Retinol has long been considered the gold standard in anti-aging treatments, yet it may be harsh on sensitive skin. Therefore, gentler alternatives have increasingly come under scrutiny as options.
Bakuchiol (pronounced bah-koo-chee-ol) has recently gained attention for its similar properties to those found in retinol, yet without reddening and flaking issues.
This powerful plant extract boosts collagen production, speeds cell turnover rates, softens fine lines and wrinkles and soothes inflammation. Furthermore, it can reduce hyperpigmentation as well as soothe inflammation.
Bakuchiol
Bakuchiol is a potency plant-based retinol alternative that has quickly grown increasingly popular as more people recognize its advantages. It’s known to brighten and smooth skin, reducing fine lines while combatting uneven pigmentation issues; plus it acts as an antioxidant protecting the skin against environmental stressors.
Gentle in nature, vitamin C does not cause redness and flaking like its retinol counterpart does, nor does it increase sun sensitivity; making it suitable for daytime use. Plus, its fortification with niacin helps protect from sun damage and hyperpigmentation.
As with any new skincare ingredient, starting slowly and increasing concentration gradually is best.
Cacay Oil
Cacay oil has long been revered for its ability to treat signs of ageing without irritation, as its ingredients include anti-oxidants, fatty acids and naturally-occurring vitamin A that stimulate the natural renewal process in skin cells. Furthermore, cacay oil helps even out uneven skin tones and reduce fine lines and wrinkles for improved appearance.
As opposed to synthetic retinols which may lead to redness, flakiness and irritation for some users, bakuchiol has proven itself safe for skin use as an effective alternative. Bakuchiol stimulates collagen production while evening out skin tone for a brighter and healthier-looking complexion.
Niacinamide, a natural vitamin B-3 alternative, can also serve as an excellent natural retinol replacement. Niacinamide reduces inflammation while helping maintain skin hydration levels for healthier looking skin, including evenness of tone, fade acne scarring and prevent unwanted hyperpigmentation. Plus it’s great for all skin types since its not drying like traditional retinoids!
Chicory Root
Cichorium intybus, commonly referred to as chicory or endive, is an edible and medicinal plant with an extensive history. Chicory has long been revered for its nutritional benefits including digestive support and appetite stimulation.
Chicory plant roots contain high levels of dietary fibers such as inulin – a prebiotic substance that feeds beneficial bacteria in your digestive tract – as well as providing ample amounts of vitamin C.
Research has demonstrated that inulin can stimulate GLP-1, which reduces appetite and increases feelings of fullness to promote weight loss. Furthermore, inulin provides essential iron and folate. When consumed as food supplement it is usually well tolerated but some individuals may experience belching, bloating and flatulence; although pregnant women should consult their healthcare providers first before using inulin as part of a weight management strategy.
Tara Tree Extract
Tarta seed extract, another natural retinol alternative that has made waves in spa skincare, is another plant-derived ingredient making waves in spa skincare. Derived from seeds and pods of Caesalpinia spinosa (tara) tree, tarta has long been utilized as an effective moisturizer.
Tara pods and seeds contain high concentrations of essential fatty acids and plant proteins that help your skin achieve an even tone and healthy complexion. Furthermore, tara seeds contain galactomannans–polysaccharides which have been proven to stimulate human monocyte-derived dendritic cell activity–making this food source particularly valuable in maintaining good skin.
RetinART, which is both COSMOS-certified and NATRUE approved, is another fantastic retinol alternative that’s both water-soluble and COSMOS approved; derived from Chlorella vulgaris microalga, its structure mimics that of retinoic acid without causing irritation when applied topically.
