Bakuchiol: Retinol-like results without the sensitivity

A gentle, clean retinol alternative that reduces fine lines, evens skin tone and speeds cellular turnover without the downsides.

Bakuchiol is a plant-derived active that delivers retinol-like benefits without the downsides, sensitivity or sun restrictions that come with traditional retinoids. In DIME formulas, bakuchiol helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, evens skin tone and speeds up skin cell regeneration — all while being gentle enough for sensitive skin. Because it's derived from the babchi plant, bakuchiol fits seamlessly into clean anti-aging skincare routines and pairs beautifully with hydrators like hyaluronic acid, antioxidants like vitamin C and barrier supporters like ceramides. If you're searching for vegan skincare, cruelty-free formulas or a pregnancy-safe plant-based retinol alternative, bakuchiol is the skincare active you'll want on your shelf.

Why sensitive skin loves bakuchiol

Traditional retinoids are powerful but often come with a price: dryness, peeling and sun sensitivity. Bakuchiol offers a gentler path to smoother, more youthful-looking skin. Studies show that bakuchiol can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin texture and even out discoloration — without the downsides that makes retinol tough for sensitive or reactive skin types. It also doesn't increase photosensitivity, which means you can use it morning or night without worrying about sun damage. For those who've tried retinol and struggled with redness or flaking, bakuchiol for sensitive skin is the clean alternative that actually works.

What makes DIME's approach different

We formulate with clean beauty standards, selecting bakuchiol for its proven efficacy and gentle nature. In textures ranging from lightweight bakuchiol serum to rich bakuchiol cream and targeted bakuchiol eye cream, our focus is on pairing bakuchiol with complementary actives that support barrier health and long-term skin wellness. If you’re thinking about bakuchiol with hyaluronic acid, bakuchiol with niacinamide, or bakuchiol with vitamin C, these are all pairings that layer well in a modern routine.

How to use it

Evening routine (H4):
● After cleansing, apply a water-based step like hyaluronic acid serum
● Follow with bakuchiol serum or treatment
● Seal with a moisturizer containing ceramides or squalane for barrier support

Morning routine (H4):
● Bakuchiol can be used in the morning without sun sensitivity concerns
● Layer under SPF for daytime anti-aging support
● Pair with vitamin C for brightening and antioxidant protection

Combination skin tip: Use bakuchiol all over or focus on areas with fine lines, uneven tone or texture concerns.

Luminosity™ Eye Serum

Results you can see

With consistent use over 8–12 weeks, users report smoother texture, fewer visible fine lines and more even skin tone. Because bakuchiol supports cell turnover without stripping the barrier, it delivers anti-aging results while keeping skin calm, comfortable and balanced. It's the gentle retinol alternative that doesn't ask you to choose between results and comfort.

Quick FAQs

Is bakuchiol vs retinol a fair comparison?

Studies suggest bakuchiol can deliver similar anti-aging benefits — reducing fine lines, improving texture and evening tone — without the downsides or sun sensitivity of retinol.

How to use bakuchiol with other active skincare ingredients?

Layering ingredients in your skincare routine is possible. Bakuchiol pairs well with vitamin C, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and ceramides. It's gentler than retinol, making it easier to layer with other actives.

Who should use it?

Anyone seeking anti-aging benefits without downsides — especially those with sensitive skin, those who can't tolerate retinol, or anyone looking for a clean, pregnancy-safe* plant-based retinol alternative.

*Always consult your doctor if you have ingredient-specific concerns during pregnancy.