One “alt retinol” ingredient that’s become prevalent over the past few years is bakuchiol, an antioxidant extracted from the leaves and seeds of the Psoralea corylifolia plant. “I have seen patients with sensitivity to this ingredient, too, so I advise them to start using it slowly,” says NYC-based dermatologist Anna Karp, DO, “but it is typically better tolerated than retinol and has shown a similar effect in clinical studies in terms of skin cell turnover and collagen increase.” Dr. Karp also calls out a lesser-known botanical alternative: Bidens pilosa, a plant containing phytanic acid, which is said to activate retinoid receptors in the skin. “The studies are limited with this ingredient, but it is found in some products, often mixed with bakuchiol,” she explains.