Which Affordable Skincare Brand Is Better: The Inkey List or The Ordinary? We Tested Both
According to dermatologists, one might be better than the other based on your needs.
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If you’ve scrolled through #Skintok even once, then I'm sure you’ve seen The Inkey List and The Ordinary pop up on your FYP. These two brands are basically the blueprint for skincare that's affordable and effective. I'm not exaggerating: Most of The Inkey List and The Ordinary's bestsellers cost less than a Sweetgreen salad—and they work just as well as products that cost four or five times the price. But with such similar lineups, how do you know which brand is right for you?
We know, we know: Pitting two queens against each other feels wrong. That’s why we want to preface this by saying that both brands are amazing, and it really just depends on what you’re looking for and what your skin needs at the moment. Which is why I asked two dermatologists for their takes, including which skin types they recommend for each brand and what sets them apart. Plus, I even reviewed my favorite products from each line after testing a dozen of their formulas.
What makes The Ordinary a good skincare brand?
The Ordinary is popular because it offers skincare products at accessible prices with clear labeling and transparent ingredient lists, says dermatologist Brendan Camp, MD. You've probably noticed that most of The Ordinary's line features one hero ingredient per product (they were the first to do this and went mega-viral for it, btw), which is why Dr. Camp says the brand is a great option for anyone with a particular interest in using products with specific actives.
That said, many of The Ordinary's products require some knowledge of active ingredients in skincare, says dermatologist Pooja Rambhi, MD. But with a little research (perhaps you should read Cosmopolitan...maybe...), you, too, can become an expert on what ingredients like niacinamide and azelaic acid do, and then comfortably incorporate them into your skincare routine.
Overall though, The Ordinary is a great option for most skin types and the majority of skin concerns, says Dr. Rambhi. There's a full lineup of targeted treatments for correcting things like hyperpigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles, and acne. But there's also a ton of key basics, like cleansers for multiple skin types, moisturizers, vitamin C serums, sunscreen, and more.
What makes The Inkey List a good skincare brand?
The Inkey List provides straightforward, targeted solutions with added guidance on their packaging and marketing, making it perfect for skincare beginners or anyone seeking a simplified routine. While they also often utilize the single hero-ingredient model for a lot of their products, the brand is heavily focused on education. Although you might see "Retinol Serum" on the packaging, you'll quickly see exactly what the product is supposed to do for your skin underneath. The other side of the packaging also details how to use it and in what step of your routine.
Plus, “their formulations often include supporting ingredients for better tolerability," says Dr. Rambhi, making them ideal for sensitive skin and/or those who are new to active ingredients. Dr. Camp adds that The Inkey List is ideal for individuals with anti-aging needs as well as those addressing specific concerns like redness, acne, or discoloration. But, of course, you can also find a slew of hydrating creams, soothing serums, and more throughout the line.
What are the main differences between The Ordinary and The Inkey list?
“The Ordinary's approach tends to appeal to those who already understand skincare ingredients and want to build custom routines, where The Inkey List creates more beginner-friendly formulations with built-in supporting ingredients," says Dr. Rambhi. Basically, if you’re already well-versed in skincare ingredients and prefer straight-forward formulations that you can cocktail on your own, The Ordinary is likely a great, affordable brand to incorporate into your regimen.
But if you need a little more guidance (or a cheat sheet for your skincare routine), The Inkey List has your name written all over it. “The Inkey List puts more emphasis on consumer education through detailed packaging and usage instructions, making their products more approachable for skincare beginners,” Dr. Rambhi says. They also are usually a bit easier to use for sensitive skin types, since the formulas incorporate complementary ingredients to enhance tolerability, like squalane and glycerin to hydrate and/or vitamin E and allantoin to quell inflammation.
My reviews:
The Inkey List 1% Slow Release Retinol Serum
Pros
- Tube lasts forever for me (since I only use such a small amount)
- Doesn't overly dry out my skin
- Absorbs into my skin quickly
Cons
- Your skin might need a little time to get used to it
As I approach my thirties, I’ve decided it’s time to get serious about retinol. It's the gold-standard of anti-aging skincare, as it firms, tightens, lifts, and smoothes skin by speeding up cell turnover. However, many of the products I’ve tried are either too strong or don’t seem to make a visible difference—unlike this one, which hits the Goldilocks sweet spot.
Retinol can be intimidating, though! We’ve all heard horror stories about people choosing a concentration that’s too strong for their skin, skipping the slow introduction, or accidentally wrecking their skin barrier (I've been there). However, this serum is a much gentler option, thanks to its formulation with a slow-release, less irritating form of retinol called retinyl acetate. “It's an excellent entry-level retinol for those with anti-aging concerns who are new to skincare,” says Dr. Camp.
