Comparing Sunday Riley Good Genes with The Ordinary Lactic Acid Serum: A Comparative Analysis

Chemical exfoliants like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) are powerful, but can irritate sensitive skin. Lactic acid, a type of AHA, is particularly beneficial in these cases being one of the most moisturising variants, says Karen Hammerman M.D., a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in Garden City, New York. 

There is a broad range of lactic acid treatments, but two have made a significant impact: Sunday Riley Good Genes and The Ordinary Lactic Acid Five Percent + HA Exfoliating Serum. Although both contain five percent lactic acid and share some wrinkle-reducing, dark spot-eliminating ingredients, they are not identical, notably in their price. Here we juxtapose the pricier, $85 celebrity-endorsed treatment with the more economical $8 alternative. 

Primary Ingredient: According to Debra Jaliman, M.D., a New York dermatologist and author of 'Skin Rules,' lactic acid 'softly exfoliates to disclose smoother, brighter skin.' She adds it improves skin texture, reduces hyperpigmentation, decreases breakouts and minimises visibility of lines and wrinkles.

Additional Ingredients: Good Genes also utilises licorice for its anti-inflammatory basis which can brighten skin, lemongrass, for antiseptic purposes, and arnica and aloe for skin healing and soothing. Additionally, it contains prickly pear extract for hydrating properties.

Suited for: Normal, dry, combination, and oily skin.

Sunday Riley Good Genes often features on editor's top skincare lists, and celebrities such as Oprah and Drew Barrymore are amongst its advocates. Amazon reviewer feedback reflects its popularity and effectiveness; their comments include praising its skin brightening capabilities, improvement in fine wrinkles, and usage as a staple product despite its high price. Its luxurious packaging also seems to justify the cost.

The products longevity varies based on how much and how frequently it is used. It comes in three sizes: a half-ounce bottle ($43), a 1-ounce bottle ($85), and a 1.7-ounce bottle ($122).

Primary Ingredient: Similar to Good Genes, The Ordinary's serum also primarily contains five percent lactic acid.

Additional Ingredients: The Ordinary's option doesn't contain the same skin lightening elements as Good Genes but does include hyaluronic acid for hydration and plumping, and Tasmanian pepperberry for reducing inflammation.

Suited for: Dry and sensitive skin.

The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + HA Exfoliating Serum provides a more affordable alternative to Sunday Riley Good Genes. It costs just $8 per fluid ounce, more than 10 times cheaper than the former. Reviewers acclaim the serum for providing benefits such as brighter skin and acne prevention.

Despite it containing hyaluronic acid, this product can dry the skin. Use with a moisturising cream to avoid excessive dryness. The Ordinary also offers a stronger variant, The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA 2% Exfoliating Serum with double the lactic acid content, available for just $1 more.

Sunday Riley Good Genes is routinely selected as the best lactic acid product on the market to help erase wrinkles and smooth skin. The treatment definitely lives up to the hype according to everyone from dermatologists to beauty editors, and it happens to be my go-to exfoliant as well. However, the luxury beauty product may be prohibitively expensive for anyone on a budget. The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + HA Exfoliating Serum is a great alternative at a fraction of the cost at $8, and also has a lot of buzz and happy customers backing up the many benefits.