Cos De BAHA L2 Bakuchiol 2% + Retinol 0.5% Serum Review

Cos De BAHA L2 Bakuchiol 2% + Retinol 0.5% Serum
5.6
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
1.1 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
10Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Rich
in Antioxidants
Rich Skin Soothing icon
in Skin Soothers
Ingredients

Cos De BAHA L2 Bakuchiol 2% + Retinol 0.5% Serum Ingredients

Hover to see details. On mobile? Tap for ingredient stories!

Full Ingredient List (INCI):

Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Propanediol, Glycerin, Isononyl Isononanoate, Dimethicone, Niacinamide, Bakuchiol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Retinol, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Panthenol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Allantoin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Water, Butylene Glycol, Artemisia Vulgaris Extract, Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower Extract, Rosa Damascena Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Xanthan Gum, Adenosine, Caprylyl Glycol, Tromethamine, Carbomer, Polysorbate 20, Disodium EDTA, Tropolone
Review

Does Cos De BAHA L2 Bakuchiol 2% + Retinol 0.5% Serum Work?

 
According to CreamScan's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Cos De BAHA L2 Bakuchiol 2% + Retinol 0.5% Serum has to offer:
 
✅ Strong humectant moisturizing. This lightweight, humectant-rich product, ideal for oily skin, has a moisturizing rating of 5.6 out of 10.
✅ Potent anti-wrinkle effect with the highest possible efficacy rating. With an anti-wrinkle rating of 10 out of 10, Cos De BAHA L2 Bakuchiol 2% + Retinol 0.5% Serum is highly potent in reducing wrinkles.
✅ Soothing: Cos De BAHA L2 Bakuchiol 2% + Retinol 0.5% Serum contains a high concentration of soothing ingredients, which may help to reduce irritation and calm the skin.
✅ Antioxidant protection

  

Key Benefits of Cos De BAHA L2 Bakuchiol 2% + Retinol 0.5% Serum

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Cos De BAHA L2 Bakuchiol 2% + Retinol 0.5% Serum:
 

🔵 Lightweight Humectant Moisturizer Ideal for Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Cos De BAHA L2 Bakuchiol 2% + Retinol 0.5% Serum is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 5.6 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more humectant. It has a low occlusivity of 1.1 out of 10 and a maximum humectancy of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract (est. ≈75.0%), Propanediol (est. ≈6.0%) and Glycerin (est. ≈4.0%).

This humectant-rich product, when used alone as a moisturizer, is ideal for oily skin, offering significant hydration in a lightweight, fast-absorbing formula with a minimal amount of occlusive ingredients.

It’s also a great choice for people with normal skin who prefer lightweight moisturizers.

💧 A Humectant Boost for Any Skincare Routine

But it’s not limited to oily skin - such a humectant boost will also positively contribute to the moisturizing efficacy of any skincare routine when used as a step before applying the main moisturizer. This type of formulation is typically used in serums, where a light, fast-absorbing texture is key.

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the moisturizing rating calculation.

🟣🟣🟣 Potent Anti-Wrinkle Efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Cos De BAHA L2 Bakuchiol 2% + Retinol 0.5% Serum has a maximum anti-wrinkle rating of 10 out of 10.

It contains 2 active ingredients with proven anti-wrinkle efficacy:

1️⃣ Retinol (est. ≈0.5%),
 the most effective non-prescription anti-wrinkle ingredient. Numerous clinical studies have shown its positive effects at concentrations as low as 0.1%. A study with 36 participants (Kafi et al.) confirmed that a lotion containing 0.4% retinol reduced wrinkle severity by 21% after 24 weeks of use, compared to the same formulation without retinol (vehicle).
 
2️⃣ Niacinamide (est. ≈2.1%),
 one of the most effective and well-researched anti-wrinkle ingredients. A clinical study involving 30 participants (Kawada et al.) confirmed that a cream with 4% niacinamide reduced the average depth of wrinkles around the eyes by 9% after 8 weeks of use, compared to a vehicle (the same formulation without niacinamide).
 
Among others, Cos De BAHA L2 Bakuchiol 2% + Retinol 0.5% Serum also contains some ingredients marketed often as effective in reducing wrinkles, specifically Bakuchiol, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, and Adenosine. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of these ingredients provide insufficient evidence of efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards.
 
While this does not categorically rule out the possibility that these ingredients may reduce wrinkles, their efficacy is not supported by convincing, vehicle-controlled, double-blind clinical studies - at least none that were available to the CreamScan team at the time of publication.
 
Therefore, these ingredients do not contribute to the anti-wrinkle rating.
 

