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If you have been around here for a while now, you´ll know that The Inkey List has featured heavily on this blog already. Shortly after they launched last summer I took advantage of the fact that they started with 15 products under 10 £ and purchased everything that seemed fitting for my skin type.
There were a few new releases since then, so now there are 20 The Inkey List products, all retailing for 15 £ or less.
After being exclusively sold in the UK for a while (I get my fix from Cult Beauty), The Inkey List launched in Sephora US, so I figured it would be the perfect time to sum up my The Inkey List Reviews for you in one easy accessible place.
This is the The Inkey Lists brand philosophy:
THE INKEY LISTs aim is to break through beauty jargon to deliver a straightforward take on skin care´s most-wanted ingredients, including them in individual formulas to allow you to customize your beauty regime.
Or, as someone online put it: The Inkey List offers easy understandable and effective skin care for the price of two Coffee to Go.
The Inkey List Cleansers:
The Inkey List Salicylic Acid Cleanser, 10,99 £ for 150 ml
Claims:
A must-have for those with acne-prone skin, this Salicylic Acid Cleanser is formulated with a zinc compound to help control excess sebum, while allantoin – an anti-irritant, helps soothe and protect skin. This hard-working multi-use product not only does the job of removing make up, it controls excess oil to reduce sebum, reduces the appearance of enlarged pores, blackheads and breakouts as well as promoting a more even skin tone. Simply use this morning and/or evening, then rinse thoroughly with water and follow with your favourite serums. We promise you’ll love the results!
Key Ingredients:
Gentle Surfactants, Glycerin, Allantoin, Salicylic Acid and Zinc
Full ingredient list
Aqua (Water), Glycerin, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine, PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Salicylic Acid, Betaine, Zinc PCA, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Chloride, Allantoin, Coco-Glucoside, Glyceryl Oleate, Benzyl Alcohol, Coconut Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Benzoate, Citric Acid, Dehydroacetic Acid, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Tocopherol, Hydrogenated Palm Glycerides Citrate
My take:
It is aimed at oily/ acne prone skin, combining both the exfoliation part with oil control (Zinc) as well as soothing (Allantoin) and rehydrating ingredients.
This one is not for me, I prefer my actives separate from my cleanser and I am not sure about the makeup removal claims, I don´t tend to use acids around my eyes.
Best for:
A nice gentle cleanser for teenage skin or people that want a little help with congestion
The Inkey List Acids:
The Inkey List Glycolic Acid Liquid Toner 6,99 £ for 100 ml
Claims:
Starring a natural AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid), THE INKEY LIST’s Glycolic Acid Toner is enriched with 10% glycolic acid derived from sugar cane. A gentle exfoliant, this works to ‘unglue’ the dead skin cells on your complexion’s surface (which can make your skin appear dull and pores appear larger) to minimise the appearance of pores, smooth away uneven texture, minimise acne scarring and leave a bright, radiant skin finish. The glycolic acid is accompanied by 5% witch hazel, which helps to minimise excess oil and so counteract blemishes. Simply apply this with a cotton pad (without rinsing) then follow with your chosen serums and moisturiser for a supercharged skin regime addition.
Key ingredients:
Glycolic Acid and Witch Hazel. No extra soothing ingredients, alcohol for stabilization.
Full ingredient list
Aqua (Water), Glycolic Acid, Propanediol, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Sodium Hydroxide, Butylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Alcohol, PPG-26-Buteth-26, Betaine, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Boerhavia Diffusa Root Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate
My take:
I haven´t tried it (I tend to stick to BHAs these days), but it looks like a pretty effective formula that I probably wouldn´t use every day, but limit to once or twice a week.
Best for:
Mature skin and skin prone to hyperpigmentation and texture.
The Inkey List Beta Hydroxy Acid 9,99 £ for 30 ml
Claims:
A potent salicylic acid, THE INKEY LIST’s Beta Hydroxy Acid is a gentle, resurfacing treatment that works to ‘unglue’ dulling dead cells and debris while purging your pores of embedded impurities. Perfect for those who’re susceptible to blackheads, pimples or breakouts, this works to control excess oil and ‘retexturise’ skin so it swiftly appears much more even. Add hyaluronic acid into the mix to deliver long-lasting (non-clogging) hydration, this featherweight blend is a godsend for oily, combination or dehydrated complexions.
