this is the description from their website: good genes deeply exfoliates the dull surface of the skin for instant glow and radiance. as dull, dead surface cells are removed, clarity and smoothness are restored. good genes visibly brightens the appearance of dark spots and discolorations and instantly plumps the look of fine lines and wrinkles in 3 minutes. this multi-tasking, targeted lactic acid treatment rapidly exfoliates and boosts naturally youthful radiance, while visibly reducing the look of lines, wrinkles and dark spots. high potency, purified grade lactic acid exfoliates dull, pore-clogging dead skin cells, to instantly clarify and reveal smoother, clearer skin. together with skin brightening licorice, this super-concentrated treatment visually reduces the look of dark spots and discoloration caused by exposure to the sun, for naturally brighter, even-toned skin. clinically proven to immediately and significantly plump the look of fine lines and boost radiance in just 3 minutes.

key ingredients:

- purified lactic acid: one of the most hydrating alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), lactic acid exfoliates the surface layers of the skin, revealing a more clarified, fresher, smoother, younger-looking complexion. helps fight a build-up of dead skin cells and excess sebum, which can lead to skin bumps, dullness, skin congestion, blackheads, and eventually, acne. helps diminish the look of discolorations and dark spots.

- licorice: naturally brightening properties, licorice helps improve skin radiance.

- lemongrass: astringent and skin refreshing for a toned complexion.

- arnica: soothes the skin, reducing the feeling of skin discomfort.

- prickly pear extract: rare desert cactus extract that instantly soothes skin.

- aloe: soothes and moisturizes, without greasiness.  

the packaging: since i bought this in a set, it comes in a white box with magnetic clasp. there's a cardboard sleeve where you can see all the products inside pictured at front. there's descriptions of everything at the back as well as the ingredients list. the serum itself comes in a white glass bottle with metallic plastic cap. it uses a pump to dispense the product. the sample size is 15 ml which is quite decent since usually a full size serum is 30 ml. there's another description at the back of the bottle as well. oh, i forget to mention that there are TWO AHA serums from this brand and both of them looks identical. just look at the name, lactic acid or glycolic acid to make sure you use the correct one. 

the scent: ugh, this is the part where i hate this. this serum doesn't have any added fragrance. however, sadly this one smells foul or a bit acid. luckily, i get used to the scent as time goes by. but still.. if only they smells better.

the product: the serum is ivory lotion-like serum. almost similar to the a+ retinol so it's easy to spread around. this one is also easy to absorbed. afterward, it doesn't feel tacky. again, it layers well with other skincare products that i use.

the result: geez, this one is quite gentle, however.. don't ever accidentally apply it on wounded skin. if your acne popped, or you accidentally scratch yourself, then don't put this serum around that area because it will sting. it stings like hell. for a few seconds, that is. but it's still hurt. anyway, once or twice i accidentally swipe it over a popped acne, so yeah.. when i say it hurts, it hurts. okay, now let's look at the claims. this is exfoliating so i never skip my moisturizing serum afterward. they say it helps with congestion, blackheads and even dark spots. however, i don't think it helps much. i use vitamin c and other exfoliating serum (but a very mild one) in addition to this serum, so i don't think this affects my skin much (especially after i finish this one), i don't see the difference from using the serum and not using it. however, i do agree that if you notice bumps on your skin, it will help getting rid of those almost instantly. but for other claims...meh?

honestly, i'm a bit confused with this serum. sometimes i think it's working because it helps with bumps. but i don't see other effects that they claim. and this one is expensive as hell, so i don't think i'll repurchase the full size one. as for you who's interested in this serum, i suggest you try the smaller size first if you have the budget. there are many people who worships this serum, so even though it doesn't work for me, it might work for you. anyway, you can get sunday riley from sephora. 

as i've said in my other post, i decided to buy a sunday riley set. i was ecstatic to find it since i've been dying to try their products. i was especially excited because this set contains their best-sellers, like the good genes and the luna oil. those two are the reason why i decided to buy the set. anyway, there are two sets, one for in the morning that has the vitamin c serum and one for the night which has the high dose retinoid serum. the rest is the same. i was so excited that i decided to crack this open when i finished my previous retinoid serum. actually i never heard of this one, so let's see how it goes.

this is the description from their website: an advanced-strength retinoid serum delivers a 6,5% solution of stabilized retinoid blends and botanical, retinol-alternative extracts into the skin. combining 5% retinoid ester blend, 1% liposomal-encapsulated retinol blend, and 0,5% blue-green algae with natural, retinoid-alternative activity, this serum fights the signs of aging and improves the look of congested and UV damaged skin. encapsulated coQ10 helps to improve the appearance of aging or damaged skin, while rare, hawaiian white honey, bisabolol, cactus extract, and ginger balance and soothe the skin for the appearance of a calmer, even-toned complexion. 

key ingredients:

- retinoid ester blend 5% + liposome-encapsulated retinol blend 1% + 0.5% blue-green algae: helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles and lines and encourages signs of clearer skin.

