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Ask anyone what some of the most effective skincare ingredients are, and I guarantee that they will all mention retinol. Renowned for its ability to speed up cell turnover and reveal your glowiest complexion yet, there’s a reason lots of people are adding a retinol serum to their skincare routine. Here’s the thing: as amazing as this ingredient is, it’s also powerful. Those of you who use it regularly will know that it’s important to start slow, applying a pea-sized amount once or twice a week to see how your skin reacts. If I’m being honest, as much as I want to be a regular retinol user, I’ve always been a bit afraid of the stuff.
So, when I heard that one of my favourite skincare brands, The Inkey List, was launching a retinol serum specifically for beginners, I was intrigued. Enter the Starter Retinol Serum. I’ve now been testing this product for almost a month, and can confidently say that it’s one of the best retinol products I’ve tried. If you want to know more, I’ve written a full review below. You are welcome.
The Inkey List Starter Retinol Serum Review
The Formula
As mentioned, this formula has been designed with retinol newbies and people with sensitive skin in mind. So, how does it do it? In terms of retinol, it features a slow-release dual-retinoid complex that gently speeds up cell turnover. However, that’s not all. It is also packed with ingredients to help boost your skin barrier, because as we know, a compromised barrier can result in dry, itchy or irritated skin.
A lipid complex hydrates the skin, counteracting that dreaded feeling of dryness that retinol can often cause, whilst 0.2% symrelief calms, soothes and reduces redness.
The Application
In terms of application, I’ve been taking a pea-sized amount of the product and applying it three nights a week after cleansing my face. I’ve also been doing what I like to call a retinol sandwich (I believe the original term is a moisture sandwich), in which I apply my moisturiser before applying my retinol serum, and then lock the serum in with another layer of moisturiser on top.
The Results
My skin, without makeup, after testing The Inkey List Starter Retinol Serum.
I couldn’t recommend this serum enough. It’s one of the only retinol products I’ve tried that hasn’t left my skin irritated, and although I’ve only been using it for a few weeks, I already feel like my skin is looking brighter and more radiant. Plus, my skin texture feels a whole lot smoother. As someone who has always suffered with clogged pores and textured skin, this is a huge win.
I am so happy I have finally found a simple yet effective retinol serum to slot into my sensitive skincare routine, and I love that The Inkey List has made a somewhat overwhelming skincare product feel a lot less complicated. This product is a dream to apply, and the fact that I wake up without any redness is quite literally a miracle. Trust me, I don’t say that lightly.
Shop The Inkey List Starter Retinol Serum
The Inkey List
Starter Retinol Serum
If you’re wanting to start your retinol journey in 2026, add this to your skincare routine ASAP.
Pros
- Affordable
- Great for retinol beginners and those with sensitive skin
Cons
- Might not be powerful enough for those of you who use retinol regularly
Shop More Beginner-Friendly Serums
Medik8
Crystal Retinal 1 Serum
Medik8’s bestselling Crystal Retinal Serum comes in five strengths, from 0.01% to 0.2%, so you can choose a product depending on where you are in your skincare journey.
Byoma
Sensitive Retinol Oil
This face oil is designed for sensitive skin and first-time retinol users, and features the brand’s proprietary barrier lipid complex to keep skin irritation-free.
CeraVe
Resurfacing Retinol Serum
Kiehl’s
Retinol Skin-Renewing Daily Micro-Dose Serum
Suitable for first-time retinol users, this Kiehl’s serum features retinol, peptides and ceramides to keep skin happy.
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