Key ingredients:
Salicylic Acid, Hyaluronic Acid and Zinc PCA. I haven´t found a percentage of the Salicylic Acid, but my educated guess would be 2%, as this is the maximum amount allowed for OTC products.
Full ingredient list
Aqua (Water), Propanediol, Betaine, Salicylic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Zinc PCA, Phenoxyethanol, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Maltodextrin, Sodium Hydroxide, Ethylhexylglycerin, Biosaccharide Gum-1, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate
My take:
Already on my shopping list.
Best for:
Oily, acne prone and congested skin.
The Inkey List Alpha Hydroxy Acid Serum 8,99 £ for 30 ml
Claims:
For smoother, softer, more even skin, with pores minimised and blemishes battled, look no further than THE INKEY LIST’s all-star wonder: Alpha Hydroxy Acid Serum. This serum stars 10% AHAs derived from natural sources such as food and plants – including bilberry, lemon and orange extracts and sugar cane extract – and gently exfoliates skin to leave it supremely soft and smooth. How, you might well ask? AHAs work by gently ‘ungluing’ the dead skin cells that stay of your complexion’s surface, which can make it appear dull and make pores appear larger, giving the appearance of an uneven skin tone. Get rid of these unnecessary cells and you’re left with the brighter, clearer, more even sin underneath. Alpha Hydroxy Acid Serum also increases cell turnover, addressing blemishes and dark spots. To minimise irritation and keep skin hydrated, the formula also contains 1% hyaluronic acid – ingenious.
Key ingredients:
Sugar Cane Extract, Lemon and Orange Fruit Extracts, Hyaluronic Acid, Ascorbyl Glucoside (Vitamin C)
Full ingredient list
Aqua (Water), Propanediol, Vaccinium Myrtillus (Bilberry) Fruit Extract, Glycerin, Saccharum Officinarum (Sugar Cane) Extract, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Hyaluronate, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract, Xanthan Gum, Acer Saccharum (Sugar Maple) Extract, Sodium Benzoate, Allantoin, Sodium Levulinate, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Anisate, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate
My take:
Surely nice, brightening and hydrating, but if I want acids, I use an acid. My problem with fruit extracts is that you never know how much active you get, and usually the effect is much weaker than the one from a dedicated serum. If you have really sensitive skin though and don´t get along with stronger formulas, this one might work for you.
Best for:
Sensitive skin that doesn´t tolerate acids.
The Inkey List Lactic Acid Serum 7,99 £ for 30 ml
Claims:
Starring a natural AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid), THE INKEY LIST’s Lactic Acid Serum is enriched with 10% lactic acid that’s derived from milk and fruit sugars. Applying anything with the word ‘acid’ to your face can sound scary – but here’s why it’s good… Acting as a mild exfoliant, this serum helps to dissolve the bonds binding dead, dulling skin cells to your complexion’s surface, gently loosening and removing them to reveal the brighter, clearer, more even radiance beneath. Gentler than other AHAs, lactic acid has moisturising properties to keep skin smooth and soft – plus, it’s enhanced with 1% hyaluronic acid (this is a low molecular weight to allow it to penetrate skin and provide hydration below the surface). Try this to achieve brighter, more even skin with the appearance of wrinkles reduced.
Key ingredients:
Lactic Acid, Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin
Full ingredient list
Aqua (Water), Lactic Acid, Propanediol, Glycerin, Sodium Hydroxide, PPG-26-Buteth-26, Sodium Hyaluronate, Phenoxyethanol, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Ethylhexylglycerin, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Agastache Mexicana Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract
My take:
Lactic Acid is a bigger molecule, so it doesn´t penetrate into the skin as deeply as Glycolic Acid does, and causes less irritation. 10% is still a lot though, so don´t attempt to use it daily.
Best for:
Sensitive skin, mature skin.
