Retinol Serum
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The INKEY List Retinol Serum scores 6.8/9.8 overall. It ranks highest in low irritation risk (9.5) and formulation safety (9.0).
✶ Hero ingredients
Lightweight oil that mimics skin's natural sebum
One of the most effective humectants
Vitamin A derivative that promotes cell turnover
Score breakdown
Estimated — based on ingredient analysis. Scores refine as user reviews are added.
Scores last verified: July 2026
What makes The INKEY List Retinol Serum stand out
The INKEY List Retinol Serum is a solid serum with an overall score of 6.8/9.8. Positioned in the budget bracket, it delivers a well-rounded formulation that balances efficacy with gentleness. The formula leads with Squalane, Glycerin, Retinol — ingredients that support the skin barrier and moisture levels.
It performs well on low irritation risk (9.5). On the flip side, active ingredient concentration is on the lighter side.
Is this right for you?
Great for
- ✓Sensitive skin — low irritation risk with a gentle formulation
- ✓Safety-conscious shoppers — clean formulation with minimal flags
- ✓Ingredient-aware buyers — transparent, well-documented formula
May not suit
- ⚠Those seeking potent actives — this leans more maintenance than treatment
Key ingredients
- ✶Squalane
Softens and smooths — #2 in the INCI list
- ✶Glycerin
Draws in moisture — #3 in the INCI list
- ✶Retinol
Works on your skin — #4 in the INCI list
- ✶Granactive Retinoid
Works on your skin — #5 in the INCI list
- ✶Dimethicone
Softens and smooths — #6 in the INCI list
Full ingredient list
13 ingredients — listed in INCI order (highest concentration first)
Compare with similar products
- Lancôme Renergie C.R.X. Triple Serum Retinol9.7
- INNBEAUTY PROJECT Pro C Serum Brightening Solution with 15% Vitamin C + Ferulic Acid9.7
- innisfree Vitamin C Brightening Serum-Infused Mask for Dark Spots9.7
- Skinfix barrier+ Triple Lipid Activating Serum With Plumping Peptides and Niacinamide9.6
- innisfree Gentle Retinol + Salicylic Acid Acne Serum for Blemishes + Post-Acne Scars9.6
Ingredient breakdown
- Softens and smooths3
- Holds the formula together3
- Other ingredient2
- Works on your skin2
- Keeps the product fresh2
- Draws in moisture1