I've long been intrigued by The INKEY List and their ingredient based and affordable approach to skincare. So since the first of January 2021, I've exclusively been using a The INKEY List skincare routine. And I'm honestly kicking myself for not trying them sooner.
For reference, as I always make sure to mention in skincare reviews, I have dry/dehydrated skin. I also struggle with uneven skin texture on my forehead and around my nose. If you also have dry or dehydrated skin and are looking for some new skincare options to try, keep reading.
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So here are my top picks for those of us with dry or dehydrated skin and my The INKEY List skincare routine;
Oat Cleansing Balm (£9.99)
If you have sensitive or dry/dehydrated skin, I cannot urge you enough to give this cleanser a try enough. It did take me a few uses to get used to the texture, which on first use I thought would be too greasy for my skin. But that texture is why it feels so calming and hydrating on sensitive skin. That buttery texture also melts away makeup and any SPF in an instant.
You can even leave it on the skin for around 15 minutes, almost like a mask, to give your skin even more hydration. A little also goes a really long way with this cleanser.
Hyaluronic Acid (£5.99)
I've tried quite a few hyaluronic acids over the years but this is by far my favourite. Others have left my skin feeling tacky and sticky when I apply them but thankfully you don't get that with this one.
When my dehydrated skin really needs an extra hit of hydration, I make sure to apply this in addition to my moisturiser. I've noticed a big difference in how soft my skin feels on days when I do use it compared to days when I don't. And at that price, I may or may not have stocked up on several bottles of the stuff to make sure that I never have to go without.
Niacinamide (£6.99)
You've probably been using products with niacinamide built into it, or at least I have before. But I've never applied it on its own before. However, that extra step in my skincare routine has done wonders for those tricky to treat under the skin spots and blemishes that haven't yet broken the skin.
Because I can target exactly where I'd like to apply this, without it being diluted with other ingredients or it needing to be applied all over my face, I can easily see why this is as hyped up as it is.
Polyglumatic Acid (£12.99)
For hyaluronic acid fans, polyglumatic acid can actually hold four times as much moisture. This is all about locking the moisture in and I actually use it as my last skincare step before I go to bed. And when I wake up my skin feels silky soft.
It does take a few minutes for it to fully sink into the skin. But it is well worth giving it the time. It also hasn't irritated or broke out my skin, which some rich creams and serums have in the past.
Alpha Arbutin (£9.99)
For brightening dull, dry skin or fading dark spots we have Alpha Arbutin. I actually hadn't seen a big buzz about this product, unlike some of the others in the range. But since trying it I've noticed that it always seems to be sold out online.
Now this isn't an overnight wonder where you see the results right away. It probably took at least six weeks for me to see or feel a real difference. But I'm glad that I persevered. The only products that have really worked on my uneven texture previously have been £50/£60+. So I can't believe that at £9.99 my skin is feeling a whole lot less textured. And if you've not had much success with vitamin C serums or products, this could be a great alternative.
Peptide Moisturiser (£14.99)
If you use any of Drunk Elephant's moisturisers, you will be familiar with the dispenser that this uses. But at just £14.99 compared to £50+, this is an absolute steal for a moisturiser that is packed full of peptides.
If you're on a budget, this could be a great place to start when it comes to a moisturiser. It's hydrating without being greasy. And I love that you can mix many of the products together to create your own tailored skincare recipe on the hygienic push top. Some moisturisers can be a little too rich for dry/dehydrated skin, whereas this is a nice buildable consistency.
Succinic Acid Blemish Treatment (£6.99)
One of The INKEY List's latest releases this has quickly become my go-to spot treatment. Its green tint makes blemishes look less angry and red. And I like the fact that you can apply this several times a day, on particularly risen blemishes, without it drying out the skin, like other blemish treatments can.
Again, for the price, you really can't beat it.
Retinol Serum (£9.99)
You'll have seen me mention that I wanted to get into using a retinol in my skincare routine this year. And I'm so glad that I started with this one. I've heard that some retinols, much like hyaluronic acids, can be a bit sticky or tacky on the skin. But I haven't experienced that once with this serum.
I apply it every second night and my sensitive skin hasn't once reacted negatively either. The fine lines that I was starting to see on my forehead, as well as some laughter lines, look visibly less noticeable. So if you're looking to ease yourself in to using retinols with a gentle one, definitely give this serum a try.
The INKEY List is available from their website, Boots, Look Fantastic, Feel Unique, ASOS and many more retailers.
I still have a few products on my to try list, such as their SPF, Ceramide Night Treatment and their new Fulvic Acid Brightening Cleanser.
Have you tried anything from The INKEY List? If so, what did you try/think? And would you try a fully The INKEY List skincare routine?
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