If you’re looking to up the ante on anti-aging, you’ve likely heard of retinol. Deemed the “superstar ingredient” among hordes of dermatologists, the evening-used derivative of vitamin A is also quite potent for some skin types. But then, bakuchiol joins the party.
Bakuchiol, otherwise known as the plant-based retinol alternative, is a dermatologist-recommended and well-emerged ingredient infused into plenty of skin care products, namely serums. From my experience testing the ingredient on my sensitive skin, it’s a hint gentler than the average retinol product. And, just as effective without the redness or too-vigorous effect.
“Bakuchiol is a plant-derived skincare ingredient extracted from the seeds and leaves of the Ayurvedic plant also known as babchi plant,” , cosmetic dermatologist at La Jolla Laser Dermatology specializing in surgical and laser dermatology, told the New York Post. “Retinol on the other hand is a vitamin A derivative that’s synthesized from the breakdown of β-carotene.”
- Best Overall:
- Best for Eyes:
- Best for Sensitive Skin:
- Best for Dry Skin:
- Best for Oily Skin:
Although both retinol and bakuchiol work by increasing cell renewal and boosting collagen production in the skin, they have different mechanisms of action by working through different pathways.
“Bakuchiol is known to be more gentle on the skin causing fewer side effects such as redness, peeling, and irritation,” she added. “In terms of stability, retinol can be unstable, break down when exposed to light whereas bakuchiol is more stable and tends to have a longer shelf life.”
When choosing a bakuchiol product, it’s important to consider ingredients, consistency, purity and absorption — as well as your own unique skin type.
Without further ado, we’ve arrived at my review of the best bakuchiol serums — tested, tried and reviewed. I love the notion of using a product type that won’t be as strong on my skin, though will reap the same let’s-do-my-skin-some-good-in-the-future power. For more, check out the in-depth FAQ section following this review for informative intel shared by our team of board-certified dermatologists.
Best Overall:
Pros:
- Extremely gentle on sensitive skin
- Contains mandelic acid to infuse more anti-aging properties to the skin
- Good for those that are acne prone
Cons:
- Not as intensely hydrating as others tested, though not a dealbreaker
The DIME Beauty TBT Serum (Anti-Aging Serum) impressed me with its gentleness, more so than plenty of others I tested. Of course, no other serum on this list was irritating or else it wouldn’t make the cut as “the best,” but this one had an extra delicate charm and is always pleasing to use.
Aside from bakuchiol, it’s also infused with mandelic acid which has been to be suitable for its anti-aging properties and to help combat acne-prone skin. Each time I use this serum, I feel like my skin is being renewed and rejuvenated in the best way. It allows my skin to feel smooth and supple whenever it’s dolloped on.
Skin type: All | Fragrance: None | When to use: Night
Best Bakuchiol Eyes:
Pros:
- Nurturing feel and smoothing the under-eye area
- Fitting for sensitive skin
- Slightly dewy on the skin with a well-balanced formula
Cons:
- Has a strong plant-based scent, though that fades after application
Among 50+ eye creams I’ve been testing in the last three years, the Peach & Lily Pure Peach Retinoic Eye Cream is one of the most gentle I’ve used and one I love for its inclusion of bakuchiol, specifically. A little goes a long way and its moisturizer-like formulation is second to none on the eye area.
Its Retinoic Complex contains rosehip seed oil (which contains natural retinoic acid) and superfoods (carrots, mangoes, broccoli and spinach) which the brand describes as “all high in beta-carotene, a precursor to retinol,” per its product description.
Overall, I wrote, “It’s quite alluring on the skin” in my journal after using it, and that’s the best way to describe it. If you want to be keen on anti-aging while feeling naturally glowy (bonus points if your skin is dry or sensitive!) this is the product to try next.
Skin type: All | Fragrance: None | When to use: Night
Best for Sensitive Skin:
Pros:
- Hydrating
- Layers well underneath makeup
- Helps make the skin more supple
Cons:
- Higher price point
The Dermelect Flawless Bakuchiol Treatment offers a natural, gentle alternative to retinol, making it a suitable option for those with sensitive skin or those who prefer plant-based ingredients. It targets various skin concerns, including uneven texture, dullness and signs of aging. It’s technically a bakuchiol cream, but an efficacious product nonetheless.
In addition to bakuchiol, it contains a blend of hydrating and soothing ingredients like squalane, which helps to replenish moisture and maintain skin’s natural barrier, which always leaves my skin feeling smooth and plump. The combination of these ingredients works synergistically to promote a brighter, more youthful complexion — and it’s just like a whipped cloud for my sensitive skin.
