If there's a buzzy beauty product being talked about, I'm always the first of my friends to try it. Even if it's not new (maybe it's just a cult item beloved by the industry), I have to know for myself if all the chatter is warranted. Like any smart beauty editor, I always hope for the best but prepare for the worst. Sometimes products are total letdowns, while others are worth the hype. Such is the case with Lancôme's Advanced Génifique Face Serum ($105). It's been a hero product from the French makeup-and-skincare company for years and is dearly loved by skincare pros and editors alike. Honestly, I don't know why I initially stopped using it, but I'm grateful it made its way back into my life. And now that it's back in my skincare routine, I felt mean not sharing it with my co-workers.
I asked three of them—Natalie Cantell, Michaela Bushkin, and Anneliese Dominguez—if they wanted to take their skin on a quick but memorable journey. The idea? Find out if the serum's big claim was true. Would their skin barrier get stronger after one drop? Would their skin look healthy and radiant in just one week? Only time would tell. Keep scrolling to learn more about the serum and see each of their honest experiences.
First, let me formally introduce you to the serum. This stuff is no joke, and it's an industry favorite for a reason. Not only is the patented formula backed by 15 years of scientific research, but it's made with quality ingredients, such as bifidus prebiotic, vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid, which help to visibly smooth, hydrate, and refine skin texture. The formula also speeds up skin-barrier recovery (a strong skin barrier is the key to maintaining youthful, healthy skin—remember that!) and helps defend against external aggressors like pollution, and cold and dry weather. It's widely known as the go-to serum for skin that looks smoother, softer, and more even, with visibly improved radiance in one week and reduced appearance of fine lines and wrinkles after one bottle. The best part? In just one drop, it makes your skin barrier stronger.
Natalie Cantell, Senior Director of Branded Content
"I'm in my mid-30s, so I'm starting to notice the effects of growing up in New Zealand and Australia where the sun is no joke. But overall, my skin is good! It's not sensitive at all, so I'm always down to experiment with new products. (I'm particularly susceptible to anything that promises a glow.) This year, I've really committed to using up products and seeing what works. I'm becoming more educated about my skin, and I've learned to prioritize hyaluronic acid and vitamin C. I feel good knowing that I'm amping up these ingredients by using the Advanced Génifique Face Serum ($105), and my skin definitely feels more hydrated (even though it's currently up against the New York summer's extremely aggressive approach to AC). My new favorite little DIY cocktail is a full dropper of the serum and some liquid bronzer. It creates the perfect barely there, lit-from-within summer glow."
Michaela Bushkin, Senior Fashion Editor
"I have a love-hate relationship with my skin depending on the week. It's very sensitive and reacts easily to both my lifestyle and the products I use. So after a weekend of multiple spicy margaritas, late-night pizza, and fro-yo, I'm bound to wake up Monday morning with more breakouts than usual. My skin is also on the drier side, so anything that adds extra moisture to my face is a product I need to know about. I'm all for investing in quality items that will help me age as gracefully as possible, and the Advanced Génifique Face Serum ($105) is my latest obsession. It truly is the dewiest, most luscious serum I've ever used. I feel like I'm getting a very expensive facial every time I apply it, which goes beyond my initial expectations. While it dries without leaving any stickiness, I've noticed it creates a subtle layer of moisture on my skin and leaves it feeling supple. I really love how easy it is to incorporate into my everyday skincare routine. Even in my laziest moments, it's a drama-free step. The most important tip I have is to really allow your skin to dry after applying it. Brush your hair, floss your teeth, or organize a bathroom drawer—anything that will distract you long enough for the serum to really soak in before you move on to the next step in your routine."
Anneliese Dominguez, Fashion Editor
"I've always had normal skin, but it's been exceptionally dry lately. And as I've gotten older, my skin has become more sensitive to products. Right now, I really can't get enough of the Advanced Génifique Face Serum ($105). Before trying it out, I was hoping it would hydrate my skin and cure my need to apply moisturizer throughout the day. And it really did the trick. After just a couple of days, my skin already felt quenched. How did I know this stuff was the real deal? My fiancé complimented my complexion and said it felt super soft. A total win! I also love its cool, smooth consistency, which is lightweight and absorbs fast. You can even use the serum on your lips or mix it with makeup for an added glow. (Any double-duty product is a winner in my book.) I've only been using it for a few weeks, but my skin is so much more moisturized. I can finally stop obsessing over how dry my face feels. Dewy selfies, here I come!"
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