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Skin /
Serums /
1% Retinol Serum

1% Retinol Serum | The INKEY List

Name: 1% Retinol Serum
Brand: The INKEY List UK
SKU: IF041KE
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.3 (418 reviews)

Targets stubborn marks, scars or wrinkles which give the appearance of uneven texture and tone.

4.3

Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars

4.3 Stars (418 Reviews)

£17.25 ~~£23.00~~ / 30ml

or £16.10

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Worth 85 Points

What you get: A powerful, targeted scar reduction serum with our highest level of Retinol (1%) to help fade the look of marks, reduce wrinkle depth and smooth uneven skin texture.

Why it works: 1% Retinol helps to resurface skin and target the appearance of persistent scarring and deep wrinkles. 5% Apricot Kernel Oil and 2% Squalane support the skin barrier and help prevent moisture loss.

How it feels: Lightweight, creamy, fast-absorbing. No greasiness or stickiness.

When to use: PM only. Start slowly—use 1x every 5–7 days, then increase to 2–3x per week as skin builds tolerance.

Suitable for:

Oily skin
Normal skin
Combination skin

Targets:

Stubborn fine lines & wrinkles
Post-acne scars & marks
Uneven skin texture & tone

How to Use

PM only. After cleansing and hydrating with your chosen hydrator, apply a pea-sized amount of this 1% Retinol Serum to face and neck. Gently pat into skin.

Follow with

Moisturiser.

Finish with SPF in your AM routine.

INKEY Tip

If you’re new to Retinol or have sensitive skin, start with our Retinol Serum instead. 1% Retinol Scar, Mark and Wrinkle Solution is best for those already familiar with Retinol and looking to tackle more visible concerns.

Heads up

This formula contains 1% Retinol, which may cause purging or dryness as skin adjusts. Avoid layering with exfoliating acids (AHAs, BHAs, PHAs), Benzoyl Peroxide or Vitamin C in the same routine. When adding new products to your skincare routine, we always recommend patch testing. Learn more here.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place (15–25°C). Keep out of direct sunlight. Avoid eyes. For external use only. Keep out of reach of children.

Ingredients

1% Retinol : Supports skin renewal, targeting post-blemish marks, visible scarring and wrinkles.
5% Apricot Kernel Oil : Rich in fatty acids, helps protect against moisture loss and soothes dry skin.
2% Squalane : Helps support a healthy skin barrier while maintaining hydration.

Aqua (Water), Glycerin, Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Squalane, Retinol, Phenoxyethanol, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Benzyl Alcohol, Phospholipids, Tocopherol, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Ethylhexylglycerin, Glycolipids, Dehydroacetic Acid, Polysorbate 60, Sorbitan Isostearate, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Sterols, t-Butyl Alcohol.

Developed with Dermatologists

"I am proud that this product has been gently formulated so that you can get all the wonderful benefits of Retinol while minimizing the side effects of irritation. It's also lightweight and very fast absorbing".

- Dr Adeline Kikam. Dermatologist & Doctor, @brownskinderm

Learn more about the SuperSolutions range

FAQs

WHEN DO I USE THIS PRODUCT? PM only. Retinol can increase sun sensitivity, so apply in the evening and use SPF the next day.

IS THIS SUITABLE FOR SENSITIVE SKIN? No. If you’re new to Retinol or have sensitive skin, start with our Retinol Serum.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD I USE THIS? Start with once every 5–7 days, then increase to 2–3x per week.

CAN I USE THIS LONG-TERM? Yes. For best results, use consistently for at least 3 months. You can reduce frequency once you see improvement.

DO I NEED TO USE A MOISTURISER AFTER? Yes—this helps soothe and protect your skin barrier.

CAN I LAYER THIS WITH OTHER ACTIVES? Avoid using with AHAs, BHAs, PHAs, Benzoyl Peroxide or Vitamin C at the same time. Use Vitamin C in the AM, and Retinol in the PM.

CAN I USE WITH 10% AZELAIC REDNESS RELIEF SOLUTION? Yes. Use 10% Azelaic Acid Serum for Redness Relief in the AM and Retinol in the PM.

WHAT IF I HAVE BREAKOUTS? This product targets post-blemish marks—not active breakouts. Use after breakouts have cleared.

WHY IS MY SKIN PURGING? Purging is normal with stronger Retinols and can last up to 3 months. Stick with it.

HOW LONG TO SEE RESULTS? Visible results may take up to 6 weeks. For more persistent marks, it could take up to 3 months.

IS IT SAFE DURING PREGNANCY? No.

