Retinol Serum | The INKEY List

Use this anti-wrinkle serum in your PM routine only. After cleansing and applying your hydrator, massage a pea-sized amount into face and neck.

Follow with

Moisturiser.

Finish with SPF in your AM routine.

INKEY Tip

Start slow: 1–2 nights a week, then increase as skin builds tolerance.

Sensitive skin? Use Niacinamide beforehand to help minimise irritation.

Avoid layering with AHAs, BHAs or PHA Toner - use on alternate nights. Learn more about what not to mix with Retinol

Using near eyes? Try our Retinol Eye Cream instead.

Heads up

When adding new products to your skincare routine, we always recommend patch testing. Learn more here.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place (15–25°C). Keep out of direct sunlight. Avoid eyes. For external use only. Keep out of reach of children.

*6-week independent consumer trial of 61 people.

• 1% Retinyl Acetate: Slow-release retinol that smooths fine lines, wrinkles + uneven tone.
• 0.5% Granactive Retinoid: Boosts skin renewal and targets early signs of ageing for firmer, plumper skin.
• Squalane: Hydrates and soothes.
  

Water (Aqua / Eau), Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Propanediol, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Retinyl Acetate, Dimethicone, Phenoxyethanol, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Caprylyl Glycol, Phospholipids, Squalane, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Carbomer, Polysorbate 60, Tocopheryl Acetate, Glycolipids, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Phytate, Sorbitan Isostearate, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Sterols, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Lactate, Tocopherol, Polysorbate 20, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1

WHEN SHOULD I APPLY RETINOL SERUM? PM only. Apply after cleansing and hydrating, before moisturiser.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD I USE IT? Start 1–2 times a week. Increase slowly as skin builds tolerance.

CAN I USE IT LONG TERM? Yes - with consistent, appropriate use, it’s great for long-term results.

WHY NOT IN THE MORNING? Retinol makes skin more sun-sensitive. Use only at night and always wear SPF during the day.

DO I NEED MOISTURISER AFTER? Yes. Retinol can be drying. You can also apply it after moisturiser to buffer if your skin is sensitive.

WHAT SHOULD I AVOID LAYERING WITH? Skip using with Vitamin C, AHAs, BHAs, or PHA Toner in the same routine. Alternate nights instead. Learn more about what not to mix with Retinol

WHY DO I NEED SPF WITH RETINOL? Retinol renews skin, making it more vulnerable to UV. SPF is non-negotiable.

IS IT SUITABLE FOR SENSITIVE SKIN? If you’re very sensitive, we recommend patch testing. or trying Collagen Serum instead.

WHAT IF I’M EXPERIENCING IRRITATION? Use less frequently and buffer with Niacinamide Serum beforehand. Hydrate well and go slow.

WHEN SHOULD I START USING RETINOL? Around age 25, when cell turnover starts to slow.

CAN I USE IT IF I HAVE BLEMISH PRONE SKIN? It’s designed for ageing concerns. If breakouts are your main issue, speak with a dermatologist for tailored options.

CAN IT HELP WITH BLEMISH SCARS? Yes, it can improve texture and fade marks over time. For stronger results, try our SuperSolutions 1% Retinol Serum or Mandelic Acid for dark spots.

IS PURGING NORMAL? Yes. It can last 4–6 weeks. Stay consistent, hydrate, and use Niacinamide. If it continues past 6 weeks, stop and consult a doctor.

WHY HAS MY RETINOL CHANGED COLOUR? Natural oxidation - totally safe and still effective.

WHAT’S THE PH? 5.53

WHEN WILL I SEE RESULTS? Up to 6 weeks. Stick with it - more isn’t better, overuse can irritate.

IS IT SAFE DURING PREGNANCY? No - avoid during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Check with your doctor. 

IS IT VEGAN? Yes! Certified by The Vegan Society.

CAN I USE IT WITH PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION? Check with your doctor first.

Skincare can be confusing.

So we cut the BS, and get straight to the point. We simplify the INCI list - commonly known as the ingredients list, that every skincare product has. That’s also where we get our name from. We’re The INKEY List - here to help you get better skin with real knowledge and formulas that deliver. No BS. No hype. Just effective, science-backed skincare that does what it says it will. We show you what your skin needs, not what’s trending. Whether you’re new to skincare or have a solid routine, we’ve always got your back with innovation, education and clinically-proven results.

All at a price that makes sense.

INKEY. No BS, just better skin.

This product is;

Fragrance-free

Gluten-free