Vitamin A-mazing Bakuchiol Night Cream
Vitamin A-mazing Bakuchiol Night Cream
Product Description
Product overview
An award-winning K-beauty night cream combining Bakuchiol (1%) and Retinal (0.03%) for gentle yet effective anti-aging. This hypoallergenic, fragrance-free formula reduces fine lines, improves elasticity, and smooths texture while you sleep — without the harsh irritation of traditional retinol. By WishTrend.
Dual Vitamin A System
Combines Retinal (0.03%) and Bakuchiol (1%) for synergistic anti-aging that is gentler than traditional retinol yet more effective than bakuchiol alone.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDual Vitamin A System
Combines Retinal (0.03%) and Bakuchiol (1%) for synergistic anti-aging that is gentler than traditional retinol yet more effective than bakuchiol alone.
Collagen-Boosting Peptide
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-8 helps soothe skin and support its natural repair process overnight while Adenosine targets wrinkle reduction.
Barrier-Strengthening Complex
Ceramide NP, Beta-Glucan, and Centella Asiatica work together to reinforce the skin barrier and calm irritation from active ingredients.
Multi-Layer Hydration
Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin, Betaine, and Trehalose deliver moisture at multiple skin depths for plump, bouncy skin by morning.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENot recommended. Contains Retinal (retinaldehyde), a vitamin A derivative. The brand explicitly states pregnant and breastfeeding individuals should avoid this product.
Not fungal acne safe. Contains several potential triggers including Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetyl Alcohol, Macadamia Seed Oil, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, and Pentaerythrityl Distearate.
Passed Primary Skin Irritation Test for Sensitive Skin. Hypoallergenic formulation free of artificial fragrance, ethanol, and artificial colorants.
Do not combine with Vitamin C serums, AHAs, BHAs, or other exfoliating agents in the same routine. Avoid use immediately after cosmetic procedures.
Verified cruelty-free by Cruelty-Free Kitty. Vegan-friendly formulation with no animal-derived ingredients (collagen is plant-based).
Retinal can increase photosensitivity. Always apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ the following morning when using this product.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSBakuchiol 1% (10,000 ppm)Proven
A plant-derived retinol alternative extracted from the seeds of the Psoralea Corylifolia (Babchi) plant. Regulates skin cell behavior similarly to retinol — boosting collagen production and reducing MMP enzymes — without the same irritation profile.
- Clinical Study: A 2019 double-blind study with 44 participants found 0.5% bakuchiol comparable to 0.5% retinol for improving photoaging after 12 weeks, with better tolerability.
- Anti-Acne: 1% bakuchiol demonstrated a 57% reduction in acne after 6 weeks of treatment in clinical testing.
- Synergy: Bakuchiol stabilizes retinoids and boosts their efficacy when used together, making this dual-active formula especially effective.
Retinal (Retinaldehyde) 0.03% (300 ppm)Proven
One step away from retinoic acid (the prescription-strength form), Retinal requires only a single conversion in the skin. It delivers faster results than standard retinol while being better tolerated than tretinoin.
- Conversion: Retinol → Retinal → Retinoic Acid. Retinal skips the first step, providing quicker and more predictable results.
- Efficacy: Concentrations of 0.05% and 0.1% are proven effective for anti-aging. At 0.03%, this formula is beginner-friendly.
- Multi-Action: Improves cell turnover, reduces wrinkles, fights blemishes, refines pores, and evens skin tone.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~2–4%Proven
A multitasking brightening ingredient that strengthens the skin barrier, regulates sebum production, fades dark spots, and minimizes pore appearance. Well-tolerated by virtually all skin types.
- Barrier Support: Stimulates natural ceramide production, reinforcing the skin's protective barrier.
- Brightening: Inhibits melanin transfer to reduce hyperpigmentation and even out skin tone over time.
Ceramide NP TraceProven
A skin-identical lipid that helps restore and maintain the skin's moisture barrier. Works synergistically with the other soothing ingredients to prevent transepidermal water loss overnight.
- Barrier Repair: Ceramides make up approximately 50% of the skin's natural lipid barrier — replenishing them is critical for healthy skin function.
Centella Asiatica Extract TraceProven
A K-beauty staple known for its powerful soothing and wound-healing properties. Helps calm any potential irritation from the retinoid actives in this formula.
- Soothing: Rich in madecassoside and asiaticoside, which reduce redness and support skin recovery.
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-8 TracePromising
A neurosensory peptide that calms skin inflammation at the cellular level. Helps reduce the irritation response that can occur with retinoid use, making this formula more comfortable for sensitive skin.
