10 Best Bakuchiol Serums, According to Experts

Key ingredients: Encapsulated retinol, l-ascorbic acid, azelaic acid, ferulic acid, lipids | Fragrance-free: Yes

A well-tested product in the GH Beauty Lab’s recent serum study, the Matter of Fact Wrinkle and Texture Concentrate earned top marks for visibly firming and radiance. The potent formula earned the highest scores for firming skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and boosting radiance after four weeks.

Testers also appreciated that it’s easy to dispense and apply. “This product felt like velvet going onto my skin,” one tester said. “It absorbed nicely and visibly reduced fine lines after two weeks. It felt very luxurious. My dark spots were somewhat diminished.”

The serum also contains retinol for extra anti-aging powers, though it can lead to irritation. Another warning: It can’t be applied near the eyes because it can sting.

Key ingredients: Turmeric, eggplant, blue tansy extract, probiotics | Fragrance-free: Yes

A bi-phase formula — which means you have to give it a good shake every time before using — means this Acure product is essentially two serums in one. The top formula is loaded with antioxidants, while the bottom is a hydrating serum. Turmeric delivers antioxidants to calm, soothe, brighten and add a glow, while eggplant softens and smooths.

“I reeeeaaally love this serum,” an Amazon reviewer said. “It absolutely makes my skin look glowy, smooth and beautiful. It absorbs quickly and keeps my skin moisturized…My pores are less noticeable and it's helping lighten some dark spots, so I need less makeup. All in all, it's probably the most effective serum I've ever tried, and I have tried a lot of them. I won't waste money on more expensive and less effective products anymore.”

RELATED: Best Anti-Aging Serums

Key ingredients: Squalane, jojoba oil | Fragrance-free: Yes

Clogged pores, breakouts and redness are all targets of this serum, making it ideal for acne-prone skin. The multitasker also tackles fine lines and wrinkles while hydrating, thanks to jojoba oil and squalane.

“I've repurchased the Beekman 1802 Dream Booster Bakuchiol Retinol Alternative Facial Serum five to six times now, and it's become a staple in my skincare routine,” an Amazon reviewer said. “This serum is a testament to the power of natural alternatives to traditional retinol… Bakuchiol has been a game-changer for me, offering similar benefits to retinol like smoothing fine lines and improving skin texture, but without the irritation or photosensitivity.” But a few shoppers did find the texture to be on the oily side.

Key ingredients: Lingonberry stem cells, snow algae | Fragrance-free: Yes

“A great option for someone who cannot tolerate a retinoid, this serum contains bakuchiol to help address fine lines, wrinkles and hyperpigmentation without irritating the skin,” Dr. Garshick says. “It also contains lingonberry stem cells which protect the skin from oxidative stress and blue light.” To further its anti-aging perks, it has snow algae to delay the aging process of skin cells.

“This serum feels great on my skin, it hasn't caused any irritation, and it's made my skin look and feel healthier,” an Amazon reviewer said. “If you're looking for a serum that offers the potential benefits of retinol without the discomfort, and you're interested in these intriguing ingredients, give this serum a try!” One drawback: Some reviewers found the drop dispenser hard to use.

Key ingredients: Niacinamide, hyaluronic acid | Fragrance-free: Yes

“Containing bakuchiol, niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, this serum improves the appearance of wrinkles and uneven skin tone while brightening and plumping the skin,” Dr. Garshick says. “It is lightweight and absorbs quickly.” It also contains Avène's proprietary thermale spring water that is sourced from France and is famous for soothing and calming skin.

“I have only been using this product for a few days, but so far I have been loving the results!” one Amazon reviewer said. “It instantly brightens and plumps my skin while adding a great amount of hydration and absorbs into the skin quickly.” However, some shoppers complained that the dropper was difficult to use.

RELATED: Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums

Key ingredients: Peptides, cica extract | Fragrance-free: Yes

Lightweight and calming, this serum from Medik8 works to smooth and plump skin. “This serum, great for all skin types, uses 1.25% pure bakuchiol in combination with peptide precursors and cica extract, working to improve overall texture and tone while remaining gentle on the skin,” Dr. Garshick says. It also has inka omega oil to strengthen the skin barrier.

“I really liked this serum,” one reviewer said. “It's not sticky, pleasant to apply and effective. My skin looks better!” But some customers complained that it’s not very hydrating and needs to be followed with moisturizer.

Key ingredients: Peptides, tremella mushrooms, PHAs | Fragrance-free: Yes

Safe for delicate complexions, this gentle retinol alternative prevents signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles, rough texture and dullness. “Lightweight, hydrating and great for sensitive skin,” Dr. Garshick says. It’s formulated with tremella mushrooms to plump skin with hydration and retain moisture, as well as PHAs to gently exfoliate.

“As someone who has sensitive skin and has been cautious about using traditional retinol, this was a perfect alternative,” an Amazon reviewer said. “My fine lines and wrinkles, especially around my eyes and forehead, have definitely softened, and my skin feels plumper and more radiant. It’s incredibly lightweight and absorbs quickly, leaving my skin feeling refreshed and hydrated — not greasy or sticky.” Note that some reviewers with eczema found the serum irritating.

Key ingredients: Melatonin, citric acid, retinol, squalane, tocopherol, vitamin C | Fragrance-free: No

“This three-in-one serum combines melatonin, bakuchiol and vitamin C to help protect the skin from free radical damage, while also helping to improve skin elasticity, firmness and improving the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles,” Dr. Garshick says. “It is best used at night to help the skin repair and recover.” It also works to brighten the complexion.

“I have only used this for about two weeks and I feel this has already made a difference,” an Amazon reviewer said. “My skin feels softer, hydrated and my fine lines are less noticeable even before reaching probably maximum effectiveness. I'm happy that this is a more subtle and more natural version of the prescription tretinoin." The only downside for several reviewers was the fragrance, which one referred to as "not pleasant.”

Key ingredients: Bearberry, vitamin C | Fragrance-free: Yes

All about achieving a gorgeous glow, this serum features wild foraged ingredients like bearberry that works to brighten and minimize dark spots. It can even be mixed in with your foundation to add radiance. The plant-based formula also firms, softens and smooths skin.

“I’ve been using the Alpyn Instant Glow Serum with vitamin C and Bearberry, and I’m obsessed with how effortlessly it enhances my skin,” a Sephora shopper shared. “The lightweight formula absorbs beautifully, leaving my skin looking fresh and luminous without feeling greasy.” But those with sensitive skin should keep in mind that the formula contains essential oils.

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Key ingredients: Retinol, peptides | Fragrance-free: Yes

The trifecta of anti-aging ingredients, this serum contains retinol, bakuchiol and peptides to turn back the clock and minimize fine lines and wrinkles, uneven tone and texture, enlarged pores and a loss of firmness. However, that potent combination means it may be too strong for sensitive skin.

“I have combination skin with a bit [of] oily T-zone and dehydrated skin,” an Amazon reviewer said. “After using it at night for a month, I've found it brightened my skin and made it look not dull. I've just finished one bottle and now my skin looks more transparent and lucent. It also balanced the oil secretion on my nose and less blackheads appeared.”