Everything You Need To Know About Natural Retinol Alternative Bakuchiol Serum

Whether you’re a skincare pro or novice, you’ve probably been told to start including retinol in your routine.

When it comes to preventing ageing, you can’t go past retinol. If you want to learn all about why/how you should be using the product click here. However, retinol is not for everyone. On certain skin types, it can cause redness or skin to flake off and become extremely dry. The more you use it, the more your skin will adapt, but if you’re looking for something gentler than retinol, look no further than Bakuchiol serum because it’s a real game-changer.

So what the hell is it? Tbh, I’m pretty clueless when it comes to advanced skincare knowledge.

It turns out that Bakuchiol is a natural alternative for people who find that retinol (Vitamin A) irritates their skin, or can’t use it because they’re pregnant or breastfeeding. Bakuchiol is plant-based and derived from the Babchi Herb, and like regular retinol, it stimulates collagen production and reduces fine lines and wrinkles.

Natural retinol is ideal for people wanting to avoid putting harsh chemicals on their skin, as it’s free of phenoxyethanol, parabens, and most versions of the serum are vegan.

One brand that offers a Bakuchiol serum that doesn’t cost half your rent is MooGoo, which sells a Bakuchiol (1% w/v) Natural Retinol Substitute Active Serum for $34.90. Curious to know more about this magical serum? Keep reading.

We spoke to CEO of MooGoo, Melody Livingstone, about what Bakuchiol serum is, and who should use it:

What kind of skin types are most suitable for using natural retinol?

Bakuchiol is natural, gentle, non-irritating, and suitable for all skin types.

Is it a better alternative to retinol for people with sensitive or dry skin?

It is a better alternative to retinol, particularly for people with sensitive skin and those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

What are some of the negatives from using retinol rather than a bakuchiol serum?

Retinol is well known to cause severe irritation in some people, and even those who don’t have sensitive skin often react to it at first. Redness, stinging, and flaky skin are a few of the signs that your skin doesn’t react well to retinol. Retinol also comes with a warning to pregnant women and those who are breastfeeding. Retinol also makes your skin more sensitive to sun exposure which is counter-productive in Australia, and it’s also not a natural ingredient.

Is natural retinol as effective as retinol in reducing fine lines and wrinkles?

Yes, studies have found that Bakuchiol has the same efficacy as retinol, without irritation.

How does it work exactly? What is it made from?

As you age, the rate at which we shed skin cells slows down, which can leave our complexions looking dull and exacerbate the depth of fine lines and wrinkles. Bakuchiol works by stimulating collagen production and speeding up skin cell renewal, which diminishes signs of ageing — improving fine lines and wrinkles, pigmentation, elasticity, and firmness. It is plant-based and derived from the leaves and seeds of the Babchi Herb, traditionally used in herbal medicine and Ayurvedic healing practices.

Is it long-lasting?

Ongoing use is recommended to maintain its positive effects. 

Does it help with acne?

Studies have shown that Bakuchiol can reduce acne. Bakuchiol has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, so it kills acne bacteria and takes down swelling. Plus it inhibits the oxidation of sebum, which is thought to be the driving force in the progression of acne. 

Can you apply it in the morning (which is discouraged with retinol)?

Yes, it can be applied in the morning.

When should you apply it in your skincare routine?

We recommend applying the serum morning and night after cleansing, toning, and moisturising.