Welcome to the INKEY Blog. Where we spread and share our skincare knowledge with you!
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Mineral vs chemical sunscreen: one of skincare’s biggest debates - and one of its most misunderstood. Both protect effectively against UV damage, but they differ in texture, finish, and wearability. This guide breaks down the real science behind both filter types, the truth about “chemical sunscreen” myths, and how to choose the SPF you’ll actually wear every day.
SPF 30 or SPF 50? The difference is smaller than most people think - but how you apply sunscreen matters far more than the number on the bottle. In this evidence-based guide, we break down what SPF ratings actually mean, why most people aren’t getting the protection they think they are, when SPF 50 is genuinely worth it, and how UV exposure changes across different US climates. From tanning myths to application mistakes, this is your practical, no-nonsense guide to choosing the right SPF for your skin, lifestyle, and daily routine.
Reapplying sunscreen is the part of SPF that actually keeps your skin protected - but for most people, makeup gets in the way. This guide explains why sunscreen needs topping up throughout the day, how often to reapply, and the easiest ways to layer SPF over makeup without ruining your base. From beauty blender techniques to common SPF mistakes, here’s everything you need to know for real-world sun protection.
Daily SPF is not just a summer habit - it is one of the most important long-term investments you can make in your skin health. In this guide, we break down the science behind year-round UV exposure, explain the difference between UVA and UVB rays, and explore why winter, cloudy days, indoor light through windows, and even daily commutes still expose your skin to cumulative damage. Backed by clinical research and UK seasonal UV data, this article explains exactly how daily broad-spectrum SPF helps prevent premature ageing, pigmentation, collagen breakdown, and long-term skin damage - while showing you how to build an effective winter skincare routine around it.
Niacinamide is one of the most effective - and easiest - skincare ingredients to add to your routine. In this complete guide, discover exactly how to use niacinamide serum for clearer, more balanced skin, including when to apply it, how to layer it correctly, what products pair best with it, and how long results realistically take. Whether your skin is oily, dry, blemish-prone, or sensitive, this guide breaks down the routines, mistakes to avoid, and expert application tips that make niacinamide work harder for your skin.
Learn how long skincare products really last, what the PAO symbol means, and how to store your skincare properly to keep formulas safe, stable, and effective. From Vitamin C and retinoids to cleansing balms and eye creams, this complete guide explains what causes products to expire, when a skincare fridge helps (and when it doesn’t), plus the warning signs a product has gone off.
Skincare acids can transform your skin — when you know which one to use. From glycolic acid for glow and texture, to salicylic acid for breakouts and PHAs for sensitive skin, this guide breaks down exactly what each acid does, who it’s best for, and how to use it safely for clearer, brighter, healthier-looking skin.
Men’s skin is biologically different - producing more oil, experiencing regular shaving stress, and often dealing with larger pores, congestion, and sensitivity. This complete guide breaks down exactly how to build an effective men’s skincare routine, from cleansing and hydration to shaving care, beard maintenance, and product layering. Whether you are starting from scratch or refining your current routine, discover the essential ingredients, routines, and expert-backed tips that help keep male skin clear, healthy, and protected every day
Your skin doesn’t need the same routine all year round - and treating it like it does could be holding your skin back. From winter dryness and barrier disruption to summer oiliness and breakouts, seasonal changes directly affect how your skin behaves. In this complete guide, we break down exactly how to adapt your skincare routine for spring, summer, autumn, and winter, including the products to switch, the ingredients to prioritise, and the signs your skin is giving you each season. Whether your skin is feeling dehydrated, congested, dull, or sensitive, this guide will help you build a routine that works with your skin all year long.
Your skin deserves more than a one-size-fits-all routine. This complete skincare guide breaks down exactly how to build an effective AM and PM routine based on your skin type - whether you’re oily, dry, combination, sensitive, or blemish-prone. From identifying your true skin type to choosing the right actives, layering products correctly, and avoiding the most common skincare mistakes, this guide gives you everything you need to create a routine that actually works. Featuring step-by-step routines, expert ingredient advice, and tailored product recommendations from The INKEY List.
