When it comes to dehydrated skin, The Inkey List have been quietly and cleverly establishing themselves as the brand to beat. Their latest launch, The Inkey List Ectoin Hydro-Barrier Serum, feels like a love letter to thirsty, weather-beaten skin, tackling hydration and barrier repair with a sophisticated, fuss-free formula.
What is it?
A hydrating and skin barrier repairing serum designed to target dehydration, a compromised skin barrier, dryness, dullness and flakiness.
What Do I Think?
This lightweight serum is all about dual-action hydration – offering immediate moisture while working long-term to strengthen your skin’s barrier. Used daily, it leaves skin looking healthier, firmer, and gloriously bouncy, as though it’s been sleeping better than you have.
The magic lies in its ingredients. It features 2% Ectoin, a powerhouse active that both hydrates and supports the skin barrier, ensuring your face feels as good as it looks. Add to that a quartet of multi-molecular Hyaluronic Acids, which dive deep into the skin’s surface layers for hydration that truly lasts, and a Barrier Blend of three ceramides to lock everything in. This combination helps skin retain moisture effectively, making it ideal for those prone to dryness or dehydration.
The texture is what seals the deal. Milky and lotion-like, it glides on effortlessly, giving skin a satisfyingly quenched feel without any tackiness or residue. It absorbs quickly but leaves behind a subtle, flattering glow – the kind that glass-skin devotees will adore. If you’ve ever wondered what “healthy skin” looks like bottled, this might be it.
Launching just in time for the UK’s frosty weather, it’s a saviour for anyone battling tightness, flakiness, or the dreaded post-radiator dullness. The hydration is enduring too – no mid-afternoon misting or moisturising required. Paired with The Inkey List Bio-Active Ceramide Moisturiser, it turns your skin into the kind of plump, calm, and thoroughly nourished canvas that makes your makeup glide on – or lets you skip it altogether.
Would I recommend?
As ever with The Inkey List, this level of skincare savvy won’t break the bank. At just £15 for 30ml, it’s a brilliant addition to any routine, proving that high-performing skincare doesn’t have to come with a high price tag.
Brands Product Description
The Inkey List Ectoin Hydro-Barrier Serum is your daily non-negotiable for the ultimate healthy-looking skin. Clinically proven to restore skin bounce in 3 days* and deeply hydrate and strengthen the skin’s barrier in 15 minutes.
Key Ingredients
- 2% Ectoin – A multifunctional active that hydrates whist simultaneously supporting and strengthening skin’s barrier
- 2.5% Multi-Molecular Hyaluronic Acid – Contains 4 weights of Hyaluronic Acid to help deliver multi-level hydration within the skin’s surface
- 1% Barrier Blend – Includes three Ceramides to help protect and strengthen the skin’s barrier
How I Use It
I use this morning or evening after my most active serum (typically Vitamin C or a Retinoid serum), and then follow with moisturiser and sunscreen if using in the day.
Would I Repurchase/Buy?
Yes! It’s affordable and a total joy to use.
How Much?
£15.00 for 30ml
