Retinol (a derivative of vitamin A) increases skin cell turnover and stimulates the production of elastin and collagen. Collagen is protein which forms the structure of our skin - as we age, collage levels fall and this leads to the age-related changes we see with older skin. Whilst retinol has these benefits, it can cause dry skin, flaking and redness. After a period of a few months, our skin becomes more tolerant of retinol, however, for many, its effects are too harsh to use.

Bakuchiol is a natural retinol alternative. It is a compound present in babchi oil - oil pressed from the babchi seed. Babchi oil has been used for centuries in ayurveda and chinese herbal medicines to treat skin conditions, owing to its powerful properties. Bakuchiol oil can offer similar effects to retinol, without the skin side effects.