The Inkey List Actives
The Inkey List Retinol Serum 9,99 £ for 30 ml
Claims:
A derivative of vitamin A, retinol helps to promote skin renewal and enhance collagen production to keep skin looking youthful, working at a cellular level to promote renewal and repair processes so that newer cells reach the surface quicker. As we age, the rate at which our skin renews itself slows down (sob) so retinol can be a great way of kick-starting cells back into action. Providing the highest quality ingredients formulated by a crack team of scientists and experts, THE INKEY LIST’s answer to retinol is sublime in its simplicity, uniting 1% stable retinol and 0.5% granactive retinoid (slightly stronger than retinol) with squalane for hydration and soothing. The slow-release formula minimises irritation while providing effective active delivery, working hard to minimise fine lines and wrinkles, even out skin tone tackle blemishes and improve skin clarity, leaving your complexion looking brighter, smoother and miles more youthful.
Not retinol, but encapsulated retinol as well as granactive retinoid, to minimize irritation.
Key ingredients:
Encapsulated retinol, granactive retinoid, Squalane and Phospholipids for barrier repair as well as peptides from the Matrixyl-Complex.
Full ingredient list
Water (Aqua / Eau), Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Propanediol, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Dimethicone, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Caprylyl Glycol, Phospholipids, Caprylic/Capric Glycerides, Squalane, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Extract, Carbomer, Sodium Ascorbate, Tocopherol, Polysorbate 60, Tocopheryl Acetate, Glycolipids, Sodium Hydroxide, Disodium Edta, Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate, Retinol, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Sterol, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Peg-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Hyaluronic Acid, Polysorbate 20, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Phenoxyethanol
My take:
I have used several OTC retinoids already and would classify this one as medium strength. It has a lovely texture, but despite the claims it is not the retinoid I would recommend for beginners. It is also important to note that the studies have been made with retinol, not encapsulated or granactive retinoid, so we can´t be sure that these have exactly the same effect (even though it is likely the case).
It is a product I would recommend though, especially for more mature skin types. Read my full review here.
Best for:
People that already used a gentle retinoid like the pixi retinol Tonic (Review here) and want to take things up a notch. Mature and acne prone skin.
The Inkey List Vitamin C Serum 7,99 £ for 30 ml
Claims:
A powerful antioxidant with a host of benefits, vitamin C is a skin care celebrity for a reason. Able to both prevent and correct signs of damage, Vitamin C Serum can help to reduce the impact of daily skin stressors, including pollution and sun exposure, which can lead to pigmentation, accelerated signs of ageing and dullness (no thanks!) As well as this, vitamin C works to actively brighten and even out skin tone, while also boosting collagen production to enhance skin’s plumpness and elasticity. Offering all of these benefits (without eye-watering cost or alienating jargon) THE INKEY LIST’s Vitamin C Serum stars 30% pure, L-Ascorbic Acid in a stable, waterless formulation for optimum results and low irritation. Add this into your regime and you can expect bright, even, protected, youthful-looking skin.
Key ingredients:
Ascorbic Acid, Dimethicone (no water, which is why it is stable)
Full ingredient list
Dimethicone, Ascorbic Acid, Polysilicone-11, Peg-10 Dimethicone
My take:
I am a big fan of Vitamin C in my skin care routine, but while this one by The Inkey List has a lovely texture, it was way too strong for me. Applying it pure made my skin flush and tingle.
Given that the skins maximum uptake capacity is at around 20% for Vitamin C, so more isn´t necessarily more, and the fact that L-Ascorbic Acid is the most effective, but also the most irritating form of Vitamin C, I wish they had put it in a lower concentration.
I had to mix it in with my Hylauronic Acid serum to make it less irritating.
That worked, but still is a reason for me to not repurchase, even though the brightening effect was definitely noticeable.
Best for:
Mature skin. Be careful if you have sensitive skin.
The Inkey List Collagen Serum 8,99 £ for 30 ml
Claims:
They say you only miss things once they’re gone and, sadly, our love for collagen (the natural skin protein that helps to support skin’s firmness, suppleness and elasticity) tends to appear only once we realise its production has begun to slow down – sob. A perfect antidote to this sorry state of affairs, THE INKEY LIST’s Collagen Serum stars clever peptides called Matrixyl 3000 and Syn Tacks, which mimic the effect of natural collagen, keeping your skin looking plumper and smoother for longer. The formula also helps to boost collagen production, so your skin will look increasingly firm and supple in the long run too. Minimising the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and targeting sagging, this skin-boosting potion is like an elixir of youth for your complexion.