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the anti-wrinkle rating calculation.

🍀 Rich in Skin-Protecting Antioxidants

We estimate that Cos De BAHA L2 Bakuchiol 2% + Retinol 0.5% Serum is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract (est. ≈75.0%), Niacinamide (est. ≈2.1%) and Bakuchiol (est. ≈2.0%).

A key benefit of antioxidants is their ability to reduce oxidative stress caused by free radicals and therefore prevent accelerated skin aging. Studies also show that antioxidants can protect against environmental damage such as UV radiation and pollution, and help reduce inflammation and skin redness.

🔴 Skin Soothing and Calming Potential

Based on the ingredient list analysis, Cos De BAHA L2 Bakuchiol 2% + Retinol 0.5% Serum is rich (> 5%) in soothing ingredients, particularly Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract (est. ≈75.0%) and Niacinamide (est. ≈2.1%).

When applied to the skin, compounds of soothing ingredients, such as triglycerides, phospholipids, fatty acids, phenolic compounds, and antioxidants, work together to soothe the skin through various mechanisms: reducing inflammation, promoting wound healing, repairing the skin barrier, and providing antimicrobial and antioxidant activities.

📌 Please note that this is not a complete list of benefits. We are in the process of enhancing our model to incorporate anti-pigmentation, exfoliation and anti-acne ratings.

Things to Be Aware Of: Cos De BAHA L2 Bakuchiol 2% + Retinol 0.5% Serum

 
CreamScan identified a few things to consider before adding Cos De BAHA L2 Bakuchiol 2% + Retinol 0.5% Serum to your skincare routine:
 

⚠️ May Increase Skin Photosensitivity Due to Retinol

This product contains retinol, which offers powerful anti-wrinkle benefits. The mechanism behind retinol’s action is boosting cell turnover. This process exposes new, more delicate skin, making it more vulnerable to sun damage.

As a result, using products with retinol may increase the skin's sensitivity, making it more prone to sunburn or irritation when exposed to UV rays.

To protect the skin, dermatologists recommend applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 throughout the duration of retinol treatment, along with avoiding direct sun exposure. Retinol should be used at night, as it is sensitive to sunlight and can lose its potency when exposed to UV rays.

📌 Please always check the manufacturer's instructions for using the retinol-containing products, either on their website or product label.

Pros & Cons of Cos De BAHA L2 Bakuchiol 2% + Retinol 0.5% Serum

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Cos De BAHA L2 Bakuchiol 2% + Retinol 0.5% Serum to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

🟩 Pros:

✅ When used alone: Provides humectant-rich moisturizing ideal for oily skin
✅ As part of a routine: A humectant moisturizing boost, beneficial for any skin type
✅ Lightweight texture
Delivers potent anti-wrinkle efficacy with the highest possible rating of 10 out of 10 thanks to Retinol and Niacinamide
✅ Rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress associated with accelerated skin aging and defend against environmental damage
✅ Potentially soothing, as it contains a high concentration of soothing ingredients like Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract and Niacinamide
 

⭕ Cons: 

⚠️ May increase skin photosensitivity due to retinol
   

Summary: Cos De BAHA L2 Bakuchiol 2% + Retinol 0.5% Serum

 
Based on the ingredient list analysis, CreamScan AI suggests that Cos De BAHA L2 Bakuchiol 2% + Retinol 0.5% Serum
 is highly effective in treating wrinkles, featuring ingredients with solid, robust evidence of anti-wrinkle efficacy, in concentrations that may deliver a significant anti-wrinkle effect.
 

When used alone, it delivers lightweight, humectant-rich moisturizing, making it ideal for oily skin. As part of a moisturizing routine, it provides a humectant boost, beneficial for all skin types.

Rich in antioxidants, Cos De BAHA L2 Bakuchiol 2% + Retinol 0.5% Serum helps protect against free radical damage and offers multiple benefits for all skin types, including preventing premature aging, defending against environmental damage, and calming inflammation. This product is also formulated with a high concentration of soothing ingredients, offering the potential to calm and comfort irritated skin. Whether you’re experiencing redness, irritation, or general sensitivity, its soothing properties may help restore balance and provide relief.
 
That said, there are some things about Cos De BAHA L2 Bakuchiol 2% + Retinol 0.5% Serum worth noting.
 
This product contains retinol, the most powerful and well-researched non-prescription anti-wrinkle ingredient. However, retinol can make your skin more prone to sun damage and increase sensitivity, so it’s recommended to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 throughout the duration of retinol treatment.
 
