The Inkey List vs. The Ordinary: A Complete Guide to Affordable Skincare
Compare The Inkey List and The Ordinary—two budget-friendly, ingredient-focused skincare brands—for the ultimate guide to effective, affordable routines.
The Inkey List vs. The Ordinary: Affordable Skincare Showdown
In the rapidly evolving world of skincare, two brands have become household names among ingredient-savvy consumers seeking results without hefty price tags: The Inkey List and The Ordinary. Both brands have built fierce cult followings with their affordable prices, minimalist packaging, and focus on transparency. But what actually sets them apart, and how can you decide which is best for your skin? This comprehensive guide breaks down their philosophies, product lineups, strengths, and how to build a routine with each—plus answers to your most common questions.
Contents
- About The Brands
- Philosophies and Approach
- Product Offerings and Bestsellers
- Packaging, User Experience, and Accessibility
- Ingredient Focus and Formulation Differences
- Which Brand Should You Choose?
- How to Build a Skincare Routine with Each
- Frequently Asked Questions
About The Inkey List & The Ordinary
The Inkey List and The Ordinary are both British-based skincare brands, widely praised for their affordability, directness, and ingredient-led formulas. Despite offering similar products—like niacinamide serums and moisturizers—their roots and approaches differ.
The Inkey List: A Brief Introduction
Founded: 2018, UK
Founders: Colette Laxton & Mark Curry
The Inkey List entered the skincare stage with a mission to make skincare simple and affordable for everyone. They focus on education, clear packaging, and demystifying active ingredients. The Inkey List’s taglines—“knowledge powered skincare” and “your beauty translators”—reflect their commitment to consumer education, supporting shoppers with plain language explanations and routine-building support.
The Ordinary: A Brief Introduction
Founded: 2013
Founder: Brandon Truaxe (under DECIEM umbrella, now backed by Estée Lauder)
Philosophy: Making advanced skincare ingredients accessible, with transparency and science-backed data at the core.
The Ordinary exploded onto the beauty scene by stripping out marketing buzzwords, launching “clinical formulations with integrity.” Their scientific approach, transparent ingredient percentages, and ultra-minimalist packaging have revolutionized the concept of ‘affordable skincare’ worldwide.
Philosophies & Core Approaches
| Aspect | The Inkey List | The Ordinary |
|---|---|---|
| Mission | Break down skincare barriers with educational support and easy-to-understand products | Provide results-driven, science-backed acts at the lowest price possible |
| Transparency | Ingredient explanations & usage tips on packaging and website | Precise ingredient percentages and clear, clinical names on packaging |
| Support | Routine-building tools, live chat, and chatbot guidance for consumers | Technical information and extensive online resources for experienced users |
Both brands are cruelty-free and have a focus on vegan formulas (with few exceptions), and neither is focused on fragrance or luxury branding. Their primary differences are in their communication, educational outreach, and sometimes formulation styles.
Bestselling Products and Product Ranges
Though The Inkey List and The Ordinary compete in many product categories, each has a range of hero products driving their immense popularity. Here’s an overview of their flagship offerings across common skincare needs:
Cleansers
- The Inkey List Oat Cleansing Balm: Beloved for gentle, nourishing cleansing and makeup removal—suitable for sensitive skin and dry types.
- The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser: A minimal-ingredient, gentle balm/cream formula that melts makeup and sunscreen efficiently.
What others are reading
Serums & Actives
| Concern | The Inkey List | The Ordinary |
|---|---|---|
| Hydration | Hyaluronic Acid Serum (multi-molecular) | Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 |
| Pore Control & Oil | Niacinamide Serum | Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% |
| Dullness/Brightening | Vitamin C Serum (various derivatives) | Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2% |
| Peptides (Firmness) | Peptide Moisturizer, Collagen Booster | Multi-Peptide + HA Serum |
| Acids (Exfoliation) | Lactic Acid, Mandelic Acid, Glycolic Acid | Lactic Acid 10% + HA, Glycolic Acid Solution |
| Retinol (Aging) | Retinol Serum, Retinol Eye Cream | Retinol 0.2%, 0.5%, 1% in Squalane |
Moisturizers
- The Inkey List Omega Water Cream: Lightweight, fast-absorbing; hydrates without clogging pores for most skin types.
- The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA: A basic, comfortable moisturizer featuring naturally occurring components found in healthy skin.
Specialty Treatments
- Eye Care: The Inkey List’s Caffeine Eye Cream vs. The Ordinary’s Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG (both target puffiness and dark circles).
- Hair Care: Both brands now offer hair growth and scalp serums, though The Ordinary’s Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density is especially well-known.
- SPF: The Inkey List has formulated broad spectrum daily SPF; The Ordinary’s sunscreens have niche cult followings.
Packaging, User Experience, and Accessibility
Both brands follow the “no-frills, clinical” approach to bottles and tubes, but subtle differences can affect your daily routine.
- The Inkey List: Modern, black-and-white packaging with clear usage instructions and ingredient explanations on pack. Feature QR codes for website guides. Emphasis on educational support.