Key ingredients:
Humectants and Matrixyl-peptides
Full ingredient list
Water (Aqua / Eau), Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Propanediol, Phenoxyethanol, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Disodium Edta, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Carbomer, Hyaluronic Acid, Palmitoyl Dipeptide-5 Diaminobutyroyl Hydroxythreonine, Palmitoyl Dipeptide-5 Diaminohydroxybutyrate, Polysorbate 20, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1
My take:
Peptides in skin care – you either love them or hate them (If you don´t know enough about them to be in either camp, here is a blog post explaining more about Peptides in Skin Care). I personally love to include them in my routine, but don´t love the price point many of them have.
If you have more mature skin and want to give them a go, this is a lovely, lightweight and most of all affordable way of including them into your routine.
Read my full review here, and if you want options from another brand, look here or here.
Best for:
All skin types, but aimed at mature skin (above the age of 35).
The Inkey List Q 10 Serum 4,99 £ for 30 ml
Claims:
A powerhouse antioxidant, Q10 (also called Coenzyme Q10 or CoQ10) is a naturally occurring enzyme found in the body, working in the upper layers of the skin to help prevent and repair damage. However, Q10 levels diminish over time; happily, The Inky List’s sublimely simple Q10 Serum supplements this loss. Q10 promises to protect your skin from damage caused by environmental stressors such as pollution, helping to prevent and repair damage and minimise the signs of ageing that can appear if environmental aggressors have their wicked way with your skin. Thanks to a dual peptide called Syn Tacks, which provides collagen-boosting benefits, squalane and hyaluronic acid, the formula also helps to hydrate your complexion and keep it looking vibrant and youthful.
Key ingredients:
Q10, Humectants, Silicones and Peptides
Full ingredient list
Water (Aqua / Eau), Butylene Glycol, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Dimethicone, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/So Phospholipids Dium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Caprylyl Glycol, Squalane, Lecithin, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Extract, Carbomer, Polysorbate 60, Tocopheryl Acetate, Ubiquinone, Disodium Edta, Sodium Hydroxide, Glycolipids, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Sterol, Palmitoyl Dipeptide-5 Diaminobutyroyl Hydroxythreonine, Palmitoyl Dipeptide-5 Diaminohydroxybutyrate, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Hyaluronic Acid, Phenoxyethanol
My take:
Q 10 is a very well researched antioxidant and amazing for people with sensitive skin that don´t tolerate Vitamin C. Although it is called a serum, for combination oily skin types this works well as a lotion for the summer months. It plays nicely with other products applied on top though, so it should work wherever in your routine you need it.
Best for:
All skintypes.
The Inkey List Caffeine Serum 8,99 £ for 15 ml
Claims:
Like a double espresso for your (all too fragile) under-eye area, THE INKEY LIST’s Caffeine Serum harnesses the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant powers of coffee to bring them to your skin. Soothing and protecting this delicate area of your face, Caffeine Serum helps to reduce puffiness, minimise dark circles and prevent the skin damage that can be caused by free radicals – these can make dark circles more pronounced. As caffeine is a diuretic, it can help to relieve water retention, which can be a major cause of pesky puffiness under your eyes. Also enhanced with renowned age-defying peptide, Matrixyl 3000, the formula helps to boost collagen production and so minimise fine lines and wrinkles around your eyes
Key ingredients:
Caffeine, Humectants, Squalane, Peptides from the Matrixyl Complex
Full ingredient list
Propanediol, Polyglyceryl-6 Distearate, Cetyl Alcohol, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Jojoba Esters, Glyceryl Dibehenate, Albizia Julibrissin Bark Extract, Squalane, Caffeine, Polyglyceryl-3 Beeswax, Phospholipids, Tribehenin, Ethylhexylglycerin, Xanthan Gum, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Extract, Polysorbate 60, Disodium Edta, Glyceryl Behenate, Butylene Glycol, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Sterol, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Hyaluronic Acid, Carbomer, Darutoside, Polysorbate 20, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Phenoxyethanol
My take:
I love it. It is the best eye cream in terms of depuffing my eyes, it manages to smooth out my fine lines and make everything feel firm while at the same time offering peptides for long term effects. It even helps a little with the appearance of dark circles, at least in the amounts that skin care actually has the chance to help.
And it works well under makeup, making it suitable for both am and pm use.
