Neostrata • Smoothing Cream (all concentration levels) • Moisturizers

melllm on 3/13/2013 12:03:00 AM more reviews by melllm

Age: 19-24   Skin: Combination, Tan, Warm   Hair: Brunette, Straight, Fine   Eyes: Hazel    

I purchased this in the level one concentration as I have sensitive skin and was worried this would irritate my skin. But, I have been successfully using this for about 2 months now and I am loving the results. I honestly wasn't expecting this cream to do this much but it has dramatically transformed my skin. This eliminates flakes and dryness really well and I never need to use any other exfoliants. Since using this cream my complexion looks brighter and even. This has faded my hyperpigmentation and acne scars. Definitely a keeper and will be repurchasing the level two concentrate when I am finished. Also, I only use this at night as I suspect this wouldn't wear well under makeup.

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shadowphoenix on 10/28/2012 5:50:00 PM more reviews by shadowphoenix

Age: 25-29   Skin: Combination   Hair: Other   Eyes: Blue    

I bought the level 3 smoothing cream in a jar on the advice of an aesthetician.

I have combination/sensitive skin (oily t-zone, dry chin area, and very sensitive to way too many things). This cream didn't break me out, which was nice. It does have a little sting to it sometimes, but nothing major.

I didn't see any major improvements with my skin. I used almost the whole jar, once a day (once in awhile twice day) but my lines, acne scars, acne frequency and pigmentation are all the same. The other thing is that it doesn't seem to absorb properly. I tried everything from tiny amounts to really massaging it in, but it just wants to sit there on my skin. It will sort of cake off if you rub your cheek.

Pros: didn't do anything bad to my skin, like many other things do. The smell isn't lovely, but isn't terrible either.

Cons: didn't do anything for me :( and doesn't absorb well.

Won't be repurchasing.

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moonshyne777 on 6/12/2012 12:28:00 AM more reviews by moonshyne777

Age: 36-43   Skin: Combination, Fair-Medium   Hair: Blond   Eyes: Blue    

I LOVE THIS STUFF!! I use the Level 3 Smoothing LOTION (non spf one) and it has worked AMAZING. My skin is much softer, smoother and not only are my zits a thing of the past but it also has made my pores appear smaller and just overall left my skin looking and feeling great! I will re-purchase again and again and HIGHLY recommend this amazing product to anyone who, like me was battling both zits and trying to get rid of fine lines and a few wrinkles. This has produced awesome results on both fronts.

Bottom line..BUY THIS! And make sure it's the LOTION (no spf one) as I tried the cream version and it just doesn't work as well. Note: I did "work" my way up to Level 3 by starting with Level 2 for a couple weeks. But once I switched to Level 3 is when I really started seeing results from this lotion so try to get to Level 3 as it seems to be the most effective product from Neostrata by far.

FYI: Not that I base all my purchases on her reviews, but Paula B rates this very highly on her site and recommends it as well. She seems to know her stuff so I was pretty encouraged when after I bought this I looked it up and saw the high ratings it gets here and everywhere else. I will never be without this product and by far, is the product I have seen the most results in the least amount of time. (I've only been using this a few weeks and the results are outstanding!) Now go buy some :)

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AngeliaJolie on 5/12/2012 11:32:00 PM more reviews by AngeliaJolie

Age: 30-35   Skin: Acne-prone   Hair: Black   Eyes: Black    

I have been using the Level 2 smoothing creams on and off for at least 10 years now and they never disappoint. If you are acne prone and Retin A doesnt do much for you - I suggest AHA's and BP. I am currently using the day cream with SPF 15 and the night cream. Neostrata's smoothing cream - does just that - smooths your skin without causing breakouts. It does not smell great nor feel luxurious but it works and for around $30 CDN a jar - that works for me.

