Neostrata Acne Clear Clarifying Solution and Night Repair Cream

I’m always interested in trying acid-infused products to promote exfoliation and brighter skin. I’ve also never tried anything from Neostrata before, so my curiosity got the better of me when I spotted their Clear Clarifying Solution and Night Repair Cream…

Neostrata Acne Clear Clarifying Solution

Don’t let the name of this toner fool you; it isn’t limited to acne sufferers only. The key ingredients of this toner are:

• 10% glycolic acid -alpha-hydroxy (AHA) chemical exfoliant for the removal of dead skin cells to promote skin smoothing and brightening.
• 2% salicylic acid – beta-hydroxy (BHA) chemical exfoliant that’s great for deep cleaning pores and reducing/preventing acne.
• Alcohol denat. – this form of alcohol can dry out and potentially irritate skin – beware!

While I don’t suffer from acne, I figured it was time to increase my glycolic acid dosage from the 8% I’ve been using for over 5 years (Reversa Solution for Oily/Acne Prone Skin, 8% Glycolic Acid) to the next level.

First impressions? This toner stinks; it has a very strong smell upon opening and I was actually worried I wouldn’t be able to use it daily because of the smell. That being said, the smell died down over several days (thank God), which made using it daily much easier. I don’t really notice the smell as much at this point.

I apply this toner each night to my face and neck after double cleansing to remove all my makeup. Having a high AHA content, this toner does sting when applied to skin. The stinging dies down after I apply my essence/serum and doesn’t irritate my skin any further.

Acid FYI: I’ve been using acid exfoliators for many years; if you are new to acid exfoliants in general, or haven’t used a 10% glycolic before, go slow and build up your skin’s tolerance before going to a daily or twice daily dosage.

I have the skin of an alligator, so I went all in right from the get go. After using any type of exfoliant, you should always use a broad spectrum SPF lotion before being exposed to the sun. I feel like I shouldn’t have to say this, because you use an SPF lotion daily anyways, right?

RELATED READING:  Indeed Labs inDefense30 Dual Action Moisturizer SPF30 (a.k.a. The Best Makeup Base Ever!

Results?

Smell aside, I do like this toner for its skin smoothing ability. I feel like the extra AHA really helped smooth out my skin and improve its overall radiance. As I don’t suffer from acne, I can’t give an opinion on its effectiveness in that area, but chemical exfoliants are always great for removing dead skin cells that can clog pores and create blemishes and this one has AHA and BHA in it, similar to the Nip+Fab Glycolic Fix pads (which are awesome!).

My only complaint is that this toner contains alcohol denat. as the third ingredient. This type of alcohol can dry out and/or irritate skin. While I haven’t suffered from any dryness or peeling myself with this toner, please be aware of this ingredient if you tend to have dry/flaky skin, as it could make this issue worse.

Neostrata Night Repair Cream

The Night Repair Cream contains 6% glycolic acid for skin smoothing/brightening as well as 3% Magnalys which is “… a natural extract rich in vitamins and amino acids that revitalizes the appearance of skin and promotes elasticity.”

I normally apply this moisturizer on the nights that I am not using my Paula’s Choice Clinical 1% Retinol Treatment. Night Repair does have a slight tingle when applied to your skin due to the glycolic acid content, but nothing painful and it only lasts a few seconds. I find this cream keeps my skin hydrated and remains slightly tacky on the skin.

The Night Repair Cream would be great for anyone looking for an acid exfoliator that doesn’t dry out or irritate your skin, or anyone afraid of acid toners in general.

The mixture of the glycolic acid in a moisturizer form also make this cream great for the dry, winter months when skin tends to dry out more easily.

Have you used any Neostrata skin care products?