Best for:
All skin types, especially if you have mature skin or a tendency to get puffy eyes.
The Inkey List Hydrators
The Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid Serum 4,99 £ for 30 ml
Claims:
Naturally found in our skin to maintain hydration levels, hyaluronic acid is a skin care superstar for a reason. Essentially a ‘moisture magnet’, it attracts moisture from the atmosphere and can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water. Over time, our hyaluronic acid levels decrease (sob) resulting in dullness, fine lines and uneven tone and texture. The perfect foil for this unfortunate state of affairs, THE INKEY LIST’s gentle Hyaluronic Acid Serum stars the stuff at a pure, 2% concentration and in three molecular weights (high, medium and low) to ensure maximum absorption at every layer of your skin. Dehydrated skin affects most of us (even oily skin can be dehydrated) and, differing from dryness, results from a lack of water in the skin. Replenish this water with The Inkey List’s high-quality, impressively affordable formula and you can expect plumper, healthier skin, with fewer visible fine lines and wrinkles and a more even tone and texture. It can even aid the efficacy of products applied after it – genius..
Key ingredients:
Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin, Peptides from the Matrixyl Complex
Full ingredient list
Water (Aqua / Eau), Propanediol, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Vp Copolymer, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Hyaluronic Acid, Carbomer, Polysorbate 20, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Phenoxyethanol
My take:
I like Hyaluronic Acid products that offer different molecular weights, as that helps keeping the skin hydrated and plump on different levels. And while Hyaluronic Acid itself isn´t an expensive ingredient, it can feel sticky and uncomfortable on the skin if the formula isn´t right. And I admit that most of the budget versions I have tried weren´t the best in formula. This one by The Inkey List however has the best texture I have tried so far, so it has become a staple in my routine.
Read my full review here.
Best for:
All skin types.
The Inkey List Polyglutamic Acid 12,99 £ for 30 ml
Claims:
Once you’re done trying to pronounce it, THE INKEY LIST’s Polyglutamic Acid is the dryness-banishing formula that all dehydrated skin types should add to their #shelfie. Holding four times more moisture than hyaluronic acid (*gasp*), polyglutamic acid is a hydration powerhouse – and then some. Unlike hyaluronic acid, the magical ingredient has large molecules, allowing it to form a thin film on the skin’s surface to prevent water loss, while plumping the appearance of fine lines and brightening lacklustre or uneven complexions. With a 3% polyglutamic acid complex, THE INKEY LIST’s formula leaves skin smooth, supple and oh-so hydrated – you can even combine it with their Hyaluronic Acid for a mega dose of moisturising goodness.
Key Ingredients:
Polyglutamic Acid, Silicones (Dimethicone), other humectants
Full ingredient list
Aqua (Water), Dimethicone, Butylene Glycol, Bis-PEG-12 Dimethicone, Glycerin, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Polysilicone-11, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Isohexadecane, Propanediol, Coco-Glucoside, Sodium Benzoate, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Polysorbate 80, Ethylhexylglycerin, Potassium Sorbate, Decyl Glucoside, Dimethylacrylamide/Acrylic Acid/Polystyrene Ethyl Methacrylate Copolymer, Sorbitan Oleate, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Polyglutamic Acid, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Extract
My take:
Polyglutamic Acid id a humectant that has a bigger molecule structure than Hyaluronic Acid, so it stays closer to the skin surface and plumps the skin there. I am always a little wary about the 4 times more than whatever claims (I mean, how do you really measure that?), but I am excited to get my hands on this one to fight my dehydration.
Best for:
Dehydrated, mature skin, but suitable for all.
The Inkey List Moisturizers
The Inkey List Zinc Oxide Cream Moisturizer 8,99 £ for 30 ml
Claims:
Wearing sunscreen is almost unanimously regarded as the best way to maintain healthy, youthful-looking skin – but if you’re put off by memories of pore-clogging, white cast-causing formulas, it’s the perfect time to meet THE INKEY LIST’s Zinc Oxide Cream Moisturiser. A sunscreen-enriched moisturiser, the formula absorbs into the top layer of your skin and acts as a physical blocker, deflecting the harmful UVA and UVB rays that can cause signs of ageing. Providing SPF 50, this fast-absorbing, lightweight formula protects skin without blocking pores, pilling when you apply make up or leaving a white residue behind. Also acting as a powerful antioxidant, it protects skin from free radical damage and – thanks to the addition of 1% hyaluronic acid – it even keeps skin hydrated too. Don’t start your day without it!