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angusmum on 2/27/2012 2:46:00 PM more reviews by angusmum

Age: 36-43   Skin: Other, Fair   Hair: Other   Eyes: Blue    

I am very familiar with this line and have used many of their products. I fing that the smoothing LOTION is much better than the smoothing cream, particularly the day formula. I could never wear the cream in daytime as its far too thick and leaves the skin way too shiny. They have both lotions and creams now and I stick with the lotions. I have had results with #3 better than anything I have tried in terms of complexion, fine lines uneven etc. It even ate a skin tag off my face! Had it taken off 3x and it always came back but now doesnt. I received the product originally in the cream form as a gift with purchase. It seemed strong and I didnt find out until later that a person shoul be building up to it, kinda crazy to just give out the bottle with gift on it and no instructions that usually come on a paper in the box!
I use it several times a week and can feel its strength if I havent used for a while. I layer over top it really does work at level 3. I use their eye serum and other products regularly. I find the Intense versions more effective but they also cost a lot more. They often have sales buy 1 get 1 free and this is the time to buy. Their wrinkle repair intense is great, not so much the othr wrinkle products, I think its for people with signs of aging, it delivers value for money. A couple of the products are not worth it including the moisturizer as can get 1 just as good much cheaper. The antiaging products and exfoliant are the beat for store brands. I used to use all Aveda products which are wonderful so I am particular and will not keep something idf it isnt good regardless of price. I continue to use Aveda hair products tho, cant be replaced. I was spending a small fortune yearly on skincare and makeup and after divorce can not justify the expense. Neostrata performs!
Packagng good for hygenic and integrity of product just never know how much is left as it just runs out! I just wanted to add that I dont think these products are really intended as moisturizers more as askin treatment prio to moisturizer, thats how I always use it and it does deliver

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windkey on 2/27/2012 2:31:00 PM more reviews by windkey

Age: 36-43   Skin: Sensitive, Fair-Medium, Warm   Hair: Brunette, Wavy, Fine   Eyes: Blue    

I admit, my experience with glycolic acid products is limited, but I certainly expected more. I tried the Level 2 8% concentration, for two weeks. It made my skin shiny when I applied it. That's it. No "smoothing effects," no miraculously renewed texture," nothing. I didn't break out, and it doesn't have annoying perfumes added to it, but I noticed absolutely no change or improvement in my skin.

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tricia_g_c on 2/12/2012 4:32:00 PM more reviews by tricia_g_c

Age: 36-43   Skin: Very Oily, Neutral   Hair: Black, Straight, Medium   Eyes: Brown    

I bought this in Spring 2011. The first few weeks was heavenly. I got the cleanser, night time smoothing cream level 3, daytime smoothing cream level 3 and the mattifyer.

My skin cleared up wonderfully. However, I think that even this good product was not enough to battle whatever hormonal horror was happening on my face.
The cleanser is good - gets the makeup off nicely without tightening the skin
The night time cream - was really good, I felt a little tingle when using it and I feel that it smoothed my skin nicely
The daytime cream - same as nighttime but I think it brings on the shine, big time (I still have this and will use it until it's done)
Mattifyer - does a decent job, I still have to dab throughout the day but it does reduce the shine though doe not eliminate it

I'd buy it again if the price was right

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conceal4ever on 1/29/2012 11:24:00 AM more reviews by conceal4ever

Age: 30-35   Skin: Acne-prone, Fair-Medium   Hair: Black   Eyes: Brown    

I agree with the other reviewers, this cream does not smell nice. I have to top it off with my biotherm aquasource moisturizing gel to cover up the odour. However I think that we can all agree that we would put up with a little unpleasant smell for a cream that will:
a) remove 10 years of dead skin cells off your face within a week;
b) smooth out all bumps and problem areas from your face;
c) clear off old acne scars and hyperpigmentation; and
d) leave your pores tighter and smaller.

I've been using the resurfacing duo and this cream together for only 6 days and the results have been life changing. I can't stop touching my skin, it's never ever ever looked and felt this good. I don't think my skin was this great even when I was 20. I would highly recommend that anyone suffering for chronic breakouts or problem skin try this.

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*TOP REVIEWER* Juliasyji on 1/23/2012 4:36:00 PM more reviews by Juliasyji

Age: 25-29   Skin: Dry, Fair-Medium, Warm   Hair: Brown, Straight, Medium   Eyes: Brown    

I am on level two and so far i am impressed. I have a pretty good skin regime and despite my double cleansing which is oil cleanse and then clarisonic with clinique mild soap, I was still getting break outs around my chin & mouth area. I know that this is probably hormonal and also stress related but I was sick and tired of being good to my skin and still getting terrible breakouts that leave hyperpigmentation marks.

