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 :)