Good Genes by Sunday Riley: The Lactic Acid Treatment That Transforms Skin

Good Genes is the flagship lactic acid treatment from Sunday Riley that turned resurfacing into an everyday, approachable ritual. Built to deliver immediate radiance and long-term texture refinement, Good Genes strips away dull surface cells, softens the look of fine lines, and helps even tone for a more luminous complexion. This article explains what Good Genes is, why it works, how to use it safely, and how to build it into a routine that produces real, lasting results.

What Good Genes Is (and What It Does)

At its core, Good Genes is a targeted chemical exfoliant centered on lactic acid—an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) known for its exfoliating and hydrating properties. Unlike some harsher acids, lactic acid works at the surface to loosen bonds between dead skin cells while also drawing moisture into the skin. The practical result: instant brightening, softer texture, and a smoother canvas for makeup or serums. Good Genes is formulated to provide visible change quickly, yet it’s balanced with humectants and soothing agents to reduce potential irritation.

Key Benefits

• Immediate glow: Removes dull surface cells to reveal light-reflective skin within minutes to hours.
• Smoother texture: Softens rough patches, refines pores’ appearance, and reduces flakiness.
• Even tone: Helps diminish the appearance of dark spots and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation over time.
• Fine line improvement: Regular use helps minimize the look of superficial fine lines by promoting cell turnover.
• Hydration support: Lactic acid’s humectant nature plus complementary moisturizers help maintain barrier comfort.

How Good Genes Works — The Science, Simply Explained

Good Genes leverages lactic acid’s ability to gently dissolve the desmosomal bonds that hold dead skin cells to the surface. This controlled exfoliation accelerates turnover, revealing newer, more even skin beneath. Many formulations pair lactic acid with hydrators and anti-inflammatory ingredients to preserve barrier function while increasing efficacy. In practice, that means you get the “polished” effect of an exfoliating treatment without excessive dryness or redness when used correctly.

Texture and Sensory Experience

Good Genes typically has a silky, serum-like texture that spreads easily and absorbs quickly. It’s designed to layer under moisturizers and under makeup in the morning, though many users prefer it as a nighttime resurfacer. The sensorial profile is intentionally comfortable—no heavy oils or tacky residue—so compliance (consistent use) is high, and that’s the real secret behind seeing results.

How to Use Good Genes Safely and Effectively

For best results and minimal irritation, follow a simple, stepwise approach:

1. Start slow: If you’re new to chemical exfoliants, begin with 2–3 nights per week. Observe how your skin responds and increase frequency gradually.
2. Apply on clean skin: Use after cleansing but before heavier oils or creams so the active can contact the surface directly.
3. Layer wisely: If you use other actives (retinoids, strong vitamin C, or other acids), alternate evenings to avoid over-exfoliation.
4. Hydrate and seal: Follow with a humectant-rich moisturizer or ceramide cream to maintain barrier function.
5. Protect during the day: Always wear broad-spectrum sunscreen each morning when using exfoliants—skin becomes more light-sensitive.

Where Good Genes Fits in Your Routine

Good Genes is versatile—use it as a weekly intensive treatment or a regular resurfacing serum. Example routines:

Beginner (sensitive or new to acids)

1. Gentle cleanser
2. Good Genes (2–3x/week, PM)
3. Hydrating moisturizer
4. SPF in AM

Intermediate (regular exfoliation)

1. Cleanser
2. Good Genes (every other night)
3. Hydrating serum if needed
4. Moisturizer
5. SPF AM

Advanced (experienced with actives)

1. AM: Cleanse, antioxidant serum, SPF
2. PM: Cleanse, alternate Good Genes and retinoid, finish with moisturizer

Who Should Use Good Genes (and Who Shouldn't)

Good Genes is ideal for people with:

• Dull, uneven skin tone
• Texture issues like roughness or small dry patches
• Mild surface lines and enlarged pores
• Those seeking quick, visible brightening before events

Avoid or proceed with caution if you:

• Have active, inflamed rosacea or eczema flares (consult a dermatologist)
• Are undergoing certain professional treatments (laser, strong peels) — consult your clinician
• Have known allergy to AHAs

Common Questions (FAQ)

How soon will I see results?

Many users notice an immediate glow after the first application as dull surface cells slough away. Meaningful improvements in tone and texture typically appear within 2–6 weeks of consistent use.

Can I use Good Genes with retinol?

Yes, but alternate nights at first to minimize irritation: for example, Good Genes on Monday/Thursday and retinol on Tuesday/Friday. As tolerance builds, some people incorporate both into a routine with buffering steps (moisturizers) and close monitoring.

Will it make my skin thin?

No—chemical exfoliants like lactic acid accelerate surface cell turnover but do not biologically thin the dermis. Proper use combined with barrier-supporting moisturizers maintains healthy skin integrity.

Is it suitable for sensitive skin?

Sensitive skin types can often use lactic acid at lower frequencies or lower concentrations; patch testing and gradual introduction are recommended. If irritation occurs, reduce frequency or stop and consult a professional.

Pro Tips for Maximum Effectiveness

• Apply on slightly damp skin: Humectant behavior works better when a little moisture is present.
• Pair with niacinamide or ceramides: These ingredients support barrier repair and reduce redness.
• Use a sunscreen with broad spectrum protection: Daily sun protection preserves results and prevents post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
• Consider seasonal tweaks: Reduce frequency in winter or when traveling to dry climates; increase hydrating steps as needed.

Conclusion

Good Genes by Sunday Riley is a potent, elegantly formulated lactic acid treatment that delivers both instant polish and cumulative improveme