Plant Based Retinol Alternatives: All you need to know

Plant Based Retinol Alternatives: All you need to know

May 26, 2023Jade Edge

Vitamin A, also known as retinol, is a popular ingredient found in many skincare products due to its ability to target vitamin A receptors in the skin. However, when used in high doses, it can cause adverse effects such as dryness, inflammation, and even an impaired skin barrier. Plant based alternatives to traditional vitamin A have emerged as a promising solution for individuals seeking effective skincare without the negative side effects. 

In this blog post, we will shed light on how these alternatives work and why they can be a superior option for your skincare routine. We will also specifically highlight the plant-based alternatives included in the Bare Roots range, providing you with valuable insights into their efficacy and benefits. 

By exploring the advantages of plant-based alternatives and how these differ from traditional retinol,, you can make an informed decision about the best approach for your skincare regimen. Let's dive into this one together and discover the power of plant-based alternatives.

What are plant based alternatives and how do they work? 

While plant alternatives share a similar structure to traditional vitamin A they are different in their composition and how they work on the skin. 

These alternatives, unlike synthetic vitamin A, are made up of natural antioxidants or flavonoids and are anti-inflammatory. 

This makes a plant alternative the perfect choice for those who may be prone to dryness, dehydration or have reactive sensitive skin as they are still able to enjoy the benefits of vitamin A without experiencing the sometimes harsh effects of the synthetic ingredient. 

Two powerful plant alternatives we love to use in the Bare Roots range include Mothbean extract and Bakuchiol. 

These ingredients do not contain naturally occurring vitamin A such as carotenoids, but they are actually both legumes and are structurally quite similar to retinol. These two ingredients have a variety of benefits for your skin such as initiating cell renewal in a very gentle way, neutralising free radicals and they are also both anti-inflammatory. 

Bakuchiol offers a wide range of benefits that make it an excellent choice as It possesses unique properties that allow it to penetrate deeply into the skin, and therefore it can -

  • Promote even skin tone - Uneven skin tone, often caused by factors like sun exposure or hyperpigmentation, can be visibly reduced with the regular use of Bakuchiol. By assisting in balancing melanin production, it helps to diminish the appearance of dark spots and create a more uniform complexion. 
  • Firm the skin - Bakuchiol has firming properties that contribute to a tighter and more youthful-looking skin. It aids in boosting collagen production, a vital component responsible for maintaining skin elasticity. By supporting the skin's structure, it helps to combat sagging and promote a firmer, lifted appearance.
  • Provide a plumping effect - The plumping effect of Bakuchiol is another noteworthy benefit. By increasing hydration and improving moisture retention within the skin, it can create a plumper and more supple complexion. This effect can contribute to a smoother and more radiant overall appearance. 
  • Reduce the appearance of fine lines - Bakuchoil can assist in reducing the appearance of fine lines by stimulating cell turnover and promoting skin regeneration. 

Mothbean Extract also has some amazing benefits such as supporting: 

  • Cell turnoverBy working to speed up the cell turnover process, mothbean extract promotes the shedding of old, dull skin cells and encourages the growth of new, fresh cells. This renewal process helps to reveal a brighter and more youthful complexion, as the buildup of dead skin cells is effectively eliminated.
  • Collagen production - Mothbean extract also plays a crucial role in stimulating collagen production which is a vital protein in the skin as it provides structural support and elasticity.

 

Are these plant based alternatives safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding? 

Studies have shown the antioxidants in plant based alternatives do not pose any threat to babies so you can have peace of mind by knowing they are safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

What products in the Bare Roots range have plant alternatives? 

So now you know why plant based alternatives are here to steal the spotlight from traditional vitamin A. It's time to learn which products you can use to incorporate them into your skincare routine for a glowing and healthy complexion. 

Clarity Serum 

Introducing our newest addition to the Bare Roots range - the beautiful Clarity Serum. This lightweight serum is fortified with powerful active ingredients such as Macura which has similar retinoic acid properties as it hits the same vitamin A receptors in the skin, however it is not a vitamin A and is actually a flavonoid which has potent antioxidant properties which help neutralise free radicals. 

Curative Serum 

Curative Serum is an intensely rejuvenating serum, naturally high in essential vitamins needed for a healthy cell cycle. It contains the plant alternatives Mothbean Extract and Carrot Seed Oil.

Flora Cream

Flora Cream is a highly active, lipid-rich cream infused with prebiotics, Moringa oil and the plant alternative, Bakuchiol to initiate cell renewal, repair damage & deeply moisturise the skin.

Plant based vitamin A alternatives wrap up

Overall plant based vitamin A alternatives offer a host of benefits for your skin, they are safe to use during pregnancy and are a much more gentle and organic alternative to traditional vitamin A. 

So If you’re ready to incorporate professional skincare that’s made in Australia then it’s time to shop our range now.  We also have a range of skincare tools such as our microneedling roller and rose quartz gua sha tool available online now.



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