It layers well underneath makeup as well and works overtime to provide anti-aging benefits without the typical downsides of stronger retinol-based treatments. It offers a more gentle yet effective approach, making it a great option for individuals with sensitive skin — especially pregnant or breastfeeding women — or those simply seeking a more natural skincare solution. Its noncomedogenic formula ensures it won’t clog pores, and regular tends to turn up the dial on my skin’s radiance. It’s a quite *flawless* product to incorporate into your skincare routine, if I do say so myself.
Skin type: All | Fragrance: None | When to use: Night
Best for Dry Skin:
Pros:
- Contains peptides and antioxidants that deeply penetrate skin
- Lightweight, non-greasy texture
- Feels luxurious
Cons:
- Price point may be unreachable for some
- Bulky packaging, so not the best for travel
The Dr. Jart+ Prejuvenation Firming Bakuchiol Serum is a dreamy product that addresses early signs of aging while providing firming and smoothing benefits. At its core, the serum harnesses the power of bakuchiol, peptides and antioxidants to deliver anti-aging effects. The serum works by targeting skin elasticity and firmness, helping to deliver a more youthful and hydrated appearance whenever I use it.
I especially love its ingredient list. Peptides help to strengthen the skin’s natural barrier, improve moisture retention and stimulate the production of collagen, all of which lead to smoother, firmer skin. Antioxidants protect the skin from environmental damage, which can accelerate the aging process. Together, these ingredients help rejuvenate my skin and reduce the appearance of natural lines and provide a more youthful appearance. I simply love how nourishing it is to my skin.
This serum is also designed with daily use in mind, offering a lightweight, non-greasy texture that absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving any residue. While it’s packaging is quite clunky, it’s suitable for all skin types and absorbs beautifully.
Skin type: All | Fragrance: Subtle | When to use: Night
Best for Oily Skin:
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Contains niacinamide
- No strong fragrance
Cons:
- Absorbs well but doesn’t absorb as quickly, likely because it acts more like a moisturizer
- There is a faint scent that may be a dealbreaker for some
To target not only anti-aging but also dark spots and uneven texture is the Paula’s Choice CLINICAL Discoloration Repair Serum. Paula’s Choice has some of the most lightweight yet effective formulas I’ve used in a three-year span. Not to mention, I feel this product visibly working to help balance my skin.
Wonderfully, it contains niacinamide to help make the skin feel more supple. Whenever I use it, my skin always feels a bit brighter than before, allowing me to feel good before hitting the hay at nighttime. My sensitive skin appreciates its lack of strong fragrance and it never causes redness or irritation.
Though not a serum per se, it’s a locked-and-loaded treatment that I love to use. It has a faint scent which I’m not particularly fond of, but not enough to sway me against using it.
Skin type: All | Fragrance: Subtle | When to use: Night
Best for Discoloration:
Pros:
- Elegant, lightweight formula
- 1.25% bakuchiol content is a non-irritating
- Doesn’t leave the skin red
Cons:
- Higher price point
The Medik8 Bakuchiol Peptides Retinol Alternative Peptide-Infused Serum has the most elegant formula among all Bakuchiol serums I tested. It’s lightweight, drips and absorbs beautifully when released from its topper and is the ideal potion to rub into the neck and décolleté area, too.
Though an investment for some, it’s wholly worth it. In fact, a dermatologist I once spoke to told me to never skimp on skincare acids. The gentle power of Medik8’s 1.25% bakuchiol count is one of my favorites to use in the evenings. It also helps even my skin tone and is dynamite for discoloration.
Additionally, the serum is calming, doesn’t leave my skin with unwanted redness and penetrates deeply into the skin, allowing it to soak up all the anti-aging benefits. All of the other bakuchiol serums tested don’t leave my skin red, either, though a strong acid-based serum may. I’m glad that this one is the most recognizably gentle among the several bottles tested.
There’s also that “something special” feature to this one, and it’s surely worth every penny.
Editor tip: my favorite Bakuchiol moisturizer to use (with any serum) is the ($60) — I have used it religiously to the end of the jar about six times in the past three years.
