5 Game-Changing Retinol Alternatives Your Skin Will Love
Last Updated:July 14, 2025, 16:36 IST
Especially for individuals with rosacea, eczema, or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, retinol can end up doing more harm than good.
For those with sensitive skin, it can trigger a range of issues, from redness and peeling to dryness and increased sun sensitivity.
Retinol may be a skincare staple, but not every skin type can tolerate its potency. Known for its ability to smooth fine lines, fade dark spots, and enhance skin texture, retinol is a go-to in many anti-ageing products. However, for those with sensitive skin, it can trigger a range of issues, from redness and peeling to dryness and increased sun sensitivity. In certain cases, especially for individuals with rosacea, eczema, or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, retinol can end up doing more harm than good.
That’s where nature offers a gentler solution. From time-tested Ayurvedic herbs to innovative plant-based formulations, a new wave of natural ingredients is emerging as effective alternatives to retinol, delivering similar skin-renewing benefits without the harsh side effects. Whether you’re new to skincare or looking to swap out strong actives for soothing, clean alternatives, these five botanical ingredients are worth adding to your radar.
Bakuchiol
Derived from the seeds of the babchi plant, bakuchiol is often considered “nature’s retinol.” It activates the same skin renewal pathways by boosting collagen, improving cell turnover and all without any irritation. Studies confirm that bakuchiol works just as well in smoothing fine lines and brightening skin tone.
Rosehip Oil
Rich in natural retinoic acid, rosehip oil is packed with antioxidants and fatty acids that rejuvenate skin, fade hyperpigmentation, and strengthen the skin barrier. Ideal for those with dryness or discolouration, though oily skin types should use it sparingly to avoid breakouts
Rosemary Extract
With strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties, rosemary extract soothes and protects irritated or acne-prone skin. It ensures mild exfoliation and skin renewal, without retinol’s harshness.
Carrot Seed Oil
Rich in beta carotene, which naturally converts into vitamin A once absorbed by the skin, carrot seed oil offers antioxidant protection and encourages gentle cell renewal. It’s especially helpful for those looking for anti-ageing support without the irritation often caused by traditional retinol.
Sea Buckthorn Oil
A nutrient-dense plant oil, sea buckthorn offers vitamins A, C, E, carotenoids, and omega fatty acids that fight ageing, hydrate, heal, and support collagen repair. Ideal for dry, sun-damaged, or mature skin looking for deep nourishment.
About the Author
Nishad Thaivalappil is a Lifestyle and Entertainment Journalist with almost a decade-long odyssey in the realms of movies, music, culture, food, and travel. He leads the Lifestyle desk at News18.com. Besides ha…Read More
Nishad Thaivalappil is a Lifestyle and Entertainment Journalist with almost a decade-long odyssey in the realms of movies, music, culture, food, and travel. He leads the Lifestyle desk at News18.com. Besides ha… Read More
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