'I’m super sensitive to retinol, but this $25 serum has officially become my holy grail.'

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There are only a few months until I hit the big 3-0. But while I'm all for ageing gracefully, I can't help but feel like my skin needs a little extra love… especially when fine lines are starting to appear and collagen seems to be slowing down.

Over the years, I've had multiple moments where I've turned to retinol, because — as we've all heard — it's the OG anti-ageing ingredient. But even after trying all the viral products (and even prescription versions), I've never had a good experience. Most ended in extreme irritation that left me housebound for a solid week.

"Just try a weaker dosage," you say? Trust me, I've tried them all. Even the 0.01 per cent formulations disagreed with my skin. And yes, I know there's usually a purging phase, but honestly, there's never a good time for peeling and redness, unless we rewind to COVID hibernation when hiding at home made it slightly more manageable.

WATCH: Leigh Campbell reveals the beauty mistakes we often make as we age. Post continues below.

But recently, in a desperate venture to find an alternative, I stumbled across a single product that promises all the benefits of retinol, just without the drama: the Eqquallberry Bakuchiol Plumping Serum.

Here's everything you need to know about this life-changing formula. 

Firstly, what is retinol?

ICYMI, retinol is a form of vitamin A and the OG anti-ageing ingredient. It speeds up cell turnover, smooths fine lines, evens skin tone and boosts collagen. Sounds amazing, right? It is, but it's also notoriously harsh on the skin. Even low-strength formulas can make your skin peel, turn red or flare up, because the delivery mechanism and absorption also impact the strength. 

For sensitive skin types like mine, using retinol can be a gamble.

If you're a complete beginner, I recommend checking out this retinol cheat sheet for all your questions answered.

So, what is bakuchiol?

Bakuchiol is a plant-based compound derived from the seeds of the babchi plant, traditionally used in India and China. In skincare, it's known as a gentle alternative to retinol that delivers many of the same benefits: it smooths fine lines, improves elasticity, brightens uneven skin tone, and reduces acne and post-blemish redness. 

But unlike retinol, bakuchiol doesn't cause peeling, irritation or photosensitivity, which makes it perfect for sensitive skin. 

That said, it's always wise to patch-test a new product and introduce it slowly, especially if you're layering multiple serums or actives.

What is the Eqquallberry Bakuchiol Plumping Serum?

This purple-hued Korean beauty product is a lightweight, plant-based anti-ageing serum designed to smooth fine lines, boost elasticity and brighten skin, all without irritation or peeling. 

Its star ingredient is, of course, bakuchiol, the gentle retinol alternative. This is then paired with a 5-ceramide complex to strengthen the skin barrier and support collagen, along with a whopping 13 peptides to prevent fine lines. Niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and panthenol hydrate, soothe and balance oil and moisture levels, while a berry antioxidant blend protects the skin from environmental stressors.

I can't get enough of my perfect little purple pot of goodness. Image: Supplied.

While the purple colour may make you question its gentleness (I know I did!), the serum is safe for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin. Plus, it's fragrance-free and vegan, so you can use it daily without worry.

How do I use it?

Using this serum is super simple. After cleansing and toning, smooth 2–3 pumps over your face and neck, then follow with eye cream, moisturiser and SPF in the morning (yes, it's safe for daytime use) or a richer night cream at night. The silky, lightweight texture absorbs quickly, layers beautifully with other serums, and leaves skin soft, bouncy and hydrated. It even pairs well with vitamin C and niacinamide without pilling or irritation.

Where can I buy it in Australia?

Eqquallberry's Bakuchiol Plumping Serum is stocked by multiple online retailers in Australia, including Myer, Amazon and YesStyle. But my favourite for the best deals is Lila Beauty, where a 30ml bottle retails for $25.80 (usually $45). And, they often run extra discounts on top of that.

Eqquallberry Bakuchiol Plumping Serum review.

I've been using this serum for months (I think I'm on my ninth bottle already), and for someone who tests dozens of products a year, that says a lot. 

Over the months, my skin has visibly plumped up, fine lines have softened (especially my smile lines and forehead), and the overall glow is undeniable — all without the flaking, peeling or redness I usually get with retinol.

And I'm not the only one to see these noticeable changes. I've had strangers in supermarkets, restaurants, and shops ask me about my routine, and I've gone on to recommend them this exact product. My friends have even noticed a change in the glow of my skin. 

I hope one day I'll brave retinol and survive the purging phase. But for now? Bakuchiol — specifically this serum — is my holy grail. Gentle, affordable, effective, and gives me all the glow, minus the drama.

Feature image: Supplied.

Have you tried Eqquallberry's Bakuchiol serum or any other retinol alternative? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section below.