Meet Bakuchiol: The All-Natural Retinol Your Skincare Routine Needs

"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."

Serums and creams with retinol are stellar for smoothing and plumping skin and reducing acne, but retinol can be a difficult ingredient for people to tolerate. It comes with a laundry list of potential side effects including dryness, flaking, and peeling—not to mention it's considered unsafe for anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding. An excellent alternative to retinol that has similar anti-aging and anti-acne properties? Bakuchiol.

Bakuchiol is a plant-derived ingredient that when used in topical skincare products like face serums, can prompt collagen production and increase your skin's rate of cellular turnover. These mechanisms can lead to fewer lines and wrinkles, firmer skin, smoother skin texture, and a brighter skin tone.

But with all of the different bakuchiol serums on the market, it can be difficult to narrow down which options are best. So I tested and reviewed a bunch of different bakuchiol serums and spoke to dermatologists Kristina Collins, MD, and Anar Mikailov, MD, to come up with this highly curated list of the 13 best bakuchiol serums for every skin type and concern.

Keep scrolling for the full list of the 13 best bakuchiol serums of 2023, complete with specs, pros and cons, and first-person tester reviews.

Moon Fruit 1% Bakuchiol + Peptides Retinol Alternative Serum

In addition to bakuchiol, this serum also contains a powerful blend of superfruits that are rich in vitamins C, E and B5 to help smooth and brighten all skin types. It's a favorite of Dr. Collins, who says likes that the formula is "highly-tolerable, plant-powered, and lightweight.” And because this bakuchiol serum is considered clean, it would be a great choice for someone to use during pregnancy or anyone who is trying to stick to a natural skincare routine.

• Fragrance-free? Yes

• Skin types: Dry, combo, sensitive, acne-prone, oily

• Usage: Evening

THE REVIEW: One tester writes, “I’ve struggled with acne on and off for YEARS, and when I say this product stopped it in its tracks, I’m not kidding!! Retinol wrecked my skin. Finally I found this product because I’m hoping to get pregnant soon, and it stopped my acne in its tracks! It’s only been about 5 days, but my cysts have shrunk dramatically, my texture is silky smooth, and no new zits are showing up. This is it if you want something natural and gentle!”

Clinical Discoloration Repair Serum

I'm a genuine fan of all Paula's Choice products, including this bakuchiol serum for dark spots. A powerful trio of bakuchiol, tranexamic acid, and niacinamide come together to target discoloration and promote a brighter, more even-toned complexion. As with most products for hyperpigmentation, this serum works best when you use it twice a day, everyday. In my testing experience, I found that if I get lazy with application my dark spots tend to creep back up.

• Fragrance-free? Yes

• Skin types: Combo, oily, acne-prone

• Usage: Morning and evening

THE REVIEW: "This serum is the first thing I put on my face in the morning and I've seen actual results within a couple of weeks. I took a break on actives because they made my skin sensitive, but this is not too much for my sensitive skin,” writes one tester.

Glow Cycle Retin-ALT Power Serum

This bakuchiol serum from Ole Henriksen is proof that clean skincare products can still be incredibly potent and efficacious. It combines bakuchiol with alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and edelweiss stem cell along with a blend of lemon, sugarcane, and chamomile extracts that makes for a dreamy, sweet scent and ultra-smooth skin. Because AHAs are another, albeit stronger, means of exfoliation, you may experience some irritation, so tapering use of this serum can be helpful. Also, remember to always wear sunscreen when you’re using exfoliants like AHAs in your routine.

• Fragrance-free? No

• Skin types: Combo, oily, acne-prone

• Usage: Evening

THE REVIEW: “I don't usually leave reviews for products but this deserves one! I had bumps and pimples on my chin from constantly wearing masks at work. After using this I noticed a difference on my chin a few days later. The bumps on my chin had disappeared and my skin felt softer. The only downside is your skin does get sensitive to the sun and so apply sunscreen more frequently. Other than that this product is a must try,” reads one review.

Intensive Firming Serum Renewal

I recommend this serum to all of my friends and family members who are new to using bakuchiol. First, off the price is great and you can conveniently buy it at most drugstores. Second, the formula is top-tier, thanks to a combo of bakuchiol and hydrating hyaluronic acid. It's an excellent choice for smoothing and plumping fine lines and unlike many bakuchiol serums, it's moisturizing enough to be used by super-dry skin types.

• Fragrance-free? No

• Skin types: Dry, combo, sensitive

• Usage: Morning and/or evening

THE REVIEW: "I adore this product and I'm not a regular user of Burt's Bees products. This was a surprising find. It feels great on the skin and works well under other products. There does appear to be a brighter appearance to my skin and it feels smoother. Not sure if it will actually tighten my skin but I liked this so much I've ordered a second bottle and told friends about it,” one reviewer writes.

Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Texture Renewal Serum

Retinol lovers, this one’s for you. This formula harnesses the power of both retinol and bakuchiol for a more intensive approach to treating signs of aging, like fine lines and wrinkles. The combo of retinol and bakuchiol is able to stimulate collagen and elastin production and jumpstart cell turnover for firmer, smoother skin. In my testing experience, this formula is well suited for those with oily or combo skin, as it could be too intense for someone who is dry or sensitive.

• Fragrance-free? Yes

• Skin types: Combo, oily, acne-prone

• Usage: Evening

THE REVIEW: “This is absolutely amazing. I have super oily skin that's prone to cystic acne and this got rid of the annoying bumps and clogged pores on my forehead, chin, and cheeks. This is now forever in my routine,” reads one review.

We Come In Peace Microbiome Serum

If you tend to have sensitive or easily aggravated skin, this is the bakuchiol serum for you. The bakuchiol is paired with calming and anti-inflammatory probiotics, carrot seed oil, and blue tansy oil to help soothe and nourish your skin with every use. I've personally tested this when my skin was going through a bout of major irritation and it didn't exacerbate any of my redness or itchiness one bit.

• Fragrance-free? Yes

• Skin types: Dry, combo, sensitive, acne-prone

• Usage: Morning and/or evening

THE REVIEW: According to one tester, “I stumbled upon this product a year ago and have been a big fan ever since. It is moisturizing and balancing, yet lightweight and not at all oily (other serums I have used in the past could only be used as night because they were so greasy). I appreciate the packaging, too, since it’s very easy to travel with."

Bakuchiol Oil Blend for Oily Skin

This bakuchiol serum for oily skin is packed with oils, which may sound counterintuitive, but these oils actually help balance your skin's natural oil production for a healthy (not greasy) glow. Baobab and rosehip seed oils are both non-comedogenic, fast-absorbing, and help plump and smooth skin, while the dose of bakuchiol is key for improving skin texture and tone.

• Fragrance-free? Yes

• Skin types: Combo, oily, acne-prone

• Usage: Morning and/or evening

THE REVIEW: One tester writes, “I have oily, acne-prone skin. However, I'm in my 30's and want to start using anti aging ingredients. This works great. I definitely noticed less fine lines after a couple weeks use. I don't mind the smell and it doesn't make me breakout any more or less than anything else. I love this product, give it a try.”

Wrinkle Treatment Drops Retinol Alternative Serum

My skin usually needs products that are extra moisturizing and nourishing during the cooler fall and winter months, which is why I've been loving this bakuchiol serum for dry skin. The formula taps squalane to moisturize skin, along with with probiotics to strengthen your skin barrier's so it can hold on to moisture for longer. And, of course, there's bakuchiol to plump the skin and minimize the look of lines and wrinkles. I personally like to add a few drops of this serum to my face moisturizer or foundation for an extra boost of hydration.

• Fragrance-free? Yes

• Skin types: Dry, combo, sensitive

• Usage: Morning and/or evening

THE REVIEW: "This is so lightweight but makes a huge difference! I love how smooth my face looks after using it! It gives a glowy finish, I love putting it on right before bed and waking up to a fresh face.” reads one tester's review.

Pimple Potion Retinal + Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment

Rather than squeezing or poking at your pimple, try dabbing it with this bakuchiol-infused spot treatment instead. The combo of bakuchiol, retinal, and salicylic acid helps to unclog pores, clear up breakouts, and even fade any dark spots or marks left behind once your breakout heals. And unlike other acne spot treatments I've tested, this formula isn't harsh or drying so my skin never flakes or peels after I use it.

• Fragrance-free? Yes

• Skin types: Oily, acne-prone

• Usage: As needed

THE REVIEW: "I actually purchased this for my teenage son and now he can't live without it," writes one tester. "It cleared his face so well that he panics if the next subscription is not here when he's running low! He has sensitive skin, so I love that this works without causing additional issues too.”

Bearberry & Vitamin C Glow Serum

I'm all about the ultra-glowy, glazed-donut aesthetic and this bakuchiol serum from Alpyn Beauty gives my skin that exact effect. The blend of bearberry, vitamin C, and bakuchiol help brighten dark spots, smooth fine lines, and create a hydrated, dewy finish that I love. And unlike some face serums that take weeks—even months—to work their magic, this stuff makes my skin look glowier as soon as I apply it, so there's an instant gratification factor too.

• Fragrance-free? Yes

• Skin types: Dry, combo, oily, sensitive

• Usage: Morning and/or evening

THE REVIEW: One review reads, “I have super sensitive skin and this serum is so gentle it doesn’t irritate my skin at all! I love how lightweight and non-greasy this serum is. It keeps me glowing all day without feeling oily. I love it!”

RetrinAL Advanced Correcting Serum

I've had countless dermatologists sing the praises of this bakuchiol serum in interviews. It uses bakuchiol to firm and smooth skin along with hydrating hyaluronic acid and Avène's proprietary thermale spring water, which is clinically proven to soothe and calm the skin. It's even got some niacinamide as well, which is key for fading dark spots and reducing redness.