I wanted a product that would
- control my hormonal/ stress related breakouts,
- fade hyperpigmentation marks left by previous breakouts
- improve overall look and feel of my skin
- some anti aging properties (im 30 this year)

and this product does them all! I know that the name simply says "smoothing" but glycolic acid and the PH level in this product is actually geared towards addressing all the points i listed below. and yes the scent of this product could be better but maybe because it doesnt have any fragrance, it works better. like most people who have reviewed here, I agree that the scent is not a good one but it does go away in less than a minute and it doesn't linger. it just momentarily bothers me when i am initially applying it.
I use this cream as a night cream and for the first few days, there was a bit of stinging upon application but your skin does get used to it and it doesnt sting after a while.

I love that i wake up to a really smooth face and it's getting rid of all my breakouts. It's also fading the marks left by other breakouts from months ago.

I am in love with this cream and I think that even if you don't have breakout issues, you should definitely give it a try if you are in your late 20's to early 30's as a preventative measure for wrinkles and loss of radiance.

The price point is also really good. normally i use clarins, shiseido, estee lauder and compared to those brands, this could be considered cheap. I got mine at SDM for 35 bucks or something.

and it actually works! Try it, if you have sensitive skin go with level one.

this has a huge HG potential for me, I will update and up the lippie to 5 in a month when I have given it a thorough try.

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*TOP REVIEWER* blyss on 9/9/2011 8:47:00 AM more reviews by blyss

Age: 25-29   Skin: Combination   Hair: Black   Eyes: Black    

This review is for the Smoothing Lotion Level 3.



Overview:
I've been using glycolic acid products for nearly 7 years with varying results. Some products are better than others. This one is not great and it leaves much to be desired compared to the claims. I found it to soak in quickly to the skin, leaves no film, and not be irritating. It also mattifies a bit and help prevents flaky skin. It does help renew the skin quicker so my acne scars go away quickly but it does minimal for my black heads and uneven skintone. My skin is no better and no worse when I started using it a month ago.



My Skin:
I'm combination-oily with a bit of acne. I did have a few years of being acne free but that's long gone. I can be sensitive to SPF products and I will have a strong reaction.



Product Characteristics (Colour or Textures):
This lotion was fairly watery but did absorb very well into skin. It left a bit tiny tiny bit of mattifying film on the skin but it was barely noticeable. It has no scent which is great. I chose one with SPF as I know I will react badly with the SPF version. The SPF version does leave a stickly film that does not absorb into the skin or disappear with time. Level 3 has 10% glycolic acid and it recommended to use once or twice daily.



Results:
I would say this is where the lotion disappointed me. I like how there was no annoying scents, irritation, or film left on the skin but this formula did nothing for my skin. I have mild acne and this did not help it at all. I continued to have the same amount of acne after 1 month of use. This lotion did not help speed up the removal of old dried acne or help with old acne discolouration. This item did not help with any black heads either. Supposedly this lotion is made for oily skin and acne prone but I really have to doubt it's claim. Perhaps this is better for others but this did nothing for me. The only good thing is that it didn't make my skin worse.

The good thing was that it did help prevent and get rid of flaky skin. I never had an issue with that. It also help renew the skin quicker to at least get rid of the dry acne scars.



Cost:
In Canada, it does go on sale at Shoppers Drug Mart and makes it more reasonable for purchase. The price isn't steep but I would say it's steep for a lotion that does nothing for me.


Why I Like it:
It didn't make my skin worse. It helped with prevent flaky skin and get rid of old acne scars quicker than usual.


Why I don't like it:
None of the claims happen. My skin didn't get clearer, didn't reduce acne or blackheads, didn't look smoother, didn't clarify, didn't even out, and it didn't renew it faster than normal.


Would I buy it again?
I would not buy this again and I would not recommend it.

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ladyofshalott on 5/19/2011 9:07:00 AM more reviews by ladyofshalott

Age: 19-24   Skin: Sensitive, Fair, Neutral   Hair: Red, Wavy, Fine   Eyes: Blue    

I have used the Level 1 daytime smoothing cream SPF 15 and the Level 3 smoothing cream (without SPF). I really LOVE the Level 1 daytime smoothing cream SPF 15 during the Fall and Winter season, because it really helps moisturize my skin and prevent dry patches from developing. It also helps keep my skin looking clear, however my skin did not clear up for about 1-2 weeks with continued use. The moisturizer is too heavy to wear in the Summer time.

