After 12 weeks, both bakuchiol and retinol reduced wrinkles and dark spots equally well. The catch: retinol users experienced more scaling and stinging, while bakuchiol was gentler on skin—making it a legit alternative if retinol irritates you.

44 people used either 0.5% bakuchiol or 0.5% retinol for 12 weeks in a randomized, double-blind study. Researchers analyzed high-resolution photos at 4, 8, and 12 weeks, plus tracked side effects through patient reports and dermatologist grading.

Funding not disclosed in abstract