Ingredients

What's actually in your skincare

Each entry covers what an ingredient does, how often it is typically used, what it pairs with and where to be careful.

Salicylic acid

8/10

An oil-soluble exfoliant often used for clogged pores.

Best for: Clogged pores and oily skin

Benzoyl peroxide

7/10

A long-standing option for inflamed, red breakouts.

Best for: Inflamed, red breakouts

Adapalene

8/10

An over-the-counter retinoid studied specifically for acne.

Best for: Preventing clogged pores over time

Tretinoin

6/10

A prescription retinoid used for acne and skin texture.

Best for: Clinician-guided acne treatment

Retinol

8/10

A cosmetic retinoid, gentler and slower than prescription options.

Best for: A gentle retinoid starting point

Azelaic acid

9/10

A multi-tasker often chosen by people with sensitive, reactive skin.

Best for: Sensitive skin with breakouts and marks

Niacinamide

10/10

A well-tolerated supporting ingredient found in many moisturizers.

Best for: Supporting skin while using actives

Glycolic acid

6/10

A small-molecule surface exfoliant.

Best for: Texture and tone

Lactic acid

8/10

A gentler AHA that also has hydrating properties.

Best for: Gentle exfoliation on drier skin

Sulfur

7/10

An older, still-used option for surface breakouts.

Best for: Occasional spot treatment

Ceramides

10/10

Barrier-supporting lipids found in many moisturizers.

Best for: Keeping actives tolerable

Hyaluronic acid

10/10

A humectant that holds water in the upper skin layers.

Best for: Hydration support

Vitamin C

7/10

An antioxidant often used in the morning for tone.

Best for: Post-breakout marks and tone

Zinc

9/10

A supporting ingredient found in moisturizers and sunscreens.

Best for: Gentle daily support and sun protection

Peptides

8/10

Supporting ingredients aimed at skin comfort and repair signals.

Best for: Supportive care