4 Plant-Based Retinol Alternatives with Powerful Anti-Aging Benefits

In the beauty world, retinol is a do-it-all ingredient that tackles many of our most common skin troubles such as acne, fine lines, and wrinkles. Derived from vitamin A, it’s the strongest over-the-counter version of retinoids and has been proven to stimulate the production of collagen and increase elasticity! The major downside? A common side effect is dry, red, and irritated skin.

If you’re experiencing hormonal imbalances, your skin is likely already going through some changes, and retinol’s drying side effects can be a dealbreaker. However, natural alternatives can be a great way to reap acne-fighting and anti-aging benefits, without the same risk of irritation.

We’ve researched the best products for natural retinol alternatives that won’t leave your skin feeling dry or itchy, but first, let’s talk about what makes retinol effective, and how to choose the right natural alternative for your skin type.

What are the benefits of using retinol?

Retinol is known for its acne-fighting and anti-aging benefits, and you can generally find it as a standalone serum, or combined with other ingredients. It works by encouraging cell turnover on the top layer of the skin, which acts as a protective barrier and weakens over time. These new, healthy skin cells replace older, damaged ones and help to diminish signs of aging.

Retinol goes deep beneath the skin’s surface to neutralize free radicals and stimulate collagen and elastin production. All together this works together to keep skin looking plump and reduce the appearance of enlarged pores, fine lines, and wrinkles. As with many things though, you’ll need to stay consistent for a few weeks to see results.

Who should use natural alternatives for retinol?

Women experience a dramatic decline in collagen production in the years leading up to menopause, which can lead to symptoms of dry, irritated skin. Since retinol increases cellular turnover, it can take a few weeks for the skin to adjust to this faster rate, and a common side effect during this time is dry, red, or irritated skin.

Using retinol on already dry, cracked, or irritated skin, could result in a mild irritation, often called retinol burn. Not everyone experiences side effects using retinol, but women experiencing hormonal imbalances may want to look at natural alternatives that are more gentle on skin.

4 top natural alternatives for retinol

You won’t need to look far for natural ingredients with retinol-like powers because they might already be in some of your beauty products! We’ve brought you the top science-backed plant-based ingredients to swap for traditional retinol that have similar anti-aging and ance-fighting benefits, along with hormone-friendly product recommendations from our experts!

Bakuchiol

Derived from the seeds of the babchi plant, this botanical extract is likely the most well-known plant-based alternative, and there’s a good reason why! Research studies like this one from the British Journal of Dermatology found that when compared to traditional retinol benefits, bakuchiol is almost identical. Specifically, research has found similar benefits for treating wrinkles and hyperpigmentation with bakuchiol or retinol. It’s important to note that some people may notice slight stinging or dryness with this alternative than others on the list.

Herbivore Moon Dew

There’s a reason this eye cream is first on our list — over 78% of women found their skin feeling more hydrated, firmer, smoother, and lifted after only 10 minutes in a blind test of 37 women (ages 45-60). It packs in quite an anti-aging punch with 1% bakuchiol and special plant peptides that help firm and visibly eye wrinkles over time. It’s designed to hydrate all skin types, and people love the slightly fruity smell!

Rosehip seed oil

Not only does it smell fresh and fragrant, but rosehip oil is generally tolerated by even those with the most sensitive of skin. It comes from pressing the fruits and seeds of the rosa canina rose bush and has been shown to stop an enzyme that breaks down collagen. It’s rich in vitamin A, antioxidants, and fatty acids that protect the skin, boost collagen production, and increase elasticity!

100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil by The Ordinary

Cold-pressed to retain maximum nutrients, this 100% organic rose hip seed oil is rich in linolnenic and linoleic acid to help smooth out complexion and hydrate dry skin. It’s cruelty-free, suitable for vegans, and definitely a product you want to try.

Carrot seed oil

Carrot seed oil has similar benefits as rosehip and packs in vitamin A antioxidant power to fight cell damage caused by free radicals. Its anti-aging benefits don’t stop there though. It also promotes cellular turnover and can help reduce the appearance of scars and even out skin-tone. A chemical compound in carrot seed oil, alpha-pinene, is thought to have antibacterial properties that can be incredibly helpful in battling acne flare-ups.

Carrot Seed Soothing Facial Oil by Naturopathica

Fan-favorite alert! This lightweight facial oil is packed with vitamin E-rich oils and extracts, great for nourishing the skin replenishing its protective barrier. Carrot root extract boasts antioxidants that combat signs of aging, while primrose oil helps nourish and soothe troubled skin.

Rambutan

Packed with vitamin C, rambutan extract comes from a bright red fruit and it’s a top substitute for retinol with its powerful cellular turnover and collagen-boosting benefits. This makes it a great tool for brightening complexions, treating hyperpigmentation, and evening skin tones. One benefit of rambutan over other alternatives on this list may be its ability to boost hyaluronic acid production, which keeps skin hydrated and naturally decreases over time.

Retinol Alternative Cream by Indie Lee

This cream is designed for all skin types looking to improve skin texture and appearance on a daily basis, without having to sacrifice hydration. Rambutan brings retinol-like properties for those looking for anti-aging benefits, while orange milk tree extract and squalane help keep skin looking fresh, plump, and healthy.

Are hormone fluctuations impacting your skin at the moment? What skincare products are you looking for? Let us know in the comments below and we’ll do our best to continue recommending hormone-friendly favorites that your skin will love!

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