Key ingredients:
Zinc Oxide , Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (Octinoxate /Uvinul, UVB protection) as well as humectants and shea butter.
Full ingredient list
Aqua (Water), Zinc Oxide, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Butylene Glycol, Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Glycerin, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Dimethicone, Cetearyl Alcohol, Polymethylsilsesquioxane/Silica Crosspolymer, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Isohexadecane, Isododecane, Phenoxyethanol, Polysilicone-11, Cetyl Alcohol, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Polysorbate 80, Tocopheryl Acetate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Hyaluronate
My take:
Despite the claims, this is not (yet) a sunscreen, but a moisturizer with added chemical and mineral sunscreen. It claims SPF 50 in the description, but not on the tube/packaging, which means it has not (yet?) undergone the proper testing for the sunscreen claims. That doesn´t mean it can´t provide that protection, but for the moment I would not recommend using this as or instead of a dedicated spf.
Personally I am not overly interested in this one.
Best for:
People that despite better knowledge don´t use a dedicated spf.
The Inkey List Multi-Biotic 12,99 £ for 30 ml
Claims:
Pre, pro and post-biotics aren’t just for your morning yoghurt – they can work wonders when applied topically to your skin too! Enter: THE INKEY LIST’s Multi-Biotic, a moisturiser infused with 5% Yoghurtene to help balance your complexion’s pH balance. A skewed pH can show itself in a number of ways, including irritation and excessive oiliness – it can even significantly speed up the ageing process. What’s more, it can heighten your skin’s vulnerability to a whole host of unwanted external factors – most notably the damage inflicted by the sun. Balancing your pH can prevent all of these unwanted factors from taking place – thank you, THE INKEY LIST! Aside from its multi-biotic benefits, this lightweight moisturiser also brightens uneven complexions with 2% Brightenyl, and hydrates with squalane. Suitable for all skin types, this clever formula is the perfect way to introduce some good bacteria into your skin care regime.
Key Ingredients:
Yoghurt Powder, apparently Brightenyl, humectants and emollients.
Full ingredient list
Aqua (Water), Inulin, Glycerin, Isoamyl Laurate, Propanediol, Squalane, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Yogurt Powder, Sodium Caproyl Prolinate, Carbomer, Isoamyl Cocoate, Benzyl Alcohol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Diglucosyl Gallic Acid, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Dehydroacetic Acid Polysorbate 60, Dehydroacetic Acid, Citric Acid, Heptapeptide-7, Lecithin, Potassium Sorbate, Propanediol, Sodium Benzoate, Xanthan Gum, Sorbitan Isostearate.
My take:
“The multi-biotic moisturizer is crammed full of good bacteria (aka probiotics)…”Well, no. It has preservatives to ensure that it is not full of any bacteria, at least not with live ones. Products with live bacteria in them aren´t allowed to be sold. But that shouldn´t take away from the fact that the skins microbiome is an interesting topic that we will for sure hear more about in the future, and that pre-, pro- and postbiotics are going to be huge in skin care over the next few years.
As far as Brightenyl goes: Brightenyl is “tri-hydroxy benzoic acid alpha glucoside”, (which I can´t seem to find on the ingredient list, but that might be my fault) which is activated by the skins microbiom into “trihydroxy benzoic acid”, a known but unstable tyrosinkinase inhibitor (reduces melanin production and acts as antioxidant). It requires a certain kind of bacteria to be processed, so you better hope that you have them on your face to reap the benefits.
Although I sound pretty skeptical, I am actually eager to buy and try this one!
Best for:
Acne prone skin or skin with hyperpigmentation. Suitable for all skin types.
