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Bakuchiol is a plant based alternative to retinols. In the autumn of 2019, I started a Bakuchiol trail as this a lot safer for the skin then retinol. The plant-based retinol alternative has exploded in popularity as people seek out gentler and sometimes vegan approaches to skin care. It is an antioxidant found in the seeds of the plant psoralea corylifolia. It has a long history in medicine for its healing properties, including soothing rashes, calming redness, and healing cuts. As for what it can do for your complexion? Well, similarly to traditional retinols which can be especially harsh if you have sensitive skin, (As I do )  The benefits of incorporating bakuchiol into your skin care routine can include smoother texture, less hyperpigmentation, and restored elasticity. Bakuchiol, like retinol, works by increasing cell turnover, thereby stimulating collagen production and diminishing wrinkles, skin laxity, and overall photo damage.  (Another bonus: Unlike retinols, bakuchiol is completely safe to use while pregnant or breastfeeding. I have five products that I have tried, Bybi Booster, Indeed Labs Bakuchiol Reface Pads, Revolution 1% Bakuchiol,  the Inkey List and the Ren Bio Retinol Anti Aging Cream. These are my thoughts

Bybi Booster

A retinol-alternative skin booster, the Bakuchiol Booster is 1% bakuchiol in olive squalane and is designed to be used to boost your existing skincare products. Bakuchiol is a plant derived, vegan and 100%R natural alternative to vitamin A (retinol).Research has proven it has the same benefits for the skin – stimulating collagen production to improve texture and condition, but it without the negative side effects that include irritation, inflammation or increased photo sensitization. In olive squalane to soften the skin. It made my face feel very oily even though I was not using much at all. It costs £12 for 15ml. I will not be repurchasing.

Indeed Labs Bakuchiol Reface Pads

Indeed Labs Bakuchiol Reface Pads  have been formulated to produce firmer, smoother skin by optimising hydration, improving skin tone and evening out fine lines and wrinkles. Formulated with Bakuchiol, a natural alternative to Retinol, they accelerate skin cell turnover, restore lost elasticity and treat acne. Niacinamide combats inflammation and controls sebum production whilst antioxidant Symsave H and soothing Allantoin prevent UV damage and water loss. Free from parabens, fragrance and colourants. Can be used morning and night. These were ok, nothing special. I only used once a day rather than twice. It would £40 a month, if you used this twice a day. A tub of 30 pads costs £19.99. Did not feel that I made any difference to my face and again, will not be repurchasing.

Revolution 1% Bakuchiol Serum

This lilac coloured serum works to reduce the appearance of fine lines and discourages uneven skin tone. Gentle on the skin and formulated with Grape Seed Oil an antioxidant with moisturising properties. I applied this to face morning and night after cleansing and before my other serums. This was very nice, sank into my face with no irritation. I will be using this product again after my trail. £10 for 30ml is the right price, packaging and product for me. I like that this is a serum and I can get this in my local boots store.

The Inkey List Bakuchiol

The inclusion of ultra-hydrating and nourishing squalane as well as Omega 3, 6 and 9 rich sacha inchi oil which helps strengthen and maintain the skin’s moisture barrier. This again is another nice product. It is £7.99 for 30ml, and is tube, now this is fine most of the days, but well my fingers are swollen, I can not squeeze this. I would refer if this was in the pump bottles that they do. This is a very light runny moisturiser, and dried matter very quickly. I will probably get this, if I was unable to get the revolution one.

Ren Bio Retinol Anti Aging Cream

A breakthrough anti-ageing cream that delivers retinol results without irritation, while enhancing skin vitality and radiance. Deeply nourishing and hydrating, it reduces the appearance of fine line and wrinkles.

I ended up never using the Ren or The Inkey List, as I felt this did nothing for my skin. At least it did not irritate my rosacea skin. This is one product I will never have in my stash in the future.