Bakuchiol vs Retinol: Which is Right For You?

April 17, 2026

By: Truly Beauty

bakuchiol vs retinol | side by side photos displaying personal holding bottle of Truly's glass skin oil over legs and closeup of Truly's Vanilla Baby Body Oil with a silvery shimmery textured background

Retinol is a powerful anti-aging ingredient, but bakuchiol might be just as good...without the irritating side effects.

It feels like retinol has always been the gold-standard for fine lines and wrinkles. The only trouble is, if you have sensitive skin, it can leave you dry, flaky, and red. Not exactly what you wanted.

So, what about retinol alternatives? Many dermatologists would agree that bakuchiol is the equivalent to retinol (and far gentler on the skin). But does it really work as well as they say it does?

Keep reading to explore the benefits of both and which one you should choose for your skin type and goals.

Quick Answer: Which is Better, Bakuchiol or Retinol?

While retinol is an effective, well-researched anti-aging ingredient, bakuchiol is the overall better option for targeting fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation without causing painful side effects. Unlike retinol, bakuchiol is pregnancy-safe and doesn't make skin sun sensitive.

Here are our top bakuchiol skincare product recommendations.

Vanilla Baby Luxury Body Oil

Plumping Body Shimmer Oil

SAVE 50%

The Firming Body Serum

For Sagging Skin & Stretch Marks

Vanilla Baby Shimmer Body Butter

Smoothing Shimmer Body Moisturizer

What is Bakuchiol?

Bakuchiol is a natural alternative to retinol, derived from the babchi plant, otherwise known as the psoralea corylifolia plant. For years, this Indian plant has been used in Ayurvedic practices as well as traditional Chinese medicine for its skin healing powers. Thanks to its powerful anti-inflammatory properties, bakuchiol has long been a natural medicine for healing cuts and calming redness.

In skincare, bakuchiol works a lot like retinol. Studies show that, like retinol, bakuchiol can stimulate collagen production and boost skin cell turnover. As a result, bakuchiol can help to minimize signs of aging, improve skin tone, and fade dark spots and discoloration.

Bakuchiol is a gentle alternative to retinol. It works more slowly and results generally take a little longer, but it’s also less likely to cause skin irritation.

What is Retinol?

Retinol is a vitamin A derivative that’s used in skincare to boost collagen production, improve the appearance of fine lines, and even combat acne by preventing clogged pores. Numerous studies show the benefits of retinoids as an anti-aging ingredient.

Retinol is a powerful antioxidant and anti-aging ingredient that communicates with other cells, telling them to behave like younger skin cells. Because of its antioxidant properties, retinol also prevents premature skin aging by interrupting the free radical damage process that causes fine lines and wrinkles.

Retinol is available in over-the-counter products like serums and creams, as well as topical prescription ones. However, not all skin types, especially sensitive skin, can tolerate retinol products because of its potency. It can cause side effects like redness, dryness, and flaking.

Bakuchiol vs Retinol

Is retinol better than bakuchiol? Or vice versa? We’ve outlined the benefits of bakuchiol and retinol along with their side effects so you can make the most informed decision.

Bakuchiol

Benefits

• Improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

• Reduces hyperpigmentation

• Heals wounds

• Soothes redness and irritation

• No increase in sun sensitivity

• Pregnancy safe

Downsides

• Not as thoroughly studied as retinol

• Takes longer to see effects of bakuchiol

Retinol

Benefits

• Addresses signs of aging such as fine lines and wrinkles

• Improves skin tone and skin texture

• Treats large pores

• Prevents acne

• Supports skin elasticity for improved firmness

Downsides

• Makes skin sun sensitive

• Possible side effects, including redness, flaking, and purging

• Not safe during pregnancy or while breastfeeding

Both ingredients can help minimize fine lines, improve skin texture, and reduce hyperpigmentation. If your skin tolerates retinol well, it might be the better option for faster results. However, if you have sensitive skin or simply prefer a more natural route, bakuchiol offers similar benefits without the irritation.

Is Bakuchiol Better Than Retinol?

Both skincare ingredients have their benefits, so it's really not a case of one being superior to the other. It's mainly down to your skin type.

If you have dry or sensitive skin, bakuchiol is the better choice because it's gentle with no side effects. If you have oily or normal skin, retinol might give you slightly faster results.

That being said, bakuchiol is becoming the more popular option in 2026 because it's clean, vegan, and non-irritating. You get its anti-aging, brightening benefits without dealing with dryness, itching, flaking, and redness.

Shop Bakuchiol Skincare

Vanilla Baby Luxury Body Oil

Plumping Body Shimmer Oil

Vanilla Baby Oil

Key Ingredients: Bakuchiol, Niacinamide | Benefits: Anti-Aging, Illuminating | Scent: Vanilla & Pear

For an instant luminous glow with a pretty pearlescent shimmer, try this ultra-luxe body oil. It’s boosted with bakuchiol and niacinamide to deeply hydrate, smooth out fine lines, and reduce redness for skin that feels immediately nourished and renewed.

Glass Skin Oil

Glass Skin After Shave Oil

Airbrush Effect Oil

Key Ingredients: Bakuchiol, Vitamin C, Jojoba Oil | Benefits: Brightening, Glow-Enhancing | Scent: Clean & Fresh

Get dewy, glass-like skin all over with this lightweight oil. It features a brightening blend of bakuchiol and vitamin C to fade dark spots and leave skin glowing. It’s also formulated with jojoba oil to lock in moisture for silky smooth, supple skin.

Bakuchiol vs Retinol FAQs

Can You Use Bakuchiol and Retinol Together?

Yes! Bakuchiol can be used alongside retinol to enhance your skincare routine without adding extra irritation. Some skincare products even combine the two ingredients for a balanced approach.

How Often Should You Use Bakuchiol or Retinol?

Bakuchiol can be used daily, while retinol is typically recommended 2-3 times per week to avoid irritation and skin sensitivity, especially for beginners.