Discover whether vitamin C really causes breakouts - and why the answer is more nuanced than you think. This guide breaks down the difference between purging and true breakouts, explains how formulation and ingredient choice impact blemish-prone skin, and explores why vitamin C can actually help reduce inflammation and fade post-blemish marks. Learn how to introduce vitamin C safely into your routine, what ingredients to avoid pairing it with, and why gentle derivatives like Ascorbyl Glucoside may be the key to brighter, clearer-looking skin
Think hyaluronic acid is only for dry or aging skin? Think again. If your skin is blemish-prone, breakout-prone, or constantly feels stripped by spot treatments, hyaluronic acid may be the missing step in your routine. Far from clogging pores or causing breakouts, this lightweight humectant helps replenish hydration, support the skin barrier, and create healthier conditions for clearer skin. In this guide, we break down exactly how hyaluronic acid works for blemish-prone skin, whether it can trigger spots, how it supports recovery from breakouts, and the best way to layer it into your routine using INKEY favourites like the Hyaluronic Acid Serum, Salicylic Acid Cleanser, and Omega Water Cream.
Niacinamide is one of the most effective and well-tolerated ingredients for blemish-prone skin - and the science behind it is stronger than most people realise. This guide breaks down exactly how niacinamide helps reduce breakouts through four clinically backed mechanisms: calming inflammation, regulating excess oil, supporting the skin barrier, and helping fade post-breakout marks. We also answer the most searched questions around niacinamide and acne - including whether it causes purging (it doesn’t), whether it can worsen breakouts, and how to build it into a routine that actually works.
Think oily skin doesn’t need hydration? Think again. Hyaluronic acid is one of the best ingredients for oily and blemish-prone skin because it hydrates with water - not oil. In this guide, we break down why oily skin can still be dehydrated, how hyaluronic acid helps balance excess sebum, and why pairing it with niacinamide creates the ultimate routine for clearer, healthier-looking skin. From debunking common myths to explaining the science behind hydration and oil production, discover exactly how to use hyaluronic acid for balanced, shine-controlled skin without heaviness or clogged pores.
If you’ve started using azelaic acid and suddenly noticed a few new blemishes, don’t panic - you may be experiencing a temporary skin adjustment known as purging. In this guide, we break down exactly how azelaic acid works, whether it can truly cause purging, how long it typically lasts, and how to tell the difference between purging and a real breakout or irritation reaction. You’ll also learn how to minimize the likelihood of purging with the right routine and discover when it’s time to pause and seek advice. Featuring INKEY’s 10% Azelaic Acid Serum, this blog covers everything you need to feel confident introducing this redness-reducing, blemish-targeting ingredient into your skincare routine.
Smart skinimalism is the 2026 skincare trend redefining results through simplicity. Backed by science, this approach prioritises skin barrier health and multi-functional ingredients over excessive layering. Discover why simplified routines can reduce irritation by up to 40% and how to build an effective, evidence-based 3-step routine for healthier, more resilient skin.
Struggling with persistent breakouts, pigmentation, or excess oil? The 360 Acne Clearing Serum is here to change your skincare game. This all-in-one formula is designed to visibly improve blemish-prone skin by targeting every stage of a breakouts.
Experiencing blemish-prone skin? You’re not alone. Did you know that breakouts will affect 90% of the global population at some stage in their lives? Whether it's blemishes or breakouts, pre, during or post, we’re here to help you at every stage and get you on the right path to clearer-looking skin.
Salicylic acid (BHA) is one of the most reliable, science-backed ingredients for tackling acne, blackheads, and excess oil—because it’s oil-soluble, it can work inside pores (not just on the surface). In this guide, we break down exactly what salicylic acid is, how it works, and how to use it safely for clearer, smoother skin, including tips on layering and what to expect during the adjustment phase. You’ll also find product guidance for every stage of blemishes, from our bestselling 2% Salicylic Acid Cleanser and advanced 360 Skin Clearing Serum to fast-acting Hydrocolloid Invisible Pimple Patches proven to reduce breakouts in as little as 4 hours.
NEW
Let’s face it, dealing with acne can be frustrating, but with the right skincare products, you CAN effectively combat breakouts and achieve clearer, healthier skin. In this blog post, we will discuss several recommended product types.
NEW
Introducing new Acne Clearing Moisturizer 2% NovoRetinᵀᴹ. A breakthrough moisturizer that’s clinically proven to help fight and reduce acne blemishes overnight while providing the essential moisturisation that is needed for acne-prone skin.
If you struggle with breakouts, you’ve probably heard of these ingredients before: Salicylic Acid and Benzoyl Peroxide. Both are key for keeping skin clear and smooth, but they do so in totally different ways.
Benzoyl Peroxide is the gold standard FDA approved skincare ingredient in treating acne. If you answer yes to any of these signs, then using Acne Solution with 5% Benzoyl Peroxide Cleanser might be one for you to consider adding to your skincare routine.
If curing acne has been your main skincare goal, chances are, you have heard or have been recommended to try benzoyl peroxide. We breaking down what exactly Benzoyl Peroxide is it is, what benefits this ingredient has to offer and what your best options are for your own skincare journey.
