Best vegan Bakuchiol skincare: Retinol alternatives that work
What is Bakuchiol and how does it compare to Retinol? Here’s your simple guide to Bakuchiol skincare and the best products to try.
What is Bakuchiol?
Bakuchiol is a natural, plant-derived compound extracted from the seeds and leaves of the Psoralea corylifolia plant, also known as Babchi.
It is often referred to as a natural alternative to Retinol because of its similar skin benefits, such as reducing wrinkles, improving skin elasticity and boosting collagen production.
Bakuchiol vs Retinol
Retinol, a derivative of vitamin A, has long been the gold standard when it comes to anti-ageing ingredients. However, it can be harsh on sensitive skin, causing irritation, dryness and increased sun sensitivity.
Enter Bakuchiol, a plant-based alternative that offers similar anti-ageing benefits. Unlike retinol, Bakuchiol is gentle on sensitive skin, doesn’t cause peeling, and can be used both morning and night without increasing sun sensitivity.
Plus, it's safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women, making it an excellent option for those looking for a more skin-friendly and natural alternative.
The best of vegan Bakuchiol skincare right now
Versed Press Start Gentle Retinol Serum
This gentle night serum combines both Retinol and Bakuchiol (as well as another, less well-known Retinol alternative called Arophira.
With encapsulated Retinol that reduces irritation, the formula is especially designed for sensitive skin and those who are new to Retinol and want to refine their skin tone as well as skin texture.
RRP: £20 - Find it on Cult Beauty
Facetheory Bakuchiol Firming Daily Moisturiser
Particularly recommended for oily and combination skin, this mattifying moisturiser is brimming with highly effective ingredients.
The stars of the show are Bakuchiol to promote cell turnover, Rice Starch absorbs excess oil to help control shine, Vitamin C to improve skin brightness and plumping Hyaluronic Acids to retain moisture.
RRP: £24 - Find it on Facetheory
Evolve Beauty Bio Retinol Gold Face Mask
This organic treatment is designed to help reduce signs of ageing while deeply nourishing the skin.
Alongside anti-ageing Bakuchiol, the formula is infused with Argan and Rosehip oils to provide essential omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.
The rich texture transforms into a creamy milk when rinsed, leaving skin plumped and glowing.
RRP: £30 - Find it on Evolve Beauty or Sephora
Antipodes Eve Bio-Retinol Line Reduction Serum
This silky, nutrient-rich formula helps smooth fine lines and enhance skin’s radiance.
Powered by organic Cacay oil, a natural source of vitamin A, and Bakuchiol, it stimulates collagen production and visibly firms the skin. Prickly pear oil and Australian Kakadu plum oil provide antioxidant protection, improving elasticity and restoring a youthful glow.
Infused with a COSMOS-certified deep rose fragrance, this serum works overnight to refine and rejuvenate the complexion.
RRP: £40 - Find it on Antipodes or Naturisimo
Medik8 Bakuchiol Peptides
This gentle yet effective serum targets multiple signs of ageing, from fine lines to uneven skin tone. Formulated with 1.25% bakuchiol, it delivers visible age-defying results without irritation, making it suitable for sensitive skin and use during pregnancy and nursing.
The lightweight formula helps to plump and refine the skin while improving texture and elasticity. Infused with calming Peptides, it also works to reduce visible redness and inflammation.
Plus, Medik8’s advanced stability system ensures the formula remains potent and effective from the first drop to the last!
RRP: £55 - Find it on Medik8 or Cult Beauty
Allies of Skin CE15 Bakuchiol Firming Oil
This advanced, nutrient-rich oil combines 22 clinical actives and 9 botanical oils to deeply nourish and hydrate.
Vitamin C enhances radiance and evens skin tone, while Bakuchiol helps smooth fine lines without irritation.
The formula also harnesses the protective benefits of Vitamin E against environmental damage, as well as the rejuvenating properties of coenzyme Q10 for a brighter, more refined complexion.
This powerful final-step treatment works to firm, plump and restore skin radiance with every drop.
RRP: £148 - Find it on Cult Beauty
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