I have somewhat sensitive skin, so I usually steer clear of anything too harsh or drying. But this formula is surprisingly moisturizing (shout out, squalane), so I can use it and wake up to brighter skin that isn’t peeling or overly sensitive.
- Key ingredients: Retinyl acetate, granactive retinoid, squalane
- Size: 1 fl oz
- Usage: Start by using it one to two times per week at nigh, gradually increasing the frequency as your skin builds tolerance, and always follow with moisturizer
Glowing customer review: “A gentle yet effective retinol! It smooths skin texture, reduces fine lines, and minimizes pores without causing irritation. The lightweight formula absorbs quickly and layers well with other products. An affordable retinol option that delivers results—highly recommend!”
The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%
Pros
- Creamy texture immediately absorbs into my skin
- Great for calming down rosacea
- Can be combined with a lot of other ingredients without causing irritation
Cons
- Silicones can be drying and irritating for some with sensitive skin
If drab winter skin has you feeling blah, might we suggest adding azelaic acid to your routine? “It addresses concerns like texture, dullness, redness, and uneven skin tone,” explains Dr. Camp, who praises the lightweight formula that's loaded with silicones for a smooth, glide-y finish on your skin. Traditionally, azelaic acid is available by prescription in concentrations of 15 and 20 percent, but it’s also accessible over-the-counter in this 10 percent suspension.
Beauty editor Beth Gillette specifically loves how this helps bring down inflammation after a big hormonal acne flare-up. "This made a huge difference in how red and angry my skin looked, just after a few uses," she says. It’s gentle and fits easily into most skincare routines (like paired with your Inkey List retinol and more).
- Key ingredients: Azelaic acid, dimethicone
- Size: 1 oz, 3.4 oz
- Usage: Smooth a dime-sized dot on your face in the morning and evening before moisturizer and/or SPF
Glowing customer review: “I suffer from acne on and off on my cheeks and have been left with stubborn hyperpigmentation. This has really helped to lighten up these areas, I can tell a difference after using it for a while. It feels like a thick cream and sinks in pretty well after about 5 minutes. Can apply before or after moisturiser. Also leaves my skin feeling really soft afterward!”
The Inkey List Salicylic Acid Acne + Pore Cleanser
Pros
- Fragrance free, which I <3 for my sensitive skin
- Gentle enough for day and night use without stripping
Cons
- May be drying for those with dry skin if used too often (stick to once daily)
I used to rely on a salicylic acid serum to help gently exfoliate and reduce blackheads, but to simplify my routine, I’ve started doubling up with this exfoliating gel cleanser too. I reach for it after working out (because seriously, why is every class heated nowadays?) to wash away the dirt, bacteria, and sweat that accumulate on my skin.
In addition to salicylic acid, which helps clear clogged pores, this formula features a zinc compound to tackle oiliness as well as allantoin to soothe my skin—both key for anyone dealing with acne. Hence why it also has Dr. Rambhi's stamp of approval.
- Key ingredient: Salicylic acid, zinc, allantoin
- Size: 5 oz
- Usage: Can be used morning or night
Glowing customer review: “I am on my second bottle and it has helped with my acne, flakiness, dry skin, and stopping cystic acne. My skin feels smooth and hydrated after and it really good for detox and removing makeup, oils, and product buildup from my pores.”
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution
Pros
- Surprisingly gentle, thanks to added soothers
- Love using it on my body to help exfoliate and spot-treat
Cons
- Packaging can be prone to spills
I used to be a toner skeptic (mostly because, let’s be honest, I’m lazy), but when my skin texture started to feel bumpy as hell, I needed something to ~delicately~ exfoliate. Enter this gem, priced at under $10. Its primary ingredient is 7 percent glycolic acid, but it also includes a derivative of Tasmanian pepperberry to soothe my skin and minimize potential irritation.
Dr. Rambhi notes that its main function is to “help even skin tone and smooth texture, and it’s great for both the face and body.” With regular use, I noticed more radiant skin and less visibility of fine lines, wrinkles, and other signs of aging. I even use it on my underarms to help minimize darkness and ingrown hairs. That said, I strongly recommend patch-testing first to ensure it suits your skin type, since it can be quite strong.
