Retinol has long been the gold standard for anti-aging skin care, but it’s not the best option for everyone. Whether you have sensitive skin, are pregnant or nursing, or simply prefer a plant-based formula, there are now plenty of retinol-alternative products that offer results that are just as impressive. If your retinol is irritating your skin, swap it out for one of these alternatives. If you’ve been hesitant to try retinol because of the potential side effects, opt for one of these alternatives for a safer, more soothing solution that still squashes wrinkles, fine lines and dark spots.
Retinol Alternatives for Mature Skin
1 / 9
I remember being surprised at how much my sensitive skin loved this retinol alternative when it first launched. In addition to minimizing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, this serum also brightens skin, strengthens the barrier and provides 24 hours of hydration.
BUY NOW - $78
Avene Retrinal Serum
2 / 9
Studies show this wrinkle-smoothing peptide serum is up to two times more effective than retinol when it comes to firming skin and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It dives deep for noticeable improvement on multi-layer age spots as well.
BUY ON AMAZON - $98
BUY ON ULTA - $98
Tatcha The Silk Serum
3 / 9
Bakuchiol and collagen peptides target early signs of aging and intercepts new ones before they manifest. Over 90 percent of users saw improved elasticity after one week of use, and 85 percent showed a visible reduction in forehead wrinkles specifically.
BUY ON AMAZON - $70
BUY ON SEPHORA - $70
Dr. Jart+ Prejuvenation Firming Bakuchiol Serum for Preventative Aging
4 / 9
Caudalie’s patented blend of resveratrol, hyaluronic acid and vegan collagen proves to be three times more effective than retinol at forming and lifting skin. A remarkable 98 percent of reviewers agreed skin looked firmer and more lifted. It also provides an immediate tightening feeling that users love.
BUY ON AMAZON - $84
BUY ON NORDSTROM - $84
caudalie resveratrol lift serum
5 / 9
This plant-based retinol alternative is four times gentler than retinol but is still tough on fine lines and wrinkles. After two weeks of use, 85 percent of users said their skin was firmer and they had less visible fine lines and wrinkles.
BUY ON BEEKMAN 1802 - $44
BUY ON AMAZON - $44
beekman 1802 dream booster
6 / 9
Alfalfa and stevia extracts provide retinol-like benefits without the irritation, so much so that 91 percent of users would choose this over a traditional retinol product. Over 90 percent agreed this serum dramatically reduced the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and expression lines.
BUY ON AMAZON - $102
BUY ON ULTA - $102
Elemis Pro-Collagen Future Restore Serum
7 / 9
Chief Product Officer Daniel Isaacs calls this “The ultimate plant-based vitamin A alternative.” The formula is lightweight and calming but still delivers smoother, plumper, younger-looking skin. Users with sensitive, reactive skin note that their skin feels amazing after using this product.
BUY NOW - $58
Medik8 Bakuchiol Peptides Serum
8 / 9
This highly potent oil features bakuchiol, coenzyme Q10 and vitamins C and E to promote firmer, brighter skin without irritation. It boosts hydration quickly and promotes reduced wrinkle depth and firmer-looking skin over time.
BUY ON DERMSTORE - $154
BUY ON NORDSTROM - $154
ALLIES OF SKIN CE15 Bakuchiol Firming Oil
9 / 9
The two percent bakuchiol in this formula is a higher percentage of the ingredient than usual, while still being gentle on skin. One reviewer says this elixir feels “like a tiny iron is at work as I sleep,” and another notes “My mature skin soaked it in, and I noticed results fairly quickly.”
BUY ON AMAZON - $88
BUY ON NORDSTROM - $88
OGEE Retinol Alternative Bakuchiol 2% Elixir
