If you are looking for a good, cheap hyaluronic acid serum that will hydrate your skin without any trouble, The INKEY List Hyaluronic Acid Serum could be a good fit for you.
In skincare, hydration is a game-changer. But it can be overwhelming trying to find the best hydrating serum for your skin type and budget. And then there’s The INKEY List Hyaluronic Acid Serum, a serum that’s caused quite the storm in the skincare community with its claims to provide hardworking hydration in a purse-friendly package. Containing 2% multi-molecular hyaluronic acid in addition to potent peptides, this serum promises to plump, smooth, and nourish skin without any sticky or greasy film.
The INKEY List Hyaluronic Acid Serum stands out not only for its formula, but its accessibility — it’s a brand that makes quality skin care products available at a reasonable price point. No matter your skin concern—whether dry, oily, combination or sensitive—this serum claims to have hydration covered while easily fitting into your current routine. It’s lightweight and non-greasy, so you’ll be reaching for it all summer long, whether you wear it alone or layered under other skin care or makeup.
If you’ve been on the fence about trying a hyaluronic acid serum because of the price or because you have sensitive skin, this review will answer anything and everything about The INKEY List Hyaluronic Acid Serum—ingredients, user reviews, and more, so you can make an educated decision.
Did You Know?
While everybody knows that hyaluronic acid is good for moisturizing, the benefits of hyaluronic acid go beyond just hydration—it also aids in skin cell regeneration and plays a beneficial role in wound healing, and even has anti-inflammatory properties—so it’s not just a surface helper, but a true skin health booster.
At a Glance: What You Need to Know
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | The INKEY List |
| Product | Hyaluronic Acid Serum |
| Size | 30 ml |
| Key Ingredients | 2% Multi-Molecular Hyaluronic Acid, Matrixyl 3000 Peptide, Glycerin, Radish Root Extract |
| Suitable Skin Types | All, including sensitive skin |
| Texture | Lightweight, non-sticky, watery gel |
| Application | Morning & Night, on damp skin |
| Benefits | Intense hydration, plumps skin, smooths fine lines, boosts absorption of other products |
| Packaging | Small plastic bottle with dropper |
| Cruelty-Free | Yes |
A Closer Look: The INKEY List Hyaluronic Acid Serum
The INKEY List Hyaluronic Acid Serum is designed to provide even the most dehydrated skin with long-lasting hydration. Its multi-molecular hyaluronic acid complex targets multiple layers of skin, trapping moisture to give you a plumped and revitalised appearance.
In addition, the inclusion of Matrixyl 3000 Peptide helps to tighten and smooth fine lines, resulting in a more youthful and radiant look.
- Safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Lightweight texture with no greasy or sticky residue
- Absorbs quickly, making it an easy base for makeup or layering other products
- Fragrance-free and cruelty-free formulation
Key Ingredients and Their Functions
An analysis of the ingredients in The INKEY List Hyaluronic Acid Serum helps shade a light on the reasons why it’s said to be the best affordable hyaluronic acid serum currently on the shelves:
- 2% Multi-Molecular Hyaluronic Acid: With different molecular weights, it hydrates the skin’s surface and deeper layers, enhancing moisture retention and skin elasticity.
- Matrixyl 3000 Peptide: Active peptide complex that helps stimulate collagen production, help to firm, smooth and diminish the appearance of fine lines.
- Glycerin: A traditional humectant to help hydrate and soften the skin.
- Radish Root Ferment Filtrate: Probiotic preservative, which adds skin support and hydration while contributing to improved skin barrier function.
- Some other supporting actors in this formula: Water, butylene glycol, and sodium lactate for texture and hydration.
First Look: My Thoughts on the Packaging
The INKEY List Hyaluronic Acid Serum is housed in the brand’s signature black and white plastic bottle with a dropper. It’s small and travel-friendly, but some users have reported that the dropper area may gather dried serum, and it takes maintenance to keep it clean. Other than that, the packaging feels pragmatic and utilitarian, which suits the brand’s minimal vibe so well.
Who Should Try this Serum?
This serum is great for those who wants a budget hyaluronic serum that provides great hydration without weighing down skin. It’s especially suited for:
- Anyone with sensitive skin who wants a gentle yet potent hydrator.
- All skin types. Dull, dehydrated, or aging skin.
- Newbs in search of a budget-friendly intro to hyaluronic acid.
