Day 1. My skin is fine. Not great, not terrible — just fine. I’m bored of fine.
The real test? Seeing if a viral serum could make a visible dent in the stubborn texture on my forehead and chin.
It’s the Drunk Elephant A+ Serum. $90. The claim? A potent 1% retinoid blend that delivers results without the usual irritation.
The Packaging
Airless pump keeps the formula stable — no oxidation.
The Smell
Slight, earthy scent — not masked by heavy fragrance.
The Feel
Silky, sinks in fast. No greasy residue.
Photo: Rosa Rafael / Unsplash
It’s not just retinol. It’s a cocktail. 1% retinol complex plus a supporting cast to soothe and boost.
- Granactive Retinoid 1%: The main event, targets texture and tone
- Niacinamide: Calms redness, helps with barrier function
- Peptides: For plumping, not just surface-level
- Marula & Squalane Oils: Cushion the potential dryness
Photo: pmv chamara / Unsplash
Texture is weirdly satisfying — like a silky slip. Absorbs in 15 seconds. No pilling under moisturizer.
Week 2 purge was real. Two new friends on my chin. But by Week 3, they were gone — and took some old texture with them.
Photo: Poko Skincare / Unsplash
Texture? Improved. Glow? Absolutely. Deep wrinkles? Barely touched. My skin looks smoother and more even — but it’s not a time machine.
Photo: Vera Marian / Unsplash
It lives up to the hype for smoothing and glow. But it’s a refinement, not a revolution.