Botanical Retinol

Retinol, a Vitamin A, derivative, is the kale of skincare. Why so popular? Because retinol increases cell turnover in the skin which, in turn, improves the appearance of your skin (softening fine lines and wrinkles). Retinol gives you that makeup-optional youthful glow.

When you see Retinol on labeling, it typically means synthetic or animal-based retinol. The major complaint of the synthetic ones, in particular, is drying or irritated skin meaning you have to compensate by doubling down on other products, like moisturizer. Enter: plant-based. Spotlight: Bakuchiol. Bakuchiol is a plant-based retinol alternative - just as effective on cell renewal without the side effects.

Below are two recommendations to try.

Bluh Alchemy Botanic-Retinol Cell Renewal Concentrate. This is my number one and is a focused, collagen boosting product. You really need to commit to using these products over a few weeks to see results, but I swear my skin is visibly brighter the morning after putting this stuff on. I love it.

Green Cream Phyto-Retinol Clarifying Complex. Another great choice and feels extra gentle on my skin. This one is a moisturizing creme that includes botanical retinol - a more generalized product (a two-fer!). I’m a big fan of Graydon products - highly recommend.