Skincare ingredient guide

What common skincare actives do and which ones not to layer together. A plain-language guide from Inci AI.

Active ingredients

• RetinoidA form of vitamin A. Speeds up skin renewal; used for fine lines and breakouts. Can be drying; use at night.
• BakuchiolA plant-based, gentler alternative used for retinol-like results.
• AHAFruit acids (e.g. glycolic acid). Gently remove dead skin cells so skin looks smoother and brighter.
• BHAAn oil-soluble acid like salicylic acid. Cleans inside pores; popular for blackheads and oily skin.
• PHAA gentler kind of AHA. Exfoliates lightly; usually better tolerated by sensitive skin.
• Enzyme exfoliantFruit enzymes such as papaya or pineapple. Dissolve dead skin more softly than acids.
• Vitamin CAn antioxidant. Helps protect skin from daily stressors and makes dullness and uneven tone less visible.
• Benzoyl peroxideA strong ingredient used for breakout-prone skin. Can be drying and may bleach fabrics.
• NiacinamideVitamin B3. Supports the skin barrier and helps pores and dark spots look less visible. Well tolerated by most skin.
• Copper peptidePeptides that contain copper. Support skin renewal and firmness; not recommended at the same time as strong acids.
• PeptidesSmall protein fragments. Help skin look firmer and plumper; a gentle ingredient.
• Azelaic acidA gentle acid used for redness, dark spots and breakouts.
• HydroquinoneA strong spot-fading ingredient. Prescription-only or restricted in many countries; use on a doctor's advice.
• SulfurSulfur. Used to reduce oiliness and breakouts; can be drying.
• Tranexamic acidA gentle ingredient used to fade dark spots and even out skin tone.
• ArbutinA plant-derived brightener. Helps even out skin tone.
• CeramidesBuilding blocks of the skin's natural protective layer. Lock in moisture and reduce dryness.
• Hyaluronic acidA moisture magnet that holds water. Keeps skin hydrated and plump; suits almost every skin type.
• PanthenolVitamin B5. Moisturizes and soothes; comforting for irritated skin.
• Centella (cica)The cica plant. Soothes and supports the skin's protective layer; loved by sensitive skin.
• UV filtersFilters that absorb or reflect the sun's UV rays; protect against the sun.

Can you use them together?

• Retinoid + benzoyl peroxide Avoid together
• Retinoid + AHA/BHA Use with care
• Retinoid + gentle exfoliant Minor
• Vitamin C + benzoyl peroxide Use with care
• Vitamin C + AHA/BHA Minor
• Vitamin C + retinoid Minor
• Copper peptides + vitamin C Use with care
• Copper peptides + AHA/BHA Minor
• Benzoyl peroxide + AHA/BHA Use with care
• Benzoyl peroxide + hydroquinone Use with care
• Retinoid + sulfur Use with care
• AHA + BHA Minor
• Vitamin C + niacinamide Good to know

Inci AI provides general cosmetic information. It is not a medical device and doesn’t replace advice from a dermatologist, doctor or pharmacist.

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