Spotlight On: Lancôme Advanced Génifique

An icon, under the spotlight.

In 2020, new beauty launches are flying thick and fast. Every day, we are presented with a new, you-beaut product, each promising to change our lives and ensure we never (ever!) get a wrinkle again.

Despite all of the noise in the market, there are a handful of old-faithful products that have stood the test of time. Why? Because they work – and they have a loyal following of fans to prove it.

Previously, we’ve delved into the finer details of Sisley Black Rose Cream Mask, Oribe Texturizing Spray and more. Today, we’re throwing the spotlight on Lancôme Advanced Génifique.

Since launching in 2009, this serum has gone on to become a bit of an icon in the skincare world. Don’t just take our word for it. Ask the many, many women who have purchased the 35 million bottles sold since the product hit shelves 11 years ago.

But seriously, why is Advanced Génifique so popular? And how does it affect skin? We’re going full Sherlock Holmes on this one…

The name: Lancôme Advanced Génifique.

The sell: According to Lancôme’s website, used “day and night, this powerful anti-aging face serum activates visible signs of youthful skin. In just seven days, you have visibly younger and radiant skin. After only one bottle, +77 per cent faster active recovery for stronger, younger looking skin.*”

*Improves skin natural recovery by +77 per cent. Instrumental test, Genifique versus bare skin, 1 hour after aggression.

The price tag: $105 / 30ml.

The stats: We mentioned this earlier but the numbers are worth repeating: over 35 million bottles of Advanced Génifique have been sold worldwide since the product launched in 2009. It has received over 170 awards, 10,000 5-star reviews and according to the brand’s own research, 97 per cent of women who use it would recommend it to others. Wow.

The ingredients: Now, let’s get down to the nitty gritty. In 2019, this beauty icon underwent a makeover. The product was reborn and relaunched with a new formula designed to support the skin’s microbiome. (Microbiome = a living ecosystem of beneficial bacteria.) Probiotics have experienced a surge in popularity in recent years as a way of nourishing your gut which, in turn, leads to a healthier complexion. But did you know that when applied directly to your face, probiotic fractions can have a dramatic effect on the skin’s overall health and appearance?

The new and improved Advanced Génifique now boasts three prebiotics (Mannose, an essential and simple sugar; α –glucooligosaccharides and β –fructooligosaccharides, complex sugars) and four probiotic fractions (Bifidobacterium longum, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus acidophilis and a yeast: Saccharomyces cerevisae). Studies have shown that probiotic fractions can strengthen the all-important skin barrier and improve texture, elasticity and firmness.

Advanced Génifique also contains hyaluronic acid, a hydrating ingredient that punches way above its weight, drawing in up to 1,000 times its weight in water to the skin.

The best way to use it: Apply morning and night, after cleansing and before you moisturise. Simple! (Pro tip: wait 30 seconds to one minute before reaching for your moisturiser; this will give the product enough time to really sink in and get to work.)

The benefits: After just seven days of using Advanced Génifique morning and night, the team at Lancôme promise that you’ll have younger and more radiant looking skin. By strengthening the skin’s barrier, this powerful serum improves texture, elasticity and firmness, while reducing sensitivity.

The verdict: 9/10. Try it! Seriously! Is there anything this overachieving serum can’t do?