My opinion on The Inkey List

Our application recommends The Inkey List adapted to your skin thanks to our artificial intelligence

Say goodbye to unnecessary get visible results!

So, is The Inkey List really worth checking out? I'll tell you right now: there were some pleasant surprises... and some not-so-pleasant ones.

A quick look at The Inkey List

The Inkey List, a British brand launched in 2018, has successfully capitalized on the trend toward transparency in cosmetics. With its minimalist products and attractive prices, it has quickly established itself as an accessible alternative to brands such as The Ordinary. But where The Ordinary can sometimes be a little rough around the edges, The Inkey List plays the simplicity card: refined formulas, educational packaging, and a slightly more user-friendly approach.

Their concept? Focusing on star ingredients such as peptides, hyaluronic acid, and probiotics, while offering pleasant textures that are easy to incorporate into a routine.

Beta Hydroxy Serum 2 %: the ally of oily and acne-prone skin

A 30 ml bottle for €13.99 and only 13 ingredients: this minimalist formula focuses on effectiveness. Thanks to its 2% BHA and zinc PCA, this serum regulates excess sebum and slows down bacterial proliferation. The added bonus? 1% hyaluronic acid provides hydration and comfort, making the product well-tolerated even on reactive skin. The result: tightened pores, a matte complexion, and controlled imperfections.

Gentle Exfoliating Toner with PHA 3 %: gentleness for sensitive skin

With its 16 ingredients, this PHA 3 % toner (€11 for 100 ml) is an ideal solution for exfoliating reactive skin without damaging it. PHA, which is gentler than AHA or BHA, removes dead cells while refining the skin's texture. Combined with niacinamide and aloe vera, this treatment moisturizes, soothes, and regulates sebum for smoother skin and an even complexion.

My opinion on The Peptide Moisturizer

First contact

When I opened this little airless jar (very practical, by the way), I already knew I was going to love the impeccable hygiene it promises. But what about the contents? Inside, there are peptides, glycerin, shea butter, and other moisturizing and nourishing agents. In short, everything you need for a basic but effective moisturizer.

My experience

I tried this cream in the middle of summer, and although its texture is a little rich for hot weather, overall it remains light and pleasant. For combination to oily skin, it will be perfect in winter. Dry skin, on the other hand, might find it a little lacking.

💡 My final opinion: A good moisturizer that doesn't make any wild promises but gets the job done. It's ideal for use alongside a skincare routine featuring stronger active ingredients such as retinol or acids. Note: 7.5/10

Vitamin C Serums: Two Options to Suit Your Needs

EGF & Vitamin C Brightening Serum 15 % : With ascorbyl glucoside, this serum brightens and evens out dull complexions while remaining gentle on the skin. Ideal for sensitive skin.
Pure Vitamin C Serum 30 % : ultra-powerful, it targets stubborn pigmentation spots. Apply as a patch to the affected areas to avoid irritation.

Tranexamic acid serum: a solution for marques

This serum combines 2% tranexamic acid, 2% acai berry, and 2% vitamin C derivative to reduce red or brown spots while boosting radiance. Perfect for sensitive skin.

Retinoids: for impressive anti-aging results

Cream with granactive retinol (1% w/w) and encapsulated retinoids (0.5% w/w): An effective formula that smooths fine lines and wrinkles while moisturizing with squalane and peptides. Ideal for normal to dry skin, priced at $12.95 for a 30 ml tube.
Retinol eye contour cream : a specific treatment to prevent sagging and wrinkles around the eyelids, while deeply moisturizing.

My opinion on Multi-Biotic

What is a biotic?

If you haven't heard of the microbiome yet, now is the time to catch up. The idea is simple: feed the good bacteria on your skin to strengthen its barrier and improve its balance. This cream contains prebiotics, probiotics, and moisturizing ingredients such as glycerin and hyaluronic acid.

My experience

At first glance, I liked the light, non-greasy texture of this product, which is perfect for sensitive skin or skin prone to rosacea. But then there's the smell... it's a real disaster! The yogurt powder that's supposed to nourish the microbiome gives the cream a musty hay scent. I couldn't get past it, even if I tried.

💡 My final opinion: An interesting composition, but the scent ruins it. It's a shame, because it had potential for sensitive skin. Rating: 5/10

Final verdict

The Inkey List has succeeded in its mission to make skincare accessible, with simple, well-formulated products. But while some products, such as the Peptide Moisturizer, have won me over, others, such as the Multi-Biotic, leave me with a bitter taste (and an even more bitter smell!).

So, do I recommend it? Yes, but choose carefully the products that suit your needs and tolerances. And if smell is an important factor for you... be wary of Multi-Biotic!

Overall rating: 7/10. A nice alternative, but not yet a total favorite.