Ingredients

Bakuchiol vs. Retinol: Which is better for sensitive skin?

Navigating the world of skincare can feel overwhelming, especially when your skin is sensitive. With numerous active ingredients and countless formulations, it can be challenging to decide what's truly best for your skin type. Among the hottest topics in skincare today is the ongoing debate between bakuchiol and retinol. At By Sarah, we're committed to clarity, kindness, and transparency – so let's explore these ingredients together and help you discover what's right for your sensitive skin.

Understanding Retinol: The traditional anti-ageing powerhouse

Retinol, a form of vitamin A, has long been revered in the skincare industry for its potent anti-ageing effects. Proven to boost collagen production, smooth fine lines, improve skin texture, and tackle hyperpigmentation, retinol certainly delivers visible results. Dermatologists have endorsed retinol for decades, making it a staple in anti-ageing skincare routines.

However, despite these impressive benefits, retinol can pose challenges for sensitive skin. Many individuals report redness, peeling, dryness, and irritation when first introducing retinol products into their routine. These reactions are due to retinol’s mechanism, which accelerates cell turnover. The initial adjustment period, often called "retinisation," can be particularly difficult for those with sensitive or compromised skin barriers.

According to a 2025 report published by the British Association of Dermatologists, approximately 60% of individuals experience irritation from retinol when starting out, with sensitive skin types being most vulnerable.

Meet Bakuchiol: The natural retinol alternative for sensitive skin

Enter bakuchiol – nature's answer to gentle, effective skincare. Extracted from the seeds of the Psoralea corylifolia plant, bakuchiol is celebrated for its retinol-like properties without the associated irritation. Studies published by the British Journal of Dermatology have consistently shown bakuchiol to provide comparable anti-ageing effects to retinol, significantly reducing wrinkles, pigmentation, and loss of elasticity, all without causing redness, dryness, or sensitivity.

The rising popularity of bakuchiol isn't just a trend; it's supported by robust scientific evidence. A recent clinical study in the UK (2025) highlighted bakuchiol's ability to effectively enhance skin elasticity and reduce fine lines in participants with sensitive skin, demonstrating virtually no irritation compared to traditional retinol-based treatments.

Bakuchiol vs. Retinol: A direct comparison

When it comes to sensitive skin, the primary distinction between these two powerful ingredients lies in their side-effect profiles. Retinol can be highly effective but often requires careful management – starting slowly, building up tolerance, and ensuring continuous hydration and skin barrier protection.

On the other hand, bakuchiol offers a gentler introduction to active skincare, allowing sensitive skin to experience rejuvenation without the challenging adjustment period. Bakuchiol’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties further enhance its suitability for delicate complexions prone to redness, eczema, rosacea, or irritation.

Dermatologist Dr Jenna Macciochi, a prominent UK immunologist specialising in sensitive skin, advocates for bakuchiol due to its dual anti-ageing and soothing benefits. According to Dr Macciochi, bakuchiol provides robust skin rejuvenation while actively calming inflammation – an ideal combination for sensitive or compromised skin barriers.

Discovering By Sarah’s Bakuchiol Booster

At By Sarah, we're dedicated to harnessing nature and science to create skincare that respects and nourishes even the most sensitive skin. Our Bakuchiol Booster is formulated to deliver all the anti-ageing and skin-enhancing benefits of retinol without the risk of irritation. Expertly blended with nutrient-rich plant oils including chia seed and marula, our Bakuchiol Booster hydrates deeply, smooths fine lines, evens skin tone, and supports barrier resilience.

A recent survey among By Sarah customers (2025) revealed remarkable satisfaction rates, with over 95% reporting improved skin texture, diminished fine lines, and significantly reduced redness within eight weeks of regular use. Customers described our Bakuchiol Booster as "transformative," "comforting," and "the gentle alternative their skin needed."

How to incorporate Bakuchiol into your routine

The beauty of bakuchiol is its simplicity. You don’t need a complicated routine to see results.

Evening routine suggestion:

Cleanse: Start with our Balancer Cream Cleanser to gently purify without stripping.
Hydrate: Apply Tender Skin Balm to nourish and strengthen your barrier.
Treat: Gently pat and press a few drops of Bakuchiol Booster into your face and neck as the final step in your nighttime skincare routine.

Bakuchiol is best used as the final step in your skincare routine in the evening.

What to expect from Bakuchiol over time

Like retinol, consistency is key when using bakuchiol. With regular use, expect to see noticeable improvements within four to eight weeks. Your skin may become visibly plumper, smoother, and more radiant. Dark spots and uneven pigmentation may gradually fade, and the overall texture and resilience of your skin barrier should noticeably improve.

Due to its soothing properties, bakuchiol also helps manage redness and sensitivity long-term, ensuring your skin remains comfortable and balanced through various seasonal changes and hormonal shifts.

Can Bakuchiol and Retinol be used together?

While some may choose to use both retinol and bakuchiol, sensitive skin usually thrives best when less is more. Given bakuchiol's efficacy and gentleness, it's usually not necessary to combine it with retinol. However, if you choose to incorporate both, alternate their use to prevent overstimulation or sensitivity. Dermatologists recommend starting slowly and closely monitoring your skin's response to ensure the best results without irritation.

Final Thoughts: Making an informed choice

Both retinol and bakuchiol have clear benefits, but when it comes to sensitive skin, bakuchiol emerges as a safer, equally effective alternative. The decision ultimately hinges on your skin's unique needs and how your skin responds to active ingredients.

At By Sarah, our commitment is clear: your skin deserves gentle, effective care. We believe in skincare that enhances your natural beauty without causing distress or discomfort. If your skin is sensitive or reactive, choosing bakuchiol-based products like our Bakuchiol Booster can be a nurturing, effective step in your skincare journey.

If you're still unsure or have more questions about bakuchiol and sensitive skin care, our team at By Sarah is always here to help. Drop us a message at care@bysarahlondon.com – we'd love to assist you in achieving healthy, glowing skin.

Here’s to making informed choices and embracing skincare that truly cares for your sensitive skin at every stage of life. 💛

Looking to Learn More?

Here are a few related reads that may support you further:

How skin develops with age
Understand the natural changes your skin goes through over time – and how to care for it gently at every stage.
Bakuchiol: The high-science anti-ageing ingredient for sensitive skin
A deeper dive into why bakuchiol is redefining sensitive skincare with proven results and botanical integrity.
Pro-ageing skincare tips to start using now
Simple, empowering practices to help your skin feel resilient, radiant, and beautifully you – today and always.

You can also explore our full Skin Health Guides and By Sarah Journal for more mindful insights and expert advice. We're here to help you feel calm, cared for, and confident – every step of the way.

By Sarah