📌 Fact check. At CreamScan, we are committed to accuracy and fairness. If you spot any errors or something that doesn’t seem right, please click here to let us know. We regularly update the ingredient lists and monitor the latest research on ingredient efficacy to ensure that our information remains as complete and precise as possible. The information provided here is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional advice. We do not guarantee the efficacy or safety of any product, as individual results may vary.

 

Ingredient Breakdown

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
75
6
4
3
2.2
2.1
2
1
0.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Propanediol
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Isononyl Isononanoate
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Niacinamide
Function:
Origin:
Bakuchiol
Function:
Origin:
Cetearyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Retinol
Function:
Origin:
Cetearyl Olivate
Function:
Origin:
Sorbitan Olivate
Function:
Origin:
1,2-Hexanediol
Function:
Origin:
Panthenol
Function:
Origin:
Tocopheryl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
Allantoin
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Water
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Artemisia Vulgaris Extract
Function:
Origin:
Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower Extract
Function:
Origin:
Rosa Damascena Extract
Function:
Origin:
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Xanthan Gum
Function:
Origin:
Adenosine
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Tromethamine
Function:
Origin:
Carbomer
Function:
Origin:
Polysorbate 20
Function:
Origin:
Disodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
Tropolone
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
88.9
75
6
4
2.1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
2.2
2.2
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
5.6
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 88.9 10
10.0
75
6
4
2.1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 2.2 20
1.1
2.2
Moisturizing rating
5.6
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
75
6
4
2.1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 88.9 10
10
All humectants
88.9
75
6
4
2.1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
2.2
All occlusives 2.2 20
1.1
All occlusives
2.2
2.2
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
10 /10 0.4 0.5 10
6 /10 4 2.1 3.2
n/a
- 2 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
10
Retinol
10
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
10 /10
when present at, %
0.4
in this formula, est. %
0.5
Niacinamide
3.2
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
6 /10
when present at, %
4
in this formula, est. %
2.1
Bakuchiol
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
2
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Adenosine
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
75
2.1
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 80.9 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
80.9
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract
75
Niacinamide
2.1
Bakuchiol
2
Tocopheryl Acetate
0.3
Sodium Hyaluronate
0.3
Artemisia Vulgaris Extract
0.3
Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract
0.3
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
0.3
Tropolone
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
75
2.1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 78.3 5 Rich in soothing
All soothing
78.3
75
2.1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract
Est. %75
Function
Origin
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf ExtractDerived from Aloe vera leaves, this moisturizing humectant, soothing, and antioxidant extract is commonly used in products targeting eczema, sunburn, or dermatitis. It soothes the skin and reduces the signs of inflammation and sensitivity.
Propanediol
Est. %6
Function
Origin
PropanediolAn excellent solvent capable of mixing water with normally water-insoluble ingredients. It also functions as a humectant due to its water-loving alcohol groups. Propanediol can control the viscosity of a product by reducing its thickness.
Glycerin
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Glycerin

The most popular moisturizing ingredient in the world. It is a powerful humectant – cheap yet very effective.

Isononyl Isononanoate
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Isononyl IsononanoateAn ester of a branched fatty acid with a branched fatty alcohol. It is an easily spreadable emollient that has a silky, dry, non-greasy feel on the skin.
Dimethicone
Est. %2.2
Function
Origin
DimethiconeThe most common silicone in skincare. It forms a silky, smooth film on the skin’s surface and can help to prevent water loss. It also aids in wound healing and can treat and soften scars. Dimethicone is considered to be very safe for use.
Niacinamide
Est. %2.1
Function
Origin
Niacinamide

Also known as vitamin B3, this ingredient is a true superstar with confirmed moisturizing, anti-acne, hyperpigmentation, and antioxidant benefits. Two studies confirm its significant anti-wrinkle efficacy.

Bakuchiol
Est. %2
Function
Origin
BakuchiolA newly discovered bioactive obtained from the seeds of Babchi. It boosts collagen production like retinol, but with fewer side effects. Its effects include reduced wrinkles and faded pigmentation.
Cetearyl Alcohol
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Cetearyl AlcoholA blend of cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol, the fatty alcohols that are derived from palm oil. It helps to create emulsions that give off a soft and silky emollient feel and also increase product thickness.
Retinol
Est. %0.5
Function
Origin
Retinol

One of the most famous and well-researched anti-aging ingredients with a maximum anti-wrinkle power of 10 out of 10. It is proven to decrease wrinkles and help the skin regain its thickness, firmness, and texture. Retinol is also effective in treating pigmentation issues such as dark spots and acne.

