Three Ships SkinHero 2% Bakuchiol + Calendula Serum, 1 oz

A dedicated nighttime bakuchiol serum at 2% concentration — one of the highest in the clean beauty market — paired with 3% Calendula to soothe skin during the renewal process and 1% Rosehip Seed Oil for natural vitamin A, C, and E support. Formulated for sensitive, mature, and acne-prone skin that needs retinol-level skin renewal without retinol's irritation or photosensitivity.

The honest bakuchiol vs retinol picture. Bakuchiol is not chemically related to retinol — it's a plant compound from the Babchi plant (Psoralea Corylifolia) that modulates skin cell behavior in a similar way, supporting the appearance of smoother, more even skin. A 2018 double-blind study found bakuchiol comparable to retinol in improving visible photoaging signs at 0.5% — and better tolerated. This formula uses 2%, significantly above the studied dose; the practical impact of the higher concentration is a more visible effect curve, but it's paired with 3% Calendula specifically to buffer potential irritation. "Outperforms retinol" is not supported by current evidence — comparable to retinol at lower doses, better tolerated, safe during pregnancy are the honest summary.

Who this is for vs GUSU's other bakuchiol product. The Outset Niacinamide + Bakuchiol Night Cream has bakuchiol at ~0.3-0.55% built into a moisturizer — one step, beginner dose, simplified routine. The SkinHero has 2% as a dedicated serum step used before moisturizer — higher concentration, for customers with more pronounced fine line, tone, or blemish concerns. If you're new to bakuchiol, start with The Outset Night Cream. If you have specific anti-aging concerns and want maximum effect, layer SkinHero before your moisturizer.

Why people use it

• Supports the appearance of smoother skin and more refined texture with consistent nightly use
• Gentler on skin than traditional retinoids — no peeling, flaking, or sun sensitivity when used at night
• Calendula specifically buffers the higher 2% bakuchiol concentration, supporting a calm, non-irritated skin experience
• Suitable during pregnancy and breastfeeding — no retinoids in the formula (confirm with your healthcare provider)
• EWG Verified, B Corp, AAPI-Founded — complete transparency on active concentrations and ingredient sourcing via SourceMap

What's inside

• Bakuchiol (2%) – a plant compound from Psoralea Corylifolia seeds; supports the appearance of improved skin texture, reduced visibility of fine lines, and more even skin tone with consistent nightly use; 2% is higher than most bakuchiol serums on the market (typically 0.5-1%)
• Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract (3%) – a botanical with well-established anti-inflammatory and soothing properties; specifically paired at 3% to buffer the higher bakuchiol concentration and support skin that's prone to redness or sensitivity
• Rosa Canina (Rosehip) Seed Oil (1%) – naturally rich in Vitamins A, C, and E plus linoleic acid; a traditional remedy for skin tone and texture support
• Glycerin – a humectant that keeps the formula from feeling stripping during the overnight renewal phase
• Tocopherol (Vitamin E) – an antioxidant that complements the formula and helps protect overnight against environmental oxidative stress
• Behenyl Alcohol + Cetearyl Alcohol – fatty alcohols (not drying alcohols) that give the serum its emollient, non-drying texture and help the formula absorb without tackiness
• Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Peel Oil – source of a very light, fresh citrus scent; a natural essential oil present at low concentration (note: Three Ships lists "Essential Oil Free" on this product, but bitter orange peel oil IS an essential oil — patch test if fragrance-sensitive)

Good to know

• 1 fl oz / 30ml pump bottle; 3-month supply at 1-2 pumps nightly
• Apply at night only: dispense 1-2 pumps onto clean skin after cleansing and any water-based toner or serum; follow with your moisturizer
• Suitable for pregnancy and breastfeeding (no retinoids); always confirm with your healthcare provider
• Contains Bitter Orange Peel Oil and Limonene — a natural fragrance component, not synthetic; Three Ships' "Essential Oil Free" badge is inaccurate for this formula
• Paraben-free, silicone-free, gluten-free, SLS/SLES-free, vegan, cruelty-free, EWG Verified

Full ingredient list Aqua/Water/Eau, Glycerin, Behenyl Alcohol*, Bakuchiol*, Dicaprylyl Ether*, Glyceryl Caprylate*, Rosa Canina (Rosehip) Seed Oilᵀ, Stearic Acid, Cetearyl Alcohol*, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Tocopherol, Pentylene Glycol*, Caprylhydroxamic Acid*, Glyceryl Stearate SE*, Sodium Phytate*, Xanthan Gumᵀ, Polyglyceryl-3 Dicitrate/Stearate*, Sodium Hydroxide, Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Peel Oil*, Limonene (*Non-GMO, ᵀOrganic)