Benton Bakuchiol Serum Dupes & Cheaper Alternatives
From 4 Reddit threads · Updated October 27, 2026
Watery 2.5% bakuchiol absorbs cleanly for layering; gentle feel, possible dry eyes. Here's what Redditors reach for instead.
The short answer
Best Overall AlternativeClinical acne evidence for niacinamide · $34.56 · 50 ml
Best Cheaper AlternativeBarrier-support serum for tretinoin peeling · $6.99 · 30 ml vs $19.99 for the original
Best for Anti-AgingVisible forehead-line softening with consistent use · $9.70 · 30 ml
#1
Best Overall Alternative
- Size: 50 ml
- Price per ml: $0.69/ml (original $0.57/ml)
The why
One minus
Stinging and burning can be intense
Both recommended for Anti-Aging.
“Basically you want to think of it as your “step zero” — it kind of acts as a mini micro-needling treatment so it’s going to help with the absorption of whatever you put on top.”
— Reddit, r/koreanskincare
The original, at a glance
- Why people love it
- 2.5% bakuchiol; watery, residue-free finish
- Price
- $19.99 · 35 ml · $0.57/ml
#2
Best Cheaper Alternative
Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule
Skin1004·Serum
See alternativesBarrier-support serum for tretinoin peeling
- Size: 30 ml
- Price per ml: $0.23/ml (original $0.57/ml)
The why
A milky, viscous ampoule combining Centella Asiatica Extract, Niacinamide, Panthenol, and Ceramide NP for irritated, dehydrated skin. Tretinoin users reach for it after peeling or over-exfoliation, though ferments and richer emollients can trigger breakouts.
One minus
Breakouts, whiteheads, or clogged feeling hit some users
Good forDry Skin, Sensitive Skin
#3
Best for Anti-Aging
- Size: 30 ml
- Price per ml: $0.32/ml (original $0.57/ml)
The why
A watery acetyl hexapeptide-8 serum for forehead, brow, and crow’s-feet expression lines, especially if Botox is off the table. Expect cosmetic, temporary smoothing rather than wrinkle reversal; inconsistent use and diminishing results frustrate some routines.
One minus
Results are temporary, not permanent wrinkle correction
Both recommended for Anti-Aging.
“after a year of use my 11 lines like yours were lessened a bunch.”
— Reddit, r/30PlusSkinCare
Other alternatives worth a look
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Beginner-level retinol with ceramides and niacinamide · 183 mentions
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Tranexamic acid plus niacinamide for dark spots · 110 mentions
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