It’s no secret that retinol has been a major ‘must have’ ingredient in skincare for a few years now, resurfacing, rejuvenating and delivering impressive results for those looking to slow the inevitable ageing of their skin. However, it’s fraught with issues, from causing flaking and super sensitivity over time, to its inability to be used during pregnancy for a myriad of reasons. But what if we told you there was a new, gentler retinol alternative on the market that promises similar results, minus the side effects

Introducing Bakuchiol

Meet bakuchiol, the natural retinol-alternative that’s been waiting patiently for its day in the sun. Bakuchiol works to restore your complexion’s youthful glow in a similarly effective way to ‘real’ retinol, but without any of the nasties that its predecessor brings along with it.

A vegan skincare ingredient found in the leaves and seeds of the Psoralea corylifolia plant, bakuchiol is also a potent antioxidant, visibly reducing skin discolouration from environmental exposure, and it also has a pronounced soothing effect on skin. The ingredient actually has its roots in Chinese Medicine, and the latest research shows topical application has unique benefits for all skin types.

Exactly how is it different to retinol?

Clinical studies have proven that bakuchiol is equally as effective, if not better, than retinol at regulating collagen cell turnover. A recent US study found that 0.5 per cent bakuchiol used over six weeks improved wrinkle depth, fine lines, pigmentation, elasticity and firmness of the skin – all without causing irritation or photosensitivity.

And not only is bakuchiol itself an antioxidant, but it has been proven to also be capable of stimulating the body’s own antioxidant defence system. How great is that?

Which skin types is it best suited to?

Bakuchiol is suitable for all skin types, but it’s especially great for those with more sensitive skin, that want all the benefits of vitamin A but struggle to use it regularly, if at all. It’s also a hero ingredient for acne-prone skin, with a recent study was shown to be more effective at preventing blemishes than 2 per cent salicylic acid.

What type of products will I find it in?

It works best in “leave-on” formulas, so mainly oils, serums and moisturisers, with gentle exfoliation beforehand increasing its efficacy even further.

You’ll find it works to great effect in Tailor Skincare’s Illume, which is an anti-ageing and anti-breakout oil serum made with bakuchiol as its star ingredient. In Illume, it is combined with hardworking squalane to moisturise, and organic cannabis Sativa (hemp) seed oil to soothe inflammation. This makes it ideal for dry, sensitive and breakout-prone skin, and is one of the reasons fans of the brand love it so much.

You’ll also find it in Nuori’s super-luxe Bio Fusion Serum, which contains a bio-extract derived from the bakuchiol plant. It comes paired with the latest generation of natural hyaluronic acid that delivers visible dermo-filling and plumping effect, and ceramides with high bioavailability to support the renewal and strengthening of the skin’s natural protective barrier. Vitamin C is also included to offer antioxidant protection and help even out the skin tone.

And of course, we can’t forget pioneering New Zealand brand Trilogy’s Bakuchiol + Booster Treatment, which is a two-week targeted treatment that addresses signs of ageing by helping to improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, dullness, dryness and elasticity.

With 4 per cent bakuchiol, the silky super-oil complex also contains hydrating plant squalane, omega-rich hemp and rosehip oils, and softening meadowfoam oil to promote a more youthful complexion.