WHAT’S THE pH LEVEL?5–6

CAN I USE THIS WITH PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION? Check with your doctor first.

WHY IS IT YELLOW? That’s the Retinol. The yellow tint is natural.

No BS Skincare

Skincare can be confusing.

So we cut the BS, and get straight to the point. We simplify the INCI list - commonly known as the ingredients list, that every skincare product has. That’s also where we get our name from. We’re The INKEY List - here to help you get better skin with real knowledge and formulas that deliver. No BS. No hype. Just effective, science-backed skincare that does what it says it will. We show you what your skin needs, not what’s trending. Whether you’re new to skincare or have a solid routine, we’ve always got your back with innovation, education and clinically-proven results.

All at a price that makes sense.

INKEY. No BS, just better skin.

We are B CORP. Our products are formulated with responsibly sourced ingredients, and packaged with 100% recyclable materials. Skin needs love, but so does our planet.

Carbon Net-Zero. All our emissions are offset annually through planet friendly projects with a focus on education.

Approved under the Cruelty Free International Leaping Bunny programme.

100% of our packaging is recyclable. Learn how to recycle your INKEY List products.

Certified by The Vegan Society

This product is;

Dermalogically tested

Clinically tested

Fragrance-free

Gluten-free

After 28 days use, 86% agree the texture and discoloration of their acne marks and scars were visibly improved

*DISCLAIMER: 4 week independent consumer trial of 21 people under dermatological control
After 28 days use, 95% agree deep, stubborn wrinkles appeared smoother

DISCLAIMER : *4 week independent consumer trial of 21 people under dermatological control.
After 28 days use, 90% agree wrinkles, fine lines and crepiness around the eye area are less noticeable

DISCLAIMER : *4 week independent consumer trial of 21 people under dermatological control.
After 28 days use, 90% agree the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles were visibly reduced

DISCLAIMER : *4 week independent consumer trial of 21 people under dermatological control.

Delivery info

Standard tracked delivery (Evri)

£3.99 or FREE on orders over £30
(2-5 working days*)

Express tracked delivery (Evri)

£5.95 or FREE on orders £50+
(Up to 2 working days if ordered before 8pm, excluding weekends*)

*Find out more about delivery options and delivery area restrictions here.

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Should I be using 1% RETINOL?

Supersolution

Have you tried?

Supersolution

1% Retinol Serum

Suitable for...

•Targets stubborn post-acne marks, dark spots and deep wrinkles.
•INKEY's Highest strength Retinol
•Barrier-supportive formula
•Best for experienced Retinol users

£17.25 / 30ml

or

Have you tried?

Retinol Serum

Suitable for...

•Helps improve fine lines and skin texture
•Gentle Retinol for beginners
•Supports clearer, smoother-looking skin

£10.50 / 30ml

More Info

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4.3

Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars

Based on 418 reviews

Total 5 star reviews: 229 Total 4 star reviews: 114 Total 3 star reviews: 47 Total 2 star reviews: 19 Total 1 star reviews: 9

Reviews Summary

Customers say this skincare product absorbs well and has a smooth texture. Many reviews mention visible improvements in skin texture and appearance within weeks of use. While some note it can be strong for beginners, experienced users appreciate its effectiveness. Common feedback includes the product's gentle yet potent formula, though several mention packaging issues with product dispensing. Reviews indicate it works best when used gradually, with many suggesting starting with less frequent applications. Some users report initial adjustment periods, but most find it suitable for regular use in their nighttime routine.

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418 reviews

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Tester
Verified Buyer
I recommend this product
Sensitive Skin Friendly? Yes
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
2 days ago
You can definetely see a difference the next day
You can definetely see a difference the next day
Was this helpful?
Annie R.
Verified Buyer
I recommend this product
Age Range 65+
Skin Type Normal
Skin Concerns Fine Lines and Wrinkles, Plumping, Texture, Dryness
Sensitive Skin Friendly? Yes
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
2 weeks ago
Lovely serum
Great texture and no irritation. Good value as always with Inkey
Was this helpful?
Lina E.
Verified Buyer
I recommend this product
Age Range 25 - 34
Skin Type Combination
Skin Concerns Hyperpigmentation, Breakouts, Dryness, Fine Lines and Wrinkles, Acne Scars
Sensitive Skin Friendly? Yes
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
1 month ago
Works well
Works really well to even out skin texture
Was this helpful?

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1% Retinol Serum | The INKEY List

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Targets:

How to Use

Ingredients

Developed with Dermatologists

FAQs

No BS Skincare

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