Skin type: All | Fragrance: None | When to use: Night
Best Budget:
Pros:
- Wonderful for acne-prone skin
- Leaves a lovely dewy finish
- Hydrating and easily absorbable
Cons:
- Also contains retinol, which some users may want to avoid
The Versed Press Restart Gentle Retinol Serum is a wonderful bakuchiol serum to start off with, and especially suitable if you struggle with hormonal acne like I do every so often. It contains 0.05% bakuchiol, 0.03% encapsulated retinol — a form that allows the retinol to penetrate deeper into the skin layer before it’s activated — and another unique ingredient, 1% arophira, which is a natural retinol alternative that helps control sebum production to keep oils at a minimum.
Its hydrating formulation is no surprise, as I’m also obsessed with the brand’s ($33) and ($25), both of which are incredibly nourishing to my skin.
This product absorbs easily and leaves the most alluring dewy finish on the skin. While it’s the only serum on this list that contains both bakuchiol and retinol, I don’t find its retinol counterpart to leave my skin red or irritated as some formulations have in the past; this is likely due to its 0.03% composition.
Skin type: All | Fragrance: None | When to use: Night
Best Korean:
Pros:
- Soothing on the skin
- Helps with anti-aging concerns by targeting fine lines and wrinkles
- Made with natural ingredients
Cons:
- Not as many customer reviews on Amazon
The FarmRX Bakuchiol Serum stands out as one of the best Korean bakuchiol serums due to its exceptional formulation, which combines the power of bakuchiol with other nourishing natural ingredients. It’s a newer formulation I’ve tried — and one I wish I would have known about sooner.
I’m all about Korean skincare (I swear, it makes such a difference in terms of hydration, radiance and bounce). FarmRX’s serum uses a gentle yet potent dose of bakuchiol, making it suitable for sensitive skin, unlike traditional retinol which can cause irritation. The serum’s lightweight texture absorbs quickly into my skin, providing hydration and promoting a more youthful, glowing complexion. It uses natural ingredients like sweet almond oil and sunflower seed oil which are two supremely nourishing ingredients that I love using as a retinol-alt.
The result? That glass-skin look, but with anti-aging benefits, much ado to bakuchiol starring as the main role.
FarmRX also embraces the concept of “farm-to-skin,” meaning that its ingredients are sourced responsibly, ensuring high-quality and fresh botanicals. This commitment to sustainability and transparency resonates with consumers looking for products that not only work but are also kind to the environment. The FarmRX Bakuchiol Serum is not just a skincare product; it’s an experience that combines the best of modern skincare science with nature’s finest ingredients.
I also love using this product with the brand’s ($39). It’s a richer product that works well as a successor to the serum.
Trust me, even though it’s a bit more expensive than others, it’s well worth the buy, even more so if you love brands like COSRX.
Skin type: All | Fragrance: None | When to use: Night
Best for Dull, Flaky Skin:
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Helps improve skin bounce and firmness
- Leaves the skin with a natural, dewy glow
Cons:
- May have too much of a greasy feel for oily skin types
The Good Molecules Bakuchiol Oil Blend for Dry Skin is, without a shadow of a doubt, the best bakuchiol serum that blesses the areas of my face (i.e., my jawline) that tends to become flaky at times. It’s extremely nourishing, feels like replenishing olive oil that absorbs onto the skin and leaves my skin feeling radiant.
What sets this serum apart is the careful selection of hydrating oils that complement the bakuchiol, ensuring optimal nourishment for dry, flaky skin. Rich in essential fatty acids, these oils help to restore the skin’s natural moisture barrier, which is crucial for preventing water loss and always keeping my skin plump. The blend of bakuchiol and soothing oils helps reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and dullness while providing long-lasting hydration. This is particularly beneficial for those with dry skin like me, as it not only improves skin texture but also helps maintain a balanced, dewy complexion throughout the day.
Moreover, the Good Molecules Bakuchiol Oil Blend is free from harsh chemicals, fragrances and additives that can potentially irritate dry, sensitive skin. While excellent for sensitive skin, it may feel a bit too “greasy” on oily skin types as it is richly hydrating. Its clean, effective formula makes it a trustworthy choice for those seeking a gentle yet powerful solution for skin rejuvenation. The best part? It’s only $10, so it won’t break the bank.
Skin type: Dry, Combination, Sensitive | Fragrance: None | When to use: Night
How we tested
After testing bakuchiol serums for four years straight, I kept the following review-style criteria in mind when dispensing or pumping each product onto my skin:
- Absorbability: Whether a bakuchiol serum is water- or cream-based, it should still absorb well into the skin. This was taken into account.
