Bakuchiol: A Plant-Based Alternative to Retinol

Bakuchiol: A Plant-Based Alternative to Retinol

Skincare Science · 2026

Bakuchiol: A Plant-Based Alternative to Retinol

Bakuchiol is a meroterpene derived from the seeds of Psoralea corylifolia. Recent clinical data has positioned it as a credible alternative to retinol for users who prefer to avoid traditional vitamin A.

Verdo Cosmetics · Auckland Read time: ~5 min

What bakuchiol actually is

Bakuchiol (pronounced ba-KOO-chee-ol) is a phenolic compound traditionally used in Indian and Chinese herbal medicine. In recent years it has been formulated into modern skincare following research suggesting it can produce retinoid-like effects without sharing the chemical structure of vitamin A.

What the head-to-head clinical trial showed

A 2019 randomised, double-blind, prospective study published in the British Journal of Dermatology compared 0.5% bakuchiol cream to 0.5% retinol cream over 12 weeks in 44 participants with facial photoageing. Both groups showed statistically significant improvements in wrinkles and hyperpigmentation, with no significant difference between bakuchiol and retinol on either measure. Notably, the retinol arm reported significantly more facial scaling and stinging.[1]

How bakuchiol may work in the skin

A 2022 mechanistic review in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science reported that bakuchiol modulates several pathways relevant to skin ageing: it supports collagen-related gene expression, has antioxidant activity, and acts on mitochondrial function in skin cells. The authors concluded that bakuchiol's benefits arise from a "multidirectional" set of activities rather than from a single retinoid receptor.[2]

Why pregnancy makes this conversation important

Topical retinoids are generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Bakuchiol does not share the chemical class of vitamin A and is sometimes selected by pregnant or breastfeeding users; however, the clinical-safety evidence in pregnancy is limited and we strongly recommend speaking with a registered healthcare professional before introducing any new active ingredient during pregnancy.

Bakuchiol Peptides® at Verdo

Medik8® Bakuchiol Peptides® combines bakuchiol with a peptide complex in a serum format suitable for users seeking a gentler alternative to vitamin A or for layering with vitamin A on alternate evenings. As an authorised NZ stockist of Medik8®, Verdo carries the full line.

How to use it

  • Evening, after cleansing. 4 drops massaged across the face, neck and décolletage.
  • Layer with hyaluronic-acid serums or moisturiser for additional comfort.
  • Patch-test first. Even gentle actives can cause individual sensitivity.
  • Do not assume "natural" means risk-free during pregnancy. Talk to your doctor first.

Featured peptide and bakuchiol products

Medik8 Bakuchiol Peptides 30ml

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References

  1. Dhaliwal S et al. (2019). Prospective, randomized, double-blind assessment of topical bakuchiol and retinol for facial photoageing. Br J Dermatol. View
  2. Bluemke A et al. (2022). Multidirectional activity of bakuchiol against cellular mechanisms of facial ageing — Experimental evidence for a holistic treatment. Int J Cosmet Sci. View
Disclaimer. This article is for general educational purposes and does not constitute medical or dermatological advice. Research findings discussed here are summaries of published peer-reviewed literature; individual results vary. Consult a registered healthcare professional for skin concerns. Statements have not been evaluated by Medsafe NZ or the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Always patch-test new products and avoid retinoids during pregnancy or breastfeeding. See our Privacy Policy.

Frequently asked questions

What is bakuchiol?
Bakuchiol is a phenolic compound traditionally used in Indian and Chinese herbal medicine. Research suggests it can produce retinoid-like effects without sharing the chemical structure of vitamin A.
How does bakuchiol compare to retinol?
In a 2019 study published in the British Journal of Dermatology, bakuchiol and retinol creams were compared over 12 weeks in 44 participants with facial photoageing, and both showed significant improvements in wrinkles and hyperpigmentation with no significant difference between them. The retinol group reported significantly more facial scaling and stinging.
How does bakuchiol work in the skin?
According to a 2022 review referenced in the article, bakuchiol supports collagen-related gene expression, has antioxidant activity, and acts on mitochondrial function in skin cells. Its benefits are described as coming from a multidirectional set of activities rather than from a single retinoid receptor.
Can you use bakuchiol during pregnancy?
Topical retinoids are generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, and while bakuchiol does not share the chemical class of vitamin A, its clinical safety evidence during pregnancy remains limited. It is best to consult a healthcare professional before introducing new actives during this time.
How do you use bakuchiol?
Apply 4 drops in the evening after cleansing, massaged across the face, neck, and décolletage, then layer with a hyaluronic acid serum or moisturiser. Patch-test first, since even gentle actives can cause individual sensitivity.
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