The Inkey List vs The Ordinary: Which Budget Skincare Brand is Best?

Ever wondered why some skincare products cost a fortune while others deliver similar results at a fraction of the price? The beauty industry’s best-kept secret is hiding in plain sight: effective skincare doesn’t have to drain your wallet.

Two brands have revolutionised the market by stripping away fancy packaging and marketing hype to focus on what really matters – the ingredients.

Ready to discover which products actually work for your specific skin concerns? Keep reading for my in-depth comparison of The Ordinary vs The Inkey List, where I break down exactly which brand does what better (and why!) – from tackling stubborn acne to fighting those first fine lines.

The Inkey List vs The Ordinary: Which One is Right for You?

If you’re into skincare, you’ve probably seen these brands all over your Instagram feed. The Ordinary arrived in 2016, throwing out single-ingredient formulas like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and retinol at absurdly affordable prices. Suddenly, everyone was learning the difference between AHAs and BHAs, and skincare felt more like a chemistry lesson than a self-care ritual.

The Inkey List followed in 2018, offering a slightly different approach: instead of single-ingredient products, they created formulas with a mix of active and supporting ingredients—making it a little easier to use without needing a degree in cosmetic science.

Both brands focus on transparency, no-frills packaging, and cutting out unnecessary markups. But while The Ordinary hands you the ingredients and expects you to figure it out, The Inkey List guides you through the process with clear explanations and friendly product descriptions.

That being said, nothing I’ve tried from The Inkey List has ever become a must-have for me. Whereas The Ordinary? I’ve got a few staples I repurchase again and again—you can check out my favourites and how I combine them in this post all about The Ordinary skincare.

Which Brand is Easier to Use?

If you’re a skincare beginner, The Inkey List is probably the better choice. Their products come with simple instructions, and their website even has a recipe builder tool that tells you exactly how to layer your routine.

The Ordinary, on the other hand, expects you to do your own research. Sure, they have guides, but there’s a bit of a learning curve. If you don’t know the difference between glycolic acid and lactic acid, you might find yourself Googling every product before you use it.

Both brands offer online chats where you can ask questions, so you’re not completely on your own—but The Inkey List holds your hand a little more.

Packaging and Branding – How The Inkey List vs The Ordinary Compare

The Ordinary keeps things clinical with dropper bottles and plain tubes, while The Inkey List goes for black-and-white squeeze bottles. You’ll spot The Ordinary products by their lab-like look – white labels with ingredient names front and centre. The Inkey List makes things friendlier with clear text and straightforward packaging. Neither brand wastes money on fancy containers, putting your money toward what’s inside instead.

On a personal note, I much prefer The Ordinary’s tubes and bottles. I found The Inkey List’s packaging frustrating – the rigid bottles make it tricky to get every last drop out. For this reason alone, I’m more likely to repurchase The Ordinary over The Inkey List.

The Inkey List vs The Ordinary: Product Range Comparison

The Ordinary gives you more choices, with over 40 products compared to The Inkey List’s 30+. If you like options, The Ordinary is your best bet – they offer multiple vitamin C formulas at different strengths, for example. The Inkey List keeps things simpler with fewer but well-rounded products, like their unique polyglutamic acid serum.

However, I’ve got to be honest – nothing I’ve tried from The Inkey List has become a ‘must-have’ for me. A lot of people swear by The Inkey List’s Oat Cleansing Balm as a holy grail product, but I I found it just ‘OK.’ It does the job, but I didn’t find it any more special than other  cleansers I’ve tried.

Whereas there are certain products from The Ordinary that I order again and again. (In fact, I’ve written a full guide on my favourite The Ordinary products and how I layer them into my routine.)

Inkey List VS The Ordinary product comparison by skin concern

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s clear something up: both The Inkey List and The Ordinary are excellent brands that deliver serious skincare results without the luxury price tag. But each brand has its standout products for specific skin concerns. I’ve broken down their best offerings by category, comparing exactly what works better and why – so you can skip the trial and error phase and get straight to what your skin needs.

