Bakuchiol Retinol Alternative Moisturizer

A small humectant that attracts and holds water in the stratum corneum, delivered into the epidermis partly via aquaporin-3. It raises hydration, improves plasticity and desquamation, and supports barrier recovery — one of the best-evidenced moisturizing agents.

A fully saturated emollient made by hydrogenating squalene (a natural sebum lipid), which makes it highly stable and non-comedogenic. It softens skin, reduces water loss, and penetrates efficiently without an oily feel.

A plant-derived meroterpene that acts as a functional analog of retinol, reducing wrinkles and hyperpigmentation with antioxidant activity. In a randomized double-blind trial it matched retinol 0.5% for photoaging improvement with less scaling and stinging.

As listed: Tocopherol

A fat-soluble antioxidant that neutralizes UV-generated free radicals and prevents lipid peroxidation and oxidative photoaging. It also moisturizes the stratum corneum and has anti-inflammatory activity — and works best alongside vitamin C.