Welcome to the INKEY Blog. Where we spread and share our skincare knowledge with you!

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.

Salicylic acid is a skincare staple for a reason: as an oil-soluble BHA, it gets into pores to help clear acne, blackheads, and excess oil while smoothing texture over time. In this complete guide, we break down what salicylic acid is, how it works, and how to use it safely—plus the best INKEY options for every stage of blemishes, from our bestselling 2% Salicylic Acid Cleanser to the advanced 360 Skin Clearing Serum and fast-acting Hydrocolloid Invisible Pimple Patches. Whether you’re new to BHAs or refining your routine, you’ll find science-backed tips on layering, results timelines, and avoiding irritation for clearer, more balanced skin.

Phytic Acid is an antioxidant Alpha-Hydroxy Acid (AHA) derived from micro-algae. It’s extracted from the natural environment first, then scaled up synthetically in bioreactors, which makes it a sustainable resource in the skincare industry.

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.

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

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.

Keeping pores clean and clear is a fundamental objective within most skincare routines - whether it’s to reduce breakouts, brighten the tone or even the texture. Whatever your reason, there are varying degrees of treatments and products available to serve this cause - including the classic pore strip. We explain how pore strips work, how they can cause damage to the skin and some INKEY alternatives you can use to unclog pores and get rid of blackheads

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.

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.

Blackheads are essentially a blocked hair follicle or sebaceous gland that has been plugged by a tasty combination of excess sebum (skin oil), dirt, debris or dead skin. Learn more about what blackheads are, what causes them and how to get rid of them using INKEY's targeted treatments

Beta Hydroxy Acids are oil soluble chemical exfoliators and a great choice for oily and breakout prone skin. They work deeper in the skin than Alpha Hydroxy Acids, and can help unclog pores and target blackheads.