ACNE & BLEMISHES

For Active Breakouts:

The Inkey List BHA

• Target: Active spots, blackheads, and congested pores
• Why it’s great: Contains 2% salicylic acid plus additional soothing ingredients
• Better than The Ordinary’s version because: Includes calming agents that prevent irritation
• Best for: Sensitive skin that needs gentle but effective treatment

The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution

• Target: Stubborn acne and persistent blackheads
• Why it’s great: Pure, concentrated formula that works quickly
• Better than Inkey List’s version because: More potent and fast-acting
• Best for: Resilient skin that needs stronger treatment

For Oil Control:

The Inkey List Niacinamide

• Target: Excess oil production and enlarged pores
• Why it’s great: Contains additional hyaluronic acid for balance
• Better than The Ordinary’s version because: Less likely to cause irritation
• Best for: Combination skin that needs oil control without drying

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

• Target: Excessive oiliness and blemish prevention
• Why it’s great: Added zinc provides anti-inflammatory benefits
• Better than Inkey List’s version because: Better at mattifying and controlling severe oil
• Best for: Very oily skin types

AGING & FINE LINES

For Beginners:

The Inkey List Retinol

• Target: Fine lines and early signs of aging
• Why it’s great: Stabilized retinol with squalane
• Better than The Ordinary’s version because: Gentler introduction to retinol
• Best for: First-time retinol users and sensitive skin

For Advanced Users:

The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion

• Target: Deeper wrinkles and texture
• Why it’s great: Advanced retinoid complex
• Better than Inkey List’s version because: More powerful anti-aging effects
• Best for: Experienced retinol users seeking stronger results

VITAMIN C & BRIGHTENING

For Everyday Radiance:

The Inkey List 15% Vitamin C & EGF Serum

• Target: Dull skin, uneven tone, and early signs of aging
• Why it’s great: Combines 15% Vitamin C with epidermal growth factor
• Better than The Ordinary’s version because: More stable formula and easier to layer
• Best for: Sensitive skin and vitamin C beginners

The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2%

• Target: Deep-set dullness and stubborn dark spots
• Why it’s great: High concentration of pure L-Ascorbic Acid
• Better than Inkey List’s version because: More potent for experienced users
• Best for: Those who want maximum strength vitamin C

The Ordinary Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12%

• Target: Gradual brightening and antioxidant protection
• Why it’s great: More stable derivative of Vitamin C
• Better than Inkey List’s version because: Better for oily and acne-prone skin
• Best for: Those who find traditional vitamin C too irritating

HYPERPIGMENTATION

For Dark Spots:

The Inkey List Tranexamic Acid

• Target: Post-inflammatory marks and uneven tone
• Why it’s great: Combines multiple brightening agents
• Better than The Ordinary’s version because: More comprehensive brightening approach
• Best for: Those needing gentle but effective brightening

The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA

• Target: Stubborn dark spots and pigmentation
• Why it’s great: Concentrated formula with proven results
• Better than Inkey List’s version because: Works faster on targeted areas
• Best for: Persistent hyperpigmentation

HYDRATION

For Dehydrated Skin:

The Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid

• Target: Dehydration at multiple skin levels
• Why it’s great: Contains three molecular weights of HA
• Better than The Ordinary’s version because: Added peptides for skin plumping
• Best for: Dehydrated skin needing multiple benefits

The Ordinary Marine Hyaluronics

• Target: Light but effective hydration
• Why it’s great: Unique marine-derived ingredients
• Better than Inkey List’s version because: Lighter texture, better for layering
• Best for: Those who dislike heavy products

BARRIER REPAIR

For Compromised Skin:

The Inkey List Ceramide Night Treatment

• Target: Damaged skin barrier and moisture loss
• Why it’s great: Multiple ceramides plus supporting ingredients
• Better than The Ordinary’s version because: More comprehensive formula
• Best for: Severely dry or damaged skin

The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA

• Target: Daily moisture barrier support
• Why it’s great: Mimics skin’s natural moisturizing systems
• Better than Inkey List’s version because: More affordable for daily use
• Best for: Maintenance of healthy skin barrier

EXFOLIATING ACIDS & PEELS

For Gentle Exfoliation:

The Inkey List Lactic Acid

• Target: Surface texture and mild hyperpigmentation
• Why it’s great: Contains 10% lactic acid with hyaluronic acid
• Better than The Ordinary’s version because: More hydrating formula
• Best for: Sensitive skin and first-time acid users

The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + HA

• Target: Mild exfoliation and skin renewal
• Why it’s great: Lower concentration for beginners
• Better than Inkey List’s version because: More budget-friendly starter option
• Best for: Very sensitive skin or complete beginners

For Regular Exfoliation:

The Inkey List Glycolic Acid Toner

• Target: Dead skin cells, texture, and dullness
• Why it’s great: 10% glycolic acid in a balanced formula
• Better than The Ordinary’s version because: Less irritating and more hydrating
• Best for: Regular exfoliation in a gentle format

