Buzz
Even the most seasoned skincare enthusiasts would agree that navigating the current product landscape can be overwhelming. With new beauty brands launching every day and an ever-changing list of ingredients claiming superior performance, it can be challenging to find a routine that works effectively for your skin.
This could explain the growing popularity of brands like The Inkey List, an affordable skincare brand that focuses on single-ingredient products and simple branding. This straightforward approach helps consumers identify the products that will benefit their skin and decide how to combine them, according to Dr. Carmen Castilla, a board-certified dermatologist in New York. Dr. Lauren Penzi, another board-certified New York dermatologist, adds, “Products designed to address multiple skin concerns and packed with too many active ingredients can often be too harsh on the skin, making them difficult to tolerate.”
In September, The Inkey List introduced its Supersolutions line—a range of products targeting individual skin concerns such as redness, dryness, and acne—formulated with active ingredients that are clinically proven to work. Dermatologists have played a role in developing each of the five products in the line. (Neither of the dermatologists cited in this article is affiliated with The Inkey List.)
“Supersolutions products contain active ingredients comparable to prescription-grade formulas. While the concentrations are lower than prescription strength, consistent use may yield effective results,” explains Dr. Castilla. However, she notes that although the brand has used observational studies to assess the products’ efficacy, these studies have been quite small, with fewer than 22 participants.
The Supersolutions products are distinct from The Inkey List’s regular range, which also features single-ingredient options but with lower concentrations of certain active ingredients and have not been developed specifically by a team of dermatologists.
Clinical-grade skincare can be out of reach for many, with some products priced as high as $250 each. The Supersolutions line, however, offers a more affordable option. Still, Dr. Castilla cautions that, “When building a skincare routine, purchasing several single-ingredient products may end up costing more in the long run than opting for one product with multiple ingredients.”
Whether you're dealing with post-acne marks, dry irritated patches, or excessive oil, the entire Supersolutions range is available for you to explore. Mix and match to create a personalized skincare routine, and discover more insights from dermatologists about the specific ingredients used in each product.
1.The solution for dry and rough skin
Urea concentrations ranging from 2% to 10% are known to offer excellent hydration for dry skin, according to Dr. Penzi. Clinical studies on urea-based products have shown significant improvements in skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis and xerosis, which are marked by scaly, dry patches.
This fast-absorbing moisturizer contains 10% urea in a lightweight formula that doesn't feel heavy or suffocating on the skin. Ideal for treating red, flaky areas and strengthening a compromised skin barrier, the inclusion of 1% colloidal oat helps to calm irritation, making it suitable for those with eczema or psoriasis-prone skin.
The Inkey List advises against pairing this product with benzoyl peroxide, BHAs, AHAs, or retinol.
Promising review: "I've struggled with eczema on my face since I was 12, and it’s been hard to manage. Since using this, my skin has cleared up completely. I still get flare-ups when stressed, but this calms my skin within 10 minutes—it's incredible!" —Danielle
Get it from The Inkey List and Sephora for $19.99.
2.The solution for acne
This gel-like cleanser is designed to tackle persistent acne without causing the irritation and dryness often associated with benzoyl peroxide, an acne-fighting ingredient. Dr. Penzi notes that a 5% concentration of benzoyl peroxide has been proven to be just as effective as 10%, but with less irritation.
To further reduce irritation, The Inkey List has incorporated hydrating ingredients like glycerin and hyaluronic acid, which draw moisture into the skin and lock it in, even after the cleanser is rinsed off.
Promising review: "I've dealt with acne for years, and as I’ve gotten older, it’s only gotten worse. I’ve tried just about every product claiming to help. This one has made such a difference—my skin is almost clear! I can’t believe how much it’s helped restore my confidence. Now, when I work in retail, people notice my clear skin and bright smile instead of pimples and blemishes." —Morgan
Get it from The Inkey List and Sephora for $17.99.
3.The solution for redness relief
Dr. Castilla mentions that clinical studies back the use of azelaic acid, one of the key ingredients in this product, for its ability to reduce redness. It also features the soothing properties of allantoin and micro-fine green particles, which help counteract the appearance of redness.
With its smooth texture, the serum is free from white casts and resistant to pilling, making it easy to layer underneath other products or makeup to further mask redness.
Promising review: "I’ve incorporated this into my morning routine, and I've really noticed a difference over the weeks. My skin is much less red on my cheeks and chin. If you suffer from red blotches like I did, I would definitely recommend this." —Jaimie M.
Get it from The Inkey List and Sephora for $17.99.
4.The solution for excess oil
If you're even slightly familiar with skincare, you've probably encountered niacinamide—an antioxidant that works well with all skin types and helps address issues ranging from excess oil to uneven skin texture. The Supersolutions formula features a 20% concentration of niacinamide, paired with zinc to target sebum buildup and squalene to moisturize the skin.
Dr. Castilla notes that while a 20% concentration of niacinamide is quite potent and could potentially cause irritation, the inclusion of squalene, a fatty acid, helps to protect the skin barrier and prevent discomfort.
Promising review: "I'm excited to share my experience with this serum. Since adding it to my routine, I've noticed a significant reduction in blemishes and imperfections. This serum has been a game-changer for my skin, and I’m so happy to have found a product that works! If you're struggling with skin concerns, I highly recommend giving this serum a try — it might just be the solution you've been seeking!" —Silvan
Get it from The Inkey List and Sephora for $17.99.
5.The solution for scars, marks, and wrinkles
Many dermatologists agree that retinol is one of the most crucial ingredients in any skincare routine. By boosting cell turnover, retinol helps to resurface the skin and can reduce the visibility of post-acne scars, dark spots, and wrinkles.
This serum contains the highest concentration of retinol offered by The Inkey List, at 1%, paired with the hydrating benefits of apricot kernel oil and squalane to protect the skin from moisture loss and minimize irritation.
“While 1% is a high concentration, the actual strength depends on the retinol molecule itself,” explained Dr. Castilla.
Promising review: "I was nervous this would be too harsh for my skin since other retinol products have caused irritation and breakouts in the past. But this one is so gentle, non-irritating, and effective. My stubborn acne scars, which I've had for years, are fading slowly. I’m also seeing some improvement in fine lines and wrinkles, though that wasn’t my main concern when I chose this product. I use it every other night and pair it with the Q10 serum on the other nights." —Jenny
Available at The Inkey List and Sephora for $24.99.
