakuchiol (say "buh-koo-chee-all") is a plant-derived ingredient that has become the favorite retinol alternative for sensitive skin.
Here is what bakuchiol does, how it compares to retinol and how to get the most out of it.
Quick facts about Bakuchiol
| What is it? | A plant extract from the seeds of the babchi plant |
|---|---|
| What it does | Smooths the look of fine lines, helps skin look firmer and evens tone |
| Best for | Sensitive skin, retinol beginners, and anyone who cannot use retinol |
| Pairs well with | Hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, niacinamide, peptides |
| When to use | Morning and evening |
| Our top pick | skinChemists 1% Bakuchiol Facial Serum |
Key benefits at a glance
- Smooths the look of fine lines and wrinkles
- Gentle enough for sensitive skin
- Can be used morning and night
- Helps skin look firmer and more even
- Antioxidant and calming properties
- Generally considered a pregnancy-friendly alternative to retinol
What is bakuchiol?
Bakuchiol comes from the seeds and leaves of the Psoralea corylifolia (babchi) plant, used for centuries in traditional Indian and Chinese medicine. It is not related to retinol chemically, but studies have shown it can influence skin in similar ways, helping it look smoother and firmer over time.
The big difference is tolerance: bakuchiol is far less likely to cause dryness, flaking or redness, and it does not break down in sunlight.
Bakuchiol vs. retinol
| Bakuchiol | Retinol | |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Plant-derived | Vitamin A derivative |
| Irritation | Low | Moderate, especially at first |
| When to use | Morning and evening | Evening only |
| Sun sensitivity | No | Yes, SPF essential |
| Pregnancy | Generally considered OK (ask your doctor) | Avoid |
| Speed of results | Gradual | Gradual, often stronger |
Benefits of bakuchiol for skin
Smoother-looking lines
Used consistently, bakuchiol helps soften the look of fine lines and wrinkles.
Firmer, more even-looking skin
It supports skin's natural renewal for a more even, refined look.
Calm and comfortable
Bakuchiol has antioxidant and soothing properties, so it suits reactive skin that struggles with stronger actives.
How to use bakuchiol
- Cleanser
- Bakuchiol serum (or a bakuchiol moisturizer as your final step)
- Hyaluronic acid serum (optional)
- Moisturizer
- SPF 30+ in the morning
Bakuchiol can be used twice a day from the start. There is no need for a slow build-up the way you would with retinol.
Tip: Already using retinol at night? Bakuchiol makes a great morning partner for round-the-clock smoothing.
Side effects and precautions
Bakuchiol is well tolerated by most skin types. As with any plant extract, a small number of people may be sensitive to it, so patch test first. Bakuchiol is generally considered a suitable alternative to retinol during pregnancy, but always check with your doctor or midwife.
How long until you see results?
| Timeline | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Week 2–4 | Smoother, softer-feeling skin |
| Week 8 | Fine lines look softer and tone looks more even |
| Week 12 | Firmer-looking, more refined skin with daily use |
Frequently asked questions
Is bakuchiol as good as retinol?
Studies suggest it can deliver similar smoothing benefits with much less irritation, though results may build more gradually.
Can I use bakuchiol and retinol together?
Yes. Many people use bakuchiol in the morning and retinol at night.
Is bakuchiol safe during pregnancy?
It is generally considered a pregnancy-friendly alternative to retinol, but check with your doctor first.
Do I need SPF with bakuchiol?
Bakuchiol does not make skin more sun-sensitive, but daily SPF is still the best thing you can do for your skin.
Can I use bakuchiol around my eyes?
Yes, choose a formula designed for the eye area.
Shop Bakuchiol
- 1% Bakuchiol Retinol Facial Serum 30ml: 1% bakuchiol with hyaluronic acid and aloe vera. A gentle, twice-daily serum for smoother-looking lines and firmer-looking skin.
- La Rose Française Night Moisturiser 50ml: A rose-scented night cream with bakuchiol and coconut oil, for skin that wants smoothing and comfort overnight.
- La Rose Francaise Eye Serum 15ml: Bakuchiol made for the delicate eye area, with vitamin E to help smooth the look of fine lines and puffiness.
- pH Balancing Youth Serum 30ml: Bakuchiol with vitamin C and lactic acid for smoothing, brightening and refined texture in one step.
This guide is for general information only and is not medical advice. Always patch test new skincare, and speak to your doctor or dermatologist about any skin concerns.