Retinol, known for its ability to diminish fine lines, wrinkles and acne scarring, is an indispensable ingredient in every anti-ageing regime. But for those who can’t tolerate its side effects such as irritation, flaking and redness – there may be other alternatives out there that could offer some relief.
Bakuchiol, the vegan, sensitive-skin friendly alternative to retinol. COSMOS approved and derived from Halobacterium salinarum microorganism, offers vegans and those with sensitive skin a possible treatment alternative for acne.
Bakuchiol
Bakuchiol is an emerging ingredient widely touted as the natural alternative to retinol. Like its synthetic counterpart, bakuchiol works to encourage cell turnover and improve skin tone, but does so by targeting different receptors on skin receptors – like turning on different lights with each solution, helping reduce irritation in turn.
Acne is a potency antioxidant that can reduce hyperpigmentation, blotchiness and age spots thanks to its free-radical scavenging abilities. Plus, this soothing plant extract boasts anti-inflammatory properties which make it perfect for those with oily or sensitive skin.
Bakuchiol can be extracted from Babchi seeds using the Claisen rearrangement process and only partially dissolves in organic solvents such as ethanol and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). Chemical synthesis methods exist, with one process producing purer preparations than others; studies have also explored its ability to protect cells against free radical damage while providing promising therapeutic effects against communicable and non-communicable diseases.
Hypskin
Natural retinol refers to any product produced without synthetic ingredients or animal byproducts. An example is Hypskin, which is COSMOS approved and made of algae such as Hypnea musciformis and Sargassum filipendula; reports claim its benefits include cell renewal, spot reduction wrinkle reduction even skin tone hydration and more.
Azelaic acid has proven itself an effective alternative to prescription retinoids without their side effects (including irritation). This dermatologist-recommended ingredient helps improve fine lines and wrinkles, hydrate skin cells and decrease hyperpigmentation while simultaneously increasing collagen production and helping prevent moisture loss, according to Gmyrek. You’ll likely find azelaic acid in clean face creams or serums.
AHAs
AHAs are water soluble acids that work to dissolve dead skin cells and reveal fresher-looking skin by breaking down dead cells that accumulate on the surface of your skin, as well as to fade dark spots or hyperpigmentation, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, treat acne, or both.
Glycolic acid is one of the most well-known AHAs. It’s widely recognized for its exfoliating capabilities and ability to stimulate collagen production. Glycolic acid can often be found in peels as well as skincare products targeting ageing skin tone issues, uneven pigmentation (melasma or seborrhea), fine lines or rough patches.
Salicylic acid, another popular AHA, helps unclog pores and combat acne-causing bacteria while simultaneously soothing redness and inflamed skin.
Long-term AHA use has been linked with an increase in UV sensitivity. This is because AHAs may disrupt an important protein known as AQP-3 that protects keratinocytes against UV-induced DNA damage.
Peptides
Peptides are fragments of protein with biological effects. Peptides may have antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antimicrobial and immunomodulatory properties.
Peptides have quickly become a mainstay of cosmetic products in recent years, often being included in serums designed to address skin concerns such as acne or wrinkles, fade dark spots, increase hydration or promote cellular regeneration.
Some peptides act as messengers between cells to communicate and control various cellular processes, while others possess therapeutic qualities like anti-aging, gene regulation and inflammation reduction. Cyclotides peptides in particular stand out as they tend to be more stable than their counterparts.
Miranda Kerr recently unveiled her latest beauty launch – a serum made with bakuchiol combined with alfalfa extract and acai stem cell oil to produce a powerful combination of antioxidants that combat signs of aging and hyperpigmentation, while remaining suitable for all skin types. Produced using certified organic ingredients grown on organic farms and packaged in glass bottles to protect from light damage, the COSMOS-approved formula may reduce signs of aging and hyperpigmentation while protecting all types of skin types against light damage.
