{"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":""},{"url":"https://www.byvalenti.com/blogs/active-ingredients/bakuchiol","title":"What is Bakuchiol","type":"link","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Bakuchiol"}]},{"type":"text","value":" is an isolated, oil-soluble meroterpene phenol extracted from the seeds of the Psoralea corylifolia (Babchi) plant. "}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Bakuchiol functions in cosmetic products as:"}]},{"listType":"unordered","type":"list","children":[{"type":"list-item","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Antioxidant"}]},{"type":"list-item","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Skin conditioning agent"}]},{"type":"list-item","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Anti-aging agent"}]},{"type":"list-item","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Appearance-enhancing active"}]},{"type":"list-item","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Anti-inflammatory supportive ingredient"}]}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"According to Sytheon, the manufacturers of 99% pure bakuchiol it is particularly effective in stimulating collagen production, thereby improving skin elasticity and reducing signs of aging. It is widely studied for improving the visible signs of photoaging and supporting skin firmness."}]}]}

What are the benefits of applying Bakuchiol?

{"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"The benefits of bakuchiol include its ability to smooth fine lines and wrinkles, even out skin tone, and enhance skin firmness. Its antioxidant capacity also helps protect skin from oxidative stress, while its anti-inflammatory properties can soothe and calm irritated skin."}]},{"listType":"unordered","type":"list","children":[{"type":"list-item","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Improvement in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles"}]},{"type":"list-item","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Enhanced skin tone uniformit"}]},{"type":"list-item","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Increased appearance of firmness"}]},{"type":"list-item","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Reduction in visible photodamage"}]},{"type":"list-item","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Suitable for individuals who do not tolerate retinoids"}]}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Clinical studies comparing bakuchiol to retinol have demonstrated comparable improvements in visible signs of aging, with lower reports of irritation."}]}]}

Can I apply this serum during the day?

{"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Yes. "},{"url":"https://www.byvalenti.com/blogs/bibliotheca/bakuchiol-vs-retinol-clinical-results-and-dermatological-benefits","type":"link","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Bakuchiol"}],"title":"Introducing By Valenti Organics Bakuchiol Retinol Alternative Smoothing Serum"},{"type":"text","value":" is not phototoxic."}]}]}

How long until I see results?

{"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Applied twice-daily as directed, results would appear visible within the first week of use."}]}]}

Where does the Bakuchiol Smoothing Serum fit in my skincare routine?

{"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Apply Bakuchiol Smoothing Serum on cleansed and toned skin, water-based serums, lotions or creams. As a general rule, layer water-based and lighter serums first, then seal them in with a richer cream. Bakuchiol works best when it has direct contact with skin."}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Before introducing any new active into your routine","bold":true},{"type":"text","value":", perform a patch test: apply a small amount to the inside of your forearm or behind your ear for 24–48 hours and observe for any reaction. If you experience persistent redness, itching, or discomfort, discontinue use."}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"If you are undergoing prescribed skincare treatment, are pregnant, or have a diagnosed skin condition, we recommend consulting a dermatologist or healthcare professional before adding new actives to your routine."}]}]}

Bakuchiol Face Serum 1% Bakuchiol + Olive squalane

Bottle of By Valenti 1% Bakuchiol Serum 1%, Sytenol® A with a white background and a Beauty Shortlist Awards seal

Bakuchiol Smoothing Serum

30 ml

$140.00 USD

This product is 100% naturally derived. Vegan formula. Born in Italy, made in the USA.

Ingredient transparency since 2007 - because you have the right to know what we put on your skin™

Centered around 1% bakuchiol (Sytenol® A), this serum is designed to support visible skin renewal by improving texture, tone, and firmness while helping reduce the appearance of fine lines and blemishes. It offers a retinoid-like effect without the dryness, irritation, or photosensitivity typically associated with vitamin A derivatives, making it well suited for sensitive and reactive skin.

Recommended for uneven skin tone, blemished, or acne prone skin, early or advanced signs of ageing, excess sebum production, or hyperpigmentation. Suitable for all for skin types: oily, dry, normal and combination.

“Visible results within weeks, supported by independent testing.”

In an independent 4-week use study of 25 volunteers applying Bakuchiol Smoothing Serum twice daily:

92% reported a visible improvement in overall skin appearance after 1 week
89% reported smoother skin and a visible reduction in the appearance of fine lines after 2 weeks
90% reported skin felt and looked more refined
80% reported a clearer-looking complexion
83% reported a more even-looking tone and visibly reduced dark spot appearance

*Self-assessment results collected after 1, 2, and 4 weeks of twice-daily application.