• Fragrance-free? Yes

• Skin types: Dry, combo, oily, sensitive, acne-prone

• Usage: Morning and/or evening

THE REVIEW: "I developed rosacea several years ago and have worked at trying to find products to help heal my skin. This is gentle, non-irritating, and my skin feels fresh, firm and with the help of other products, my skin is clearing up. I’ve been using it 2x a day and my bottle has lasted almost 2 months,” writes a tester.

Melatonik Recovery Night Serum

I’m always need to justify the price tag of a “splurge” product, and for this bakuchiol serum from Isdin, Dr. Collins’ stamp of approval and glowing review is all I need. “I love the Isdin Melatonik Restorative Serum," says Dr. Collins, who adds “I find it very helpful for patients who struggle with hyperpigmentation and melasma.” The unique serum-in-oil formula pairs bakuchiol with melatonin and vitamin C for an overnight treatment that visibly brightens, smooths, and strengthens the skin.

• Fragrance-free? No

• Skin types: Combo, oily

• Usage: Evening

THE REVIEW: “Beauty sleep reimagined with this one! I put this on at night and wake up with brighter and more refreshed skin! It's truly a must-have for your night time routine,” writes one tester.

Elderberry Bakuchiol Serum

Formulated by celebrity aesthetician Angela Caglia, this lightweight bakuchiol serum also contains glycolic acid, elderberry extract, and niacinamide to help treat blackheads, whiteheads, and cysts. Glycolic acid helps nix dead skin cells and unclog pores, elderberry extract has antibacterial properties to prevent pimples, and niacinamide helps regulate oil production and even out skin tone and texture, With consistent use, you’ll notice a brighter complexion and a reduction in breakouts and congestion.

• Fragrance-free? Yes

• Skin types: Combo, oily, acne-prone

• Usage: Evening

THE REVIEW: "One reviewer writes, “This is my third bottle of Elderberry Bakuchiol Serum/Retinol Alternative. I love the difference I am seeing in my skin. It looks brighter and the wrinkles are still there but not nearly as noticeable. I will definitely keep using this product.”

What does bakuchiol serum do?

Bakuchiol does a whole lot for skin, including smoothing fine lines and wrinkles, fading discoloration, preventing breakouts, and boosting firmness and elasticity. It's often coined as ‘nature’s retinol,' says Dr. Collins, who adds that bakuchiol can have a similar effect on the skin as retinol but without the risk of irritation. Dr. Mikailov also says that “bakuchiol helps to stimulate collagen production and thicken the skin,” which is typically why it’s found in anti-aging serums.

Is bakuchiol better than retinol?

Bakuchiol is not better than retinol. Even though the ingredients can work similarly, there are some major differences. Retinol is more well-studied than bakuchiol and is significantly more potent, so it tends to show more dramatic effects when it comes to improving skin tone and texture. Retinol, in general, is also better at treating acne—especially versions that are prescription-strength.

That said, "if someone is not able to tolerate retinol because they have sensitive skin, then bakuchiol can be a great anti-aging ingredient to use as an alternative for collagen boosting,” says Dr. Collins.

Is it okay to use bakuchiol everyday?

Most dermatologists agree that it's okay to use bakuchiol everyday. In fact, daily use of bakuchiol is preferred, says Dr. Collins, adding that in studies, the best results from bakuchiol came when patients used it once a day.

What are the downsides of bakuchiol?

For the most part, there are few downsides to bakuchiol since the ingredient is well-tolerated by the majority of skin types. Of course, with any naturally-derived or synthetic ingredient there's a chance of allergic reaction, so it's always smart to patch-test your bakuchiol serum on a small area of skin before applying it to your entire face, says Dr. Collins.

How to choose a bakuchiol serum:

Think about the other ingredients in the formula.

For instance, if you’re looking to treat acne, a bakuchiol serum that also contains exfoliating acids (like Angela Caglia or Dr. Dennis Gross's serums) or sebum-regulating ingredients like niacinamide (check out Avene's) will be your best choice. Or if your skin is typically dry and dull, it would be smart to choose a bakuchiol serum that also contains hyaluronic acid or squalane (like Burt's Bees and Tula's serums above).

Skip serums with water as the first ingredient on the label.

“I always make sure that water/aqua is not the first ingredient in a skincare product I am using,” says Dr. Collins, who explains that waterless products are more concentrated, and in theory, more effective.

Meet the experts:

• Kristina Collins, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at Austin Skin Physicians in Austin, TX.

• Anar Mikailov, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Rochester, NY and co-founder of Skintensive Skincare.

Why trust Cosmopolitan?

Lisa DeSantis is a freelance writer who has been in the beauty industry for nearly ten years. She began her career in beauty and fashion at QVC and has since written for and contributed to top women's magazines and digital brands such as Health, Real Simple, Cosmopolitan, Motherly, Byrdie and more. She has tested thousands of products and considers herself a professional guinea pig who's always on the search for the next big trends in beauty, wellness, and beyond.

You Might Also Like

• Here’s What NOT to Wear to a Wedding

• Meet the Laziest, Easiest Acne Routine You’ll Ever Try