The Inkey List Tumeric Cream Moisturizer 7,99 £for 30 ml
Claims:
Derived from stems of the curcuma longa plant, turmeric has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties when applied to skin – and you thought it was only good for extravagant lattes! Bringing this (rightly) buzzed-about ingredient straight to your bathroom by starring turmeric root extract, THE INKEY LIST’s Turmeric Cream Moisturiser provides antioxidant protection and hydration, healing dry skin and boosting radiance while evening out skin tone. If your complexion’s struggling with dryness or irritation, this is perfect for you – turmeric’s anti-inflammatory powers will calm and soothe skin, boosted by the hydrating, protective properties of squalane and powerhouse antioxidant, vitamin E. Suitable for all skin types, this is a real all-rounder and a great addition to any skin ritual – slot it in after your serum for best results.
Key ingredients:
Tumeric Root Extract, Coconut Oil, Oats, Glycerin, Squalane and Vtamin E
Full ingredient list
Aqua (Water), Squalane, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, C12-16 Alcohols, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Flour, Curcuma Longa Root (Turmeric) Root Extract, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Oil, Palmitic Acid, Tocopheryl Acetate, Phenoxyethanol, Lecithin, Glycerin, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Levulinate, Sodium Anisate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Tocopherol
My take:
I love the combination of different soothing ingredients, but am a little nervous about the added Coconut Oil. Coconut Oil triggers congestion and breakouts in many people, including myself, when used above a certain concentration. The Inkey List claims to use only a little amount, but I personally will proceed with caution.
Best for:
Irritated and inflamed skin, I would be careful if I suffered from acne.
The Inkey List Hemp Oil Cream Moisturizer 7,99 £ for 30 ml
Claims:
Derived from the hemp plant, hemp oil contains a high content of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which moisturise and nourish skin to leave it looking (and feeling!) as energised and healthy as possible. Soothingly rich yet lightweight, this Hemp Oil Cream Moisturiser calms irritation and stress, replenishing moisture and plumping skin to keep it at its vibrant, youthful best. It’s perfect for those with dry skin or flakiness, or for any complexion that needs a boost of nourishment – particularly if it has become irritated by lifestyle factors such as sun exposure or air conditioning. Speaking of which, the addition of green tea extract, an antioxidant, helps to protect skin from environmental aggressors to minimise the damage they can cause.
Key Ingredients:
Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil, Coconut Oil, Green Tea Leaf Extract, Glycerin.
Full ingredient list
Aqua (Water), Glycerin, Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil, Isoamyl Laurate, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Betaine, Pentaerythrityl Distearate, Propanediol, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Levulinate, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Anisate, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Sodium Hydroxide, t-Butyl Alcohol
My take:
Hemp Oil or Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil is one of the buzz ingredients of 2019 (I have a dedicated video on it coming up next week), and this looks like a really nice formula. With one exception: It has, again, Coconut Oil pretty high up on the ingredient list. I am tempted, but not sure if I will purchase it.
Best for:
Dry skin, irritated skin, damaged skin barrier.
The Inkey List Hepta-Peptide 14,99 £ for 30 ml
Claims:
Perfect for mature skin, this hard-working potion grants both immediate and long-term improvements to visible signs of ageing. The former is courtesy of a genius blurring effect, which smooths over lines and lends a soft-focus finish. As for the long-term benefits, the formula stars a patented peptide sequence to promote cell renewal, sending signals to your cells to produce more collagen which in turn, improves elasticity and reduces crepey-ness (clever, huh?!). The result is a gradual – but tangible! – reduction in the visibility of wrinkles, a subtle ‘lifted’ look and a ‘spring’ in cells’ steps.
Key ingredients:
Silicones, Glycerin, Squalane, Heptapeptide-7
Full ingredient list
Aqua (Water), Polysilicone-11, Hydrogenated Polydecene, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Caproyl Prolinate, Laureth-12, Benzyl Alcohol, Carbomer, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Squalane, Ethylhexylglycerin, Carnosine, Sodium Hydroxide, Glycerin, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Polysorbate 60, Dehydroacetic Acid, Citric Acid, Heptapeptide-7, Lecithin, Potassium Sorbate, Propanediol, Sodium Benzoate, Xanthan Gum, Sorbitan Isostearate.
My take:
This is a silicone heavy formula, which works great at blurring out pores and fine lines. It contains some humectants for light hydration and Heptapeptide-7. Peptides in general aren´t the best researched ingredients (read more here), but even if they qouldn´t work I bet this would be amazing under makeup.
And for that price I will surely give it a try eventually.
Best for:
Mature skin, oily skin.
