TBT Serum
TBT Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A hydrating leave-on exfoliant serum powered by bakuchiol, mandelic acid, niacinamide, and peptides. This gentle retinol alternative works overnight to reduce fine lines, even skin tone, and restore radiance without irritation.
Gentle Retinol Alternative
Bakuchiol delivers anti-aging benefits similar to retinol without the irritation, redness, or sun sensitivity. Suitable for sensitive skin and beginners.
Texture & feel
SENSORYGentle Retinol Alternative
Bakuchiol delivers anti-aging benefits similar to retinol without the irritation, redness, or sun sensitivity. Suitable for sensitive skin and beginners.
Chemical Exfoliation
Mandelic acid gently dissolves dead skin cells to increase cell turnover, reduce dark marks, and reveal brighter, smoother skin underneath.
Triple Peptide Complex
Three peptides (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38, Palmitoyl Oligopeptide, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7) work together to support collagen production and improve skin firmness.
Antioxidant-Rich Formula
Resveratrol, green tea, grape seed, and goji berry extracts protect against free radical damage and environmental stressors that accelerate aging.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains bakuchiol (safe retinol alternative) but also mandelic acid (AHA). While no retinoids or harsh actives are present, consult your OB-GYN before using AHA-containing products during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Contains multiple plant-based oils (rosehip, pomegranate, sunflower, avocado, marula, neem, moringa, black cumin) with fatty acids that may feed malassezia yeast. Use with caution if prone to fungal acne.
Low irritation potential. Mandelic acid is the gentlest AHA due to its large molecular size. No retinol, no harsh exfoliants, no drying alcohols. Suitable for sensitive skin types.
All ingredients have been reviewed and verified by the Environmental Working Group to meet their strictest health and safety standards.
100% vegan and cruelty-free. Free from parabens, sulfates, silicones, synthetic fragrances, and phthalates. Sustainable recyclable packaging.
Mandelic acid increases photosensitivity. Always apply sunscreen (SPF 30+) during the day when using this product, even though bakuchiol itself does not cause sun sensitivity.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSBakuchiolProven
A plant-derived retinol alternative from the babchi plant. Bakuchiol mimics the skin-renewing effects of retinol — reducing fine lines, improving elasticity, and evening skin tone — without irritation or sun sensitivity.
- Study: A 2019 British Journal of Dermatology study found bakuchiol comparable to retinol for reducing wrinkles and hyperpigmentation after 12 weeks of use.
- Mechanism: Stimulates collagen production and accelerates cell turnover via retinol-like pathways without binding to retinoid receptors.
- Benefit: No photosensitivity, making it safe for both AM and PM use.
Mandelic AcidProven
An alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from bitter almonds. Its large molecular weight makes it the gentlest AHA, penetrating skin slowly to minimize irritation while still delivering effective exfoliation.
- Exfoliation: Dissolves bonds between dead skin cells to increase cell turnover and reveal fresher skin.
- Brightening: Helps fade dark spots, sun damage, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation over time.
- Anti-bacterial: Has antibacterial properties that can also help with acne-prone skin.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)Proven
A well-researched multitasking ingredient that strengthens the skin barrier, reduces pore appearance, controls oil production, and fades dark spots. Works at 2–5% concentrations for barrier support and tone evening.
- Barrier Support: Boosts ceramide production to strengthen the skin's natural protective barrier.
- Sebum Regulation: Clinically shown to reduce sebum production at 4–5% concentrations.
- Brightening: Inhibits melanin transfer to help fade dark spots and even skin tone.
ResveratrolPromising
A potent polyphenol antioxidant found in red grape skin and berries. Known for its anti-inflammatory and free-radical-scavenging properties, resveratrol helps protect skin from environmental damage and reduce signs of aging.
- Antioxidant: Neutralizes free radicals from UV exposure and pollution that accelerate skin aging.
- Anti-inflammatory: Helps calm redness and soothe irritated skin.
- Brightening: May help reduce the appearance of age spots and sun damage.
Peptide Complex (3 Peptides)Promising
A trio of signal peptides — Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38, Palmitoyl Oligopeptide, and Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 — that communicate with skin cells to support collagen synthesis and improve firmness.
- Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38: Stimulates production of key skin matrix components including collagen and fibronectin.
- Palmitoyl Oligopeptide: Helps promote skin repair and improve elasticity.
- Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7: Anti-inflammatory peptide that helps reduce skin damage from daily stress.
Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid)Proven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid, which is smaller and more easily absorbed than regular HA. Draws moisture into the skin and can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, providing deep, lasting hydration.
- Hydration: Attracts and binds water molecules to the skin surface, plumping fine lines.
- Penetration: Sodium hyaluronate is more stable and penetrates deeper than standard hyaluronic acid.
25 ingredients
Water (Aqua), Propanediol, Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid), Mandelic Acid, Niacinamide, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract, Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Seed Oil, Rosa Canina (Rosehip) Seed Oil, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Sclerocarya Birrea (Marula) Oil, Azadirachta Indica (Neem) Oil, Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil, Phoenix Dactylifera (Date Palm) Extract, Resveratrol, Bakuchiol, Nigella Sativa (Black Cumin) Seed Oil, Gynostemma Pentaphyllum, Vaccinium Vitis-Idaea (Lingonberry) Fruit Extract, Lycium Barbarum (Goji Berry) Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38, Palmitoyl Oligopeptide, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after cleansing and toning, before other serums and moisturizer. Use AM and PM. Always follow with SPF in the morning due to mandelic acid.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Tone
Start with a clean face. Use your preferred cleanser and toner to prepare your skin for better serum absorption.
Dispense 2–3 Drops
Using the dropper, place 2–3 drops of TBT Serum into the palm of your hand. A little goes a long way — the bottle lasts approximately 30 days at recommended usage.
Apply & Massage
Spread evenly over the face and neck area using gentle upward motions. Avoid the eye area. Massage into skin until fully absorbed.
Follow Up
Layer with your next serum or moisturizer. In the morning, always finish with SPF 30+ sunscreen to protect skin from mandelic acid-related photosensitivity.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want anti-aging benefits without retinol irritation
- You have fine lines, uneven texture, or dull skin
- You prefer clean, vegan, and fragrance-free skincare
- You have sensitive skin that reacts to retinol
- You want a multi-active serum (exfoliant + anti-aging + hydrating)
- You value EWG-verified clean ingredients
Consider alternatives if:
- You are prone to fungal acne (contains multiple plant oils)
- You want high-concentration prescription-grade actives
- You need a larger bottle — 30 mL lasts only about 30 days
- You have an allergy to tree nuts (mandelic acid is derived from almonds)
- You prefer completely oil-free formulas
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESNiacinamide helps regulate oil production. The lightweight formula absorbs quickly but does contain plant oils that may feel slightly emollient.
Hyaluronic acid and nourishing plant oils (rosehip, avocado, marula) provide deep hydration while bakuchiol smooths texture without drying.
Balances well across zones. Mandelic acid and niacinamide help manage oily areas while oils nourish dry patches.
Mandelic acid is the gentlest AHA with low irritation potential. Fragrance-free, no harsh actives. Many users with sensitive skin report no issues.
Mandelic acid has antibacterial properties and niacinamide helps with blemishes. Low comedogenic risk, but plant oils may concern some acne-prone users.
Ideal target audience. Bakuchiol, peptides, and resveratrol are all geared toward reducing fine lines, improving firmness, and restoring youthful radiance.
Results timeline
WEEK 12+Immediate Hydration & Glow
Skin feels more hydrated and looks plumper from hyaluronic acid. A subtle dewy glow appears as mandelic acid begins gentle surface exfoliation.
80% noticed improved hydrationSmoother Texture & Brightness
Cell turnover increases, revealing smoother skin. Dark spots start to fade as niacinamide and mandelic acid work synergistically on hyperpigmentation.
65% noticed improved textureFine Line Reduction Begins
Bakuchiol and peptides begin showing visible anti-aging results. Fine lines appear softened, skin feels firmer. This is the minimum time for deeper skin changes.
55% noticed reduced fine linesVisible Anti-Aging Transformation
Full benefits of bakuchiol and the peptide complex become apparent. More even skin tone, improved elasticity, and noticeably smoother, more youthful-looking skin.
70% noticed significant improvementRatings by platform
REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Gentle retinol alternative that sensitive skin can tolerate
- Clean, vegan, EWG Verified formula with transparent ingredients
- Multi-active approach: exfoliant + anti-aging + hydrating in one
- Noticeable improvement in skin texture and smoothness
- Lightweight formula absorbs quickly without greasiness
- Fragrance-free — no irritating synthetic scents
- Can be used both morning and night
- Made in the USA with sustainable packaging
Criticized
- Small 30 mL bottle lasts only ~30 days at recommended usage
- Results for deeper wrinkles take 6–12 weeks to appear
- Active ingredient concentrations not fully disclosed
- Price per mL is higher than some competitors
- Contains multiple plant oils — not ideal for fungal acne
- Dropper applicator can be slightly imprecise
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESContains bakuchiol as the star ingredient plus squalane for hydration. Simpler formula without the mandelic acid exfoliation or peptide complex. Moisturizer format rather than serum.