- Mechanism: Mimics a natural anti-inflammatory peptide in the skin, helping to block stress-triggered inflammation signals.
42 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Glycerin, Hydrogenated Polydecene, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Betaine, Phenyl Trimethicone, Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, Cetyl Alcohol, Macadamia Integrifolia Seed Oil, Niacinamide, Glyceryl Glucoside, Glyceryl Stearate, Bakuchiol, Trehalose, Behenyl Alcohol, Pentaerythrityl Distearate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Dipropylene Glycol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Laminaria Japonica Extract, Eclipta Prostrata Leaf Extract, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Adenosine, Glucose, Fructooligosaccharides, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Retinal, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Beta-Glucan, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Centella Asiatica Extract, Ficus Carica (Fig) Fruit Extract, Ceramide NP, Tocopherol, Collagen, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-8, Dextran
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the final moisturizing step in your PM routine. Skip Vitamin C serums, AHAs, and BHAs on nights you use this cream. Always follow with sunscreen the next morning.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Tone
Start with a clean, dry face. Complete your evening cleansing and toning steps before application.
Dispense & Apply
Pump a pea-sized amount onto your fingertips. Dot the neon-yellow cream across forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin.
Massage Gently
Smooth the cream over your entire face using upward and outward motions. Gently pat to encourage absorption. Can also be applied to neck and eye area.
Build Up Gradually
Beginners: start with 2 times per week for 2 weeks, then increase to 3 times, and gradually work up to nightly use as tolerated.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want to start anti-aging but find retinol too irritating
- You are looking for a gentle retinoid for the eye, neck, or chest area
- You have fine lines, uneven texture, or early signs of aging
- You prefer a fragrance-free, cruelty-free night moisturizer
- You want a single product that combines treatment and moisturization
- You have dry to normal skin that benefits from a richer cream
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (contains retinal)
- You have fungal acne / malassezia folliculitis
- You have very oily skin and prefer lightweight gel textures
- You need a stronger retinoid concentration (prescription-level results)
- You want to use Vitamin C or chemical exfoliants in the same PM routine
- You need a larger product size (this is only 30g)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESRich, nourishing cream texture with Macadamia Oil, Ceramide NP, and multiple humectants provides deep overnight hydration.
Well-balanced formula provides both treatment and moisture without feeling heavy. Ideal all-in-one night step.
Works well during cooler/drier months. In humid conditions, may feel slightly heavy on the T-zone. Use a thinner layer on oily areas.
Rich texture may feel too heavy for very oily skin, especially in warm climates. Consider a gel-based retinal product instead.
Passed sensitive skin irritation testing. Bakuchiol and soothing agents (Cica, Beta-Glucan, Peptide-8) offset retinal irritation. Introduce slowly and patch test first.
Bakuchiol has anti-acne properties and Niacinamide regulates sebum. However, not suitable for fungal acne due to several potential triggers in the formula.
Results timeline
WEEK 12+Immediate Hydration & Glow
Skin feels more moisturized and plump upon waking. The nourishing formula smooths surface texture and provides a healthy-looking glow. Some users may experience mild tingling as skin adjusts to retinal.
80% noticed improved hydrationTexture Refinement & Pore Improvement
Clinical tests showed improvement in skin moisturizing, pore size/volume/depth, and skin texture (roughness) after 4 weeks of use. Skin starts feeling smoother and more refined.
70% noticed smoother textureWrinkle Reduction & Firming
Fine lines around the eyes begin to soften. Improvement in skin elasticity, density, and facelift (cheek firmness) becomes visible. Skin tone appears more even.
65% noticed wrinkle improvementSignificant Anti-Aging Results
Continued use delivers cumulative benefits — deeper wrinkles begin to soften, hyperpigmentation fades, and overall skin resilience and bounce improves noticeably.
75% noticed visible anti-aging improvementRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Dual retinal + bakuchiol system delivers results with less irritation than retinol
- Rich, nourishing texture leaves skin feeling plump and soft by morning
- Fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and passed sensitive skin irritation test
- Airless pump protects light-sensitive Vitamin A from degradation
- Cruelty-free, vegan, and uses PCR recycled packaging
- Award-winning — #1 Bakuchiol Cream and #1 Night Cream on Glowpick
- Versatile: works on face, eye area, neck, and chest
- Beginner-friendly retinoid introduction
Criticized
- Small 30g size can feel pricey relative to the amount of product
- Too rich/heavy for very oily skin or hot, humid climates
- Not fungal acne (malassezia) safe
- Opaque pump makes it impossible to see remaining product
- Yellow color can temporarily tint skin, bedsheets, or clothes
- Cannot be combined with Vitamin C or chemical exfoliants
- Not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESContains 1% bakuchiol in a simpler, lighter formula but lacks retinal, ceramides, and peptides. Better suited for oily skin. No dual Vitamin A approach.