- Key ingredient: Glycolic acid, aloe vera, Tasmanian pepperberry extract, gingseng root
- Size: 3.38 oz, 8 oz
- Usage: Apply once daily
Glowing customer review: “I’ve been using The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7 percent Toning Solution almost daily, and I can’t recommend it enough. This toner has significantly improved my skin’s texture and appearance. My pores have visibly shrunk, and I’ve noticed a marked reduction in hormonal acne. The best part? My skin is actually glowing! Despite its potency, the toner is surprisingly gentle and has not dried out my sensitive skin. It’s a perfect addition to my routine, providing effective exfoliation without irritation.”
Pros
- Thick texture feels so smooth on my skin
- Hydrates with ceramides and shea butter
Cons
- Likely too heavy for oily and acne-prone skin types
"I genuinely cannot believe how affordable this cream is, considering it feels as luxe and rich on my face as $300 moisturizers I've tested for my job," says Gillette, who petitioned hard for this product to win a Holy Grail Award for the best skincare steal of 2024. "The combo of ceramides really helps hydrate my face, even when I'm dealing with dry patches and irritation. But the best part is how juicy and plump my face looks afterward, especially thanks to the formula's shea butter. It helps the product go on sooo smooth, leaving my face looking soft as hell."
- Key ingredient: Shea butter, ceramides
- Size: 1.7 oz
- Usage: Smooth all over your face as the last step of your skincare routine morning and/or night
Glowing customer review: “Most moisturizers I use make my skin feel oily and heavy, but not this one. It absorbs into my skin well, and my skin feels softer after using it. It doesn’t make my face look shiny, so I don’t feel gross wearing just the moisturizer out in public. Don’t find that it pills or looks weird under makeup either."
The Ordinary Soothing & Barrier Support Serum
Pros
- Soothes irritation with centella asiatica and bisabolol
- Uses lipids to help restore and protect skin barrier
Cons
- Has a pink tint that can leave a pink-ish hue on your face (and stain towels, pillowcases, etc.)
Loved by Cosmopolitan readers (helllooo, Readers' Choice Award 2024 winner), this gentle serum is like a hug for your face. It's loaded with anti-inflammatory ingredients to help reduce irritation, hence why it's loved so much by testers with sensitive skin. But it also uses a mix of lipids and niacinamide to help strengthen your skin barrier.
- Key ingredient: Centella asiatica, gallic acid, madecassic acid, niacinamide, bisabolol, lipids
- Size: 1 oz
- Usage: Apply to your face before moisturizer and/or SPF
Glowing customer review: “I have super sensitive oily and acne prone skin, and this just works so well for me! It calms my skin and doesn’t feel heavy or oily."
The Inkey List Caffeine Eye Cream
Pros
- Doesn't cause creasing with under-eye concealer
- Helps bring down swelling and irritation with caffeine
Cons
- Not moisturizing enough for very dry under-eyes
Cosmo contributor Larry Stansbury was a massive fan when he tested nearly every Inkey List product, calling it a lifesaver for puffy under-eyes. And I couldn't agree more. Caffeine helps constrict the blood vessels under my eyes to give them a more ~snatched~ appearance, while peptides help firm up my skin over time. "What I love most is how easy it is to fit into my morning routine," Stansbury wrote. "I use just a tiny dab—seriously, a little goes a looooong way)—fter cleansing, and it gives me this subtle, refreshed look that makes me feel like I’ve had my eight hours of sleep—even when I'm running on four."
- Key ingredient: Peptides, caffeine
- Size: 0.5 oz
- Usage: Pat onto your undereyes in the morning before moisturizer and/or SPF
Glowing customer review: “Great affordable option for a brightening under-eye cream. Wears well under makeup—very lightweight, no piling. I have extremely dark circles under my eyes, and this cream adds some much needed brightness."
The Ordinary Argireline Solution 10%
Pros
- Uses an MVP-level peptide to help tighten and firm skin
Cons
- Can take months to see results (but they're worth it, IMO)
Is this Botox in a bottle? Eh, idk about that, but it is filled with a super-cool, fab peptide that really smooths tf outta my forehead. Argireline, the hero of this formula, is what experts call a neuropeptide, since it disrupts the channel between your nerves and muscles, giving them a very slight "frozen" effect similar to that of a neuromodulator injection like Botox or Xeomin. It definitely does not give the same results (legit no topical product could), but over time, it can potentially help smooth out existing fine lines and wrinkles and even prevent them too. It's consistently one of Cosmo readers' top products, FYI.
- Key ingredient: Argireline (a peptide)
- Size: 1 oz
- Usage: Smooth all over your face before moisturizer morning and/or night
Glowing customer review: “I didn’t realize this works until I stopped using it. I have repurchased three times. With consistent use, you’ll see softening of wrinkles."