- coq10: improves the appearance of aging or uv-exposed skin, for a healthier-looking, balanced complexion.

balanced by hawaiian white honey: pro skin humectant, rich in phytonutrients.

the packaging: like i've said before, since i bought this in a set, it comes in a white hard box with magnetic clasp. the box is covered by a light blue cardboard sleeve with the picture of all products in the set. at the back there's description of everything inside. the products are placed on a plastic tray so everything is secure inside. the serum itself comes in a dark blue glass bottle with pump head that's covered with white plastic cap. there's description on the back of the bottle as well. the size is 15 ml which is half the full size one. quite decent for a mini, isn't it? anyway, there are 3 sizes of this serum, 15 ml, 30 ml and 50 ml. 

the scent: this one definitely has a foul scent, which is typical for a retinol serum. if i remember correctly, the drunk elephant retinol also has similar scent. however, it's still bearable so i managed to finish it.

the product: the serum is a yellowish lotion-like serum that's quite runny so i can spread it around easily. it doesn't take long to be absorbed. once absorbed, it gives slightly glow to my skin. it layers well over and under other skincare products that i use and doesn't pill.

the result: when i read the percentage, i was afraid that i might be jumping to this one too soon. after all, lately i've only been using 1% retinoid. but then, as i read more carefully, it's 6.5% of retinol alternative extract, so it's not the real retinoid/its derivative, but just a blend of extract that has similar component or effect as retinol. that being said, it might not be as strong as the real retinoid. i didn't take progress pictures because when i used this serum, i used it on and off so it might not reflect the real result. honestly, i'm quite excited trying this one. however, somehow i didn't notice any difference at all. somehow it doesn't seem to be working. my skin conditions were not getting better nor worse. it feels like i don't use any retinol at all.

so yeah, you can guess that i won't repurchase this one. i don't know whether i should recommend this or not. for the price, i think you'd better try the sample if you can. so if you don't have the budget, i don't think you'll miss anything if you skip this. 

some time ago, runa beauty released two moisturizers. one is a regular moisturizer with cream texture, and the other one is a sleeping mask with a gel texture. it's quite interesting as they use cream for their regular moisturizer but pick gel texture for the sleeping mask. however, they add exfoliating ingredients for the sleeping mask, which is unusual. i'm more interested in trying the sleeping mask, so i only bought the lunar gelée. 

this is the description from their website: if you're dealing with clogged pores, rough patches, or bumps, this mask is for you. the result? dramatically smoother texture with drastically minimize appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. the lightweight gel texture goes on clear and cools skin instantly while optimizing turnover of your skin cells overnight. with 2% n-acetylglucosamine to gently exfoliates and soothes for brighter, smoother complexion, without the irritation. chlorella vulgaris extract, neem leaf extract, turmeric extract, and aloe, to soothe and hydrate sensitive skin.

featured ingredients:

- 2% n-acetylglucosamine: an amino sugar that has skin exfoliating properties similar to AHA and BHA without the irritation. NAG has been shown to reduce hyperpigmentation and brighten complexion.

- chlorella vulgaris extract: a rich source of antioxidant and carotenoids to increase the skin's firmness and protect from harmful effects of UV rays.

