For decades, retinol has been the go-to for tackling fine lines, pigmentation, and uneven skin tone. But for sensitive skin, it often comes with side effects like flaking, redness, and irritation. Enter Bakuchiol, a gentle plant-based alternative that delivers similar results without the harshness.

What Is Bakuchiol?

Bakuchiol (pronounced bah-koo-chee-ol) is a natural extract from the Psoralea corylifolia plant, long used in traditional Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine. It’s been dubbed the “natural retinol alternative” because it helps soften signs of ageing, brighten the skin, and refine texture without the potential side effects that come with synthetic retinoids.

Bakuchiol vs Retinol

Retinol is a powerful synthetic form of Vitamin A that promotes skin cell turnover. While effective, it can also be irritating, especially for those with dry, sensitive, or reactive skin. Bakuchiol works differently but delivers comparable benefits, helping improve skin tone, firmness, and texture with better tolerability. And unlike retinol, which is only suitable at night, Bakuchiol can be used both morning and evening.

The Science of Bakuchiol

Bakuchiol’s rise isn’t just hype, its skincare benefits are backed by science.

A study published in the British Journal of Dermatology found that Bakuchiol, when applied twice daily for 12 weeks, was just as effective as retinol in reducing wrinkles and hyperpigmentation without the dryness, redness, or irritation often caused by retinol.

Additional research in journals like the International Journal of Cosmetic Science and Phytotherapy Research confirms Bakuchiol’s antioxidant activity, collagen-boosting potential, and ability to calm inflammatory skin conditions without compromising the skin barrier.

Clinical testing by KORA Organics adds further support. In a 4-week trial of their Bakuchiol serum, 78% of participants found it more effective than their previous retinol product, 82% saw softer visible signs of ageing, and 90% experienced no irritation. Their matching moisturiser delivered similarly strong results, with 87% reporting firmer, tighter skin and 96% experiencing no sensitivity, even with twice-daily use.

What Does Bakuchiol Do for Skin?

• Improve skin texture and tone
• Reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
• Support collagen production and elasticity
• Brighten uneven pigmentation
• Calm redness and help balance breakout-prone skin

It’s also suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin.

Bakuchiol-Powered Skincare to Try

💜 100% Pure Bakuchiol

• 100% Pure Bakuchiol Face Oil: A lightweight, skin-softening oil with clinically proven levels of Bakuchiol to improve skin tone, texture, and firmness. Enriched with Jojoba, Olive Squalane, and Sunflower Seed Oil, it hydrates and nourishes without irritation.
• 100% Pure Bakuchiol Moisturiser: A rich yet gentle face cream suitable for all skin types. Features Bakuchiol at a clinically supported concentration, plus Hyaluronic Acid, Kojic Acid, Niacinamide, and Liquorice Extract to hydrate, brighten, and firm. Use day and night.

🌿 KORA Organics Bakuchiol

• KORA Organics Plant Stem Cell Retinol Alternative Serum: A dual-action day and night serum with 5% Bakuchiol and Alfalfa to help firm, smooth, and visibly soften signs of ageing. In a 4-week clinical study, 78% said it was more effective than retinol, 80% saw firmer, plumper skin, and 90% experienced zero irritation.
• KORA Organics Retinol Alternative Moisturiser: A deeply nourishing companion to the serum, with the same 5% plant blend plus Acai Stem Cells and peptides to replenish and visibly tighten. Clinical studies show 96% experienced no irritation, 91% said skin looked replenished, and 87% noted firmer, smoother skin.

✨ LAMAV Targeted Bakuchiol Booster

• LAMAV Bakuchiol 4% Natural Retinol Alternative Booster: A powerful 4% Bakuchiol treatment boosted with Green Tea and Pomegranate antioxidants. Adaptogens like Ashwagandha, Ginseng, and Holy Basil help support skin against stress and reduce signs of ageing without irritation.

🌙 Black Chicken Overnight Support

• Black Chicken Remedies Natural Retinol Night Mask: This creamy night mask uses Bakuchiol and nourishing botanicals to hydrate, replenish, and support overnight skin renewal. Ideal for all skin types, especially sensitive skin looking for results without the side effects of retinol.