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Welcome to Beautyistic! If you’re like me, struggling with stubborn acne and those post-acne marks that just won’t seem to fade, you’re probably on the hunt for a skincare duo that promises to clear, smooth, and brighten your skin. Well, today, we’re reviewing the Neutrogena Stubborn Texture Daily Acne Facial Cleanser and the Stubborn Marks PM Treatment.
Let’s break it down.
First up, the Stubborn Texture Daily Acne Facial Cleanser. This acne-fighting powerhouse is formulated with a blend of 1% salicylic acid, 2% glycolic acid (AHA), and 2% polyhydroxy acid (PHA). The goal here? To target those pesky breakouts and smooth your skin’s texture, all while preventing new breakouts from forming. Salicylic acid is a well-known exfoliant that works deep into pores to clear out debris, while glycolic acid gently exfoliates the surface, promoting cell turnover. The PHA targets the outer layers of your skin to smooth things out. And the best part? It’s fragrance-free, so it’s great for sensitive skin.
Now, I’ve been testing this out for a few weeks, and I have to say, it’s been a pleasant addition to my routine. The texture is creamy and not too foamy, which is ideal for my dry skin that can sometimes feel stripped after using acne cleansers. I love how gentle it is but still effective at clearing out impurities. My skin felt instantly smoother and refreshed, and I noticed fewer breakouts in the first few days of use. It does take time, as with any acne treatment, but I definitely saw improvements in skin clarity.
Next, let’s talk about the Stubborn Marks PM Treatment. This is a nighttime treatment that harnesses the power of retinol SA, a stabilized form of vitamin A. Retinol is a heavy hitter when it comes to improving skin texture and reducing the appearance of post-acne marks. This treatment is designed to visibly correct your complexion and improve clarity while you sleep.
I’ve found that this treatment has a subtle yet noticeable impact on the texture of my skin. It’s been a lifesaver for fading the lingering marks from past breakouts. It’s a bit thicker than your average serum, but it absorbs well and doesn’t leave me feeling greasy. After a few weeks of consistent use, I can tell that my skin looks smoother, and those stubborn marks are visibly fading. It’s a great retinol option for beginners, since it’s not overly harsh, but still delivers results.
When used together, these two products form a powerful team. The cleanser works to keep acne at bay, while the treatment takes care of those post-breakout marks. My skin’s texture has improved, and I’m seeing fewer breakouts overall.
Pros: The cleanser is gentle, effective, and non-drying—perfect for daily use. The treatment fades marks without irritating the skin, which is a huge win for anyone who’s had issues with sensitivity in the past.
Cons: The treatment contains retinol, so be cautious if you’re new to retinol products—start slowly to avoid irritation. Also, the combination of glycolic acid and salicylic acid in the cleanser could be too intense for some, so always patch-test first if you’re unsure.
In terms of value for money, these products are on the pricier side for drugstore skincare, but I think they’re worth it. The formulations are high-quality, free of fragrances, parabens, and phthalates, and they’re backed by the credibility of Neutrogena, a dermatologist-recommended brand. For anyone with acne-prone skin, the price is justified for the effectiveness.
If you’re looking for similar products at a lower price point, you might want to consider trying The Ordinary’s AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution or their Retinol 0.2% in Squalane. They might not have the same combination of ingredients, but they’re solid alternatives that give great results without the hefty price tag.
The build quality of both products is excellent, and the packaging is sleek, hygienic, and travel-friendly. I don’t foresee any issues with durability, and both products have a decent shelf life, making them worth the investment over time.
As for customer support, Neutrogena has a solid reputation for responsiveness, and while I haven’t had to personally interact with their support team, their online resources are comprehensive and helpful.
So, to wrap up, would I recommend these products? Absolutely! If you’re dealing with stubborn acne and post-acne marks, this duo could work wonders for your skin. They tackle acne at its source while smoothing and brightening the complexion. Just be cautious with the retinol if you’ve never used it before.
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Thanks for tuning in, and until next time, stay beautiful inside and out!
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