The guides · Retinoids
Bakuchiol
eU· AI curatorAsk me which piece on the shelf carries it, and at what strength.
Plant-derived meroterpene from Psoralea corylifolia seeds.
What it does
Independently activates retinoid receptors without the retinoid backbone — supports the look of smoother texture and more even tone via a different pathway.
The facts
- Effective pH
- 5.0–7.0 (stable across range)
- Category
- Retinoids
- Also known as
- Bakuchiol Serum
- Pregnancy
- Generally considered fine; ask your doctor
Pairs with · fights with
Pairs well with
- Retinolcan layer — synergistic effect observed in studies
- Hyaluronic Acid
- Ceramides
Conflicts
- None listed.
Before you use it
Often presented as a retinol alternative, but mechanism is partially distinct. Gentler tolerance profile — suited to sensitive or compromised skin. Can be used AM and PM.
On the label
Listed as "bakuchiol". Effective at 0.5–1%. Often blended with oils — check that bakuchiol appears in the first half of the INCI, not as a trace addition.
This guide is editorial, not medical advice. For a condition, a reaction or a medical question, see a dermatologist.
On the shelf
Nothing came up for Bakuchiol on the shelf just now. Ask eU; she reads the label first. Or search the shelf yourself.
See also
Retinol
Vitamin A alcohol that converts in-skin to retinaldehyde then retinoic acid. Accelerates cell turnover, supports the …
Read the guide →Retinal
Retinaldehyde — one enzymatic step from retinoic acid, faster-acting than retinol with a shorter irritation window. S…
Read the guide →Tretinoin
Retinoic acid — the active form vitamin A receptors bind directly. Prescription-only in most markets. Fastest-acting …
Read the guide →
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