A skin lightening ingredient approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It lightens skin by helping to reduce the production of melanin / pigment.

Dry skin conditions range from mildly dry with light flaking and skin tightness to extremely rough hyperkeratotic disorders. Most dry, chapped skin can be relieved through the use of a good moisturizer with AHAs and PHAs for gentle exfoliation, moisturization and skin conditioning. The more bothersome dry skin conditions on the face require an extra heavy emollient formulation in combination with skin normalizing / conditioning alpha and polyhydroxy acids (AHAs and PHAs). The most severe forms of dry skin including ichthyosis and plaque psoriasis, generally require therapeutic products, and are best treated by a dermatologist. For product recommendations, visit our Hyperkeratotic category.

Your skin is 'hyperpigmented' if you have areas of discoloration on your face, chest, shoulders or hands from years of sun exposure. Also known as sun spots, age spots and liver spots, these areas of hyperpigmentation are visible signs of photoaging. Skin may also become discolored after pregnancy or as a result of using oral contraceptives; this condition is called 'melasma'. Many cases of melasma and hyperpigmentation will improve over time with regular use of a topical skin lightener and exfoliator. Some cases of hyperpigmentation occur deeper in the skin and require a dermatologist to provide additional therapy. All pigmentation problems require sun avoidance and or strict sunscreen use to maintain benefits of treatment. For product recommendations, visit our Lightening/Brightening category.

Means the product is non-irritating and non-allergenic. This claim is made on the basis of our clinical data supporting non-irritating claims with PHAs and bionic acids, and patch testing of products, which is conducted under the direction of a dermatologist.

Keratosis Pilaris (KP) is a skin (follicular) condition that appears as rough bumps around hair follicles (goose-bump like appearance) on the skin of the back and outer side of the upper arms and thighs. KP is typically most developed and noticeable in adolescent females. KP is an extremely common condition that can be cosmetically troubling but is not harmful in a medical sense. The condition is benign, self-limiting, and disappears with increasing age. The bumps result from the improper shedding of scales from the skin in and around the affected hair follicles. Keratosis pilaris tends to be more severe during the winter months or other times of low humidity. It occurs because as the skin renews itself, old skin cells in the affected hair follicles get stuck, forming a scaly plug because the old skin cells are excessively adherent and do not shed easily. Each bump is a horny plug, sometimes red but only rarely itchy. The scale buildup often entraps the hair within the follicle.

Treatment of KP using moisturizing and exfoliating creams and lotions with high strength AHA or urea products may be helpful. They generally need to be applied at least twice daily and work by softening and reducing cell cohesion of the adherent skin scales around the follicle enabling them to be shed more easily. Often the use of an exfoliating washing device such as a poof to apply the cleansers and creams and to exfoliate the skin increases the benefits of these products. In many cases, skin returns to its pretreatment character if treatment is discontinued. Therefore people who are prone to this condition usually benefit from the regular use of these exfoliating moisturizing products as part of their skincare regimen.

If you think you may have keratosis pilaris and are not being helped by exfoliants you can seek the advice of your dermatologist or other physician. For product recommendations, visit our Keratosis Pilaris category.

Lactic acid is an alpha hydroxyacid that occurs naturally in milk, and is a component of the skin's natural moisturizing factor (NMF). Similar to glycolic acid, lactic acid is an exfoliant and moisturizer that also provides anti-aging benefits including smoother, softer, more even toned skin with a reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

A skin brightening agent that helps skin appear more evenly toned.

The latest skin care technology to emerge from the NeoStrata Company. This new polyhydroxy 'bionic' acid is derived from milk sugar. Lactobionic acid is a potent antioxidant with humectant properties that strongly attracts and binds water and its unique hydra-film delivers moisture and provides softness and a velvety smoothness to the skin. Lactobionic acid reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and plumps the skin layers making skin firmer and younger looking. In addition to helping reverse signs of aging, lactobionic acid works to protect the skin against photoaging by blocking destructive enzymes (MMP enzymes) that degrade the skin's structure and strength. This ingredient is suitable for all skin types and can be used after procedures.

