Can you use Retinol with Bakuchiol?
Yes, with care. You can use Retinol and bakuchiol together, but most people pick one.
Why
Bakuchiol is usually picked as a gentler alternative to retinol. In a 12-week randomized trial, 0.5% bakuchiol twice daily performed similarly to 0.5% retinol for wrinkles and pigmentation, with less scaling and stinging. Some products combine the two. Using both is not known to be harmful, but there is little evidence it beats either alone.
How to use them together
- If you use both: bakuchiol in the morning, Retinol at night.
- Or use bakuchiol on nights you take a break from your retinoid.
Who should be careful
People choosing bakuchiol during pregnancy should still check with their doctor, as safety data are limited.
About the ingredients
Retinol: An over-the-counter vitamin A derivative (retinoid) used for fine lines, texture and uneven tone. It converts to retinoic acid in the skin, so it is milder and slower than prescription tretinoin.
Bakuchiol: A plant-derived ingredient often called a retinol alternative. A 2019 randomized trial found it comparable to retinol for photoaging, with less scaling and stinging.
FAQ
Can I use Retinol and Bakuchiol together?
Yes, with care. You can use Retinol and bakuchiol together, but most people pick one.
Should I use Retinol or Bakuchiol in the morning or at night?
If you use both: bakuchiol in the morning, Retinol at night. Or use bakuchiol on nights you take a break from your retinoid.
Who should be careful combining Retinol and Bakuchiol?
People choosing bakuchiol during pregnancy should still check with their doctor, as safety data are limited.
What if my skin gets irritated using Retinol and Bakuchiol?
Stop the stronger active, keep a gentle cleanser, moisturizer and sunscreen, and reintroduce one product at a time once skin calms down. See a dermatologist if irritation persists.
Sources
Studies and reviews on these ingredients and, where available, on this specific combination.
- Dhaliwal S, et al. Prospective, randomized, double-blind assessment of topical bakuchiol and retinol for facial photoageing. Br J Dermatol. 2019;180(2):289-296.
- Kafi R, et al. Improvement of naturally aged skin with vitamin A (retinol). Arch Dermatol. 2007;143(5):606-612.
Related combinations
- Can you use Retinol with Vitamin C?
- Can you use Retinol with Niacinamide?
- Can you use Retinol with Tretinoin?
- Can you use Retinol with Salicylic Acid?
- Can you use Retinol with Hyaluronic Acid?
- Can you use Retinol with Glycolic Acid?
- Can you use Retinol with Benzoyl Peroxide?
- Can you use Retinol with Sunscreen?