Ingredient Evidence (Bakuchiol – Sytenol® A)

According to published studies on Sytenol® A (bakuchiol):

Demonstrated efficacy in improving the appearance of blemish-prone skin
Helps regulate visible oiliness for more balanced skin
Shown to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
Improves the appearance of uneven pigmentation, comparable to retinol
Supports skin firmness and visible renewal

Bakuchiol offers a well-tolerated alternative to retinol for improving the appearance of fine lines, uneven texture, and pigmentation. For a detailed comparison, see Bakuchiol vs Retinol: Clinical Results and Dermatological Benefits.

Bakuchiol (1% Sytenol A) | Plant-derived functional ingredient shown in independent studies to help improve the appearance of photodamaged skin by reducing the look of fine lines and uneven tone while maintaining high skin tolerance.

Bisabolol | Research shows it helps reduce visible redness and improve skin comfort by supporting the skin’s natural recovery response.

Olive Squalane | Recognized for its biomimetic affinity with the skin’s natural lipids, it helps maintain softness, suppleness, and hydration while supporting the appearance of a smoother skin surface.

Moriche Palm Fruit Oil | A botanical oil rich in β-carotene, tocopherols and unsaturated fatty acids. Studies indicate its potential for antioxidant protection and support for the skin’s appearance following UV exposure in cell models.

Tea Seed Oil | Studies describe its antioxidant activity and excellent skin-conditioning profile, helping improve surface smoothness and maintain hydration through its lightweight, non-comedogenic emollient structure.

The bakuchiol retinol alternative serum. Lightweight, nourishing and readily absorbed bright golden honey colored dry oil, with a pleasant floral-fruity aroma derived from the lavender, bergamot, Egyptian geranium rose, and sea buckthorn oils in the formula.

Almost no oily residue is left behind after proper application. Leaves skin silky soft.

Pure Nature in a Bottle™

How the Sensorial Movement Started...

Apply 2-4 drops of product on face, neck and décolletage. Gently massage to promote microcirculation and support uniform absorption. Use AM and PM for best results.

AM & PM

This product contains essential oils which might not be suitable for pregnant and breastfeeding women, or children younger that ten years of age.

As with any product, if irritation occurs, discontinue use. If the product enters the eyes, rinse with water. Store out of reach of children and pets.

2023 — Beauty Shortlist Awards (UK):

Bakuchiol Smoothing Serum received the Editor’s Choice Award.

The packaging is composed of:

Glass bottle,
Glass pipette, a ring made from recyclable polypropylene. The nitrile teat portion of the dropper is to be disposed off in the trash/waste bin.
Outside tube or box is made from recyclable cardstock.
Aluminium polyethylene (PE) lined caps.

Glass bottle can be returned to be refilled. Dropper can be reused on your next refill. Return your Empties.

*Refills are shipped without droppers.

This product was first launched in the U.S.A. on February 28, 2022

Olive Squalane (Squalane), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, *Jojoba Oil (Simmondsia chinensis), Moriche (Buriti) Palm Fruit Oil (Mauritia flexuosa), *Tea Seed Oil (Camellia oleifera), Sytenol A (Bakuchiol), Bisabolol, Vitamin E (Non-GMO Mixed Tocopherols), *Lavender EO (Lavandula angustifolia), *Bergamot EO (Citrus bergamia), *Egyptian Geranium Rose EO (Pelargonium graveolens), Sea Buckthorn Berry CO2 (Hippophae rhamnoides).

Contains 13.52% Certified Organic Ingredients based on USDA NOP Calculations.

100% naturally derived ingredients

EO = Essential Oil
* = Certified Organic
** = ECOCERT Certified
+ = Naturally found in the essential oils present in this formula

Ingredients list may change from time to time. For the most current information, please refer to the ingredient list on the product package you receive.

Close-up of a dropper with By Valenti Bakuchiol Smoothing Serum being applied to skin

Glass dropper with by valenti yellow golden bakuchiol smoothing serum dripping from it on a white background, text 'Bakuchiol is not a retinol' below.

F.A.Q.

Bakuchiol is an isolated, oil-soluble meroterpene phenol extracted from the seeds of the Psoralea corylifolia (Babchi) plant.