LCD or liquor carbonis distillate is a fraction of coal tar that is used to treat psoriasis -- found in Psorent Psoriasis Topical Solution, an advanced formulation with a cosmetically acceptable scent proven effective in the treatment of mild to moderate psoriasis. For more information, and before and after photos of psoriasis treated with Psorent, visit our Psorent Psoriasis Topical Solution product detail page.

Botanical brightening agents used in conjunction with other exfoliants and brighteners such as lactic and kojic acids to make skin appear more evenly toned.

The second bionic technology to emerge from NeoStrata, maltobionic acid is a plant derived polyhydroxy bionic acid that is a potent humectant /moisturizer and antioxidant chelator. Clinical data has shown this ingredient to have significant anti-aging benefits, including visual improvements in skin texture, clarity and roughness, plus self-assessed improvements in skin firmness, elasticity and hydration. This ingredient provides similar anti-aging, conditioning and hydrating benefits to lactobionic acid and is suitable for all skin types.

MMPs are naturally occurring enzymes that cause degradation of skin structure. Therefore, inhibition of this process may promote more youthful skin. Lactobionic Acid inhibits MMPs through chelation of metals that promote MMPs.

An oil-controlling alpha hydroxyacid that has anti-bacterial benefits that may be helpful for acne prone skin. Studies have shown mandelic acid to provide anti-aging benefits similar to other AHA's. NeoStrata formulations containing mandelic acid have been shown to reduce facial oil.

Your skin is 'hyperpigmented' if you have areas of discoloration on your face, chest, shoulders or hands from years of sun exposure. Also known as sun spots, age spots and liver spots, these areas of hyperpigmentation are visible signs of photoaging. Skin may also become discolored after pregnancy or as a result of using oral contraceptives; this condition is called 'melasma or chloasma'. Many cases of melasma and hyperpigmentation will improve over time with regular use of a topical skin lightener and exfoliator. Some cases of hyperpigmentation occur deeper in the skin and require a dermatologist to provide additional therapy. All pigmentation problems require sun avoidance and or strict sunscreen use to maintain benefits of treatment. For product recommendations, visit our Melasma Prone category.

Your skin is 'mottled' or 'uneven' if you have areas of discoloration on your face, chest, shoulders or hands from years of sun exposure. Mottled skin is a visible sign of photoaging that may also occur after pregnancy or as a result of using oral contraceptives. Correct mottled skin with topical skin brighteners and exfoliators and be sure to avoid the sun and use sunscreen daily. For product recommendations, visit our Lightening/Brightening and Uneven Skin Tone categories.

NeoGlucosamine is NeoStrata's patented aminosugar (acetyl glucosamine), a non-acid anti-aging alternative for topical skincare. This potent powerhouse is clinically proven to help reduce the look of discolorations and dark spots from acne and aging, while smoothing and evening out the skin's texture and tone. Cellular turnover is increased, improving skin clarity and brightness gently, without irritation. A building block of the skin's gel matrix, NeoGlucosamine provides enhanced skin plumping and firming.

NeoStrata products are not tested on animals. Human volunteers and in vitro models are used to test NeoStrata and Exuviance products. For more information about our policy, please click here.

This product was tested on faces to ensure it does not cause an increase in blackheads, whiteheads and acne pimples.

Topically applied agents that retard the loss of water due to evaporation from the skin, and thereby increase the water content (moisturization) of the skin. ¹

Your skin fits this condition if you have excess oil and shine a few hours after washing.. Cleansers and toners need to be carefully selected so as not to irritate or dry the skin which may stimulate over production of sebum by the sebaceous glands. Light, oil-free moisturizers should be used to keep skin hydrated without being oily. Mattifying formulations help to reduce visible shininess with each application. For product recommendations, visit our Oily/Acne-Prone category.

An organic and chemical sunscreen that absorbs UVB rays and part UVA rays for broad-spectrum protection.

Ophthalmologist testing was conducted for this product showing the product is safe for use around the eyes and in conjunction with contact lenses.

A humectant that improves hydration and helps soften and soothe the skin.