Pure bakuchiol serum in an airless pump at a fraction of the price. Lacks the mandelic acid, niacinamide, peptides, and rich botanical blend of the TBT Serum. More basic approach.
Premium bakuchiol serum with PHA exfoliation and tremella mushroom. Slightly more refined formula with clinical feel, but lacks niacinamide and the triple peptide complex. Higher price point for similar benefits.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep bottle tightly closed. Resveratrol and bakuchiol are light-sensitive — opaque packaging helps protect potency.
Glass dropper bottle with sustainable, recyclable packaging. Twist off cap, rinse, and recycle when empty.
Yes — 30 mL / 1 oz is well under the 100 mL TSA carry-on liquid limit. Compact size fits easily in travel bags.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. The TBT Serum does not contain retinol, retinoids, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. However, it does contain mandelic acid (an AHA) which some healthcare providers recommend avoiding or limiting during pregnancy. Bakuchiol is generally considered a safer retinol alternative for pregnancy, but always consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before incorporating any new skincare product during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Use with caution. The TBT Serum contains multiple plant-based oils including rosehip, pomegranate, sunflower, avocado, marula, neem, moringa, and black cumin seed oil. These oils contain fatty acids (particularly oleic acid) that can potentially feed malassezia yeast and trigger fungal acne breakouts. If you are prone to fungal acne, consider patch testing first or choosing an oil-free alternative.
The TBT Serum already contains mandelic acid (AHA), so layering additional AHA or BHA products on top may cause over-exfoliation and irritation. If using vitamin C, apply it in the morning and TBT Serum at night to avoid potential interactions. Since bakuchiol is not a retinoid, it can technically be used alongside retinol, but combining mandelic acid with retinol may be too much for most skin types. Alternate nights if you want to use both.
The TBT Serum is formulated to be gentle enough for all skin types including dry, oily, combination, normal, and sensitive skin. It is especially well-suited for mature skin concerned with fine lines, uneven tone, and loss of firmness. Dry skin types benefit from the nourishing plant oils, while oily and combination skin types appreciate the lightweight absorption and oil-regulating niacinamide.
Hydration improvements are often noticed within the first 1–2 weeks. Smoother texture and brighter skin typically appear at 3–4 weeks. For anti-aging benefits like fine line reduction and improved firmness, allow at least 6–8 weeks of consistent use. Full results from bakuchiol and the peptide complex are generally visible after 12 weeks of daily application. No topical product can fully reverse signs of aging.
Apply TBT Serum after cleansing and toning, but before heavier serums and moisturizers. The recommended routine order is: cleanser, toner, TBT Serum, additional serum (if desired), moisturizer, then sunscreen (AM only). You can use it both morning and night. DIME recommends applying 2–3 drops to the face and neck area and massaging in until absorbed.
The TBT Serum has a low comedogenic rating of approximately 1 out of 5. While it contains several plant oils, they are positioned low in the ingredient list (present in small concentrations) and most have low comedogenic ratings individually. Rosehip and neem oils are rated 1, avocado oil is rated 2. The mandelic acid actually helps keep pores clear through gentle exfoliation. However, everyone's skin is different — patch test if you are particularly breakout-prone.
The TBT Serum has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. However, at the recommended usage of 2–3 drops twice daily, the 30 mL bottle will last approximately 30 days. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain potency, as some ingredients like resveratrol are light-sensitive.
Verdict: The DIME Beauty TBT Serum is an impressive multi-active anti-aging serum that delivers a thoughtful combination of bakuchiol, mandelic acid, niacinamide, and peptides at an accessible price point. It stands out as a genuinely gentle retinol alternative backed by clean, EWG-verified ingredients. The formula is particularly well-suited for those with sensitive or mature skin who want visible anti-aging results without the irritation of retinol. The main drawbacks are the small 30 mL size (which lasts only about a month) and the lack of disclosed active concentrations. Overall, this is a strong choice for anyone seeking a clean, effective, multi-benefit serum at a mid-range price.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Mandelic Acid
Antimicrobial
|
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Hyaluronate
Skin Conditioning, Humectant
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|