- neem leef extract: an antioxidant-rich herb that helps soothe the skin and visibly repair and hydrate skin appearance.

ingredients list: water, butylene glycol, glycerin, dipropylene glycol, 1,2-hexanediol, pentylene glycol, PEG-240/HDI copolymer bis-decyltetradeceth-20 ether, glycosyl trehalose, glucose, n-acetylglucosamine, chlorella vulgaris extract, carbomer, hydrogenated starch hydrolysate, fructose, fructooligosaccharides, octyldodeceth-16, caprlyl glycol, PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil, aminomethyl propanol, dimethicone, ethylhexylglycerin, fragrance (parfum), melia azadirachta leaf extract, lecithin, sodium phytate, melia azadirachta flower extract, coccinia indica fruit extract, solanum melanogena (eggplant) fruit extract, aloe barbadensis flower extract, ocimum sanctum leaf extract, curcuma longa (turmeric) root extract, corallina officinalis extract, potassium laurate, BHT, tocopherol, centella asiatica leaf extract, hibiscus sabdariffa flower extract.

the packaging: it comes in a dark blue box that's intricately designed so they don't need a tape to secure it. the box itself made of recycled material so it's very environmental friendly. there's description at the back of the box in both english and indonesian. the sleeping mask comes in a dark blue squeeze tube with rounded screw cap. the tube is made from compostable sugarcane tube so again, very environmental friendly. the sleeping mask comes in 50 ml. the tube is matte so it becomes a nuisance after some time because my finger prints are everywhere on the tube after i pick it up.

the scent: lately, all local brands have been adorning scentless products, however, i'm glad that this one is mildly scented. this has mild floral scent in it, which makes it enjoyable to use.

the product: the sleeping mask really comes in gel texture. it's a transparent light blue gel. even though it's viscous, it's easy to spread around. however, it does feel a bit tacky after i spread it around. 

the result: it gives glowy finish to my face every time i use this sleeping mask. even though this comes in gel texture, it's still moisturizing and it's enough throughout the night. even if i sleep with my AC on. they claim that if you have clogged pores and bumps, then you should use this mask. i have to agree. usually around my period, i get bumps and breakouts. this mask will help get rid of the bumps. however, if the skin is broken (like the skin from a popped acne), then you should avoid this area because it will sting a bit. still bearable though because i've accidentally put it on when my acne just popped so i know how it feels. 

unfortunately, even though i've used this for quite some time, i can't make up my mind about this product because i've only used it for once a week since i have other exfoliating products that i regularly used throughout the week. however, i started to use this more often and so far there's no problem. no dryness whatsoever. however, don't think that this will instantly makes your skin smoother and clearer. it just helps a bit. it's that kind of products that works slowly but after awhile you start to see the result. anyway, i think it's suitable for all skin types as long as you can get over the tackiness at the end. even though it's mild, i still recommend you to properly hydrates and moisturizes your skin afterward. you can get runa beauty products from their official website/marketplace as well as other places like sociolla and other beauty stores. 

this is the description from their website: a tint of you. it's like your skin on its best days! it hydrates and adds a healthy, semi-satin look with a breathable coverage to embrace the radiance of our natural skin. 

why it's special:

- lightweight: it feels lighter on the skin.

- moisturizing: hydrating formula.

- super natural: option for those looking for real-skin like finish.

- breathable coverage (light to medium): it evens out the complexion but still allow natural skin to show through.

- it won't clog your pores.

- prevents products from feeling greasy.

- a lighter option of foundation without appearing cakey.

it's a quick and easy way to achieve a fresh, put-together look!

your skin will also get loads of hydration thanks to glycerin (as a humectant that draws in and retains moisture). its formulation also infused with ingredients your skin will love: hyaluronic acid, salicylic acid, shea butter, chamomile extract. and for those who love the ease of a multi-use product: it also has sunscreen agent and protects against UVA & UVB: titanium dioxide (physical) and ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate (chemical). tint of you, your everyday 3 in 1 potion in a jar!

available in 3 shades (L1, M1 and D1)

L1 - light: light beige colour with a dewy finish perfect for cool undertones.

the packaging: it comes in a white box with the sticker of the shade name on top of the box. inside, the tinted moisturizer comes in an opaque beige glass with white pump head covered with tiny transparent plastic cap. since syca is an environment-friendly company, they tried to be as conscious as possible about the trash from their products, so they tried to minimize parts of packaging that need to be recycled, in this case, the cap for the pump head as it's made of plastic. anyway, since it's made of glass, beware that it affects the weight of the product as well, so if you ordered this online and you ordered more than one, you should be aware of the shipping cost. anyway, the tinted moisturizer is 30 ml in size, which is the usual size for foundation or tinted moisturizer. my complaint about the bottle is i can't see the remaining product inside, so yeah.. maybe provide a transparent window at the side? 