I use the Level 3 smoothing cream at night a couple times a week. I find that it works great, but again is a bit too heavy to wear during the Summer months. I recently bought Alpha Hydrox AHA Souffle 12% Glycolic AHA. I haven't tried it yet, but since it's cheaper than Neostrata, I am going to see what it is like. :)

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Yum3ji on 5/10/2011 10:59:00 PM more reviews by Yum3ji

Age: 25-29   Skin: Sensitive, Fair, Cool   Hair: Brunette, Wavy, Coarse   Eyes: Brown    

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION: Suited for the dry and normal skin types that require the maximum exfoliation to even out skin complexion, while moisturizing.

Ideal for:
• Dry, normal skin
• Uneven, dull skin
• All ages

Results:
• Evens out complexion, while moisturizing
• Removes build-up of dead cells on the surface of the skin
• Reveals radiant, younger-looking skin in just 10 days

Directions: Apply 1 or 2 times daily.

Note: The lower the pH level is in glycolic acid products, the deeper and more effective the exfoliation (3.5 is the minimum allowed). All NeoStrata's glycolic acid products are formulated with a pH range between 3.5 – 4.0. Gradually build skin tolerance the first two weeks you use the product.

MY THOUGHTS: I received a free 2 mL sample of NeoStrata® Smoothing Cream in Level 3 from a business sponsored gift bag. Suggested retail price for 50 mL is $36.00.

Note: Because I received a sample packet, I quickly stored any excess into a small container (i.e. Sephora's in-store sample containers) for future use. I estimate that the amount I received will last me around 5 to 7 days.

The cream is a light, viscous lotion accompanied with an unpleasant aroma of burning plastic. Because of the offensive smell, I only apply this product in the evenings right before bedtime. Having tried NeoStrata® products in the past (i.e. Toning Solution 8%) any "burning" sensation I experienced from the 10% glycolic acid (Level 3) was minor. However, it is highly recommended to start with a low concentration (i.e. Level 1: 4%, or Level 2: 8%) to minimize adverse effects.

The key ingredient in this lotion, glycolic acid, is the smallest α-hydroxy acid (AHA). Due to its small molecular size and bioavailability, glycolic acid is able to penetrate the skin easily allowing it to diminish the cellular cohesion between corneocytes. This action promotes exfoliation of the outermost layer of skin resulting in smoother texture and improvement in signs of acne, photo-damage, wrinkling, and melasma. It is important to remember that this process also increases the skin's photosensitivity to the sun, thus usage of sunblock is highly recommended prior to sun exposure.

INGREDIENTS: Aqua, Glycolic Acid, Aqua, Arginine, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Triethanolamine, Isopropyl Palmitate, Stearic Acid, Propylene Glycol, Cetyl Alcohol, Dimethicone, Cholesterol, Isostearic Acid, Ammonium Hydroxide, Fragrance, Sorbitan Stearate, Phenoxyethanol, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Stearamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Xanthan Gum, Tetrasodium EDTA, BHT.

MYSELF: I'm an Euro-Canadian with combination and sensitive skin that is prone to clogged pores (Baumann skin type: OSPW).

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tamacyan on 6/26/2010 12:35:00 PM more reviews by tamacyan

Age: 44-55   Skin: Dry, Fair-Medium   Hair: Brown   Eyes: Brown    

Love Neostrata.
level 1 and 2 has slightly different scent.
I like level 1 scent better but it doesn't matter,
it works really really well.
I have very dry skin but I don't have any trouble.
After I use this product 3 weeks my skin looks 5 years younger.My daughter has prone skin,she has smooth skin now.
We are going to buy 4th jar.
Amazing product.

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curlyhead on 11/29/2009 12:42:00 PM more reviews by curlyhead

Age: 30-35   Skin: Combination, Medium   Hair: Brown   Eyes: Brown    

I swear by this cream. I've strayed away from it a few times in the past because I've been tempted by other creams with nicer packaging or better scents, but I always come back and every time this happens I kick myself for trying anything else. This cream is amazing at smoothing the skin, getting rid of bumps and fading the spots left behind by acne. I have combination skin which is very prone to breaking out and with this cream I break out less often and when I do it resolves much more quickly. My skin always feels incredibly smooth and fresh when I use this. This product is also much cheaper than all of the department store brands and it works SO much better. The trick to avoiding any irritation is to start with the lighter strength and work your way up to 8%.