The Inkey List Face Oils
The Inkey List Rosehip Oil 6,99 £ for 30 ml
Claims:
Renowned as a powerful antioxidant with impressive nourishing, protective powers, rosehip oil is a skin saviour for many – and THE INKEY LIST’s sublimely simple version makes it accessible to all. Packed with essential fatty acids and skin-boosting vitamins, this 100% pure Rosehip Oil helps to hydrate skin, improving its tone and texture and minimising pigmentation. Great for dry skin types, it hydrates, soothes and softens, while also helping to regulate oil production – thanks to linoleic acid – making it brilliant for oily and acne-prone skin too. Use it as the final step in your routine morning or evening (or both) for a beautifully nourishing, moisturising addition.
Full ingredient list
Rosehip Oil
My take:
Rosehip Oil is not the most lightweight oil, but offers antioxidant benefits as well as essential fatty acids to restore the skin barrier. It works on all skin types and did not smell as strong as other Rosehip Oil I tried in the past did.
I am not sold on the “natural source of Vitamin A, so it will act like retinol” claim though. Yes, it contains Vitamin A, but carrots do as well and you won´t get Roaccutane effects by eating them either. The concentration is much lower, so you won´t get comparable results. It still is a gorgeous oil though that I am happy to have in my routine.
Best for:
All skin types, even sensitive ones.
The Inkey List Squalane Oil 8,99 £ for 30 ml
Claims:
100% plant derived, THE INKEY LIST’s Squalane Oil is a natural wonder for all skin types. Lightweight and non-greasy, the oil helps to hydrate by bolstering your skin’s barrier, so preventing it from losing moisture. Great for dry skin, it helps to plump up your complexion’s appearance and so minimise fine lines; thanks to its ability to regulate oil production, Squalane is also great for oilier skin types – an all rounder if ever we saw one. Slot it into your routine morning or evening (or both) as a final step after serums and moisturiser to seal in all the goodness of your other products while hydrating.
Full ingredient list
Squalane
My take:
I love Squalane Oil in general, so I will purchase this one at some point, but so far haven´t gotten around to it. Squalane replenishes the oil we have in our skin naturally which decreases as we age.
Best for:
All skin types, even very oily ones.
The Inkey List Face Masks
The Inkey List Kaolin Mask 4,99 £ for 50 ml
Claims:
Perfect for treating your skin to weekly clarifying ‘deep clean’, THE INKEY LIST’s Kaolin Mask is a beautifully gentle white clay mask that effectively absorbs excess oils and removes toxins from the surface of the skin. A renowned, non-drying way to clarify skin, kaolin clay draws out and removes impurities and toxins from the surface of your skin, while also absorbing excess oils and unclogging pores. Gentle yet powerful, this mask will be your new secret blemish battler, leaving skin quickly looking clearer and more even.
Key ingredients:
Kaolin Clay, Aloe Juice, plant oils, Centella Asiatica extract
Full ingredient list
Aqua, Kaolin, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Glycerin, Glyceryl Stearate, Carthamus Tinctorius Seed Oil, Stearic Acid, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil, Cetearyl Alcohol, Magnesium Aluminium Silicate, Sodium Stearate, Sodium Magnesium Silicate, 2-Phenoxyethanol, Dimenthyl Sulfone, Centella Asiatica Extract,Glyceryl Caprylate, Decyl Glucoside, Cellulose Gum, Cocos Nucifera Oil, Cetyl Alcohol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Carbomer, Tocopherol, Macrocystis Pyrifera (Kelp) Extract, Sea Water Extract, Chondrus Crispus Extract, Vitis Vinifera seed oil, Lonicera Caprifolium Flower Extract,Sodium Hydroxide, Lonicera Japonica Leaf Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate, Panthenol, Oryza Sativa Bran Oil, Geranium Maculatum Extract, Taraxacum Officinale Extract, Equisetum Arvense Extract, Spirulina Maxima Extract, Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil
My take:
Kaolin is a clay aimed at sensitive and dry skins, and the added plant oils and Aloe Juice as well as Centella Asiatica should help to calm and rehydrate the skin should you use it. It looks like a very nice product, but I admit I am not picky with my clay masks anyway.
Best for:
All skin types, suitable for dry and sensitive skin.
Puh, that was a long one. Anything that caught your eye?
