Retinol has long been the gold standard for smoothing fine lines, clearing breakouts, and boosting collagen. But let’s be honest: it doesn’t work for everyone.

Dryness. Flaking. Redness. Breakouts before it gets “better.” The adjustment period isn’t just annoying, it can wreck your skin barrier if you’re not careful.

That’s where bakuchiol comes in.

If you’ve been hearing the hype and wondering whether it’s worth the switch, here’s everything you need to know about how bakuchiol compares to retinol, how it works, and whether it’s right for your skin.

Wait, What Exactly Is Bakuchiol?

Bakuchiol (buh-koo-chee-ol) is a plant-derived active extracted from the seeds of the Psoralea corylifolia plant, long used in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine. In the skincare world, it’s known as a retinol alternative but not because it’s chemically similar.

In fact, bakuchiol shares zero structural similarity with retinoids. Instead, it mimics the same gene expression pathways as retinol — meaning it delivers many of the same visible benefits without the irritation or side effects.

It’s one of the rare actives that’s both powerful and well-tolerated.

Bakuchiol vs. Retinol: Side-by-Side Comparison

What the Research Says

Bakuchiol isn’t just a buzzy ingredient, it’s backed by peer-reviewed science. In a landmark 2018 study published in the British Journal of Dermatology, researchers compared 0.5% bakuchiol to 0.5% retinol over 12 weeks:

• Both reduced fine lines and pigmentation at a statistically similar level

• Retinol users experienced more scaling, stinging, and redness

• Bakuchiol users had significantly fewer side effects
  

Bottom line: bakuchiol delivers comparable results to retinol but is much easier on the skin barrier.

When to Choose Bakuchiol Over Retinol

Bakuchiol isn’t “better” than retinol. It’s different and in many cases, more compatible with modern skin concerns.

Choose bakuchiol if you:

• Have sensitive skin or a history of irritation from actives

• Are currently repairing your damaged skin barrier

• Struggle with dryness, redness, or flaking

• Want anti-aging or acne support without a prescription

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding

• Prefer plant-based, microbiome-friendly formulas

• Want something that’s safe to use daily, AM or PM

Why trillion Uses Bakuchiol (and Where to Find It)

Trillion was formulated for skin that’s tired of being inflamed, over-exfoliated, or misunderstood. Bakuchiol fits perfectly into our philosophy: smart, non-irritating, clinically-backed ingredients that actually support your skin barrier.

You’ll find bakuchiol in two of our signature formulas:

1. Trillion Serum

• 3% Lactic Acid (gentle exfoliation)

• 5% Squalane (hydration + repair)

• 2% Niacinamide (calms, brightens, strengthens)

• + Bakuchiol to boost cell renewal without irritation

Perfect for smoothing texture, reducing redness, and preventing breakouts: even on sensitive skin.

2. Trillion Moisturizer

• Ceramides

• Amino acids + PCAs

• Hyaluronic acid + squalane

• + Bakuchiol for long-term skin resilience and glow

Hydrates deeply while actively improving tone, firmness, and barrier health.

Can You Use Bakuchiol and Retinol Together?

Technically, yes, some dermatologists recommend layering or alternating the two. But unless you have a high tolerance and a strong barrier, it’s rarely necessary.

For most people, bakuchiol alone is enough, especially when it’s part of a formula that’s already working to hydrate, protect, and rebalance the skin.

Final Takeaway

If retinol has ever left your skin angry, flaky, or sensitized: you’re not alone. And you don’t have to suffer through it.

Bakuchiol gives you many of the same benefits without the stress.

At trillion, we chose bakuchiol for one reason: it works with your skin, not against it. No barrier damage. No purge. No question marks. Just smarter, gentler results.

Explore barrier-friendly skincare powered by bakuchiol:

• Moisturizer

• Serum