Who is this for?

Perfect for:

  • Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)
  • Hyperpigmentation

Helps with:

  • Mild Rosacea
  • Hyperpigmentation

Not great for:

  • Safe for all skin types

What makes it special?

Lots of the targeted acne treatments that I’ve listed focus on prevention and treatment, but really with acne, this is only the tip of the iceberg. The redness and pigmentation that persist after a breakout can be similarly debilitating and certainly last longer. Although this treatment (along with all others) isn’t a silver bullet for getting rid of redness and pigmentation overnight, it will certainly speed the process up.

The reason I chose this product specifically for The Curatory is the sheer number of different active ingredients packed into the formulation. It covers nearly all bases in terms of targeting both inflammation and pigmentation and at a relatively reasonable price point.

— Dr Max Greenfield

Key ingredients

Niacinamide is a jack of all trades ingredient. Most of its evidence base is for improving pigmentation but also acts as an anti-oxidant ingredient helping to reduce redness and inflammation as well as supporting skin barrier function.

Tranexamic Acid is used in skincare to help reduce the appearance of pigmentation and dark spots. There is growing clinical evidence supporting its role in improving melasma and UV-induced pigmentation, particularly when used consistently and combined with other brightening ingredients. Most topical studies are relatively small, but results are promising and it is generally well tolerated compared with stronger pigment-targeting treatments. It works by helping to reduce the pathways that stimulate excess pigment production, making it a useful option for uneven or reactive skin.

Ascorbyl Glucoside is a water-soluble derivative of vitamin C designed to be more stable and less irritating than pure ascorbic acid. Once applied, it is gradually converted into active vitamin C within the skin. Laboratory studies support its antioxidant activity, and small clinical studies suggest it may help improve brightness and uneven pigmentation with consistent use. However, its effects are generally milder compared to high-strength pure vitamin C. It is commonly used in formulations aimed at supporting radiance and protecting the skin from environmental stress.

Liquorice Root Extract contains compounds such as glabridin and liquiritin, which are associated with calming and pigment-regulating effects. There is moderate evidence, including small clinical studies, suggesting it may help reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and redness. Laboratory data also supports its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity. While results are generally milder than prescription treatments, it is well tolerated and commonly used in formulations designed for sensitive, reactive or uneven skin.

NeoGlucosamine (N-acetyl glucosamine) is an amino sugar that plays a role in the skin’s natural support structures, including hyaluronic acid production. Early clinical studies suggest it may help improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation, particularly when combined with other active ingredients. It also provides very mild exfoliating effects and may support hydration. While results are promising, much of the published data is manufacturer-sponsored, and more independent large-scale studies would help clarify the extent of its benefits.

Aqua/water/eau, propanediol, acetyl glucosamine, niacinamide, alcohol denat, tranexamic acid, ascorbyl glucoside, epilobium angustifolium flower/leaf/stem extract, 4-butylresorcinol, glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice) root extract, xanthan gum, sodium bisulfite, sodium hydroxide, caprylyl glycol, disodium edta, chlorphenesin, phenoxyethanol.

How to use

Cleanse your face and pat dry

Tone - optional step if you want to introduce additional actives into your routine

Vitamin C Serum - part of your core routine for its anti-oxidant benefits

Neostrata Post-Acne Mark Correcting Serum

Moisturise - only if you feel you need some extra hydration

Sun protection - SPF whatever the weather

Makeup (optional)

Application Instructions

This product has been designed to be simple to integrate into your existing routine as and when you need it. If you tone after cleansing then apply a thin layer and allow to dry before continuing with the rest of your skincare routine. It can be used in both the morning and evening. 

Please note that even with additional help both PIE (redness) and PIH (pigmentation) after breakouts is not an overnight process and can take up to 2 or 3 skin cycles to resolve. Consistency and patience is key. If you’re struggling to manage your skin or need any further help on how to treat your PIE or PIH then please get in touch with us.

Gently remove make up with a micellar water or oil/balm cleanser

Cleanse - this will be your second cleanse if wearing makeup 

Tone - optional step if you want to introduce additional actives into your routine

Neostrata Post-Acne Mark Correcting Serum

Retinoid - a retinoid should form part of your core routine

Moisturise 

Application Instructions

This product has been designed to be simple to integrate into your existing routine as and when you need it. If you tone after cleansing then apply a thin layer and allow to dry before continuing with the rest of your skincare routine. It can be used in both the morning and evening. 

Please note that even with additional help both PIE (redness) and PIH (pigmentation) after breakouts is not an overnight process and can take up to 2 or 3 skin cycles to resolve. Consistency and patience is key. If you’re struggling to manage your skin or need any further help on how to treat your PIE or PIH then please get in touch with us.