For 30 days, I swapped my prescription retinoid for this bakuchiol serum. My skin didn’t freak out — it actually calmed down.
The real test? My 11 lines between my brows. They’re still there, but they look… softer. Less angry. Like someone photoshopped them at 30% opacity.
It’s a lightweight serum from Mary&May — about $22 for 30ml. They claim it “improves elasticity and glow without irritation.” I rolled my eyes, but my skin didn’t.
Peptide complex
6 types of peptides to plump without puffiness
Bakuchiol 2%
Plant-based retinol alternative that actually works
Niacinamide 2%
Brightens without that weird pilling issue
Photo: sarah b / Unsplash
No fragrance, no essential oils — just actives that do their job. The bakuchiol is stabilized so it doesn’t oxidize after two weeks like some I’ve tried.
- Bakuchiol: Softens lines without peeling your face off
- Peptide complex: Signals collagen without the tingle
- Niacinamide: Fades dark spots from old breakouts
- Sodium hyaluronate: Hydrates deeper than regular HA
Photo: ONNE Beauty / Unsplash
Texture is weirdly satisfying — like thin honey that turns into water on contact. Absorbs in 12 seconds. No sticky residue on my pillowcase.
Week 2 I almost quit. Got two tiny whiteheads (my skin does this with any new active). Pushed through — gone by day 9. By week 3, my skin looked like I’d been sleeping 9 hours. I haven’t.
Fine lines: visibly softer. Glow: yes, but not greasy — like I drank 3 extra glasses of water. Pores: slightly smaller. Dark spots: barely touched my old acne scars.
Not a retinol replacement if you’re acne-prone. But for anti-aging without the purge? This is the gentle option that actually delivers.