11.16.2023

MAKE Beauty Lactonic Serum vs. Sunday Riley Good Genes

I’m putting this product from MAKE Beauty to the real test…

You guys know I’ve professed my love of Sunday Riley Good Genes for years now but, that said, I’m always up for trying out a competitive product that just so happens to also be cheaper. When MAKE Beauty told me about their Lactonic Lactic Acid + Vitamin C Serum, I was verrry intrigued because it does seem pretty similar.

Good Genes duuuupe, as the kids say on TikTok? Yes, yes I’ll try it.

What is the Lactonic Lactic Acid + Vitamin C Serum?

Lactonic is a multi-benefit milky serum that gently exfoliates (yes, it’s even good for sensitive skin), hydrates, brightens, and plumps the skin, while also targeting fine lines and dark spots. Lactic acid is a notoriously amazing chemical exfoliator since it’s gentle, yet super effective. And when you add in vitamin C, one of the two best anti-aging ingredients on the market, it really is a powerful one-two punch. According to the brand, “because lactic acid acts as a humectant, drawing moisture into the skin, it helps shield the skin from potential irritation that can occur with vitamin C.” Thanks to its hydrating properties, lactic acid also serves as a barrier against dryness associated with standalone vitamin C formulations. I MEAN. Perfection.

So here are my thoughts comparing MAKE Beauty Lactonic vs Sunday Riley Good Genes:

• The Results – MAKE’s Lactonic Lactic Acid + Vitamin C Serum Vs. Sunday Riley Good Genes: I will say I do think the results are the same, if not even a little bit BETTER than Good Genes. I used Lactonic twice in one week and saw way less redness than I typically do with Good Genes (probably due to Lactonic’s niacinamide, which is great for calming skin)
• Lactonic has vitamin C and Good Genes doesn’t. Like I mentioned earlier, vitamin C (and retinol) are the two anti-aging gold standards when it comes to fighting aging. If  I’m going to be using a great chemical exfoliator like Lactonic, there’s no reason to not also want to throw in some vitamin C since it works well with lactic acid.
• The price. Lactonic is $34 for 1.35 FL OZ vs. Good Genes at $85 for 1 FL OZ. Mic drop?

Final thoughts: Good Genes is an amazing product but, I gotta say, I was VERY impressed with Lactonic and, aside from the lower price point, I think the fact that you’re also getting vitamin C with Lactonic sealed the deal for me.

What do you guys think? Are you sold on Lactonic?

This post is sponsored by MAKE Beauty but all opinions are my own, as per usual. <3

SHOP