Nearly all of the visible signs of aging are due to accumulated sun exposure. This condition, known as photoaging, causes the appearance of wrinkled, dull and lifeless skin on sun exposed areas of the body. The alpha hydroxyacids, including glycolic acid and the polyhydroxy acids including gluconolactone and lactobionic acid, along with daily sunscreen usage have been shown to help reverse some of the visible signs of photodamage. Repeated use makes the skin texture smooth with a reduced appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. AHAs also improve skin brightness and luminosity, helping to revitalize dull, lifeless skin. AHA products which are combination sunscreen plus moisturizers are recommended for daytime use. More intense corrective therapies are available from dermatologists and plastic surgeons as well as other skin care professionals. These include superficial peels, retinoids, lasers and dermabrasions. For product recommendations, visit our Lightening/Brightening and Lines & Wrinkles categories.

Nearly all of the visible signs of aging are due to accumulated sun exposure. This condition, known as photoaging, causes the appearance of wrinkled, dull and lifeless skin on sun exposed areas of the body. The alpha hydroxyacids, including glycolic acid and the polyhydroxy acids including gluconolactone and lactobionic acid, along with daily sunscreen usage have been shown to help reverse some of the visible signs of photodamage. Repeated use makes the skin texture smooth with a reduced appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. AHAs also improve skin brightness and luminosity, helping to revitalize dull, lifeless skin. AHA products which are combination sunscreen plus moisturizers are recommended for daytime use. More intense corrective therapies are available from dermatologists and plastic surgeons as well as other skin care professionals. These include superficial peels, retinoids, lasers and dermabrasions. For product recommendations, visit our Lightening/Brightening and Lines & Wrinkles categories.

A botanical blend derived from burdock and margosa (neem) that helps control oily skin. With continued use, Phytoal reduces oily shine, leaving skin looking fresher, healthier and more evenly toned. A registered trademark of Croda, Inc.

Polyhydroxy acids (PHA) are a special type of AHA (alpha hydroxyacid) known to modulate keratinization, normalize stratum corneum exfoliation and thickness, and strenghten skin barrier function without irritating skin. For this reason, PHAs offer a distinct advantage over conventional AHAs (glycolic acid and lactic acid) when used on sensitive skin, such as rosacea, atopic dermatitis, and eczema.. In addition, due to the additional hydroxyl groups, PHAs appear to attract more water through hydrogen bonding, and therefore provide enhanced moisturization to the skin. In fact, many PHAs are strong humectants that can attract and bind atmospheric water. Many polyhydroxy acids including gluconolactone and lactobionic acid have also been shown to function as antioxidants through chelation of oxidation promoting metals and thus can inhibit the oxidation of other food and drug substances and this property may prove beneficial in the prevention of photoaging.

Ingredients which prevent or retard the growth of microorganisms and thus prevent the spoilage of cosmetic products. Spoilage can occur as a result of contamination from the manufacturing process, or through repeated exposure to the environment during normal use. ¹

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition characterized by red, irritated patches of skin that are usually covered with white scales which appear silver, elevated and rough. In this condition, skin cells are overproduced causing an elevated plaque to form, and there is a significant inflammatory component to the disease as well. People with psoriasis should seek the care of a dermatologist to help reduce inflammation and slow down skin cell production. Topical treatments including LCD / coal tar products are available over the counter and can be used to effectively treat the condition. Adjunctive products that may help alleviate the scaling component of the disease and enhance skin comfort include the polyhydroxy acid (PHA) formulations, which gently exfoliate the psoriatic plaques leading to a smoother and softer look and feel but does not treat the disease. In addition, corrective cosmetics are useful in concealing this condition when desired on a daily basis or for special events. For more information, and before and after photos of psoriasis treated with Psorent, visit our Psorent Psoriasis Topical Solution product detail page.

An antioxidant, that has been shown to enhance cell turnover, even the skin tone and diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Ideal for use on acne prone skin.

