Better Than Retinol? Here Are 4 Natural Alternatives
Retinol has been one of the most popular skincare ingredients of the last decade. With its accessibility, efficacy, and prevalence in mainstream products, retinol is used widely to treat fine lines, skin texture, hyperpigmentation, and more.
How does it work? Good question. Retinol is the over-the-counter version of retinoids, a family of chemicals that are derived from Vitamin A. Retinol goes beneath the skin barrier to boost the production of collagen and elastin, making your skin appear more plump. It also acts as an exfoliating agent, speeding up skin cell renewal and making your complexion more even in tone and texture.
However, retinol can also come with unwanted side effects. Many people report dryness and flakiness, UV sensitivity, and general skin discomfort.
Are you interested in the benefits of retinol without the skin sensitivity? We’ve rounded up four of our favourite skincare ingredients that act as a natural alternative to retinol.
Sea Buckthorn Oil
If you’re looking for a skincare ingredient rich in antioxidants, sea buckthorn oil will be your new go-to. Chock full of nutrients, sea buckthorn oil contains more Vitamin C than 10 oranges and is bursting with Vitamin A. This oil’s other antioxidants work to prevent oxidative stress, one of the biggest contributors to premature skin aging.
The I’m From Vitamin Fruit Serum is a great Sea Buckthorn based serum to try. It is formulated with 74% Sea Buckthorn extract and has added natural vitamin C extract based ingredients.
In addition to its smoothing and brightening properties, sea buckthorn oil helps to regulate skin’s oil production to create balance and comfort.
Carrot Oil
We know that carrots are great as a part of our diet, but what happens when you apply carrot oil to your skin? This bright orange oil is full of vitamins and beta-carotene. Beta-carotene is converted to Vitamin A when applied topically, and is known to increase cell turnover. This turnover works to reduce fine lines, texture, and dark spots.
Sounds great, right? Try Benton’s Let’s Carrot Multi-Oil for a glow boost. Besides carrot seed oil and carrot extract, this hydrating product also contains nourishing avocado oil and calming evening primrose oil.
Bakuchiol
If you’ve been pursuing beauty sites and skincare stores this past year, you’ve probably heard of bakuchiol. Extracted from the babchi plant, bakuchiol has been used in ancient Indian medicine for years. A lot of exciting new product launches coming out of South Korea this year with this ingredient. Stay tuned.
Similar to retinol, bakuchiol goes beneath the skin barrier to signal collagen production, making skin appear more plump. This natural skincare ingredient also has anti-inflammatory properties and can be used to soothe irritated skin.
Rosehip Oil
Known as the healing oil, rosehip oil is the perfect retinol alternative for those with sensitive skin. It is easily absorbed and moisturizes with high levels of omega fatty acids. Rosehip oil is rich in both Vitamin C and Vitamin E and they work together to brighten and calm sensitive skin. Similar to retinol, rosehip oil contains Vitamin A which helps to boost cell renewal and create an even, natural glow.
We’ve been loving Aromatica’s Organic Rosehip Oil for use in the evening as a soothing and nourishing overnight facial oil.
Are you an avid retinol fan? Which alternative skincare ingredient are you interested in trying? Let us know in the comments down below and connect with us on Instagram @shopproprlifestyle for an exclusive look at product launches, demonstrations, and giveaways.
