Beauty Lab
The NIYO & CO Ingredient Library
Eighteen of the ingredients that come up most in skincare — explained the same way every time: what it is, who it’s for, what it may help with, how it can irritate, and how it fits into a routine. Informational only, not medical advice.
Vitamin A derivative (retinoid)
Retinol
A vitamin A derivative widely used to support skin renewal.
Vitamin A derivative (retinoid)
Retinal
A retinoid one conversion step closer to skin's active form than retinol.
Plant-derived retinol alternative
Bakuchiol
A plant-derived ingredient often marketed as a gentler retinol alternative.
Antioxidant
Vitamin C
An antioxidant ingredient popular in brightening formulations.
Vitamin B3 derivative
Niacinamide
A versatile, generally well-tolerated multitasking ingredient.
Humectant
Hyaluronic Acid
A humectant that attracts and holds water.
Provitamin B5 (soothing humectant)
Panthenol
A provitamin B5 ingredient used for hydration and a soothing feel.
Emollient (lipid)
Squalane
A lightweight, plant- or lab-derived emollient that mimics skin's natural oils.
Barrier lipid
Ceramides
Lipids that occur naturally in the skin's outer layer.
Signaling amino acid chains
Peptides
Short chains of amino acids used as signaling ingredients in skincare.
Water-soluble exfoliating acid
AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids)
Water-soluble acids that exfoliate the skin's surface.
Alpha hydroxy acid (AHA)
Glycolic Acid
The smallest-molecule AHA, generally considered the most potent of the common alpha hydroxy acids.
Alpha hydroxy acid (AHA)
Lactic Acid
A milder, moisture-associated AHA derived from milk sugars.
Oil-soluble exfoliating acid
BHA (Salicylic Acid)
An oil-soluble acid that can penetrate into pores.
Oil-soluble exfoliating acid (BHA)
Salicylic Acid
The primary beta hydroxy acid used in skincare, favored for oily and congested skin.
Dicarboxylic acid
Azelaic Acid
A multitasking acid used for tone, texture and occasional breakouts.
UV filter
SPF / Sunscreen Filters
The active ingredients in sunscreen that absorb or reflect UV radiation.
Botanical extract
Centella Asiatica
A soothing botanical extract associated with calming and barrier-support skincare.