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When it comes to skin care, few ingredients are as popular among dermatologists and specialists as retinoids , and for good reason. They increase cell turnover, stimulate collagen production, smooth the signs of aging, wrinkles and texture, and reduce the appearance of blemishes. But these wonderful results can come with some pretty nasty side effects: dryness, blemishes, dandruff, redness, and skin irritation. Although these side effects go away for most people, sometimes they don't.
Retinoids are not for everyone, especially those with sensitive skin, pregnant or lactating women. (Of course, if you're pregnant or nursing, check with your doctor before trying new skin care products.) And post-pandemic mask-wearing retinoid tolerance is lower than ever. Fortunately, there are many herbal options that provide similar (but not identical) results without the irritation. Read on for retinol alternatives to stay on your radar .
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bakuchiol and squalane
As a natural retinol, bakuchiol increases collagen production and stimulates cell turnover like real retinol. But unlike its counterpart, bakuhiol is more easily tolerated by sensitive and reactive skin and is safe for use during pregnancy. In addition, the plant extract is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatories, which is never a bad thing.
Squalane is another ingredient that works well if you're looking for an alternative to retinol. It has many anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce redness, acne and eczema. It also moisturizes the skin and makes it more elastic.
Stunco Fontaine Phyto-Retinol Serum
© Courtesy of SheKnow's Stunco Fountain Phyto Retinol SerumThis gentle alternative to retinol is packed with botanicals like Sugar Cane Squalane, Unrefined Hibiscus Oil, and Organic Rosehip Oil. Also includes vitamins A, C and E. Phytonutrients and antioxidants stimulate collagen production and increase elasticity, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Ole Henriksen Goodnight Glow Bakuchiol Sleeping Cream
This all-in-one night cream uses a powerful blend of AHAs and Bakuchiol to transform skin overnight. Moisturizes while reducing wrinkles, fine lines and dark spots for better sleep.
Serum Biossance Squalane + Phytoretinol
A cocktail of Bakuchiol, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide visibly evens skin tone and reduces discoloration without the harsh side effects of retinol. It can be used day and night as it works well on sensitive and photosensitive skin.
Bakuchiol Herbivore Botanicals Retinol Alternative
This serum has a gel-like texture that spreads smoothly to quickly hydrate and cleanse the skin. With mild exfoliating and exfoliating properties, it leaves skin feeling soft and silky without any irritation.
Biden of Pilos
Bidens pilosa, also known as mace, Spanish needle and picão preto, treats the signs of aging by helping to soothe the skin and increase its radiance. The results are said to be better than retinol for the skin, while providing similar results.
REN Organic Retinoid Youth Serum
Formulated to visibly limit irritation, this evening oil is gentle yet effective, visibly reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles over time. Makes the skin smoother and brighter.
BareMinerals Ageless Night Concentrate with Phytoretinol
Packed with protein peptides, hyaluronic acid and phyto-retinol (Bidens Pelosa), this nighttime concentrate visibly reduces fine lines and wrinkles while evening out skin tone and texture. Apply immediately after cleansing and use a simple moisturizer before bed.
Goop GOOPGENES All In One Nourishing Face Cream
Packed with high doses of highly active herbs and plant-based ceramides, this formula leaves skin soft and supple. The rich cream is formulated with nourishing ingredients like lemongrass and shea butter to deeply hydrate and nourish dull skin.
Rose hip and carrot seed oil
Rosehip seed oil and carrot seed oil are rich in vitamin A derived from retinol, making these two oils great substitutes for people who are not allergic to retinol. Both increase cell turnover and fight free radicals with an antioxidant boost. Rosehip oil regenerates and heals the skin by increasing collagen production and skin elasticity. And since they are oils, they both give the skin a big boost.
Bio-restored rose pie
This lightweight formula targets age spots, dullness and fine lines with a powerful blend of rosehip oil, fruit oil and omega 3, 6, 7 and 9. Massage into the skin as the final step of your skincare routine to rejuvenate and deeply nourish. .
Soothing Facial Oil Naturopathica Root Seed
A blend of lavender, primrose and carrot oils hydrates and refreshes the skin, soothes irritation and reduces redness. The deeply soothing formula is ideal for those struggling with dry, irritated skin.
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