Bakuchiol functions in cosmetic products as:

Antioxidant
Skin conditioning agent
Anti-aging agent
Appearance-enhancing active
Anti-inflammatory supportive ingredient

According to Sytheon, the manufacturers of 99% pure bakuchiol it is particularly effective in stimulating collagen production, thereby improving skin elasticity and reducing signs of aging. It is widely studied for improving the visible signs of photoaging and supporting skin firmness.

The benefits of bakuchiol include its ability to smooth fine lines and wrinkles, even out skin tone, and enhance skin firmness. Its antioxidant capacity also helps protect skin from oxidative stress, while its anti-inflammatory properties can soothe and calm irritated skin.

Improvement in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
Enhanced skin tone uniformit
Increased appearance of firmness
Reduction in visible photodamage
Suitable for individuals who do not tolerate retinoids

Clinical studies comparing bakuchiol to retinol have demonstrated comparable improvements in visible signs of aging, with lower reports of irritation.

Bakuchiol is not like retinoids, and because it is not related to vitamin A that it might be considered safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women. However because there isn't significant data that we could find, we recommend consulting your doctor before applying any product containing Bakuchiol.

Yes. Bakuchiol is not phototoxic.

Bakuchiol (Sytenol® A), the real single molecule ingredient from the only manufacturer Sytheon, is a sticky and dense golden/brown oil soluble ingredient. Products formulated with this ingredient are never white, purple or pink.

Applied twice-daily as directed, results would appear visible within the first week of use.

Q. What’s the point of proposing a gentler version of retinol and then essential oils such as bergamot oil which is known to cause allergic reactions and it’s also known to cause photosensitivity? With all due respect, what’s the point of using essential oils in a formula which is supposed to be gentle?

In an ideal world all ingredients used in cosmetics would smell divine on their own. In reality unfortunately, some have quite unpleasant natural scents, the reason why we add essential oils to many of our products.

We adhere to IFRA guidelines when it comes essential oils, and formulate well below recommended safety thresholds to minimize any potential irritation and sensitivity.

Bakuchiol Smoothing Serum contains below recommended levels of Bergamot FCF essential oil, which is free of furocoumarins — the compounds responsible for photosensitivity and phototoxicity. Alongside its companion essential oils equally bellow recommended levels, they provide a delicate and pleasant scent that’s not sensitizing.

Apply Bakuchiol Smoothing Serum on cleansed and toned skin, water-based serums, lotions or creams. As a general rule, layer water-based and lighter serums first, then seal them in with a richer cream. Bakuchiol works best when it has direct contact with skin.

Before introducing any new active into your routine, perform a patch test: apply a small amount to the inside of your forearm or behind your ear for 24–48 hours and observe for any reaction. If you experience persistent redness, itching, or discomfort, discontinue use.

If you are undergoing prescribed skincare treatment, are pregnant, or have a diagnosed skin condition, we recommend consulting a dermatologist or healthcare professional before adding new actives to your routine.

No, Bakuchiol is not Retinol. Bakuchiol is a completely unique active ingredient that provides the same results Retinol is known for, but with the added benefit that can be used during the day, as it's not photo-toxic.

Product Reviews

*Review history may be incomplete following migration to our current website platform. Some historical reviews could not be preserved.

5 stars: 11 (100%)
4 stars: 0 (0%)
3 stars: 0 (0%)
2 stars: 0 (0%)
1 star: 0 (0%)

I really love this bakuchiol smoothing serum

I really love this bakuchiol smoothing serum. The more I use it the smoother, younger and glowing my skin looks. The scent is mild and quite pleasant. The price put me off, compared to other brands it's on the high end of my budget, but this product is concentrated. One bottle lasts me a good 2-3 months, that's less than many other brands and they don't give you the same results. You really pay for quality here. You won't regret buying from by valenti. Also their customer service is top of the line! Carol their inhouse esthetician answered all of my questions, and even gave me material to read, studies and what not. I have never been treated so well by any other brand. This is concierge skincare all the way baby!

Best bakuchiol product I've tried

I'm a woman, early 30's with acne, acne scars and some fine lines, no wrinkles yet.

I bought this oil serum because it was recommended by an influencer on the flip shop app. I was using the herbivore bakuchiol without any visible results and when I found out herbivore's bakuchiol doesn't actually contain bakuchiol I stopped buying their products altogether.

I've used this serum for a solid month now with my morning and evening routines. First of the packaging is absolutely elegant and timeless. On its own it stands out among the many other products with colorful bottles and pqckaging. I ove the chunky, heavy bottle and the dropper! I can get the amount of product I need without waste. The sweet scent is delicate and not overpowering at all. The oil feels silky smooth and soaks in right away without leaving my skin greasy which is a plus. I do recommend not overdoing it. All you need is really 2 drops of product morning and evening. There's a lot of product on this bottle, so even though it's pricey it will last you. I've used for a month and I have barely scrapped the surface.

