How long does tretinoin take to show results?

Most users see initial texture improvements and fewer breakouts within 8–12 weeks of consistent nightly use. Fine line reduction and hyperpigmentation improvements typically appear at 6 months. Full collagen remodeling benefits take 12–24 months. Stick with it through the purge phase (weeks 2–6) — this is temporary and means it is working.

What moisturizer works best with tretinoin?

Use a simple, fragrance-free, ceramide-rich moisturizer. Top choices: CeraVe Moisturizing Cream, Vanicream Moisturizing Skin Cream, or La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair. Apply before tretinoin (the sandwich method) to buffer irritation, or wait 20–30 minutes after tretinoin. Avoid occlusives like petrolatum directly over tretinoin — they can increase penetration and irritation. Niacinamide-containing moisturizers are a good pairing for their barrier-repairing properties.

Can you use tretinoin every night?

Eventually yes, but start slow: use tretinoin 2–3 nights per week for the first 4–6 weeks, then increase to every other night, then nightly as tolerated. Most people reach nightly use by month 3–4. Signs you are progressing too fast: persistent redness, flaking, or burning beyond the first few minutes after application. Slow down rather than stopping entirely if irritated. SPF 30+ every morning is mandatory with tretinoin — it increases UV sensitivity.

tretinoin · Review

Sunday Riley Good Genes Lactic Acid Review

Sunday Riley Good Genes is the $122 lactic acid treatment with cult status. Here's whether it justifies the price vs $8 The Ordinary.

Our verdict

Sunday Riley Good Genes All-In-One Lactic Acid Treatment

$122

8.6

out of 10

Check price →

Last updated April 13, 2026 · 5 min read · First published Apr 2026

Heads up — this post has affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you buy something, at no extra cost to you. We only link to stuff we'd actually tell a friend about.

What we like

✓ Pure lactic acid (gentler than glycolic)
✓ Premium Beauty listing
✓ Lemongrass + arnica for inflammation control
✓ Visible brightening at 4 weeks
✓ Cult premium reputation

What bugs us

✗ $122 for 1.7oz is luxury pricing
✗ The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% gets ~80% of the effect at $8
✗ Slight tingling on application

The short answer

Sunday Riley Good Genes is the cult lactic acid treatment with 4-6 week visible brightening. At $122 it’s a luxury splurge — The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% delivers ~80% of the effect at 6% the price. Worth it if you value the premium experience.

The cult Sunday Riley product. Here’s the honest review including the budget alternative comparison.

What’s in it

7% lactic acid (gentler than glycolic), licorice root for brightening, lemongrass and arnica for inflammation, prickly pear extract for hydration. Premium ingredients in elegant formulation.

8-week results

Brightening visible at 4 weeks
Texture improvement at 6 weeks
Even tone at 8 weeks
Comparable to The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% — slightly faster, slightly more comfortable feel

The price question

At $122 for 1.7oz, you’re paying premium for:

Elegant texture
Brand prestige
Slightly faster results

The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% at $8 delivers similar results 1-2 weeks slower with less elegant feel. The 15x price difference buys you experience, not dramatically better outcomes.

Who should buy

People who specifically want the Sunday Riley experience
Those gifting (the packaging is luxe)
Premium routine builders
Splurge buyers committed to using it

Skip if:

Budget priority — buy The Ordinary
Just curious about lactic acid — start cheap

Check current price on Amazon →

The verdict

Score: 8.6/10. Real product, real results, premium price. Worth it for the experience tier; not necessary for the results tier.

Ready to buy?

Grab the Good Genes All-In-One Lactic Acid Treatment on Amazon

Check current price →

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