Lancome Genifique Review: Does it Work?

Lancome has recently introduced Genifique - a serum that promises to “reactivate” the youth in your genes. 

We’ve analyzed the ingredient list of Genifique and found a glaring problem that seems to be wrecking havoc on many a users skin. Right at the top of the ingredient list is Denatured Alcohol.  Denatured alcohol is not only extremely drying and irritating to the skin, but can also cause free-radical damage. Because Genifique has such a high concentration of denatured alcohol (it is the #4 ingredient), this is likely to be a problem for most users, who seem to be experiencing severe dryness and acne upon using the product. Why this would be included in such a supposedly advanced anti-aging serum is bewildering. 

A breakdown of the “active ingredients”:

• Bio-Lysat (bifida ferment lysate): This is simply a type of gram-positive bacteria found in the digestive system. It has no known effect on skin when applied topically.

• Hepes (hydroxyethylpiperazine ethane sulfonic acid): This ingredient is simply a buffering agent, perhaps intended to reduce irritation from all the alcohol. 

• Phystosphingosine-SLC (Salicyloyl Phytosphingosine):  A study, published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science, suggests that salicyloyl-phytosphingosine (SP), when topically applied to the face, reduces the depth of wrinkles and improves skin texture in photoaged skin. It is important to note that this study was funded by Degussa, which is the same company that developed the ingredient. No independent studies have backed up these claims. Lastly, the ingredient is not included at a very high concentration. 

The introduction and marketing of Genifique, which flaunts gene research in its very name, has raised a few eyebrows in the scientific community. Scientists worry companies like Lancome are making exaggerated claims to consumers about gene therapy skin care. The backlash when expectations aren’t met may compromise future funding and hinder the advancement of one of the most promising fields of research today. 

As for Genifique’s claim of reactiving ‘youth’ genes - It is important to note that just because a gene seems to be less active in aged skin does not mean that acting on that gene will prevent wrinkling. There are much better formulations and good wrinkle creams out there that include proven active ingredients and lack irritating ingredients in their formulations. The high concentration of denatured alcohol alone is enough to stay far away from this serum. Add to that a pretty hefty price tag and an active ingredient that leaves a lot to be desired, and we have enough to spend our money elsewhere.  

Verdict: Thumbs down!