sunday riley go to bed with me: good genes lactic acid

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.