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“Thanks so much—I was blessed with good genes.” That’s my patented response every time someone tells me how good my skin is. I’m 45 years old, but I frequently hear, “You look so young for your age!” For years, I’ve responded with that “good genes” line, and apparently it still rings true, since I still haven’t needed Botox.
Recently, though, I’ve started noticing that my skin is duller than it used to be. It just doesn’t have that glass skin-like texture I remember from my youth. On a mission to turn back the hands of time, I decided to supplement my actual good genes with the cult-favorite product that has Good Genes built right into its name. Ever since I incorporated Sunday Riley Good Genes All-In-One Lactic Acid Treatment ($76.98) into my daily skincare routine, I swear my skin has completely transformed—I was even carded by a bouncer at a bar only a week ago. Keep scrolling for my honest review of the serum that’s become a staple of my good genes routine.
Pros:
- Only need one pump for entire face and neck
- Lightweight
- Sinks into skin immediately
- Lactic acid exfoliates dullness
Cons:
- Pricey
- Haven’t noticed any significant decrease in dark spots or discoloration
About my skin
I have what can only be classified as ultra-sensitive skin. I tend to break out if I change up my skincare routine too often, or if I use products that are too harsh. I stay away from most exfoliators and more intense ingredients like alpha hydroxy acids, beta hydroxy acids, or salicylic acid. In fact, the only acid I use religiously is hyaluronic acid, in the form of The Ordinary serum I’ve been slathering on my face for over a decade.
About Sunday Riley Good Genes
In case you haven’t heard of Sunday Riley, the brand has created multiple products that give people major heart eyes (the C.E.O. Glow Vitamin C + Turmeric Face Oil is just one of many). This serum specifically has what can only be considered a supremely loyal following. I’ve had no less than 10 friends, not to mention my therapist, tell me in no uncertain terms that it should be part of my skincare routine.
That’s mainly due to the serum’s inclusion of high-potency lactic acid, a mild AHA that works to deeply exfoliate the skin. The skincare treatment sloughs off dull, surface skin cells to clarify and reveal smoother, clearer skin. The lactic acid also helps to remove excess sebum and diminish the look of discoloration and dark spots. Because of this, it can actually be considered an at-home chemical peel. And the best part? It’s supposed to happen in only three minutes.
In addition to lactic acid, the serum is formulated with a host of good-for-the-skin ingredients, including licorice (to help improve radiance), lemongrass (an astringent that helps tone), arnica and prickly pear extract (skin soothers), and aloe (for soothing and moisturizing).
My honest review
If I’m being *completely* honest, I have what can only be considered a serum obsession. In my two decades as a beauty writer, I’ve tried hundreds of serums that promise to make skin radiant, youthful, and glowing. Some do, some don’t. I’m happy to report that this serum has exceeded my expectations.
The formula is super lightweight. The texture is almost watery, but not quite—I’d actually classify it as somewhere in between a cream and a serum. It sinks into skin immediately upon contact, leaving behind no tackiness or greasy residue. I was worried about tingling, redness, or irritation, but I’ve never experienced any of that by incorporating this serum into my daily skincare routine.
Since the main ingredient in Good Genes is lactic acid, I have to admit I was pretty nervous about trying it out on my sensitive skin. I started by using one pump only twice a week, after applying my hyaluronic acid serum, to see if I’d experience any negative side effects. When the only side effect seemed to be a radiant glow, I upped the usage to every morning. And if you’re nervous about how the treatment will affect your skin, you can apply it as a mask and remove it after 15 minutes.
The effects were basically instantaneous. Within a week—and this is only after using it a couple of times—my skin was no longer dull or lifeless. It was dewy, radiant, and seriously looking like a glazed donut. I also noticed a significant decrease in the few wrinkles on my forehead. The brand does promise that the treatment can reduce the appearance of fine lines, and I wholeheartedly agree.
In fact, my skin has become so unlined and glowy that I’ve gotten compliments both in person from friends and on multiple FaceTimes with my mom. Even my therapist asked me if I’d started using it and told me my skin looked amazing during a recent session. (I’d say that session paid for itself.)
My slight critiques
As much as I love this serum—and I really, truly do—I will say there are a couple of areas where I think it could be improved. For starters, I haven’t noticed any decrease in dark spots or discoloration. I don’t have many spots on my face, but there is one small beauty mark on my right cheek that hasn’t changed at all in the three months I’ve consistently used the serum.
Additionally, let’s face it (pun intended)—this product is not cheap. The 1 oz. size is $85, and the 1.7 oz. size is $122. I’m not opposed to spending a decent amount of money on skincare, especially when it really works, but this serum is certainly an investment. However, the price tag is helped by the fact that you only need one pump to cover your face, neck, and décolletage, so it goes a long way. After three months, I’m still only a quarter of the way through the larger bottle.
Final thoughts
The Sunday Riley Good Genes All-In-One Lactic Acid Treatment has quickly become one of the best skincare products I’ve ever used. I was pleasantly surprised to discover how different my skin looked and felt after only a week. While it’s definitely on the pricier side, a little goes a long way, so you can feel better about the investment you’re making upfront. In short? It’s become a total game-changer for my previously dull skin.
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