1.5 years of consistent use | Dry/Combination Skin | Focus : Well-Aging, Hydration, Acne-Prevention, Redness Reduction
I started using Geek & Gorgeous about 1.5 years ago, and the products reviewed here were used throughout that time. I've completely finished all of them and in some cases, gone through multiple bottles.
101 A-Game 5
0.05% retinal serum with allantoin, panthenol, and cloudberry seed oil (one of my favorite oils and rarely found in skincare!).
Shelf life : 6 months | Size : 28ml
Packaging :
Airless plastic pump, absolutely excellent! It's compact and minimalistic compared to many bulky airless designs (looking at you, Drunk Elephant and Paula’s Choice). I even sanitized and reused it to decant my tretinoin cream because I can't stand the aluminum tube it comes in.
Experience :
Applies like a light lotion, very spreadable and comfortable, sinks in fast but still feels hydrating. This was my first retinal, and I might have had too-high expectations. After switching from adapalene, I realized I needed something stronger and eventually got a tretinoin prescription. I then used A-Game 5 for my neck and eye area with great success, no irritation. If I repurchase, it’ll be for that purpose, and I’ll opt for the 0.1% version.
Cheer Up
5% mandelic + 1% BHA liquid with sarcosine and sugar molecules. Fungal acne-safe.
Shelf life : 8 months | Size : 100ml
Packaging :
Plastic bottle with flip cap and screw-on lid. Lightweight, sturdy, no leaks even during travel. I wish the Liquid Hydration came in this packaging too.
Experience :
I liked this toner as the mandelic/salicylic combo worked well for my dry/combination skin. However, it became a bit too much while I was using tret. After 5–6 months, the formula started crystallizing; I found tiny shards in each application. Because of that, I haven't and won't repurchase. I’ve gone back to my trusty Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid.
101 Liquid Hydration
5% panthenol toner with allantoin, urea, amino acids, and other natural moisturizing factors (no hyaluronic acid!). Fungal acne-safe.
Shelf life : 6 months | Size : 110ml
Packaging : Basic plastic flip-cap bottle. Lightweight, functional, no leaks.
Experience :
Very lightweight, feels like water but leaves a soft, hydrated film. Likely ideal for oily skin types, but for me, it took 2–3 layers to get enough hydration. Ultimately, I went back to my Hada Labo lotions and won't repurchase.
Stay tuned for part 2 :)
13Comments-
Influencer6 hr. agoI'm obsessed with how simple g&g keeps it. Core hydration and exfoliation? That's pretty much all we need, right? Influencer6 hr. agoYesssss I love how they don't overcomplicate things. Their products are super straightforward, just the essentials but done right. Influencer6 hr. ago@Influencer Totally!!! And I've headd so much about their Hydration Hero serum. It's basically just a hydration powerhouse, which is all my skin really needs most days. Influencer6 hr. ago@Influencer Same, I'm all about the hero. It's so simple but so effective. No fragrance, no gimmicks, just hydration. My skin loves it 💗💗💗
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Influencer6 hr. agoI've tried that hydration. The fact that it's non sticky but still keeps my skin hydrated all day is such a win. It feels so comfortable, especially if you're sensitive to other formulas Influencer6 hr. agoExactly and don't get me started on their exfoliating toner. It's gentle enough for my skin but does a great job at keeping things smooth without irritation Influencer6 hr. ago@Influencer The toner is such a staple for me. It's one of those products where u feel like it's working, but it doesn't burn or leave your skin feeling stripped. I can use it everyday without issue. Influencer6 hr. agoI've been using it more lately. It just gives that extra fresh feeling without being too harsh. It's honestly perfect for keeping skin clear and balanced.
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Influencer6 hr. agoI love that their line is affordable but still delivers quality. I feel like they really nailed the basics, and it shows in how well their products perform. Influencer6 hr. ago100% it's like they've taken all the unnecessary fluff out and just kept what really works. I feel like I'm getting my money's worth yk? Influencer6 hr. ago@Influencer For sure, everything is so well balanced. Nothing feels like it's overdoing it. Influencer6 hr. agoYeah I really respect how they've kept it minimal but effective. They're kind of like the quiet overachiever of skincare. Influencer6 hr. agoCouldn't agree more! G&G is definitely becoming one of my go-to brands.