Bakuchiol is a plant-derived ingredient extracted from the Psoralea corylifolia plant. A 2019 study published in the British Journal of Dermatology found it performed comparably to retinol in improving fine lines and hyperpigmentation, with significantly less irritation. It does not work through the same biochemical pathway as retinol, but its effects on skin appearance overlap enough that it is a practical option for anyone who cannot tolerate traditional retinoids. It is particularly worth considering for very dry or reactive mature skin where even low-dose retinol causes persistent peeling. Bakuchiol can also be used during the day, unlike retinol.