Meet, Real Results with INKEY. This is our dedicated series where our customers will share their reviews and INKEY products recommendations. This week we look at before and after transformations of acne on the chin and cheek areas.
If you’ve been battling oily skin with harsh cleansers, strong toners, or skipping moisturiser altogether, there’s a good chance you’re accidentally triggering even more oil. The truth: sebum is protective — the goal is balanced production, not total elimination. This comprehensive guide explains the science behind oily skin and highlights four proven ingredients that help control oil without over-drying: niacinamide, salicylic acid, dioic acid, and omega fatty acids. You’ll also get a complete morning and evening routine with INKEY List product recommendations, plus the smartest way to build it gradually to avoid irritation and rebound shine.
Consider us your token skincare friend. Meet, Real Results with INKEY. This is our dedicated series where we pass off the mic to our very own customers, who will share their reviews and recommendations on some of our products.
Why does it seem like products become less effective over time? There are a few reasons why this might be the case. We’ll break down the most common reasons we get this question below.
Clogged pores occur when oil and dead skin cells build up inside of pore linings and they expand to accommodate it. Here are our derm-recommended tips for dramatically smaller-looking pores.
Acne is one of the most common (not to mention frustrating) skin concerns, but many people feel confused about what causes it and (most importantly) what you can do about it. With a consistent routine and effective ingredients, you can fight acne and maintain clear skin—all for under $15.
It’s fair to say that acne is usually associated with oily skin, or those with normal to combination skin who also experience excess oil. It is less common, but dry skin types can absolutely experience acne, and it can be a hard situation to address – particularly when deciding which skincare to use.
Succinic acid is naturally anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial, meaning it works well to curb acne symptoms, where skin suffers redness, irritation and inflammation. Learn more about the benefits Succinic Acid has and how to use it in your skincare routine
Whilst it’s typically seen as a condition that dominates the hormone charged teenage years, acne isn’t age discriminatory and can also appear in its adult form age 25+ and even into the 30s and 40s. Learn more about what causes acne and how to target and treat adult acne.
Congestion in the skin can be a precursor to acne and breakouts. We often receive your concerns around blocked pores but let’s explore skin congestion, its causes and ways to prevent it.
Acne is one of the main concerns we hear about at askINKEY. Prevention is the best cure for acne, here’s our top tips to help you treat your breakouts.
It’s a common skincare myth to assume that moisturizers and oils will increase the shine on already oily skin types and add to acne breakouts. Before you skip this essential step, we explore how these products can work with your skin to actually balance oil production as opposed to adding to it.
However tempting it is, popping pimples can do more damage than good if extractions are not done professionally. Blemishes closer to the surface of our skin such as whiteheads and blackheads come with less risk factor than deeper rooted and inflamed breakouts but can still impact the healing process and spread bacteria. However tempting it is, popping pimples can do more damage than good if extractions are not done professionally.
Navigating the world of acne can be a maze of different types and manifestations - from nodules to papules and a variety of comedones in between. To treat effectively, it’s important to know what you’re working with first. Learn more about the types of acne and the INKEY List product that can help you achieve your clearest skin.
Dr Zion and askINKEY’s Tom walked through a 5-step routine sharing their top tips on how to best treat your acne.
If your skin has ever seemed to get worse after starting a new active like retinol or acids, don’t panic—this may be skin purging. Purging is a temporary phase where ingredients that speed up cell turnover bring existing congestion to the surface more quickly, which can look like sudden breakouts. While frustrating, it’s often a sign that your product is working, and understanding this process can help you stay consistent and avoid giving up just before clearer, healthier skin starts to show.
Having been introduced as a preventative measure to stop the spread of COVID-19, the face mask has brought with it it’s own skincare epidemic known as ‘Maskne’. With many of us experiencing regular mask usage in our day to day, these side effects have surged and prompted a skincare shake up. Find out what INKEY List products are best to tackle and prevent Maskne.
Back acne and chest acne affect millions of people each year, with research showing that up to 60% of those who experience facial breakouts also struggle with body acne. From clogged pores and excess oil to sweat, friction, and hormonal changes, back acne can be stubborn and difficult to treat without the right approach. The good news is that body breakouts are highly treatable with science-backed ingredients like salicylic acid and glycolic acid, specifically formulated to work on thicker body skin. In this complete guide, we’ll break down what causes back and chest acne, how to get rid of back acne fast using proven routines and products, and the best prevention strategies to help keep your skin clear long term.
From cleansing the skin to managing oil production, there are several ways to treat and bust blemishes fast! Learn about our acne hero products and more tips on fighting blemishes and preventing further breakouts.