- The Ordinary: Ultra-minimalist droppers and squeezy tubes; nearly clinical in appearance. Formulas are often identified by actives and percentages, encouraging ingredient research and learning.
Accessibility also extends to retail: both brands are widely available in the UK, US, Europe, and beyond, featuring in major retailers like Sephora, Boots, Ulta, and online.
Ingredient Focus & Formulation Differences
Hero Ingredients & Actives
- Niacinamide: Both brands use this powerhouse for oil control, pore minimization, and brightening, typically at high-concentration formulas (10%).
- Hyaluronic Acid: Hydrates skin; Inkey List focuses on multi-molecular weights, The Ordinary includes panthenol (B5) for additional moisture.
- Vitamin C: Each offers direct L-ascorbic acid and gentler derivatives for sensitive users, with different textures and stability approaches.
- Retinols: Both offer beginner to advanced strengths; The Inkey List introduces granactive retinoid and retinol eye care, The Ordinary provides wider squalane-stabilized options.
Formulation Philosophy
- The Ordinary: Prioritizes single-ingredient, high-concentration formulas; allows for custom mixing and tailoring. Less focus on texture or fragrance, more on evidence and concentration.
- The Inkey List: Focuses on making products “user-friendly” through texture, supporting ingredients (like emollients, humectants), and layered formulas. Emphasizes routine-building and ingredient compatibility.
The Inkey List vs. The Ordinary: Which Should You Choose?
Both brands can deliver outstanding results, and your ideal fit may depend on preferences for routine complexity, guidance, and personal skin needs. Here’s how they compare at a glance:
| Factor | The Inkey List | The Ordinary |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Beginners and those who want simple routines or extra support | Ingredient enthusiasts wanting customizable, scientific routines |
| Pricing | Very affordable (£5–£15/$7–$20 range) | Ultra-budget-friendly (most under $10–$15) |
| Texture & Feel | Easy to apply, non-greasy; focus on spreadability | Can feel clinical; some formulas are tacky or may pill |
| Support | Excellent customer service, chatbot, and routine advice | Detailed FAQs and ingredient guides, but DIY required |
| Innovation | New launches with multi-functional formulas (e.g., peptides, SPF/primer hybrids) | Stays close to proven actives and direct formulas |
Some users even blend products from both brands to create the ideal affordable skincare regimen!
How to Build an Affordable Skincare Routine
Creating the perfect routine depends on your skin type, needs, and willingness to research. Here’s a sample starter routine using comparable products from both brands:
| Step | The Inkey List | The Ordinary |
|---|---|---|
| Cleanser | Oat Cleansing Balm | Squalane Cleanser |
| Toner | PHA Toner | Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution |
| Hydrating Serum | Hyaluronic Acid | Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 |
| Treatment Serum | Niacinamide (oiliness/pores), Vitamin C, or Retinol | Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, Vitamin C Suspension, or Retinol in Squalane |
| Eye Care | Caffeine Eye Cream | Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG |
| Moisturizer | Omega Water Cream | Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA |
| SPF (AM only) | Daily SPF 30 | Mineral UV Filters SPF 30 |
Tips For Maximizing Results
- Introduce new actives gradually—especially acids and retinoids.
- Never layer incompatible ingredients (e.g., avoid using direct acids and direct vitamin C simultaneously).
- Both brands’ websites offer regimen builders—take advantage of their tools.
- Always patch test new formulas, especially if you have sensitive or reactive skin.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I mix The Inkey List and The Ordinary products in the same routine?
A: Yes. Many consumers blend products from both brands to achieve their goals. Just mind ingredient interactions—avoid doubling up actives (e.g., two vitamin C or two retinoids at once) and start slow with potent formulas.
Q: Which is better for beginners?
A: The Inkey List’s straightforward routines and customer support make it very beginner-friendly, while The Ordinary suits those willing to research ingredients and build custom regimens.
Q: Are both brands cruelty-free and vegan?
A: Both brands are cruelty-free, and the majority of their offerings are vegan. Always check packaging or websites for exceptions to vegan status.
Q: Which brand is more affordable?
A: Both are competitively priced, though The Ordinary tends to offer the lowest price per product. However, prices fluctuate with region, currency, and promotions.
Q: Can I use their acids and retinols at the same time?
A: Dermatologists generally recommend alternating strong actives (like acids and retinoids), not using them simultaneously to reduce irritation. Start slowly and monitor your skin’s response.
Final Thoughts
The Inkey List and The Ordinary both empower you to take control of your skincare routine—without breaking the bank. Whether you crave simplicity with The Inkey List or granular customization with The Ordinary, both brands deliver proven ingredients and excellent results. With this guide, you can confidently build a bespoke routine to help your skin look and feel its best.
References
- https://www.deciemchatroom.com/all-about-the-ordinary/
- https://theindustry.beauty/the_directory/the-ordinary/
- https://theordinary.com/en-us/about-us.html
- https://www.cosmetify.com/blog/everything-you-need-know-about-the-ordinary/
- https://thenewknew.com/the-ordinary-skincare-review/
- https://theordinary.com/en-us/deciem-about.html
- https://theordinary.com/en-us
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_3hQnHi5OEk
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