the bottle

the shade: i have to say that they're pretty restrictive in this area. they only offer 3 shades to choose from, light, medium and dark. and they're not catering all undertones as well. personally, i can't complaint about it since i knew it costs much to produce a number of shades, but three is too little. but considering that this is a tinted moisturizer, hopefully it will match your skin tone with a bit tweaking? i bought the L1 (the light one), thinking that it might suit me considering their owner looks like she has similar skin tone as me. but i was wrong. when i swatched it on my hand, i could clearly see that it's a tad too dark for me and too pink. yeah sure they say that it's for cool undertones, but it's way too pink for me. 

the product: as i've said before, this is a tinted moisturizer. so it's quite runny so you have to shake the bottle well before dispensing it out. my other complaint is, since it's quite runny, it messes up around the opening. you have to clean it up every time you pump out some to keep the cap clean. since it's quite runny and it's a tinted moisturizer, obviously it has sheer coverage. but again, it's a tinted moisturizer so it's supposed to be sheer as it promises natural/skin-like look.

the result: as i've said, it has sheer coverage, which means, it only helps evening out my skin tone. it covers the redness on my cheek as well as around my nose, but it can't cover my acne scar. since this is a tad darker than my skin tone, i play with it several times to find the best way to use it on my face. i focus dotting it mainly around the center of my face and less around the perimeter of my face so the color difference wouldn't be that noticeable. another thing that i found is the tool to apply this product. they recommend using your own finger to blend it out, but i don't like it. i try using a brush but it leaves pretty visible streak marks. so i used my sponge. it does absorb some of the product and even sheered out the coverage, but it gives the best result for me. it gives natural glow like it's naturally my skin, but still covering the redness of my face. fyi, lately i don't set my face with powder anymore and i have no problem with it. obviously it won't stay on my face whole day, but it's quite decent. i've used it for about 5-6 hours and it vanishes around my nose and chin which comes in contact with my face mask, so obviously it will be rubbed off by the friction caused by the mask. and even though they said that it's minimal transferring to face mask, if you don't set it with powder, it does transfer to your mask. 

i do like this one as it's easy to use and it's perfect for daily wear. it's lightweight and enough to even out my skin tone. i don't mind my acne scars peeking out as i don't look for full coverage on daily basis (or ever). plus, that's what concealer are for, right? anyway, for now, i can get away with the shade as we're still required to wear face mask, but i won't be that lucky once we don't need to wear mask anymore. anyway, they really should add more shades for sure, but i can't really force them to. not every company can afford the cost. that being said, if you're looking for a natural looking result (skin-like, a bit glowing) and only looking for evening out your skin tone, then this is a good option for you. if you don't mind the limited shades, that is. anyway, this is quite affordable so if you think the shades cater your skin tone, then you should try it. as for me, i don't think i'll repurchase because of the shade mismatch. aside from that, i like it. if they add lighter shade, then i might reconsider repurchasing it. 

when i bought this serum, my skin was in pretty awful condition with bad breakouts everytime i get my period. but, the previous soothing serum that i used before this was so-so, so somehow i feel reluctant to try this one. but, my hydrating serum at that time was not enough, so i decided to crack open this serum and add it to my routine. let's see how this one does.

this is the description translated from their website: skinmee calmee fresh calming soothing serum can be used to maintain natural skin moisture, help treat face skin cells, soothe skin redness as well as help improves damaged skin barrierr. with intensive formula such as hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid, albatrellus confluens extract, centella asiatica extract and panthenol, this serum is effective to combat very dry skin and redness skin. just pat your skin to produce moist sensation and increase your skin elasticity. free from fragrance and synthetic coloring also hypoallergenic to treat skin without irritating it. 

ingredients: aqua, butylene glycol, propanediol, glycerin, ethoxydiglycol, disodium EDTA, xanthan gum, hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid, centella asiatica extract, albatrellus confluens extract, citric acid, panthenol, phenoxyethanol, ethylhexylglycerin, triethanolamine

the packaging: the serum comes in a peach box with description in indonesian printed at the back and sides of the box as well as the ingredients list. the serum itself comes in orange glass bottle with white dropper to dispense the product. there's also description at the back of the bottle. the serum comes in 30 ml size which is the regular size of a serum, but more than the other local brand's serum.

the scent: this one doesn't have any scent but it doesn't smell weird either. 

the product: the serum is a transparent runny gel type serum. i can spread it around my face without any problem and it takes a minute to be absorbed. but once it sinks in, it doesn't feel tacky. i can layer this serum with other serum and it works well with other products in my skincare routine. 

