While researching brands to try as I transitioned to a cleaner skincare routine, Herbivore Botanicals came up quite often. One of their products that I was most intrigued by was the Herbivore Bakuchiol Retinol Alternative Smoothing Serum.

The benefits of using retinol are amazing. It helps to retexturize the skin by promoting cell turn over, minimize fine lines and wrinkles, reduce hyperpigmentation and stimulate collagen production. Retinol is one of my favorite anti-aging ingredients but it can often be quite drying and irritating for most skin types. So I dived into some research on Bakuchiol.

What is Bakuchiol?

Bakuchiol is really having a moment right now, particularly as it is a great retinol alternative for sensitive skin. Bakuchiol is a powerful extract that is found in the seeds and leaves of the babchi plant, which has been used in Chinese and Indian medicine for years.

Recent studies have shown that Bakuchiol works very similar to retinol and that it also shows positive results for the skin when used regularly. So I decided to try the Bakuchiol serum from Herbivore and have been using it consistently for about a month.

Herbivore Botanical Bakuchiol Serum

The Herbivore Botanical Bakuchiol Retinol Alternative Smoothing Serum is a 100 percent natural, plant-based retinol alternative serum that smooths the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Perfect for all skin types it helps to address the following concerns: Pores, Fines Lines and Wrinkles, and Loss of Firmness and Elasticity.

Bakuchiol, an all-natural botanical that acts like retinol, visibly fights signs of aging without any sensitizing or irritating effects. This uniquely bouncy, jelly-textured water-based serum features gently resurfacing PHAs and deeply hydrating tremella mushroom to boost the skin-refining effects of bakuchiol for instantly hydrated and silky-soft skin. 

My Review of the Herbivore Botanicals Bakuchiol Retinol Serum:

The first thing I noticed about this serum is the unique texture. The lightweight, watery, gel-like texture smoothes onto skin easily and absorbs quickly, letting you continue on in your skincare routine. I haven’t had any irritation, redness or inflammation from this.

After over a month of using, my skin is looking smoother and more radiant. Fine lines are minimized and skin appears clearer and brighter. I typically use this only at night, although you can use it both morning and night, followed with a facial oil for extra nourishment and hydration. I wake up with very clear and smooth skin. I haven’t had any irritation or dryness that I often get with retinol products.

Check out my full review in the video below and let me know if you have tried this product. This will definitely stay in my skincare routine as I’ve absolutely fallen in love with this.