The Ordinary Peeling Solution AHA 30% + BHA 2%
Pros
- Fades hyperpigmentation with exfoliating acids
- One of the least expensive at-home peels I've ever tried
Cons
- Absolutely need to follow directions to avoid irritating your skin
Here's the thing: This at-home chemical peel kinda went viral for the wrong reasons. Some people even called it the blood mask (weird) and used the hell out of it for way longer than intended and burned the frick outta their faces. Sure, it can be very potent (we're talking a mix of glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acid here). But if used correctly, it's gold in a bottle for smoothing, brightening, and revitalizing dull, dry skin. Lemme explain.
Apply a thin layer all over your face, avoiding any potential open wounds (like the zit you maybe just picked at) to avoid irritation. Leave on for no longer than 10 minutes, but if you're just starting, you can even try it at five minutes to start to cut down on dryness or burning. It'll tingle a little bit, but if it starts to burn, remove with a washcloth. And always, always, always, finish with moisturizer and SPF if you'll be in the sun. You should only need to use it max once a week too—in between, stick to hydrators, clay masks, and/or your usual treatment serums.
- Key ingredient: Lactic acid, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, aloe vera
- Size: 1 oz
- Usage: Apply in a thin layer all over your face after cleansing and remove after no later than 10 minutes up to once a week
Glowing customer review: “This is my holy grail product!! I use this once a week, and it makes my skin feel silky smooth! I highly recommend
The Inkey List PHA Exfoliating and Hydrating Body Water Cream
Pros
- Most lightweight body lotion I've ever tried
- Gently exfoliates bumpy skin
Cons
- Has a strong chemical scent that I did not like
This body cream doesn't really feel all that much like a body cream. Instead, it's got a lightweight, thin consistency that completely sinks to my skin as soon as I massage it in. There's no residue at all whatsoever, so it feels so good to massage onto my skin before bed without getting all sticky against my pajamas or sheets.
It's also filled with polyhydroxy acids, the most mild form of AHAs that help slough away the surface dead skin. This makes it a great formula to coat my skin with when I want moisture but also to smooth.
FWIW, "The Ordinary also has bodycare products that I've tested, but this one immediately made its way into my daily rotation," says Gillette, who just so happened to award this a 2024 Cosmopolitan Acne Award. Nbd!
- Key ingredient: PHA, jojoba esters, rice bran esters
- Size: 5 oz
- Usage: Apply from neck to toes every day (morning and/or night)
Glowing customer review: “This is an excellent daily body moisturizer for me because the PHA is gentle enough for my skin but still helps exfoliate. I’ve noticed the really small bumps and overall texture has smoothed out, especially on my chest and arms."
Final verdict:
When it comes to deciding which brand is better, it’s important to remember that better is subjective, as both brands are highly effective and share a similar price point. However, The Ordinary stands out with its accessible, single-ingredient formulations and transparent pricing, making it ideal for skincare enthusiasts (anyone from from gen-Z to baby boomers) who understand ingredients and prefer to customize their routines. Buuut if you need some help deciphering which ingredients do what, then you'll likely appreciate how user-friendly The Inkey List products are. Plus, they also tend to be a bit better for sensitive skin.
That said, some users appreciate The Inkey List for its products’ multi-use functionality, while The Ordinary offers more targeted solutions. Personal preference also plays a role—some favor The Ordinary’s streamlined packaging and minimalist presentation over The Inkey List’s more detailed approach. But truly, you can't go wrong with either. Cosmo's been giving beauty awards to both brands for years—safe to say, we're fans of both.
Meet the experts:
- Brendan Camp, MD, is a double board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology: Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery with locations in New Jersey and New York.
- Pooja Rambhi, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist with specialized fellowship training in cosmetic dermatology and laser surgery at Union Derm in New York City and Greenwich, CT.
Why trust 'Cosmopolitan'?
Iman Balagam is a beauty contributor at Cosmopolitan with four years of experience writing skincare stories that range from forehead acne to chin acne. She’s an authority in all categories, but is an expert when it comes to skincare, thanks to years of personally researching and testing different products to banish her breakouts.
Iman Balagam is a freelance writer who has been in the beauty industry for nearly five years. She has written for and contributed to top women’s magazines and digital brands such as Harper's BAZAAR, Allure, Byrdie, Elle and more. She will try *nearly* anything and spends a lot of time looking for new ways to store her beauty products in a small New York apartment.
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