- Redness: Since bakuchiol is a plant-based alternative to retinol — which falls into the acid class — it shouldn’t be as redness-causing as retinols may. I was on the lookout for redness, specifically, to assess if the bakuchiol serum was gentle and, in turn, effective for sensitive skin.
- End result: With bakuchiol serums, it may be difficult to assess if they’re “working.” Because they’re an anti-aging product, it’s more along the lines of “I’m doing my skin good” rather than “wow, look at this instantaneous effect!” However, the skin should be a bit smoother and more refined with each use, so I kept that in mind while testing.
What I tested, but didn’t make the cut
These are the brands that specifically didn’t work for me or my skin:
- : This surprised me because I adore the brand for its other products (like the ), but this formulation had too strong of a fragrance for my liking and left a subtle greasy residue.
An FAQ on Bakuchiol Serums
Ahead, our team of board-certified dermatologists best explain bakuchiol serums to a T — its benefits, how to apply them and more.
What is bakuchiol?
First things first. Let’s define bakuchiol to better understand its composition and then, as a result, its uses on the skin.
Bakuchiol is a type of retinoid. It’s no surprise that retinoids are the most researched ingredient on the market with more scientific evidence behind its powerful ability to “stimulate collagen, increase skin elasticity, enhance circulation, improve wrinkles, brighten discoloration and enhance skin quality,” per Dr. Shirazi.
In other words, “bakuchiol is the new kid on the block,” per Shirazi and, given its effectiveness is promising, it’s gaining popularity as a natural alternative to retinol. “However, it still doesn’t have nearly the same extensive body of evidence supporting its use as retinol,” she noted.
“Similar to retinol, bakuchiol helps modulate retinoic acid receptor genes,” , board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology on Long Island, NY, told The Post. “They both help to regulate and increase cell turnover. Retinol is derived from vitamin A, whereas bakuchiol is plant-based.”
Studies have shown that bakuchiol is nearly as effective as retinol in targeting fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmentation and photo-damage, so it certainly can replace retinol in your regular routine, according to Dr. Penzi. “Research also shows that bakuchiol has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial effects, which make it suitable for targeting acne as well,” she said. “If, on the other hand you have non-sensitive, very tolerant skin, a prescription retinoid will likely yield faster, more dramatic results.”
What are the benefits of using bakuchiol?
Bakuchiol benefits run rampant, especially for sensitive skin. “Bakuchiol is considered an antioxidant with an impressive skincare resume having anti-inflammatory properties in addition to functioning similar to retinol by boosting cell turnover, thereby stimulating collagen and improving lines, wrinkles and skin texture,” Shirazi explained.
More, a 2019 in the British Journal of Dermatology found it improved the signs of aging similar to retinol, but with less irritation.
In addition, bakuchiol also helps to boost the collagen that diminishes fine lines and wrinkles, decreases hyperpigmentation and fights acne, per Penzi.
How often should I use a bakuchiol serum?
Uniquely, bakuchiol is much better tolerated than retinol with less facial redness, scaling and irritation. This is why it is a great option for those with sensitive skin.
For this reason, Penzi recommends using it once daily. “It isn’t photosensitizing, so it can be applied morning or night,” she advised. “However, as with any skincare product, it’s essential to monitor your skin’s reaction and adjust accordingly. Some people may experience sensitivity or irritation with frequent use, so it’s recommended to start with a lower frequency and then gradually increase if your skin tolerates it well.”
Higher concentrations may require less frequent application while lower concentrations or cream-based formulations may be applied up to twice daily. “Bakuchiol may also be formulated with other potent active skincare ingredients that enhance its penetration and effectiveness, such as with a retinol, thereby dictating its use to once daily at night,” Shirazi further explained.
Though safe for everyday use eventually, your skin may need time to become used to the ingredient, so “starting every other day and increasing frequency as your skin tolerates it” may be a good idea, according to Shirazi.
When used consistently, the bakuchiol before and after is quite impressive, especially the rejuvenated feel your skin will have.
What percentage of bakuchiol is most effective?
Studies have shown positive results with concentrations ranging from 0.5% to 2%,” Penzi shares. “Lower concentrations, such as 0.5% to 1%, may be suitable for those with sensitive skin or those new to bakuchiol. Higher concentrations, around 1% to 2%, may be preferred by individuals looking for more pronounced anti-aging effects.”
What are the downsides of bakuchiol?
