The anti-aging benefits of retinol are hardly a secret, but there is a plant-based alternative that’s slightly lesser known. The best bakuchiol serums deliver the brightening, tightening effects of retinol, minus the irritation—ever-more imperative as the temperatures dip.
Vogue’s Favorite Bakuchiol Serums
Featured in this article
“Winter means lower humidity, more indoor heating, and a higher risk of dryness and barrier damage, which can amplify all of retinol’s side effects,” says Mollie Kelly Tufman, PhD, molecular biologist and founder of the Beauty Lab. Even for those who can tolerate retinol, “Swapping to bakuchiol [for the season] can be a smart move if your skin is feeling tight, flaky, or sensitized,” she notes. “You still get the benefits of retinol, but in a form that’s less likely to push an already-dry winter skin barrier over the edge.”
“The main benefit of bakuchiol is that it can stimulate collagen production,” board-certified dermatologist Mina Amin, MD, tells Vogue. “In a 12-week clinical study, bakuchiol resulted in significant improvement in facial fine lines and wrinkles, skin elasticity, firmness, and pigmentation.” Ready to give the botanical active a whirl? Ahead, get everything you need to know about bakuchiol—from the right serums to how to appropriately add the skin-care ingredient to your routine.
In This Story
- What is bakuchiol?
- What is the best form of bakuchiol?
- Bakuchiol versus retinol: What’s better?
- Is it okay to use retinol and bakuchiol together?
- What percentage of bakuchiol is the most effective?
- Is bakuchiol a “retinol alternative”?
- How long does it take to see the results of bakuchiol?
- Who should use bakuchiol?
- What are the downsides of bakuchiol?
- What should you not pair with bakuchiol?
- How We Tested
- Meet The Experts
Best Overall: Isdin Isdinceuticals Melatonik
- Why We Love It: Designed for nighttime use, this three-in-one serum has a silky texture and active ingredients that work while you dream. “This is a great multitasking, lightweight serum-in-oil well-suited for mature skin,” Deanne Mraz, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Connecticut, previously told Vogue. “The hero ingredient—melatonin, a powerful antioxidant—works with your body’s natural circadian rhythm to support recovery and repair from acquired damage to skin cells [from] UV rays, environmental stressors, and oxidative damage.” Enriched with bakuchiol, “this also works proactively to restore skin vitality, elasticity, texture, and tone by stimulating collagen and elastin production,” Dr. Mraz said.
- Key Ingredients: Melatonin, vitamin C, bakuchiol
- Bakuchiol Concentration: Not disclosed
- Size: 30 ml
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Hydrating, gentle on sensitive skin | Some find the scent strong |
| Formula layers well with other products |
Best for Enlarged Pores: Paula’s Choice Clinical 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment
- Why We Love It: Amin cites this treatment as a top pick for its combination of retinol and bakuchiol which is “great for acne and the appearance of enlarged pores.” In typical Paula’s Choice fashion, this is powerful, yet gentle—whipping the two potent ingredients, plus peptides, into a lightweight lotion suitable for all skin types. Just lather it on three times per week across the face and neck for a smoother, softer, brighter complexion over time. Though the retinol concentration is on the lower end (0.3%) and therefore good for beginners, we’d still recommend reaching for this as an experienced retinoid user or those without skin sensitivities.
- Key Ingredients: 0.3% retinol, 2% bakuchiol, peptides
- Bakuchiol Concentration: 2%
- Size: 30 mL / 1 fl oz
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Works on all skin types, treats acne, refines pores | Some users detect a medicinal smell and report breakouts or flaking as the skin adjusts to the formula |
Best for Sensitive Skin: Medik8 Bakuchiol Peptides Serum
- Why We Love It: From our research and testing, Medik8 stands out for two things: retinol and peptides—its Crystal Retinal 3 and Oxy-R Peptides are two Vogue editor favorite face serums. So we knew its Bakuchiol Peptides Serum would be something special. Not only does it have the ability to promote a youthful glow by boosting skin’s firmness and brightness, but it also utilizes centella asiatica, Inka omega oil, and aloe vera to remedy stressed skin—simultaneously supporting skin barrier health. Not to mention, it sits weightlessly on the skin.
- Key Ingredients: Bakuchiol, peptides, centella asiatica, inka omega oil, sunflower seed oil, aloe vera
- Bakuchiol Concentration: 1.25%
- Size: 30 mL / 1 fl oz
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Boosts firmness and brightness, supports skin barrier | Some report a slightly oily feel, the product can take a while to absorb |
Best for Breakouts: Typology Sérum Imperfections Bakuchiol 1%
- Why We Love It: Designed to regulate sebum production in acne-prone skin, Typology’s best-selling serum is made in France with naturally-derived, vegan ingredients—and refreshingly few of them. “This is essentially 1% bakuchiol in a [hazelnut botanical] oil base,” says Dr. Kelly Tufman. “This type of formula is best for someone who has slight dryness, occasional breakouts, and residual marks from past blemishes.” Gary Goldenberg, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Goldenberg Dermatology adds that theis concentration “is high enough to have a clinical effect, but still gentle and not irritating.”
