Bakuchiol: Is the 'Plant Retinol' Really as Good as Retinol?

Bakuchiol is a reasonable, gentler alternative to retinol for people who cannot tolerate it. In one 12-week trial with 44 people, it reduced wrinkles and pigmentation about as much as retinol, with less stinging [1]. But that trial had no placebo, and most other bakuchiol studies are uncontrolled [2]. 'Clinically proven as effective as retinol' overstates it.

Bakuchiol is a compound from the seeds of the babchi plant (*Psoralea corylifolia*). It is often called 'plant retinol', but it is not a retinoid. On labels look for Bakuchiol; Psoralea Corylifolia Seed Extract is a cruder, different ingredient.

Versus retinol. 44 people used 0.5% bakuchiol twice a day or 0.5% retinol once a day for 12 weeks. Both groups' wrinkles and pigmentation improved, with no statistical difference between them; the retinol group reported more scaling and stinging [1]. 'No difference' in a small trial is not proof that the two are equal.

The wider evidence. A 2024 systematic review found 15 human trials, but 12 had no control group, 10 tested blends rather than bakuchiol alone, and the evidence lacked rigour [2]. Another review found positive but mostly non-quantified results [3]. A broader review of anti-ageing ingredients graded retinol and vitamin C 'A' and bakuchiol 'C' [4].

Sensitive skin, or anyone who has tried retinol and found it too irritating. One case of contact dermatitis has been reported [3]. We could not verify any pregnancy safety data, so do not assume it is pregnancy-safe — ask your GP or pharmacist.

Many Korean bakuchiol products pair it with other actives, which is fine but means results cannot be credited to bakuchiol alone. The products below are compared daily across UK retailers, delivery included. See also kbeautymatch.co.uk/blog/retinol-retinal-skincare-evidence.