Earn 5% back in Curatory Credit

Our way of saying thank you as you build your skincare routine with The Curatory.

How Curatory Credit works

Why I chose it

Blemishes often settle before the red or brown marks left behind them. I chose this because it combines several ingredients that address uneven tone in one lightweight serum.

This is a targeted additional step rather than a foundational one. It makes most sense when active blemishes are reasonably well controlled and the marks left behind are the main concern.

Dr Max GreenfieldMBBS, BSc, MRCS(Eng)

Where this fits

A broad guide to where this sits, without assuming how many steps your routine has.

Comes afterCleansing and any toner or mist
This product Neostrata Post-Acne Mark Correcting Serum
Comes beforeOther leave-on products and SPF
Comes afterCleansing and any toner or mist
This product Neostrata Post-Acne Mark Correcting Serum
Comes beforeOther leave-on products
Curate your full skincare routine
How to introduce it

Apply a thin layer to affected areas or the full face twice daily after cleansing. Allow it to absorb, then follow with moisturiser.

If your skin isn’t accustomed to active treatments, begin once daily and build up to twice daily if your skin tolerates it well.

Guidance continues after purchase. We can help you introduce, simplify or adjust this product.

The ingredients that make this special

A closer look at the ingredients doing the most meaningful work in this formula—and what the evidence can reasonably tell us.

Niacinamide

A form of vitamin B3 that supports the skin barrier and can help with uneven tone and visible redness.

Read the clinical context

Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that supports the skin barrier. Over time, it can help improve the appearance of uneven tone and redness. How much difference it makes depends on the concentration, the rest of the formula and whether the product is left on the skin or is rinsed off.

Tranexamic Acid

An ingredient used to support a more even-looking skin tone.

Read the clinical context

Evidence for topical use in melasma is promising, but it should be viewed as one supportive part of a broader plan rather than a standalone treatment.

Ascorbyl Glucoside

A stable vitamin C derivative that helps brighten and support antioxidant protection.

Read the clinical context

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

A soothing and brightening botanical extract that helps support a more even-looking complexion.

Read the clinical context

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

A gentle exfoliating and skin-supporting ingredient that may help improve tone and texture.

Read the clinical context

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.

View the complete ingredients list

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.

More about NeoStrata

NeoStrata grew from the work of dermatologists Dr Eugene Van Scott and Dr Ruey Yu, whose research helped establish alpha hydroxy acids in modern skincare. The brand has continued to develop acid-based technologies, including polyhydroxy acids, alongside antioxidant, pigment-supporting, moisturising and sun-protection formulas.

Its heritage is useful context, but the role and tolerability of each finished product still matter more than the brand story.