Uses encapsulated retinol (0.1%) instead of retinal + bakuchiol. More affordable and larger size, but lacks the dual active synergy and soothing botanical complex.
Higher retinal concentration (0.05% vs 0.03%) in a lightweight serum texture. No bakuchiol. Better for oily skin but less moisturizing — you will need a separate moisturizer.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDESOME BY MI Retinol Bakuchiol Dual Cream
Kiehl's Retinol Skin-Refining Daily Micro-Dose Serum
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Retinal is light-sensitive — the opaque airless pump helps, but avoid leaving it in bright areas or high heat.
Airless pump in opaque recycled (PCR) plastic bottle. Protects retinal from air and light degradation for maximum potency throughout use.
Yes — 30g is well under the 100ml carry-on limit. Compact airless pump design is leak-proof and travel-ready.
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo. This product contains Retinal (retinaldehyde), a form of Vitamin A. The brand explicitly advises that pregnant, breastfeeding individuals, and infants should refrain from using this product. While bakuchiol alone is generally considered safe during pregnancy, the inclusion of retinal makes this cream unsuitable. Consult your healthcare provider for pregnancy-safe alternatives.
No. This product contains several ingredients that may feed malassezia yeast, including Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Macadamia Integrifolia Seed Oil, Cetyl Alcohol, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Pentaerythrityl Distearate, and Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate. If you have fungal acne, look for a simpler, FA-safe bakuchiol product instead.
The brand recommends against combining this product with Vitamin C or other exfoliating agents (AHA, BHA) in the same routine. Since this cream already contains retinal, layering additional retinol on top would increase irritation risk. You can alternate: use this cream on some nights and your exfoliants or Vitamin C on other nights. Some experienced users do gradually introduce BHA alongside this cream on separate nights once their skin has adapted.
This cream is best suited for dry to normal skin types due to its rich, nourishing texture. It also works well for combination skin in cooler/drier weather. Sensitive skin types can benefit from the gentle retinal + bakuchiol approach — just introduce gradually. Oily skin types may find the texture too heavy, especially in warm or humid climates.
Most users notice improved hydration and glow within the first 1–2 weeks. Texture and pore refinement typically become visible around weeks 3–4 (confirmed by the brand's clinical testing). Significant anti-aging results like wrinkle reduction and improved elasticity generally require 6–12 weeks of consistent use, as changes in collagen occur in the deeper skin layers.
Apply as the last treatment/moisturizing step in your PM routine, after cleansing and toning. If you use a hydrating serum (like hyaluronic acid), apply it before this cream. This product is designed for nighttime use only. In the morning, always follow up with a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher.
The overall comedogenic rating is approximately 2 out of 5 (low-moderate). While it contains some potentially comedogenic ingredients like Macadamia Seed Oil and Cetyl Alcohol, the formulation is balanced with non-comedogenic actives like Niacinamide that help regulate sebum. Most users with acne-prone skin (non-fungal) tolerate it well, but patch testing is always recommended.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Thanks to the airless pump packaging, the retinal remains stable and protected from air and light exposure throughout its shelf life. Despite the small 30g size, a little goes a long way — most users report the bottle lasts 2–3 months with nightly use.
Verdict: By WishTrend's Vitamin A-mazing Bakuchiol Night Cream is a thoughtfully formulated, award-winning night cream that stands out for its dual retinal + bakuchiol approach — offering meaningful anti-aging results with notably less irritation than traditional retinol products. The rich, nourishing formula packed with Ceramide NP, Centella Asiatica, peptides, and hyaluronic acid makes it an excellent all-in-one nighttime treatment for dry, normal, and sensitive skin types. It loses points for the small product size relative to price, unsuitability for fungal acne sufferers, and its too-rich texture for oily skin. Overall, it is one of the best beginner-friendly retinoid night creams in K-beauty, and a strong choice for anyone who wants to start a well-aging routine without the retinol irritation learning curve.
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
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Hydrogenated Polydecene
Emollient, Masking, Skin Conditioning, Solvent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
|
|
|
| 1 |
Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Irritation
Dark Spots
|