the result: i have to say since i don't have any expectation toward this serum, i was kind of surprised to see how this works well. this one is great in adding hydration that my skin needs. as for soothing, i can't say for sure but every time i get bad breakouts, my skin condition gets better faster, compared to the previous calming that i used before.

i have to say i'm quite impressed with this serum. i enjoy this one and doesn't feel obligated to include this in my skincare routine. i think this serum is suitable for all skin types and can be used alone or layered with others. price wise, it's affordable, especially considering that this one is 30 ml and not 20 ml. availability wise, aside from their official website and marketplace, you can get it from other reseller as well. however, i don't think it's not as easy to get as other local brand. there are a lot of skincare products out there, but if i ever need something soothing and hydrating, i'll repurchase this as this one works for me.

this is the description from sephora singapore: a skincare box set featuring a cleanser, retinol cream, mask and exfoliator for hydrated, smooth skin. this skincare box feature 4 products to help keep your skin hydrated and smooth looking. 

this is the description for the f balm electrolyte waterfacial masqua hydratant from their website: this cooling, quenching overnight mask plumps and restores with an electrolyte cocktail while helping to strengthen the skin's acid mantle. with a blend of barrier-replenishing ingredients, including niacinamide, sodium PCA, plant squalane, five forms of ceramides, omega fatty acids, and powerful antioxidants, f-balm effectively rehydrates hungover, overly parched skin, 

this is the description from their website: a rich, moisturizing cream with plumping hydration and antioxidant-packed japanese purple rice for a dewy, healthy glow. ideal for dry skin. can be used on combination skin for those who prefer a moisturizer with a richer texture.

why it works: hydrates and plumps with a special blend of okinawa algae and hyaluronic acid. protects against pollution and stress with japanese purple rice. imparts a dewy glow with botanical extracts.

featured ingredients:

- japanese purple rice: purple rice, an ancient precious rice first beloved in japan, has long been used to celebrate longevity and vitality. it is packed with nutrients and known for its ability to survive any harsh environment. rich in anthocyanin, a strong antioxidant, helps restore skin and protect against stress and pollution, helping skin look healthier and more balanced.

- okinawa algae blend + hyaluronic acid: a special blend of okinawa algae and hyaluronic acid captures water to help restore skin's natural moisture reservoir, immediately leaving skin feeling soft, comforted, and deeply nourished. it also helps to replenish ceramides to ensure an optimum skin barrier, aiding in the reduction of future moisture loss, for skin that is visibly smooth and plump with hydration.

- botanical extracts: a blend of botanical extracts and oils from ginseng, wild thyme, and sweet marjoram nourishes and moisturizes skin, enhancing its natural ability to retain and release moisture as needed, and imparts a radiant, dewy glow.

the packaging:  the set comes in a purplish pink pouch. there's a sleeve with descriptions of all the products inside at the back of it while the front has the picture of all the products in the set. all the products are placed on a plastic tray so they stay in place inside the pouch. the dewy skin cream comes in purple plastic tub with the same design as the full size one. minus the ornament on top to slide the spatula as the sample size doesn't come with spatula. it only comes in 10 ml so it's enough to get the idea whether it's suitable for me or not. the full size one is 50 ml so it's quite generous.

the back of the tub

the scent: this one definitely smells fragrant, but not overwhelming. it's more relaxing rather than overwhelming. 

the product: the cream is purple, not bright purple, but like subtle lavender hue. it looks pretty in the tub. it's quite thick, even thicker like sulwhasoo sleeping mask, but it's easy to spread around my face. it wasn't the type of cream that melts into the skin, but it doesn't sit on top of my skin either. this one is occlusive enough to use at night. since i have normal combination skin, i only use this at night.

the result: this one is definitely moisturizing. it can feel a bit oily but i don't mind since i sleep with AC on so it could be drying at night. this one is definitely rich and moisturizing.

i have to say that at first, i was afraid that this might be too rich for my skin. however, it turned out that this one is okay for me for night time. it might be slightly richer than other moisturizer that i used at night, but it works okay. i think even though this is rich and occlusive enough, even combination of normal skin can try this moisturizer, especially at night. it's a shame that i can't justify the price though. but, if you have the money to splurge and you have dry to normal skin and love rich moisturizer or you need one during winter, then you should try this one. as for me, i'm glad i got the chance to try the mini size.