- Key Ingredients: Bakuchiol, hazelnut botanical oil
- Bakuchiol Concentration: 1%
- Sizes: 0.50 fl oz, 1 fl oz
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Regulates sebum levels, corrects and prevents breakouts | Not ideal for those with very oily skin or persistent acne |
Best Neck Cream: Neostrata Skin Active Triple Firming Neck Cream
- Why We Love It: Neostrata’s neck-firming cream pairs bakuchiol with patented ingredients such as MicroDiPeptide 229. According to the brand, the exclusive micro-peptide is about 2.5 times smaller than the average peptide used in anti-aging products, which allows it to penetrate the skin more efficiently to lift, firm, and sculpt. Meanwhile, Vitamin E floods the delicate skin on the neck with antioxidants, while NeoCitriate evens skin tone. The multitasking formula has a thumbs-up from Alexandra Bowles, DO, a board-certified medical and cosmetic dermatologist at MONA Dermatology in Cincinnati. “This is a great option for those patients looking for firming and improvement in neck complexion,” Bowles previously told Vogue. “It is packed with potent ingredients like neo glucosamine to reduce uneven pigmentation and fine lines, and pro-amino acids to support collagen production. It targets sagging, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone, firming and lifting the neck area while improving texture and clarity.” But wait, there’s more: According to the brand, the product can also be used on the face.
- Key Ingredients: Bakuchiol, NeoGlucosamine, MicroDiPeptide 229, NeoCitriate, Vitamin E
- Bakuchiol Concentration: Not disclosed
- Size: 80 g/2.8 oz
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Fragrance-free, transfer-proof, no pilling | Some users wish the results were faster-acting, though most report improvement after some 60 days |
Best Eye Cream: Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Bakuchiol Eye Cream
- Why We Love It: Crow’s feet and dark circles are two reasons one might reach for a retinol eye cream, but a bakuchiol potion might be better suited for some. “Given the lower risk of irritation when compared to retinol, bakuchiol may be a more appropriate choice for people with sensitive skin, including those with rosacea and eczema, who desire the skin-care benefits of retinol but cannot tolerate it,” says Amin. If that sounds like you, look no further than K-beauty brand HaruHaru Wonder’s Black Rice eye cream powered by fermented black rice, bamboo shoot bark extract, and 5,000ppm of bakuchiol to gently smooth fine lines while awakening the eye area.
- Key Ingredients: Fermented black rice, bamboo shoot bark extract, bakuchiol, ginseng root extract
- Bakuchiol Concentration: 5,000ppm (0.5%)
- Size: 20mL / 0.67 fl oz
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Gentle enough for sensitive skin, smooth texture works well under makeup | Some users find the packaging, particularly the pump, difficult to use |
Best Plant-Based: Herbivore Moon Fruit 1% Bakuchiol + Peptides Retinol Alternative Serum
.jpg)
- Why We Love It: Dermatologist Dr. Divya Shokeen recommends Herbivore’s serum—describing it as “a gentle, all-natural formula suitable for all skin types. It smooths fine lines and improves skin texture without causing irritation.” Plus, it’s plant-based and boasts a nourishing serum-texture that sinks into skin and pairs well with face moisturizers to follow.
- Key Ingredients: Bakuchiol, plant peptides, Schisandra berry extract, jojoba seed oil, glycerin
- Bakuchiol Concentration: 1%
- Size: 30 mL / 1 fl oz
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Suitable for all skin types, fast-absorbing, gentle | Users are divided over the smell; some find it pleasant, while others describe it as odd |
Everything You Need to Know
What is bakuchiol?
“Bakuchiol is a plant-derived ingredient from the leaves and seeds of Psoralea corylifolia plant (AKA babchi),” says Amin. “This herb is native to India and has been used for centuries in traditional Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine.”
What is the best form of bakuchiol?
Amin explains that texture does not interfere with bakuchiol’s efficacy meaning that it can be integrated as a serum or cream to your liking. “A serum formulation offers a more lightweight method of delivery of bakuchiol,” she says, while “a cream or oil would offer a more hydrating form of delivery of the bakuchiol.”
Bakuchiol Versus Retinol: What’s better?
