Your guide to retinol skincare and alternatives
Here's everything you need to know.
The rules around retinol are changing. New rules state that there will be a 0.3% retinol limit, leaving many mainstream brands scrambling to reformulate their products. And while a retinol can offer skin benefits, the risks of irritation, dryness, and sensitivity are very real, especially when over-used or used incorrectly.
If you’re looking to switch to a natural alternative, it’s time to embrace Bakuchiol that delivers similar results without any of the drawbacks.
Sarah, Co-founder
What is retinol?
A highly potent ingredient, retinol is a derivative from vitamin A.
Whilst one study reported showing promise in the treatment of skin ageing, it also went on to state that irritant reactions can cause many patients to prefer going without the treatment. This is because these molecules are incredibly strong; they work by increasing skin cell turnover rate to clear away old cells and make way for new ones. They also thicken the deeper layer of the skin which is where wrinkles tend to start, hence their ability to reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
If you have sensitive skin, the thought of all this irritation might be enough to put you off, or you may have experienced an adverse reaction using retinol. A good alternative to retinol? We have a natural solution.
What is the alternative to retinol?
Cue bakuchiol, the natural retinol alternative.
Bakuchiol comes from the Babchi plant, where the bakuchiol is extracted from the seeds. It's similar to retinol in that it activates the genetic pathway in skin cells to produce collagen that promotes skin health and combats ageing, reducing the appearance of fine lines in the epidermis. However, unlike a retinol, bakuchiol doesn't lead to persistent dryness or irritation. That's a win for sensitive skin, and a retinol alternative suitable for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
What’s more, whilst retinols can increase skin sensitivity to the sun, Bakuchiol may have the opposite effect by potentially reducing sensitivity to the sun's damaging rays. Always use a daily suncreen as well.
"I love your face oils. The high street brand ones - even the famous and v expensive ones - make my face prickly. Not the By Sarah ones! The Bakuchiol Booster is giving great texture to my skin like you get from Retinol, but kinder and not drying and feels moisturised."– Hannah, customer
"The Bakuchiol Booster is so wonderful on my extremely sensitive skin! Easy to apply and has become a mainstay of my nightly skincare regimen."– Cherryl, customer
"Lovely natural product, the Bakuchiol is the perfect replacement for my previous harsh retinol night cream. I love that the product is plant based and it leaves my skin soft and refreshed looking."– Leigh, customer
Bakuchiol Booster
The retinol alternative you’ve been waiting for. Loved by sensitive skin.
FAQs for retinol and bakuchiol
By Sarah is suitable for
Sensitive skin
Eczema skin
Rosacea skin
Menopausal skin
Dry, dehydrated skin
Reservations about retinol? Reach for bakuchiol.
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