Retinol has long been considered the gold standard of anti-ageing skincare. But a plant-based alternative has emerged that is quietly outperforming it for a growing number of people — particularly those with sensitive skin. That alternative is bakuchiol.
At Nordic Skincare Ireland, we carry The Pause Bio-Retinol by Henua Organics — a COSMOS-certified Finnish serum built around bakuchiol. Here’s everything you need to know about how it compares to conventional retinol.
What Is Retinol?
Retinol is a form of vitamin A that accelerates cell turnover, reducing fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation, and uneven texture. The clinical evidence behind it is substantial — but so are the drawbacks: dryness, flaking, redness, increased sun sensitivity, and a purging phase lasting weeks. Up to 30% of users discontinue because they cannot tolerate it. It is also contraindicated in pregnancy.
What Is Bakuchiol?
Bakuchiol is a plant compound extracted from the seeds of the babchi plant (Psoralea corylifolia), used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. It is not a form of vitamin A — but it activates many of the same cellular pathways, including expression of type I and type IV collagen, elastin, and fibrillin. The result is comparable anti-ageing results, without the irritation.
Bakuchiol is photostable, can be used morning and evening, is safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and is compatible with almost all skin types including sensitive and rosacea-prone skin.
Bakuchiol vs Retinol: Head to Head
Efficacy
A double-blind clinical study published in the British Journal of Dermatology (2019) compared bakuchiol 0.5% twice daily against retinol 0.5% once daily. After 12 weeks, both groups showed significant reduction in fine lines, wrinkles, and pigmentation — with no statistically significant difference in efficacy. The bakuchiol group reported significantly less scaling, stinging, and photosensitivity.
Tolerability
Retinol regularly causes dryness, redness, and peeling, with a 4–8 week purging phase. Bakuchiol produces none of these. It can be introduced at full strength immediately, with no adjustment period.
Stability
Retinol degrades rapidly in light and air, requires opaque packaging, and should be used only at night. Bakuchiol is photostable — it can be used in the morning without concern about UV degradation.
Safety
Retinol is contraindicated in pregnancy. Bakuchiol carries no such restriction and is also free from the irritation risk that affects a significant minority of retinol users.
Who Should Choose Bakuchiol?
- Sensitive, reactive, or rosacea-prone skin
- Anyone who has tried retinol and found it too irritating
- Pregnant or breastfeeding
- Anyone wanting to use their anti-ageing treatment morning and evening
- Those who prefer certified organic, plant-based formulations
The Pause Bio-Retinol by Henua Organics
The Pause Bio-Retinol is COSMOS-certified organic, formulated by Helsinki-based Henua Organics. It combines bakuchiol with vitamin C from Kakadu plum, fermented hyaluronic acid, and squalane from olives — fragrance-free and waterless. One of the cleanest bakuchiol formulations available in Ireland.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is bakuchiol as effective as retinol?
Clinical research found bakuchiol to be as effective as retinol for reducing fine lines, wrinkles, and pigmentation after 12 weeks — with significantly less irritation.
Can I use bakuchiol if I’m pregnant?
Yes. Unlike retinol, bakuchiol is plant-derived and carries no pregnancy contraindication. Always consult your healthcare provider when changing your routine during pregnancy.
Can I use bakuchiol in the morning?
Yes. Bakuchiol is photostable and can be used morning and evening. Always follow with SPF in the morning.
How long does bakuchiol take to work?
Most people see visible results within 8–12 weeks. There is no purging phase — bakuchiol can be used at full strength from the first application.
Where can I buy bakuchiol skincare in Ireland?
Nordic Skincare Ireland stocks The Pause Bio-Retinol by Henua Organics — a COSMOS-certified bakuchiol serum from Finland, delivered across Ireland.