Our Top Products Picks
| Product | Action |
|---|---|
 Olay Super Serum - Niacinamide, Vitamin C & E, Collagen Peptide, AHA - 5-in-1 Skin Care Benefits for Face - Healthy Glow, Brightening, Hydrating, Smoothing, Firming, Evens Tone, Anti-Aging, 1.7 Oz5 POWERFUL BENEFITS IN 1 SUPER SERUM: This clinically tested and proven facial serum delivers hydrating, smoothing, firming, brightening, & improved texture benefits for healthy looking skin day 1. 5 SKINCARE INGREDIENTS: Infused with Olay's Activated Niacinamide, Vitamin C, Collagen Peptide, Vitamin E, and Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA), this expertly crafted face serum delivers instant results. SUPER SIZE PACK: If you're looking to simplify your skin care routine for longer, try this super large bottle. It is 66% more vs the 30mL bottle of our 5-in-1 multi-tasking glow serum. LIGHTWEIGHT, DAILY SERUM: Apply this lightweight face serum evenly over cleansed face and neck, every day and night to see results. Protect your glow by adding Olay Super Cream with Sunscreen into your morning skincare routine. SUPER RESULTS FOR WOMEN: Experience immediate hydration and radiance. See improved skin texture in 1 week, more even skin tone in week 2, and visible correction of fine lines and wrinkles in week 4 with this face serum for women. AWARD-WINNING SKIN CARE: Olay Super Serum is The Most Awarded Serum.* It delivers visible results that beat the #1 Luxury Serum. *6 Year Review of Majoy Beauty Awards ending March 2025 | |
 Shiseido Ultimune Power Infusing Serum - Breakthrough Lightweight Face Serum - Boosts Radiance & Improves Visible Signs of Aging - All Skin Types - Non-Comedogenic | |
 L'Oreal Paris Revitalift 1.5% Pure Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum, Hydrate & Reduce Wrinkles, Fragrance Free 1.7 oz | |
 SK-II Facial Treatment Essence - Anti-Aging Essence Skincare to Help Reduce the Appearance of Fine Lines & Wrinkles - Visibly Refines Texture & Improves Firmness & Dark Spots | |
 The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 (with Ceramides), Multi-Depth Hydration Serum for Plumper, Smoother Skin | |
 The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, Smoothing Serum for Blemish-Prone Skin |
The rise of affordable, single-ingredient skincare has been a game-changer, but it's left many wondering which brand to choose. The two titans in this space, The Ordinary and The Inkey List, both offer potent serums at rock-bottom prices. But which one is right for you? Choosing the right products is a key part of creating a successful routine. For a comprehensive overview, check out our guide on How to Build an Effective Skincare Routine on a Budget.
This post provides a direct, analytical comparison of The Ordinary and The Inkey List. We'll break down their ingredient philosophy, product ranges, user experience, and specific hero products to help you make an informed decision for your skin and wallet.
At a Glance: The Ordinary vs. The Inkey List
Before we dive deep, here's a head-to-head comparison of the two brands' core philosophies and features.
| Feature | The Ordinary | The Inkey List |
|---|---|---|
| Philosophy | Clinical, scientific, no-frills formulations. | Educational, straightforward, user-friendly. |
| Product Naming | Scientific names (e.g., Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%). | Simple ingredient names (e.g., Niacinamide Serum). |
| Formulations | Highly focused on the star active ingredient. | Often includes supporting ingredients for a better feel. |
| Product Range | Very large and can be overwhelming for beginners. | More curated and focused, easier to navigate. |
| Packaging | Glass dropper bottles, clinical aesthetic. | Squeeze tubes/pumps, practical and travel-friendly. |
| Price Point | Extremely affordable, often slightly cheaper. | Extremely affordable, very competitive pricing. |
Ingredient Philosophy & Formulation
The primary difference lies in their approach to formulation.
The Ordinary takes a hyper-focused, clinical approach. Their serums are built around a high concentration of a single active ingredient, often with minimal supporting ingredients. This is fantastic for those who know exactly what they want and enjoy experimenting with potent, raw formulas. However, this can sometimes lead to less elegant textures—some serums might feel sticky, oily, or pill (ball up) when layered.
The Inkey List focuses on education and user experience. While their products are also centered around a star ingredient, the formulations often feel more refined. They tend to include complementary ingredients that improve the texture and absorption, making them more cosmetically elegant and less likely to pill. Their goal is to make ingredients accessible and easy to understand, from the name to the feel of the product.
Product Range & Naming: Simplicity vs. Science
Navigating the two brands presents a very different experience.
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The Ordinary's catalogue is vast and complex. With names like "Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA" and "Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion," it can feel like a chemistry lesson. This is empowering for skincare enthusiasts but can be a major barrier for beginners.
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The Inkey List offers a more curated and beginner-friendly selection. Their products have simple names like "Hyaluronic Acid Serum" or "Retinol Serum," immediately telling you what the product is and what it does. This straightforward approach demystifies skincare and makes it easier to build a routine.
Head-to-Head: Common Budget Serums
Let's compare two of the most popular affordable serums from each brand.
Niacinamide Serum: The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% vs. The Inkey List Niacinamide Serum
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The Ordinary: This is a cult classic for oil control and minimizing pores. The addition of zinc makes it particularly effective for blemish-prone skin. However, it's notorious for pilling for some users, especially when layered with other products. It has a slightly watery, sometimes sticky feel.
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The Inkey List: This formula also contains 10% niacinamide but is often praised for its smoother, more lightweight texture. It includes 1% hyaluronic acid for added hydration and is less likely to pill, making it easier to integrate into a multi-step routine.
Verdict: For pure oil-fighting power, The Ordinary's zinc combo is hard to beat. For easier layering and a better overall texture, The Inkey List is the winner.
Hyaluronic Acid Serum: The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 vs. The Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid Serum
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The Ordinary: This formula uses multiple molecular weights of HA for multi-level hydration and includes Vitamin B5 for surface hydration. It's effective but can feel tacky or sticky on the skin until it fully absorbs.
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The Inkey List: Also featuring 2% multi-molecular weight HA, this serum is known for its light, watery texture that sinks in quickly without any noticeable residue. It's a simple, no-fuss hydrator that works well for all skin types.
Verdict: Both are effective hydrators. If you are sensitive to tacky textures, The Inkey List provides a more pleasant and fast-absorbing user experience.
So, which brand is better? The answer depends entirely on you.
Choose The Ordinary if:
- You are an experienced skincare user who understands active ingredients.
- You want the absolute highest potency of a single ingredient for the lowest price.
- You don't mind a clinical feel and potentially tricky textures.
Choose The Inkey List if:
- You are a beginner looking for an easy-to-understand entry into active ingredients.
- You prioritize a smooth, cosmetically elegant texture that layers well.
- You appreciate straightforward product names and practical packaging.
Both brands offer incredible value and are excellent tools for creating an effective, affordable skincare regimen. The best choice is the one that fits your knowledge level, skin priorities, and daily routine. Ready to fit these into your routine? Explore our complete How to Build an Effective Skincare Routine on a Budget for more insights and product recommendations.
