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If you’re dipping into the world of azelaic acid, you’ve probably noticed two wallet-friendly heavyweights on the shelf: The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% and The Inkey List Azelaic Acid Serum. Both promise brighter, smoother skin without the luxury price tag — but which one actually fits your routine? Our The Ordinary Azelaic Acid vs The Inkey List review will help you choose the right one.
Here’s the quick verdict: The Ordinary is ultra-budget and simple, best for minimalists who don’t mind a heavier texture. The Inkey List is still affordable but feels more elegant, with added soothing and brightening ingredients that make it easier to use daily.
Why this matters: Skincare isn’t just about the active — it’s about the experience. The best product is the one you’ll actually enjoy enough to use consistently.
The Ordinary Azelaic Acid vs The Inkey List: Comparison Table
| Feature | The Ordinary Azelaic Acid | The Inkey List Azelaic Acid |
|---|---|---|
 |  | |
| Best for | Budget minimalists | Daily users who want smoother texture |
| Formula | 10% azelaic acid suspension | Azelaic acid + allantoin + brightening support |
| Texture | Thick, sometimes gritty | Lightweight cream-serum |
| Irritation Risk | Moderate (barebones) | Lower (added soothing ingredients) |
| Daily Use Comfort | Functional, not indulgent | Smooth, wearable, routine-friendly |
| Price |  | |
The Inkey List vs The Ordinary Azelaic Acid: Design & Usability
The Ordinary:
Comes in a practical tube, with a silicone-based suspension. The texture is thick and can feel gritty, especially if you try to layer it under sunscreen or makeup. It’s fragrance-free and functional — but not luxurious.
The Inkey List:
Packaged in a small tube with The Inkey’s signature minimal black-and-white branding. The serum has a lightweight cream texture, far smoother than The Ordinary. It spreads easily, absorbs quickly, and feels more like traditional skincare than a treatment paste.
👉 Verdict: The Inkey List wins for texture. The Ordinary gets points for no-nonsense simplicity, but many people stop using it because of the feel.
Performance & Features
The Ordinary:
Straight 10% azelaic acid. It targets redness, post-acne marks, and uneven tone effectively. But because it’s barebones, there are no extra ingredients to calm irritation or boost hydration. Some users also report pilling when layered.
The Inkey List:
Also uses azelaic acid, but in a smoother cream-serum formula with added ingredients like allantoin and micro-fine powder for brightening and soothing. This makes it gentler, more versatile, and easier to tolerate for daily use.
👉 Verdict: Both offer azelaic acid’s skin-brightening benefits, but The Inkey List brings backup players that make it easier to stick with long term.
Ease of Maintenance & Longevity
The Ordinary:
Hard to beat for affordability. You can keep repurchasing without guilt. But if the gritty texture bothers you, it might end up collecting dust in your drawer.
The Inkey List:
Costs a bit more than The Ordinary but still under drugstore-friendly pricing. Its smoother feel means you’ll be more likely to use it daily, which is the real key to results.
👉 Verdict: The Ordinary is unbeatable for price; The Inkey List is better for daily consistency.
Pros and Cons
The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%
Pros
- Very affordable
- Potent 10% concentration
- Simple, fragrance-free formula
Cons
- Thick, gritty texture
- Can pill under products
- No soothing or hydrating extras
The Inkey List Azelaic Acid Serum
Pros
- Lightweight, smooth cream-serum texture
- Added soothing ingredients (like allantoin)
- Brightening support beyond just azelaic acid
- Still budget-friendly
Cons
- Slightly pricier than The Ordinary
- Smaller size per tube
- More ingredients = more chances of sensitivity in some skin
| Feature | The Ordinary Azelaic Acid | The Inkey List Azelaic Acid |
|---|---|---|
| | |
| Best for | Budget minimalists | Daily users who want smoother texture |
| Formula | 10% azelaic acid suspension | Azelaic acid + allantoin + brightening support |
| Texture | Thick, sometimes gritty | Lightweight cream-serum |
| Irritation Risk | Moderate (barebones) | Lower (added soothing ingredients) |
| Daily Use Comfort | Functional, not indulgent | Smooth, wearable, routine-friendly |
| Price | | |
Major Differences
What really separates them comes down to formula feel and philosophy:
- The Ordinary: Pure active, minimal base, gritty texture — it’s skincare stripped down.
- The Inkey List: Adds soothing and brightening support for a smoother, gentler experience.
Think of it like coffee: The Ordinary is a straight espresso shot — strong, affordable, but maybe not enjoyable for everyone. The Inkey List is a cappuccino — still gives you the caffeine kick, but it’s smoother and easier to savor daily.
FAQs
Is The Inkey List stronger than The Ordinary?
Not really — both are built around azelaic acid at similar strengths. The difference is in formulation extras and texture.
Which one layers better with makeup?
The Inkey List. Its serum texture disappears under sunscreen and foundation, while The Ordinary can sometimes pill.
Which is better for sensitive skin?
The Inkey List, thanks to soothing add-ons like allantoin. The Ordinary is effective but can feel harsher.
Can I use both at the same time?
There’s no need. Pick the one that suits your skin feel and budget best, and stick with it for consistency.
Which is the better long-term investment?
If price is your priority, The Ordinary wins. If daily comfort keeps you consistent, The Inkey List may actually deliver better results over time.
Bottom Line
If you’re a skincare minimalist on a tight budget, The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% will give you results without breaking the bank. But if you want a smoother, gentler formula that feels good and keeps you consistent, The Inkey List Azelaic Acid Serum is the affordable upgrade worth choosing.
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About the Author
LuxuryShimmer delivers skincare comparisons with a beauty-magazine twist. From affordable cult favorites to luxe splurges, we break down what’s hype and what’s holy grail so your skin — and your wallet — get the best.