- Anyone who needs a light formula that’s compatible with other skin care or makeup.
- Those who want to make their favorite moisturizer or sunscreen more effective.
How I Use It for Best Results
Here are a few simple tips to take your The INKEY List Hyaluronic Acid Serum to the next level:
- Start with a freshly cleansed face.
- Apply a pea-sized amount onto slightly damp skin to enhance absorption.
- Gently pat the serum into your face and neck.
- Follow up with your preferred moisturizer and sunscreen in the morning.
For optimal results, use both morning and night.
Pair It With
For enhanced hydration and skin benefits, consider pairing The INKEY List Hyaluronic Acid Serum with a gentle cleanser and a lightweight moisturizer or hydrating cream.
User Reviews: What People Are Saying
I’ve read so many people saying what a great hydrator this is and that even those with sensitive skin can use it without irritation. Cluing reviewers in on how it quickly absorbs and skin feels smooth and dewy without any stickiness. Some people say the bottle is tiny, but the tradeoff between price and effectiveness is worth it. Some reviewers note that the dropper may become crusty, but overall, the satisfaction is high.
Editor’s Note: My Skin Type & Experience
As an individual with combination, sensitive skin, I love how deeply hydrating this is, without weighing my skin down or feeling suffocating. The INKEY List Hyaluronic Acid Serum became a regular part of my routine for its non-sticky texture and its potential to amp up my moisturizer’s performance. It goes on well under makeup, and never made me look red or breakout-y. Its inexpensive price point allows you to be carefree adding it to your routine, which is why it’s commonly touted as the best hydrating serum at this price point.
How It Stacks Up Against Other Serums
Compared to other formualtions for fellow hyaluronic acid serums, The INKEY List Hyaluronic Acid Serum stands out for its price and inclusion of of the switches for hydration without lots of “extras” and fragrances. Many competing serums are either more expensive or the textures are heavier and can seem less fitting to sensitive or oily skin types.
| Product | Texture | Suitable for Sensitive Skin | Key Ingredient Concentration | Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The INKEY List Hyaluronic Acid Serum | Lightweight, watery | Yes | 2% Multi-Molecular HA, Peptides | 30 ml |
| The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 | Lightweight, slightly sticky | Yes | 2% HA + Vitamin B5 | 30 ml |
| CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum | Thin lotion | Yes | HA + Ceramides + B5 | 30 ml |
Mini Serum Face-Off
The INKEY List Hyaluronic Acid Serum pairs well with a mild cleanser to get more out of the hydrated results. For sensitive skin, opt for a gentle, fragrance-free option like The INKEY List’s own cleanser or soap-free hydrating cleanser. These cleanse but do not strip moisture from the skin, so that the serum can be active.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Affordable price
- Lightweight, non-sticky texture
- Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin
- Contains effective peptides and multi-weight hyaluronic acid
- Cruelty-free and clean formulation
Cons
- Dropper can accumulate dried residue
- Requires layering for maximum hydration
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Adding to Your Routine?
Overall, The INKEY List Hyaluronic Acid Serum is one of the best of the best for hydrating skin on a budget. Its smart formula and luxurious creamy feel slicked my skin with moisture, and, at under a tenner (particularly looking at the smart formula), if you’re after the best hydrating serum that won’t give sensitive skin an unfortunate run-in with the budget-busting, it’s up there. The bottle size/packaging could be slightly improved, but you can easily get over it when you see what this serum does.
Its light texture allows for a layerable application under makeup or heavier creams for all over use. If you want a serum to enhance your skin care ritual and provide continuous hydration, you may consider this one. Its bang for the buck and performance really does set it apart in the realm of budget hyaluronic acid serums.
FAQs
Can I use The INKEY List Hyaluronic Acid Serum on sensitive skin?
Yes, this serum is designed to be mild and powerful, it’s a good hydrating serum for sensitive skin.
Can I use the INKEY List Hyaluronic Acid Serum with other products?
Absolutely. Its ultralight, non-sticky formula layers easily under moisturizers, sunscreens, and makeup.
How frequently do I use The INKEY List Hyaluronic Acid Serum?
For best results, use it twice a day — morning and night — on clean, wet skin.
Does this serum improves fine lines and aging skin?
Yes, it can actually puff and smooth fine lines over time thanks to Matrixyl 3000 Peptide and hyaluronic acid.