“Although it’s a gentle giant, it can still cause irritation, redness and peeling,” Shirazi said. “It’s best to start low and go slow when incorporating bakuchiol into your skincare regimen. If you have sensitive skin, start with a lower concentration without other active skincare ingredients and consider doing a patch test where the product is applied to the inside of your arm daily for four to seven days to determine if your skin elicits a reaction or rash.”
When compared to retinol, there is limited research on bakuchiol, so there may be gaps in our understanding of its long-term effects or interactions with other skincare ingredients as well.
Can bakuchiol be mixed with vitamin C?
Bakuchiol and vitamin C can typically be used together. “In fact, they are both potent antioxidants and may complement each other in a synergistic way addressing discoloration and uneven skin tone.” Shirazi explained. “The combination can help brighten the skin and help with fine lines.”
However, those with sensitive skin should take pre-caution. “Vitamin C serums are technically acidic and can be irritating, so there is the potential for irritation when mixed together,” she added. “Also, vitamin C can be unstable and may degrade when exposed to air. If you’re mixing vitamin C with bakuchiol, it’s essential to use stable formulations and store them properly to maintain their efficacy.”
Can bakuchiol be mixed with hyaluronic acid?
Yes, bakuchiol and hyaluronic acid work well together. “Many bakuchiol serums are hyaluronic acid-based to provide hydration,” Shirazi said.
Can bakuchiol be mixed with niacinamide?
“Yes, bakuchiol and niacinamide can generally be used together as they both offer different benefits,” Shirazi said. “The combination may help strengthen the skin barrier and reduce inflammation while also brightening the skin.”
Is it OK for my eye cream to contain bakuchiol?
According to both Shirazi and Penzi, bakuchiol is safe to use in your eye cream.
Oh, and if you’re mixed up over which eye cream to buy, we tested 50+ eye creams so you don’t have to.
What determines the price of bakuchiol serums, generally?
There are multiple variables starting with how it’s sourced from different suppliers, as well as the quality of the extract. According to Shirazi, higher-quality bakuchiol extracts may be more expensive to procure, which can impact the final product’s price.
Higher concentrations of bakuchiol may also be priced higher given the increased efficacy and potency. “The overall formulation is really important including additional active or supporting ingredients such as retinol or vitamin C as well as product technology (encapsulation or slow-release formulations),” she added. “Products with additional ingredients shown to benefit the skin or innovative formulas with science-backed clinical trials may be priced higher.”
Research and development costs can also be factored into the overall price of a given product. “Packaging and marketing play major roles in any given product line as luxurious or aesthetically pleasing packaging may result in a higher price point,” she noted.
Is bakuchiol pregnancy safe?
Yes, bakuchiol is pregnancy-safe, as it’s a safe alternative to retinoids during pregnancy. It offers similar anti-aging benefits without the potential risks associated with retinol.
What are the best types of bakuchiol serums for sensitive skin?
As the saying goes, less is more with sensitive skin. If you’re interested in bakuchiol versus retinol, bakuchiol is certainly the go-to for more sensitive skin types.
“Avoid Bakuchiol formulations with other potent actives such as vitamin C or AHAs or retinols,” Shirazi recommended. “Stick with formulas that incorporate supportive ingredients such as peptides, hyaluronic acid and ceramides that help strengthen the skin barrier and provide the building blocks of collagen.”
What are the best types of bakuchiol serums for dry skin?
“For dry skin, look for formulations with humectants such as glycerin and hyaluronic acid, in a more occlusive vehicle such as a cream-based product.”
Based on our testing, the ($56) is one that we love using on our dry skin.
What are the best types of bakuchiol serums for oily skin?
“Serums or gel-based vehicles that are water-based and lighter in texture are more appropriate for oily skin,” Shirazi said. “Formulations with niacinamide, retinol or exfoliants are better suited for oily skin types to help regulate sebum production and dead skin buildup.”
Based on our testing, the ($20) fits the bill for oilier complexions.
Why Trust Post Wanted by the New York Post
This article was written by Victoria Giardina, New York Post Commerce Journalist & Content Strategist, who has spent countless hours researching, testing hundreds of products and comparing the latest makeup, skincare, hair and beauty items and trends to determine what’s truly worth your hard-earned cash. She evaluates formulas, textures, ingredients and more, in addition to consulting medical and industry experts. Some of Victoria’s latest conquests include testing the best vitamin C serums on the market, and a rinse-and-repeat review of the best shampoos of 2025. Victoria, who received a beauty industry essentials certification from the Fashion Institute of Technology, has been creating shopping guides for the New York Post since 2021 and previously held positions at Insider Reviews and CNN Underscored.