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution

• Target: Surface exfoliation and brightness
• Why it’s great: Large bottle with great value
• Better than Inkey List’s version because: More economical for body use too
• Best for: Those ready for regular acid exfoliation

For Intensive Treatment:

The Inkey List PHA Toner

• Target: Very gentle exfoliation and hydration
• Why it’s great: Combines PHA with niacinamide
• Better than The Ordinary’s version because: More suitable for sensitive skin
• Best for: Those who find other acids too harsh

The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

• Target: Intensive exfoliation and skin resurfacing
• Why it’s great: Professional-grade treatment
• Better than Inkey List’s version because: More powerful results
• Best for: Experienced acid users only

Important Safety Notes:

⚠️ Before You Start:

• Always patch test new acids
• Start with the lowest percentage
• Use only 1-2 times per week initially
• Never mix acids in the same routine
• Always use SPF the next day

When to Avoid:

• Active breakouts or broken skin
• Sunburned or irritated skin
• If using retinol in the same routine
• During pregnancy (consult your doctor)

Pro Tips:

• Start with lactic acid if you’re new to exfoliants
• Use in the evening only
• Wait 30 seconds after applying before other products
• If irritation occurs, reduce frequency or concentration
• Don’t use more than one acid product per routine

Real Talk: While The Ordinary’s Peeling Solution has achieved cult status, it’s not for beginners. If you’re new to acids, start with The Inkey List’s gentler options. Your skin will thank you!

Pros and Cons of Each Brand

Looking at The Ordinary, you’ll get more products to choose from at slightly lower prices. Their single-ingredient formulas work well if you know what your skin needs, but they can be tricky to understand at first. The Inkey List makes skincare simpler with friendly instructions and gentler formulas. While their prices run a bit higher and they offer fewer options, you’ll find their products easier to mix into your routine. 

Inkey List or The Ordinary? Which is better for Sensitive Skin?

If you have sensitive skin, The Inkey List might be your better choice. Their products include calming ingredients like allantoin and centella asiatica alongside actives, making them less irritating. Most of their formulas work without causing redness or sensitivity.

The Ordinary’s single-ingredient approach can be too strong for reactive skin types. While both brands skip fragrance and common irritants, The Ordinary’s higher concentrations might cause tingling or redness. Always patch test new products from either brand before applying them to your face.

Sustainability and Ethics: Who’s Doing Better?

Both brands are cruelty-free, vegan, and avoid unnecessary fillers.

• The Inkey List has switched to 100% recyclable tubes and bottles, making them slightly more eco-friendly.
• The Ordinary (and its parent company, DECIEM) uses glass bottles whenever possible and is a certified B Corp, meaning they meet high ethical and sustainability standards.

Neither brand claims to be the gold standard of sustainability, but they’re both making progress.

So, Inkey List or The Ordinary – Which One Should You Buy?

Still undecided? Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Choose The Inkey List if you’re new to skincare and want easy-to-understand formulas that won’t overwhelm you.
• Go with The Ordinary if you want stronger, more targeted treatments and are comfortable researching ingredient interactions.
• If packaging is a dealbreaker, The Ordinary wins – their bottles are easier to use, and you won’t be left struggling to get the last bit out.

And check out my full guide if you want to dive deeper into my go-to The Ordinary products and how I use them.

FAQ: The Inkey List vs The Ordinary

Which is better, The Inkey List or The Ordinary?

It depends on what you’re looking for. The Inkey List is better for beginners with its straightforward blends and instructions, while The Ordinary offers more advanced, single-ingredient formulas at slightly lower prices.

Are The Inkey List and The Ordinary the same company?

No – they’re separate brands but have a similar approach to affordable, science-backed skincare.

Can you mix The Ordinary and The Inkey List products?

Yes, but be mindful of active ingredients. However, I personally tend to stick with The Ordinary because I’ve found their products more effective overall and targeted  to specific skincare concerns.

Final Thoughts: The Inkey List vs The Ordinary

When it comes down to choosing between The Inkey List and The Ordinary, you really can’t go wrong. Both brands deliver effective skincare at prices that won’t break the bank. However, for me, The Ordinary wins – I’ve repurchased multiple products from them, while nothing from The Inkey List has made it into my permanent routine.

The best skincare routine is the one that works for your skin. If you’re new to skincare, The Inkey List might be the simpler choice. But if you want more control over your ingredients and don’t mind doing a little research, The Ordinary gives you incredible value for money.

Have you tried both brands? Which one do you prefer? Let me know in the comments!