Cetearyl Olivate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cetearyl Olivate

A multifunctional ingredient derived from plants that primarily serves as an emulsifier. Supplied as a waxy ivory-colored flake, it can also be used as an emollient and slip modifier that gives a product an overall light, silky finish.

Sorbitan Olivate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sorbitan OlivateAn ester of sorbitol (a type of sugar alcohol) and olive oil fatty acids. It is used as an emulsifying agent to stabilize oil droplets in water (or vice versa).
1,2-Hexanediol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
1,2-HexanediolA multi-functional formula helper. It is a well-studied preservtive against bacteria and can help pigments and fragrances disperse evenly in a formula.
Panthenol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PanthenolA popular soothing and moisturizing derivative of vitamin B5. Panthenol is particularly beneficial for dry, flaking, burned, or damaged skin. It is used to alleviate the symptoms of a rash, dermatitis, eczema, chapped lips, and sunburn.
Tocopheryl Acetate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tocopheryl Acetate

An antioxidant derivative of tocopherol (vitamin E). It helps to protect cells from free radicals and UV damage through the conversion to active vitamin E in the skin. It is more stable than tocopherol.

Allantoin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
AllantoinA fluffy, white powder that acts as a humectant due to its water-loving chemistry and as an exfoliant that helps to remove dead skin cells. It has also been shown to be very soothing to irritated and inflamed skin.
Sodium Hyaluronate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Hyaluronate

A sodium salt of famous hyaluronic acid. A potent humectant that hydrates the skin, supports collagen function, and fills out small wrinkles. Sodium hyaluronate also offers soothing and antioxidant properties.

Water
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
WaterThe most used ingredient in skincare. Its concentration defines the product texture: rich creams may have about 50% of water while a light jelly about 90%. Water doesn’t moisturize the skin by itself and is used in skincare as a solvent for other ingredients.
Butylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Butylene Glycol

A clear, colorless liquid humectant that draws moisture to the skin. The humectancy of butylene glycol, owed to its two hydroxyl groups, is quite considerable, although not as powerful as glycerin, which contains three hydroxyl groups.

Artemisia Vulgaris Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Artemisia Vulgaris ExtractAn extract derived from common mugwort. The plant contains an essential oil that gives the extract its strong, pine-like, cooling aroma. It also boasts antioxidant and astringent flavonoids and terpenes.
Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Melissa Officinalis Leaf ExtractA fragrant extract derived from lemon balm leaves with antioxidant and antiviral flavonoids and terpenes. It has a lovely, fresh, lemon-like scent.
Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower ExtractObtained from lavender flowers, this extract contains a fragrant essential oil along with various antioxidant and astringent flavonoids, terpenes, and phenolic acids. It is used in skincare for its refreshing, calming scent, or as a cleansing ingredient.
Rosa Damascena Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Rosa Damascena ExtractDerived from the Damask rose, this extract contains the luxurious fragrant rose essential oil, as well as astringent tannins.
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract

An antioxidant green tea extract. In the deeper layers, it slows down the destruction of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid – thus delaying the signs of aging. It also acts as an anti-acne, soothing, moisturizing, and emollient ingredient.

Xanthan Gum
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Xanthan GumA natural multi-functional ingredient that originates from fermented sugars. Xanthan gum acts as a viscosity-building agent to thicken skincare products. It is also an excellent stabilizer and works well to hold other ingredients together.
Adenosine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Adenosine

A key molecule responsible for energy transportation, signaling, and enzyme activity. Adenosine is a popular anti-wrinkle ingredient, however, the key study about its anti-wrinkle efficacy (1) does not meet CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards as it is not double-blind.

Caprylyl Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Caprylyl GlycolAn emollient that improves product spreadability and offers a silky feel on the skin. It also acts as a preservative booster that improves the efficacy of other preservatives. According to the manufacturer, it is also a humectant moisturizer.
Tromethamine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
TromethamineAn ingredient based on amino acids that is commonly used as a pH adjuster. It has a high pH, which means that it is basic (alkaline), so adding tromethamine to a skincare product will increase its overall pH level.
Carbomer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
CarbomerA synthetic ingredient with the ability to gel water. When used in emulsions, such as lotions and creams, carbomer can also act as an emulsion stabilizer.
Polysorbate 20
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polysorbate 20A viscous, amber-colored liquid that functions as a solubilizer to disperse small amounts of oil into a large water phase. Polysorbate 20 is frequently used to solubilize fragrance oils into water-based emulsions.
Disodium EDTA
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Disodium EDTAA synthetic chelator that helps to maintain the look and smell of a product by 'locking up' troublesome metal ions.
Tropolone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
TropoloneA naturally occurring ingredient with unusual molecular structure that fights free radicals.