Is Retinol safe? There’s a plant based alternative you need to try.

Retinol is a buzz word in mainstream skincare these days. But have you wondered if retinol is safe? What if I told you there was an alternative that was plant derived, even better than retinol and safer. There is and its amazing. Meet Bakuchiol.

Recently a good friend said to me, “I have to tell you something”. Her voice was serious and I sensed trepidation. Concerned, I replied, “What? Are you ok?” She whispered, “I’ve been using retinol”. We had a giggle over it as she knew my stance, but then I shared some info that changed her mind.

I won’t ever use retinol. There. I said it. Based on my dermatologist’s recommendation, I tried it years ago to focus on preventing signs of aging and keep a youthful look to my skin. After using a few times, I was getting a harsh reaction on my sensitive skin. My face was red, dry, burning and severely irritated. It seems this was a normal reaction. I was told to reduce the frequency of use and to just give my skin time to adjust to it. Why would anyone want to use something that is that irritating and has such a warning label?

Unfortunately, I didn’t know then what I know now. Retinol, sometimes listed as Vitamin A, retinyl palimate or retinoic acid, has in some studies been shown to accelerate the growth of skin tumors and lesions, cause organ/ reproductive toxicity, and increase sun sensitivity (some even suggest stopping before a sunny beach vacation). Ironic, as it is often found in SPF products. Additionally, it is NOT safe for pregnant or nursing women. Take pause and think of that. If it is that dangerous that you can not use in those circumstances, why would you use it at all? Not to mention it has an EWG rating of 9 in many cases, the highest toxicity rating they assign to products and ingredients.

A safer alternative…

To combat aging concerns, I use products with the active ingredient Bakuchiol. Pronounced BA-koo-chi-ol, it is plant derived and provides the same or better results than retinol without the risks and side effects. I was skeptical I’ll admit. However, my skin has never looked better since incorporating Bakuchiol into my routines.

With Bakuchiol there is no irritation, no need to take extra caution in the sun, it is safe for pregnant and nursing women, and it performs amazingly. Within a few weeks my skin was brighter, firmer, fewer lines and a more even skin tone all happened for me. I’ve especially noticed improvements around my eyes.

I’m using the Countertime line from Beautycounter. Its luxurious, made with safer ingredients and most importantly, it works. Bakuchiol is catching on as an all star ingredient in top clean skincare lines. Brands like Burt’s Bees, Herbivore, Biossance and Acure have all launched products made with Bakuchiol to satisfy customers demands for safer products that deliver results. You no longer have to compromise safety to look your best.

So why not opt for products with safer anti-aging ingredients that perform well and don’t have a list of precautions attached? Life is all about balance and little changes in reducing harmful, or potentially harmful ingredients, add up. Let your beautiful skin glow safely!

Next, some non-toxic tips for mask wearing including cleaning, fabric and skincare