A Guide to Natural Retinol Alternatives

Loved by dermatologists and skincare enthusiasts alike, retinol has been the ultimate go-to ingredient for combating acne and premature aging. A chemical derivative of vitamin A, synthetic retinol has the ability to stimulate collagen growth and promote cell turnover, thus making it an anti-aging powerhouse ingredient. In the right quantities, dermatologist Dr. Mayara Bravo notes that retinol can also combat other skin issues such as hyperpigmentation, skin texture, dull skin, and the appearance of large pores. 

Despite being a highly effective ingredient, retinol can be harsh on the skin in various strengths, causing unwanted irritation and dry, flaky patches. For those with sensitive skin, are either pregnant or breastfeeding, or are simply looking for cleaner beauty options, natural retinol alternatives might be your new skincare holy grail in delivering a majority of retinol’s benefits.

Known as “nature’s retinol,” bakuchiol is a botanical extract derived from bakuchi plant seeds and contains anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. This antioxidant-rich ingredient shares the same collagen-growth and cell-turnover benefits as synthetic retinol without any skin irritation. A clinical test found the effects of 0.5 percent retinol and 0.5 percent bakuchiol to be strikingly similar regarding anti-aging results, with bakuchiol being more tolerable on the skin.

Unlike traditional retinol, bakuchiol is gentle enough to be mixed with vitamin C and acids. Likewise, this plant-based ingredient is suitable for all skin types and can be worn out during the daytime—just don't forget to apply SPF! 

Coming from the same family as lychee, rambutan is a bright red fruit surrounded by large spikes on the exterior. For over-the-counter skincare products, rambutan extract is derived from the plant’s leaves and is often compared to retinol for its ability to boost the skin's natural collagen production and promote cell turnover, thus improving the skin’s elasticity and reducing the appearance of wrinkles.

With retinol being a vitamin A derivative, rosehip oil is another great alternative since it contains trans-retinoic acid, a naturally occurring form of vitamin A. Derived from the rosa canina rose bush, this ingredient is prized for its regenerative and healing properties and ability to boost collagen production in the skin.