Your skin care routine, as told by THE INKEY LIST
Harnessing all of the industry's heavy-hitting ingredients, {THE INKEY LIST} has made a name for itself by creating targeted treatments that suit your skin's ever-changing needs at prices that won't break the bank - almost everything's under £15! This succinct collection of hero products is formulated by a crack team of experts and scientists, and incorporates everything from cult-classic retinol and hyaluronic acid to the up-and-coming succinic acid. So whether you're up against a crop of blemishes, dark circles that betray your sleeping habits or thirsty skin that's lacking luminosity, look to these advanced formulas to fill the gaps of your existing {skin care} routine or curate a whole new one...
These are the products that form the foundations of your skin care ritual. They have all of the ingredients you need to keep your complexion healthy and glowing from dawn 'til dusk!
As you may well know, you should always layer your formulas from lightest to heaviest (more on that here) and, in the morning, it's imperative to protect your skin. Since hyaluronic acid is known to boost the efficacy of the steps that follow, it only makes sense to start with their {Hyaluronic Acid Serum}; with a thicker consistency than other HA formulas, this easily absorbable formula is adored for its ability to encourage plumper skin with fewer visible fine lines and wrinkles, and a more even tone and texture.
The same way a glass of orange juice is a good way to start the day, we can't go anywhere without a vitamin C serum! Boasting a concentration of 30% pure L-ascorbic acid in a stable, waterless formula, the {Vitamin C Serum} can be used after (or mixed with!) the Hyaluronic Acid Serum to provide protection against environmental aggressors, all while illuminating your skin and boosting collagen production. Win, win, win!
Not so fast! The last step in your morning routine should always be an SPF. Even if you reside in a seemingly eternally dull and dark region *cough* anywhere in England during winter *cough*, sunscreen is still essential since up to 80% of the sun's UV radiation reaches the earth even when it's overcast. That's where the {SPF 30 Daily Sunscreen} comes in! Suitable for all skin types - even includes breakout-prone and sensitive complexions - it's made with layering in mind, so it doesn't pill and disrupt your routine. Beyond providing broad-spectrum protection, the vegan and reef-safe formula also boasts a low-level, non-cosmetic tint to help counteract any white residue! That's all of our boxes ticked...
In the evening, we devoutly follow the double-cleanse way of life. Effortlessly removing full coverage make up, the {Oat Cleansing Balm} deeply hydrates and moisturises skin while sloughing away make up and dirt making it perfect for those with sensitive skin. Follow with a toner and serum suited to your needs (see below...) and finish with a replenishing moisturiser - we're loving the {Peptide Moisturiser}! The beautifully rich formula is clinically proven to increase the speed of skin renewal for noticeably smoother and more even skin in just 28 days.
Skin looking decidedly dull or congested? The {Glycolic Acid Toner} is enriched with 10% sugar cane-derived glycolic acid that works to ‘unglue’ the dead skin cells that make your skin appear dull and pores appear larger. When used after your cleanser and before your serums, it helps to diminish the look of pores, smooth uneven texture, minimise scarring from spots and leave a bright, radiant skin finish!
If your under-eyes are telling a story of sleep-deprivation... The {Caffeine Eye Cream} harnesses the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant benefits of caffeine to reduce puffiness, dark circles and prevent the skin damage from free radicals, which can make dark circles more pronounced.
When you have to contend with breakouts... It's safe to say blemishes can be the bane of our lives, so it's a good thing that THE INKEY LIST has a swathe of spot-busting formulas on offer. The {Salicylic Acid Cleanser} is the first step to putting your best face forward; as well refreshing your skin, it controls excess oil to prevent future breakouts, as well as easing the look of enlarged pores, blackheads and blemishes. If you want an on-the-spot treatment to zap pesky pimples, the {Succinic Acid Blemish Treatment} is a clear winner. The potent cocktail of salicylic acid, succinic acid and hyaluronic acid works in harmony to ward off blemishes, reduce the size of existing spots and fend against future ones. The secret? It won't dry out your skin so it doesn't trigger an overproduction of oil and even more spots. Cue a round of applause!
If fine lines are on your mind... You have two youth-prolonging blends to consider! First up is their {Retinol Serum}. A superstar ingredient for a reason, retinol helps to promote skin renewal and enhance collagen production, leaving skin brighter, smoother and more youthful-looking —and this formula unites 1% stable Retistar retinol (the equivalent of 0.05% retinol) and 0.5% granactive retinoid (slightly stronger than retinol) to do just that! Option numéro dos is {Bakuchiol}: dubbed a natural alternative to retinol, this ingredient is melded with ultra-hydrating squalane as well as Omega 3, 6 and 9-rich sacha inchi oil to reveal beautifully supple skin.
For a major hit of hydration... Perfect for dry and depleted skin, the {Ceramide Night Treatment} floods your face with skin-plumping moisture as you slumber. The 3% blend of ceramides (lipids created naturally by the skin to form your natural moisture barrier) is bolstered by a 2.5% hyaluronic acid complex to give some enviable healthy-looking hydration.
If city-living is getting under your skin... Fend against the effects of pollution with the {Q10} serum. The titular ingredient is a powerhouse antioxidant, also known as Coenzyme Q10 or CoQ10, that occurs naturally in your body, working in the upper layers of the skin to help prevent and repair cell damage, as well as minimising the signs of pre-ageing!
240
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Bethan is a Senior Copywriter at Cult Beauty. When she’s not trying to perfect the ultimate ‘no make up’ make up look — she swears by Saie — or find new skin care to fall for, she’s likely playing video games, making the most of her housemate’s MUBI account or strolling around Victoria Park with a pastry in hand.