“The majority of our data comes from retinol, and even more specifically, tretinoin, which is a synthetic form of retinol available by prescription only,” says Tanya Kormeili, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Santa Monica. “Therefore, based on data, we consider retinol the gold standard for boosting collagen and elastin.”
Dr. Kelly Tufman elaborates, “There are decades of data showing that retinol reduces wrinkles, smooths texture, fades hyperpigmentation and photoaging, and treats acne and clogged pores.” However, the vitamin A derivative can also cause redness, peeling, and barrier disruption—especially as the skin becomes accustomed to it.
According to Kelly Tufman, bakuchiol is best for:
- Those with sensitive, reactive, or rosacea-prone skin that flares with even low-strength retinoids.
- People with early signs of aging who want a gentler option.
- “Bakuchiol is also frequently used in pregnancy skin-care routines because it isn’t a vitamin A derivative,” she says. “But, I always tell people to clear new actives with their OB-GYN or dermatologist.”
Is it okay to use bakuchiol and retinol together?
“Retinol and bakuchiol can be combined, but it’s generally not needed,” Dr. Kelly Tufman says. “More is not automatically better here.” For those seeking “maximum anti-aging power” or a potent acne treatment, she recommends retinol. On the other hand, “If you have more sensitive skin or skin that reacts to almost everything, bakuchiol is often the better choice,” she says. “You’ll avoid irritation while getting similar benefits.”
Dr. Goldenberg suggests alternating the two ingredients. “Especially in the winter, I recommend using retinol two to three times per week and bakuchiol on other days of the week,” he says.
What percentage of bakuchiol is the most effective?
According to Amin, 0.5-2% of bakuchiol is the most effective percentage. Beginners or those with skin sensitivities might look for a lower percentage, whereas experienced users or those with deep wrinkles may find a higher percentage more appropriate.
Is bakuchiol a “retinol alternative”?
Bakuchiol is often dubbed a natural retinol-alternative but what does that actually mean? Amin explains that this comparison highlights that the two ingredients work similarly, but they are actually quite different. “Retinol, a derivative of vitamin A, is known to stimulate collagen production, prevent fine lines and wrinkles, and increase skin elasticity,” she explains. “However, retinol is commonly associated with side effects of irritation and dryness, most notably for individuals with dry skin. Recent research supports the notion that bakuchiol demonstrates these same benefits with less of a risk of irritation.” Amin continues that future research is needed to determine the efficacy of bakuchiol in comparison to prescription retinoids.
Another reason to consider bakuchiol versus retinol is that the former is stable in sunlight and does not result in increased sun sensitivity—though Amin bids that sunscreen wear is still recommended.
How long does it take to see the results of bakuchiol?
“Just like most products—it takes a few months to see improvement,” says Shokeen. “You can expect to see visible improvements in 4-12 weeks of consistent use.” She continues that results can be longer compared to retinol.
Who should use bakuchiol?
According to Shokeen, the following people should use bakuchiol:
- Individuals with sensitive skin who can’t tolerate retinol.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women (always consult with a healthcare provider).
- People looking for a natural alternative to retinol.
- Those with issues concerning aging, dark spots, or uneven skin texture.
What are the downsides of bakuchiol?
Though the retinol alternative shows promise, its claims aren’t rooted in a sea of research. “There are very limited studies on bakuchiol,” says Howard Sobel, MD, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologic surgeon at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York. “Although [claims] state that bakuchiol can help increase cell turnover and renewal, there is a risk of sensitivity, redness, dryness, or stinging of the skin. I recommend introducing the skin to it slowly.”
What should you not pair with bakuchiol?
To avoid irritating the skin, “I would not pair bakuchiol with a vitamin A derivative such as any retinol product,” says Dr. Sobel. The idea is that piling on too many ingredients that stimulate cell turnover can cause the cells to turn over a little too quickly, which could result in everything from redness to dryness and flakiness.
How We Tested
When we test and review a product, we take a holistic approach to deliver well-rounded product recommendations. First, we lean on Vogue s vast network of experts—from board-certified dermatologists to celebrity estheticians—to gain professional acumen on the industry s standout products, ones these specialists would actually use on their clients. We pair their expertise with our editorial best practices to curate the thoughtful edits you read on our site.
As it relates to bakuchiol serums, we selected the best based on the following characteristics: ingredients, texture, packaging, and the skin-care concerns they address. To do this, we paired our own personal tests of each formula with expert guidance and reviewer insights to determine which we would recommend to you.
Meet The Experts
- Mina Amin, MD, is a Los Angeles-based dermatologist at California Dermatology Specialists.
- Divya Shokeen, MD, is a California-based, board-certified dermatologist at the Ocean Skin and Vein Institute.
- Howard Sobel, MD, is a board-certified cosmetic dermatologic surgeon at Lenox Hill Hospital.
