Ingredient guide

Know what to add and skip — understand possible irritation risks

Get clear guidance on which ingredients work for your skin and which combinations to avoid. No more guessing or irritation.

Ingredient guidance includes:

  • Safe combinations tailored to your skin
  • Conflict warnings before you apply
  • When to use each ingredient (AM vs PM)
Privacy-first Science-backed Real-time warnings

Common ingredient conflicts

Not everything plays well together. Here's what to watch.

Retinol + AHAs/BHAs

Retinol and exfoliating acids can both irritate skin. Follow product directions and ask a clinician before combining treatments.

Vitamin C + Benzoyl Peroxide

Compatibility depends on the formulas. Follow each label and ask a pharmacist or clinician about using them together.

Multiple Actives

Layering too many strong actives = irritation. Start with one and build slowly.

Ingredients that work together

Some combinations enhance results. We help you find the right pairings for your skin.

Power combinations

Certain ingredients boost each other's effectiveness. Niacinamide + hyaluronic acid = hydration boost. Vitamin C + vitamin E + ferulic acid = enhanced protection.

  • Niacinamide pairs with almost everything
  • Hyaluronic acid amplifies hydration
  • Peptides work well with most actives
AM/PM routine with proper ingredient timing

Personalized to your skin

Not every ingredient works for every skin type. We analyze your scan and recommend ingredients that match your specific concerns.

  • Oily skin: niacinamide, salicylic acid
  • Dry skin: hyaluronic acid, ceramides
  • Sensitive skin: centella, aloe, peptides
AI skin analysis for personalized ingredient recommendations

How ingredient guidance works

Scan your products, get instant feedback.

Scan product labels

Point your camera at the ingredient list. We extract and analyze automatically.

Get conflict warnings

Before you layer products, we'll flag combinations that might cause issues.

Learn what to add

Based on your skin goals, we suggest ingredients that could help — not just products.

More ways skncoach helps

Explore all the features designed to simplify your skincare journey.

Common questions

Ingredient questions, answered simply.

Can I use retinol with vitamin C?
They work best at different times. Use vitamin C in the morning (boosts sun protection) and retinol at night (makes skin sun-sensitive). Using together can cause irritation for some.
What ingredients should not be mixed?
Compatibility depends on the complete formulas, directions and your skin. Retinoids, exfoliating acids and benzoyl peroxide can increase irritation when combined. Follow each label and check prescribed combinations with your clinician.
How do I know if an ingredient is right for my skin?
skncoach analyzes your skin type and matches ingredients. Niacinamide works for most, while retinol needs gradual introduction for sensitive skin. We personalize based on your scan.
Is niacinamide safe for everyone?
No ingredient suits everyone. Many people tolerate niacinamide, but a product can still irritate your skin. Test a new product first and follow its directions. Vitamin C and niacinamide are not universally incompatible; the formulas and your tolerance matter.
What order should I apply skincare products?
Follow each product’s directions and your clinician’s plan. A simple routine often starts with cleansing, then directed treatment and moisturizer, with sunscreen as the last skin care step in the morning. Product texture alone does not determine the right order.

Get your ingredient guide

Personalized recommendations for your skin type. Start free.