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nic on 8/2/2008 7:23:00 AM more reviews by nic

Age: 36-43   Skin: Normal, Fair-Medium, Neutral   Hair: Brunette, Fine   Eyes: Blue    

This is my HG face cream. The 8 per cent AHA is much too strong for me and leaves my skin burning. However I use either the 6 per cent or 4 per cent and find them equally effective. My doctor recommended these when I couldn't get rid of these tiny white bumps on my forehead. Within a week or two of using the Neostrata cream, my forehead was completely clear. If you haven't used this type of product before, start with the lighter formulas like the 4. It will sting at first because you are not used to it. That sensation does go away with regular use. It also takes a month or two to see the results, but it does lessen fine lines, even out skin tone and just generally make your skin look clearer. I have been sucked in by other creams marketing and have regretted it. Just love this product line for the most part, but their creams are my staple. Finally, I think they are one, if not the only brand in Canada that is assigned a drug code by the food and drug agency for the active ingredients in their line. This means that they are tested for their claims etc. I think I have to repurchase about two or maybe three times a year - definitely worth the money.

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*TOP REVIEWER* SophH on 7/21/2008 6:40:00 PM more reviews by SophH

Age: 19-24   Skin: Normal, Fair-Medium   Hair: Blond   Eyes: Brown    

Love, Love, Love It!! My advice is to stick with it for at least of months if you can. When I first tried this my skin reacted to it, got a bit bumpy and didn't look that crash hot but within a couple of weeks it was great!! It smooths out congestion, large pores and helps fade away scars and imperfections.

The packaging isn't the best-the tub seems to last for ages and it's not really that hygenic dipping your hand in every time to get some-but that's it's only fault.

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rukpong on 6/2/2008 3:20:00 AM more reviews by rukpong

Age: Unknown   Skin: Combination, Fair   Hair: Black   Eyes: Brown    

I’ve seen nothing changed in the skin from this cream. Plus the package is terrible. The fonts on the bottle vanished and it seems like it mix with the cream very easily. I think one can get better products eg. Shiseido, Kose, Kanebo paying only 10-20% more than this brand.

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athena_xxx on 4/20/2008 12:49:00 PM more reviews by athena_xxx

Age: 19-24   Skin: Acne-prone   Hair: Brunette   Eyes: Brown    

ALL of the neostrata products are amazing!! I have really oily skin with dry patches and I use to break out every week. I started using the proactiv cleanser, the neostrata toner 8%, and a cream with either 8% or 10% glycolic acid every day (the toner and cream only at night) and I NEVER break out anymore. I mean NEVER. like once in a few months I might get one zit and if I do it's always really small and goes away in a day...IM SO AMAZED!! Probably the mix of benzyl peroxide in the proactiv and the glycolic acid in the neostrata products work as an amazing team! not only do I never break out now, I also have soft, glowing skin!! I used proactiv many times before without neostrata and it never worked but this combo together is AMAZING!!! seriously try it if u break out constantly and have oily skin...it took a month or so for the results to really show but after that they're constant and I've been using this stuff for almost a year now and I still have amazingly clear and soft skin. THANKYOU NEOSTRATA!!!

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AntsInMyPants on 10/9/2007 1:48:00 PM more reviews by AntsInMyPants

Age: 30-35   Skin: Oily, Fair   Hair: Brunette   Eyes: Green    

This product had potential. It smoothed out my skin quite nicely, and got rid of all the pesky little bumps that I just couldn't seem to get rid of - and all in a matter of 1 week.

However, this stuff REEKS! The smell is so bad, that by day 6 of using this product, I was practically gagging when I put it on. I couldn't take it anymore, so I returned it.

If you can stand the smell, then this stuff does actually work - but I just couldn't take it anymore. GROSS

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Wonder78 on 3/12/2007 3:14:00 PM more reviews by Wonder78

Age: 19-24   Skin: Combination, Medium   Hair: Black   Eyes: Black    

This is richer and thicker than the Neostrata lotion, however, it is not greasy at all. I love Neostrata's smoothing formula. It is amazing! It leave your skin softer, smoother and it can improve your pore size and ance problem in the long run. I use ther product every other day (I got sensitive skin) and it keep my skin in a good shape. The cream is a bit stronger than the lotion in my opinion. It gave me more stingting feel than the lotion. I think I might go back to the lotion later on instead becuase the lotion fits my combination akin better. But overall, you cannot go wrong with Neostrata smoothing cream or lotion.

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