The Ordinary vs The INKEY List.
The two budget ingredient-led brands compared across retinol, niacinamide, and hyaluronic.
The Ordinary
Retinol 1% in Squalane
$12 AUD · Retinol
The $12 retinol that ignited the budget-actives category. Squalane base, zero marketing.
Shop at Adore Beautyvs
The INKEY List
Retinol Serum
$18 AUD · Retinol
Encapsulated 1% retinol at $18 — the UK sibling The Ordinary didn't build.
Shop at Adore BeautyThe verdict
The Ordinary wins on price. The INKEY List on texture.
Both deliver real results at entry-level pricing. The Ordinary is slightly cheaper across the range; The INKEY List has marginally better textures and more approachable packaging. For hardcore budget-first shoppers, The Ordinary. For 'budget but not raw-chemistry' shoppers, The INKEY List.
Side by side
| The Ordinary | The INKEY List | |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price (AUD) | $12 | $18 |
| Entry-level retinol format | Suspension | Encapsulated |
| Fragrance-free range | Yes (most) | Yes |
| Packaging | Raw chemistry | Slightly refined |
| Best for | Hardcore budget | Texture-sensitive budget |
| Glow score | 8.5/10 | 8.4/10 |
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