The Intro Routine for Anti-Aging

The Intro Routine for Anti-Aging is for the stage where you've noticed a few fine lines that weren't there before, or skin that feels a little less firm than it used to. The INKEY List builds it as four steps that hydrate, firm and plump while softening the look of lines and wrinkles — cleanse, hydrate, treat with retinol, then seal with ceramides.

Step 1 — Clean	Oat Cleansing Balm
Step 2 — Hydrate	Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Step 3 — Treat	Retinol Serum — slow-release form
Step 4 — Moisturise	Bio-Active Ceramide Repairing and Plumping Moisturizer

What it actually does

• Dissolves makeup properly first. The Oat Cleansing Balm is described as a deep cleanse that breaks down visible makeup residue, including waterproof and long-wear formulas — which matters, because retinol can't work through a film of foundation.
• Hydrates before it treats. The Hyaluronic Acid Serum is The INKEY List's best-selling product, and the brand reports clinical testing showing hydration that is both immediate and lasting, with a non-tacky feel.
• Uses a gentler retinol. The Retinol Serum is formulated with a slow-release, lower-irritation form of retinol, aimed at early signs of ageing and at hyperpigmentation.
• Seals with ceramides. The Bio-Active Ceramide moisturiser is a rich, velvety final layer the brand positions as a defence against visible signs of skin ageing.
• Covers both firmness and texture. Between the hydration, the retinol and the ceramides, the routine is aimed at skin that feels slacker as well as skin showing lines.

How to use

1. Clean. Massage a raspberry-sized amount of Oat Cleansing Balm into damp face and neck for at least a minute, then rinse away completely with water.
2. Hydrate. Add a few drops of Hyaluronic Acid Serum.
3. Treat. Work a pea-sized amount of Retinol Serum across face and neck.
4. Moisturise. Finish with a blueberry-sized amount of the Bio-Active Ceramide Repairing and Plumping Moisturizer over face and neck.
5. Both AM and PM are fine for this sequence. If you're new to retinol, build up slowly and keep daily sunscreen non-negotiable.

Is it right for you?

Questions

Is the retinol in this set strong?

It's the brand's slow-release version, chosen specifically to be less irritating — which is why this is framed as an introductory anti-ageing routine rather than an advanced one.

Does it help with dark marks as well as lines?

The Retinol Serum is described as targeting hyperpigmentation alongside early signs of ageing, so uneven tone is within its remit. Pigmentation responds slowly, so judge it over months rather than weeks.

Is sunscreen included?

No. The set covers cleanser, hydration, retinol and moisturiser. You'll want your own SPF, particularly because retinol makes daily sun protection more important, not less.

How quickly will it reach me?

Delivery takes 3 to 21 working days, depending on availability. In-stock routines go out at the quick end; anything ordered in for you lands later in the window. Working days exclude weekends and official holidays.

What can I pay with?

Credit card, debit card, Instapay and mobile wallets. There is no cash on delivery option.

Can I return it if the retinol irritates my skin?

Unfortunately not — our returns cover defective, damaged or expired items only, reported within 1 day of delivery, with refunds issued to the original payment method within 15–30 days. That's exactly why we'd recommend patch testing and starting the retinol slowly.