In place of a monthly beauty edit – as I’m largely using the same products on rotation at the moment – I thought I’d share a bit of a brand focus on Neostrata. It’s not often that a part of my skincare routine is singularly dedicated to just one brand. But, after seeing the incredible results other women have had from using Neostrata products, I decided to make an exception.
Over the past five weeks as part of my evening skincare routine, I’ve been using the; ‘Restore’ Facial Cleanser, ‘Restore’ Bionic Face Serum, ‘Restore’ Ultra Moisturising Face Cream, and the ‘Repair’ Intensive Eye Therapy.
About Neostrata
Neostrata was launched more than 40 years ago, with the mission of helping people achieve healthier looking skin. A number of the brand’s discoveries went on to set the gold standard for the skincare industry. Most notably, their findings of how Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs), and Glycolic Acid – two darlings of the skincare world – benefit our skin.
Their latest discoveries to help promote skin cell turnover include Polyhydroxy Acids (PHAs) and NeoGlucosamine.
There are three core lines. Skin Active, which targets signs of ageing; Resurface, which smooths skin textures and reduces appearance of pores; and Restore, which hydrates the skin and is suitable for sensitive skin types.
My skin type & skincare concerns
Like anyone in their early thirties, I’ve come to appreciate the benefits a good skincare routine can have on my complexion. The things I’m generally concerned about are reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, evening out textured parts of my skin, and combating dullness.
My skin type is combination/oily but dehydrated. I’m a big fan of hyalauronic acid-based products, and my skincare regimen is generally centred around ramping up my complexions hydration levels. I also have dermatitis/eczema, which presents as redness and texture at the base of my nose/upper lip, and on both sides of my chin/jawline.
The products I’ve had on rotation
My experience with Neostrata has been centred around four products. Being prone to eczema, the Restore line was recommended to me, as it’s suitable for even the most sensitive skin types. These contain an ingredient called PHA, which have a dual purpose. They replenish and protect, while also gently exfoliating. And, they’re fragrance free.
I also incorporated the eye serum from the Skin Active Line. This has a more potent mix of ingredients, to effectively target the changes in our skin as a result of ageing. The results I saw from the clinical study were phenomenal. Key ingredients include NeoGlucosamine, Aminofil and PHAs.
As I mentioned, I’ve been using these products for a good five weeks now, and wanted to finally share my thoughts.
The Restore Facial Cleanser has become the one I use first thing in the morning. It’s a non-foaming, gel formula, which feels really gentle on the skin. My complexion feels smooth, clean but not stripped after use. I prefer not to use this in the evening – even as part of a double cleanse – as it’s not very effective at removing any makeup residue that may still be on my face.
Next is the Restore Bionic Face Serum. This has a bit of a gel-like consistency to it, and I’ve found myself using this as part of both my morning and evening skincare routine. Quite often I would use two “hydrating” serum products to really boost my skin’s moisture levels, but found that I was happy to drop it back to one with this. Love how smooth and nourished this left my skin feeling.
For under the eyes, I’ve been loving the Skin Active Intensive Eye Therapy. This is the stand out of the lot for me. It wasn’t until I took a close look at my complexion in the mirror after giving birth, that I noticed an abundance of fine lines around my eyes. I wish I’d taken a before photo to show how incredible this has been, but it’s really had an impact for me. I still have fine lines, but they’re visibly less noticeable, and the under eye area looks plumper overall.
The final product I’ve had on rotation is the Restore Ultra Moisturising Face Cream. Again, another one I exclusively use in the evening. This lives up to the name, it’s a lightweight formula that somehow feels as nourishing and hydrating as the thicker face creams I’d usually use. Because it doesn’t feel heavy on the skin, it is lovely to wear during the day too, however I’v found in my experience, it hasn’t layered well with the makeup products I use.
One of the things I’ve noticed since I began using Neostrata products, is that the textured skin around my chin feels nourished. The roughness that is often there – particularly after cleansing and before the moisturising element of my skincare routine – has eased off. There’s still an element of texture, but it no longer feels like the sahara desert, if you know what I mean. Mostly, I’ve been blown away by how effective the Skin Active line is. Most of the products contain retinoids otherwise I’d be all over it, so am keen to try out more from this line once I’ve stopped nursing.
Would love to know if you have any experience using Neostrata – let me know in the comments below! x
Neostrata is available at Priceline and Chemist Warehouse in Australia.
Products were gifted for my review. All thoughts and experiences my own.
I have been using their foaming glycolic wash for years and absolutely love it. Like you, I am breastfeeding a small baby, and will use retinoids once I stop, but I find glycolic acid and AHAs are working well in the meantime. I’ll also try the eye serum you have used. Thank you for this review!