I started noticing the difference this product made on my skin almost immediately. A week into applying it consistently twice a day as recommended my skin not only looked brighter and healthier, the breakouts and scars and fine lines were visibly smoother and starting to fade away. By week two my acne was surprisingly under control and my skin appeared much, much healthier than ever before. It's been a month now and I cannot live without this serum. My skin is almost perfect! My acne and breakouts are under control, and the skin around my eyes is smooth and plumped.

This bakuchiol is the real deal. You will not be disappointed!

Got this sample with my order

Got this sample with my order, and I'm in LOVE!!!!!! This serum was instant glow for my face!! Highly recommended

Absolutely impressed

Absolutely impressed with this bakuchiol serum!!! It provides the same exact result retinol is so famous for without the nasty side effects. It leaves my skin glowing!! Definitely recommended!

This serum is out of this world!!!

This serum is out of this world!!!

I have sensitive

I have sensitive skin and traditional retinols make my skin really angry, flaky and red, so bad that it hurts to the touch. I really pleased to have stumbled on this bakuchiol serum. After reading extensively on this ingredient, I found there are just a handful of products formulated with the real thing, instead of the cancer causing bakuchiol extract others contain. The bakuchiol in this serum is gentle and I haven't experienced any irritation not even the first time I used it. This serum is really potent and all I need to apply is a few drops to cover my entire face, and neck. I notice I don't need to apply any moisturizer after this serum, but I do like applying the Roses & Hibiscus serum prior to applying this one. This serum has a subtle floral/berry scent which I find very pleasant and doesn't bother me at all. I have seen real results within a week! My skin looks more even toned, dark spots seem to be fading quite rapidly, thin lines are almost gone and the deeper one seem to be less deep. Skin is incredibly softer and smooth, and it has this glow I haven't experienced with any other products. Totally in love with it!

Love the quality

Love the quality of this product. Although an oil it soaks in well, and doesn’t leave me feeling greasy or oily. It smells divine! The perfect retinol alternative. This paired with the barcola replenishing elixir with hyaluronic acid, my fine lines & wrinkles are not only gone they stay gone!

This Bakuchiol serum is just perfection

This Bakuchiol serum is just perfection!!! Love it!!!! 🧡

Bye, bye Herbivore!!

Bye, bye Herbivore!! 👎🏽 Hello By Valenti!! 😍 I wasted so much money buying herbivore's bakuchiol waiting for some real results, just to find out their sleazy and lye to their customers, hide ingredients and say they're using one ingredient and then you find out it's not true, plus their products are just watered down and don't work. A friend told me their bakuchiol retinol smoothing serum contained a fake bakuchiol that didn't work. I complained and they didn't even bother. I found out about this brand 2 months ago on instagram, I think I saw a review from an influencer or something, and decided to give it a try. I've only bought a travel size of their bakuchiol smoothing serum and this stuff is amazing!!! It's really concentrate and you only need a few drops, I think I apply maybe 3 or 5 drops on my entire face. You start seeing results in a matter of days not weeks, days!! It smells amazing and the best part I can click on each ingredient on their website and it gives me the ingredient info and where it's derived from etc. I don't have to google anything to find out what I'm being sold. Really honest company making really great products! I'm glad I switched over!!! Anyone reading my review thinking herbivore is good, needs to ditch them out and switch over. You won't regret it!!

Best Bakuchiol Serum

Best Bakuchiol Serum I have ever used! In just one week my skin is smooth, happy and I’m glowing!! If you thought herbivore’s bakuchiol was good, you are so wrong. Herbivore’s bakuchiol and others similar claiming to contain bakuchiol “extract” are scamming you and chances are giving you skin cancer. Bakuchiol extract is a bad ingredient for the skin that’s why those products are so cheap! THIS BAKUCHIOL ⬆️⬆️⬆️⬆️ IS THE REAL THING! It’s expensive but so is your skin and your health! You won’t be disappointed! 🧡🧡🧡🧡

This is such an amazing product!

This is such an amazing product! I love that this is the real bakuchiol and no the watered down version herbivore sells that's so bad for the skin. The smell is so sweet and delicate. The results are real! It smooths out fine lines to almost nothing. The deep lines in between my brows have also thinned out. I love that I can return the bottle for cash back!! Your program rocks!!