Retinol is an effective anti-aging ingredient, helping smooth fine lines and wrinkles, reduce acne breakouts, fade dark spots and smooth acne scars. Unfortunately, however, it may not suit everyone, especially those with sensitive or rosacea-prone skin.
Bakuchiol, an extract derived from the Babchi plant (Psoralea corylifolia), is an ideal, gentler alternative to retinol for stimulating cell turnover, helping fade pigmentation, and brightening skin without irritating irritation.
Retinol
Retinol, a fat-soluble form of Vitamin A, is widely recognized for its anti-ageing effects. It helps reduce wrinkles, even out skin tone and fade dark spots while simultaneously soothing dryness and itchiness. To avoid these side effects, start slowly by only applying one pea sized dot every other night at first; over time increase to every night over time.
Retinol promotes cell turnover to remove dead skin cells, helping reduce fine lines and wrinkles and shrink pores while improving the size. It can also be used to treat keratosis pilaris (red bumps on skin’s surface). As Retinol can be harsh for sensitive skin types, nourishing ingredients must often be combined with it in order to minimize irritation. Bakuchiol (derived from seeds of Babchi plant) offers similar effects without drying or irritating effects compared to Retinol
Bakuchiol
Bakuchiol has made waves in beauty publications as an all-natural, gentler alternative to retinol. It’s believed to have similar results on skin cells by increasing collagen production* and stimulating cell renewal, ultimately decreasing fine lines and wrinkles.
Retinol-containing products may also have antioxidant benefits, neutralising free radicals and reducing inflammation. Therefore, this alternative could provide relief to sensitive skin individuals experiencing irritation from traditional products containing retinol.
Even though bakuchiol has only just recently emerged on the scene as an anti-aging ingredient, research supports its potential. A small study published by British Journal of Dermatology discovered that it could just as effectively erase fine lines and improve skin tone and texture as retinol without its peeling side effects and redness side effects.
Retinoids
Retinoids such as retinol and retinoic acid are often utilized to address fine lines and wrinkles, uneven skin tone, pore size and pigmentation issues, as well as acne breakouts by decreasing excess oil production. When beginning any product of this nature it’s wise to begin slowly by beginning with low strength products since overexposure can irritate skin causing redness, dryness, itching or flaking which could potentially irritate even further.
This ingredient can be an ideal choice for people with sensitive skin as it reduces inflammation, redness and irritation by inhibiting the tyrosinase enzyme which produces pigment and melanin. It is commonly recommended for treating rosacea, acne and those unable to tolerate stronger retinoids. When looking for products containing this ingredient look for time-release versions so as to lessen irritation – also try not combining with benzoyl peroxide, alpha hydroxy acids or other ingredients that could potentially deactivate its effects!
Other Ingredients
Retinol is an essential skincare essential, from diminishing fine lines and wrinkles to fighting acne breakouts and disguising dark spots. But not everyone can use Retinol safely – particularly those with sensitive skin, pregnant/nursing mothers or those who are breastfeeding.
Good news – there are alternatives to retinol that can deliver similar results without redness and irritation. One such alternative is bakuchiol, often considered an natural retinol alternative since it provides similar benefits (including stimulating skin cell turnover and improving tone/texture) but without as many side effects as traditional retinol treatments.
Consider including Azelaic Acid in your skin care regime, which has many proven skincare benefits including reduced breakouts, clogged pores and hyperpigmentation. In addition, Azelaic acid has proven itself effective for soothing redness and rosacea as well as being gentle enough for those with sensitive skin.
