Retinol has long been a gold-standard ingredient in the world of anti-aging skincare. Backed by dermatologists and esteemed institutions like Harvard Medical School, retinoids are known for their ability to smooth fine lines, stimulate collagen, and visibly improve tone and texture.

But for many, traditional retinoids can be too harsh, causing dryness, sensitivity, and peeling. That’s where bakuchiol enters the conversation: a gentle, plant-based alternative that delivers radiant results without the drawbacks.

Pros and Cons of Retinoids

What do retinoids do?

Retinoids (vitamin A derivatives) are some of the most well-researched ingredients in dermatology. According to Harvard Health, they help boost cell turnover, stimulate collagen production, and treat concerns like acne, wrinkles and hyperpigmentation.

Risks associated with retinoids

Despite their efficacy, retinoids often come with side effects: redness, dryness, irritation, flaking and increased sun sensitivity. Prescription forms can be especially intense and are not safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Benefits of natural alternatives

For those with sensitive skin or who prefer a gentler path, plant-based alternatives like bakuchiol offer an elegant solution, delivering noticeable results without the inflammation. Learn more about why skin resurfacing is essential and how clean alternatives support skin health at every age.

What is Bakuchiol?

Benefits of bakuchiol

Derived from the seeds and leaves of the Psoralea corylifolia plant, bakuchiol visibly improves fine lines, elasticity, and tone while brightening dark spots. The best part? It does so without the typical side effects of retinol… making it suitable for both day and night use.

History of bakuchiol

Used for centuries in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine, bakuchiol was traditionally prized for its soothing, anti-inflammatory properties. Today, it’s a hero ingredient in clean luxury formulas from brands like Fitglow and Tronque delivering modern results backed by ancient wisdom.

What does the research say?

A clinical study in the British Journal of Dermatology showed bakuchiol performs comparably to retinol in reducing signs of aging, but with significantly less irritation. Publications like Everyday Health have also highlighted it as one of the most promising natural retinol alternatives in modern skincare.

Ingredients that work well with bakuchiol

One of bakuchiol’s greatest strengths is its versatility. While traditional retinoids may conflict with other actives, bakuchiol integrates beautifully into multi-step routines. It pairs especially well with:

• Vitamin C – for brightening and collagen synergy
  

• Hyaluronic Acid – for plumping hydration
  

• Niacinamide, peptides, and nourishing oils – for barrier support and balance

This makes it versatile for nearly any skincare routine.

How to add bakuchiol to your skincare routine

Bakuchiol is remarkably gentle and can be used daily, both morning and evening. Whether you prefer creams or serums, there’s a way to integrate this botanical into your ritual.

Three Citrine-approved favorites:

• Fitglow Vita Rich Bakuchiol Glutathione Super Crème – A rich facial crème that blends bakuchiol with glutathione for a firmer, more luminous complexion.
  

• Fitglow Vitamin C + Bakuchiol Body Serum – A silky body treatment delivering facial-grade results from the neck down.
  

• Tronque Everyday Revelation Exfoliating: Refining Serum – A multitasking body serum that combines bakuchiol with exfoliants to visibly smooth and brighten.
  
  

Key Takeaways

• Retinoids are highly effective but often cause irritation and photosensitivity.
  

• Bakuchiol is a proven, plant-based alternative that mimics many of retinol’s benefits without irritation.

• Gentle, versatile, and safe for all skin types, even sensitive.
  

• Works synergistically with vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and other actives.
  

• Featured in luxury clean beauty products like Fitglow and Tronque.
  
  

Looking for Other Retinol Alternatives?

Bakuchiol isn’t the only natural alternative to retinol. Other options include:

• Rosehip Seed Oil – Found in Retinoic Nutrient Face Oil and holi (body), it delivers vitamin A precursors and antioxidants.
  

• Retinal – A next-generation, more advanced retinoid (form of vitamin A) with gentler action, found in Ursa Major Lunar Bloom Serum. 

• Vigna Acontifolia + Hyaluronic Acid + Vitamin C – A plant-powered trio found in Patyka Pro Collagen Mask, offering collagen support and hydration without the irritation.

Read more about why some retinol alternatives were discontinued.

How Do I Find What’s Right for Me?

The best skincare choice depends on your skin type, goals, and sensitivity. If you’re unsure whether to start with retinol, bakuchiol, or another alternative, we recommend:

• Taking our Skin Quiz for a customized regimen.
  

• Booking a personal consultation with one of our skincare experts.
  

• Exploring more ingredient education resources on our blog.
  
  

Frequently Asked Questions about Bakuchiol

Is bakuchiol as effective as retinol?
Clinical studies suggest that bakuchiol delivers similar anti-aging results as retinol, with significantly less irritation.

Can I use bakuchiol if I have sensitive skin?
Yes. Bakuchiol is generally well tolerated and less likely to cause dryness or redness compared to retinoids.

Can I use bakuchiol during the day?
Unlike retinol, bakuchiol does not make skin more sun-sensitive, so it’s safe for both daytime and nighttime use.

Is bakuchiol safe during pregnancy?
Bakuchiol is considered a safer option than retinoids during pregnancy, but always consult your healthcare provider before adding new products.

Final Thoughts

Bakuchiol is a beautiful bridge between tradition and innovation, merging the wisdom of plant medicine with the standards of modern skincare science. If you’ve been seeking a way to experience retinol-like results without the irritation, bakuchiol may be the botanical breakthrough you’ve been waiting for.

✨ Explore it in our curated selection of clean, high-performance formulations like Fitglow, Tronque, and more. Your glow, your way.