1. Our evidence standard
Every recommendation Radia makes is grounded in the dermatology evidence base: peer-reviewed research, systematic reviews, and guidance from established dermatology bodies. When the science is strong, we act on it. When it's thin or contested, we say so and stay conservative. We would rather under-promise than push a trend that could harm your skin.
2. Ingredients we recommend — and why
We focus on actives with strong, repeatable evidence behind them:
- Sunscreen (broad-spectrum SPF). The single most evidence-backed step in skincare. It prevents photoaging, hyperpigmentation, and skin cancer. It's the foundation of every Radia routine.
- Retinoids (retinol, retinaldehyde). Gold-standard for texture, fine lines, and acne, with decades of clinical support.
- Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid). Antioxidant protection and brightening of uneven tone.
- Niacinamide. Supports the skin barrier, calms redness, and helps regulate oil — well tolerated by most skin types.
- AHAs / BHAs (glycolic, lactic, salicylic). Evidence-based exfoliation for texture and clogged pores.
- Ceramides & hyaluronic acid. Barrier repair and hydration.
- Azelaic acid & benzoyl peroxide. Well-studied options for acne and redness.
We avoid recommending unproven "miracle" ingredients, and we explain the why behind each suggestion so you can make an informed choice.
3. How the AI analysis works
Radia reads visible signals in your photo — hydration, texture, clarity, pores, and tone — and translates them into a Glow Score and a routine. Think of it as a sophisticated, consistent visual estimate that helps you track change over time.
Important: this is a cosmetic estimation, not a medical diagnosis. Radia cannot detect, diagnose, or rule out any medical condition, including skin cancer. It is a guide for your cosmetic routine, not a clinical tool.
4. Safety first, always
The fastest way to make skin worse is to do too much, too fast. Radia is built to prevent that:
- Start low and slow. We introduce one new active at a time and build up gradually.
- Patch test. We prompt you to test new products before applying them to your whole face.
- No risky stacking. We avoid combining strong irritants — for example, layering a retinoid with high-strength acids and benzoyl peroxide on the same night.
- SPF is non-negotiable — especially when you're using retinoids or exfoliating acids, which increase sun sensitivity.
- Pregnancy & conditions. We flag ingredients to avoid during pregnancy (such as retinoids) and encourage caution with sensitized skin.
5. When to see a dermatologist
Radia complements professional care; it never replaces it. Please see a board-certified dermatologist if you notice any of the following:
- A mole or spot that is new, changing, bleeding, or asymmetric.
- Severe, painful, or cystic acne, or acne that scars.
- A rash, lesion, or condition that is spreading, persistent, or not improving.
- Anything that worries you, or any concern that may need prescription treatment.
6. Where our guidance comes from
We build on trusted, public sources, including:
- Peer-reviewed dermatology literature (e.g. the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology) via PubMed.
- The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) and equivalent national bodies.
- Cochrane systematic reviews for high-level evidence.
- Ingredient evidence references such as INCIDecoder.
The bottom line: Radia provides cosmetic skincare guidance only. It is not a medical device and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified professional for any health concern.
Want to know the evidence behind a specific recommendation? Email support@radia.app or visit our contact page.