These clinically sensitive skin conditions 'over' respond to normal environmental and social factors. Atopic skin is extremely sensitive to any topical products, including normal cleansers and moisturizers, and often appears irritated and red. It is often difficult to identify a normal skin care regimen that does not irritate atopic skin, especially one that contains anti-aging ingredients. Rosacea is an inflammatory condition that some researchers believe is caused or worsened by a microorganism on the skin, which makes the nose and surrounding areas appear very red and inflamed, and often shiny and broken out. Those prone to rosacea may experience a flare after drinking a glass a wine, going outside into cold weather, feeling embarrassed and flushed, drinking hot fluids or eating spicy foods. There are many different situations that cause a flare in rosacea, including using many skincare and cosmetic products. The polyhydroxy acid (PHA) gluconolactone, is compatible with atopic dermatitis and rosacea, and provides the anti-aging benefits expected from an AHA. And, in a clinical study of rosacea patients, adjunctive use of gluconolactone-containing products was found to enhance the effects of the topical treatment azelaic acid (Finacea®) resulting in smoother skin with less redness. For more clinical studies information, visit the NeoStrata Case Studies: Compatibility with Rosacea and Atopic Skin and Strengthening of Skin Barrier Functions. For product recommendations, visit our Rosacea/Redness category.

Dry skin conditions range from mildly dry with light flaking and skin tightness to extremely rough hyperkeratotic disorders. Most dry, chapped skin can be relieved through the use of a good moisturizer with AHAs and PHAs for gentle exfoliation, moisturization and skin conditioning. The more bothersome dry skin conditions on the face require an extra heavy emollient formulation in combination with skin normalizing / conditioning alpha and polyhydroxy acids (AHAs and PHAs). The most severe forms of dry skin including ichthyosis and plaque psoriasis, generally require therapeutic products, and are best treated by a dermatologist. For product recommendations, visit our Sensitive/Dry and Hyperkeratotic/Scaly categories.

A topical anti-acne treatment that unclogs pores and clears acne blemishes, pimples blackheads and whiteheads.

Dry skin conditions range from mildly dry with light flaking and skin tightness to extremely rough hyperkeratotic disorders. Most dry, chapped skin can be relieved through the use of a good moisturizer with AHAs and PHAs for gentle exfoliation, moisturization and skin conditioning. The more bothersome dry skin conditions on the face require an extra heavy emollient formulation in combination with skin normalizing / conditioning alpha and polyhydroxy acids (AHAs and PHAs). The most severe forms of dry skin including ichthyosis and plaque psoriasis, generally require therapeutic products, and are best treated by a dermatologist. For product recommendations, visit our Hyperkeratotic/Scaly category.

'Sensitive' skin occurs from time to time in a majority of women, and each condition is as individual as the person experiencing it. While each person's condition is unique, the general condition is characterized by heightened sensory responses to chemical, environmental or social triggers. People with sensitive skin are more likely to experience stinging, itching, burning, dryness, redness and breakouts in response to their skin's particular trigger. Many people with sensitive skin experience mild stinging and burning from soaps and cleansers as well as alpha hydroxyacids (AHAs) such as glycolic or lactic acid. The polyhydroxy acid (PHA) gluconolactone provides the benefits of AHAs without the potential for stinging and burning even the most sensitive skin. If your skin sensitivity increases or becomes troublesome, you should visit a dermatologist since it could be a more serious skin condition requiring professional care. For product recommendations, visit our Sensitive/Dry category.

Ingredients used to provide special effects for the skin including enhancing the appearance of dry or damaged skin, reducing flaking and restoring suppleness. ¹

Hyaluronic acid, is a natural glycosaminoglycan (GAG) found in the skin's support matrix. GAGs bind up to 1000 times their weight in water. When applied topically, they attract water and moisturize.

Does the cold weather, dry winds, pollution or personal stress trouble your skin? If so, your skin can be classified as 'stressed' - that is your skin negatively responds to various environmental and social factors by becoming dry, irritated, sensitive, unbalanced and / or blemished. Stressed skin needs the conditioning and protective actions of antioxidants and polyhydroxy acids. For product recommendations, visit our Oily/Acne-Prone and Hormonal/Menopausal categories.

An inorganic and physical sunscreen that absorbs, blocks and scatters UVA and UVB rays for broad-spectrum protection.

An antioxidant and skin conditioner that helps protect against the formation of free radicals and smooths and softens skin.

A broad-spectrum anti-bacterial agent for topical use. Helps reduce potentially problematic bacteria on skin.

Your skin has 'uneven tone' if you have areas of discoloration on your face, chest, shoulders or hands from years of sun exposure. Uneven skin tone is a visible sign of photoaging that may also occur after pregnancy or as a result of using oral contraceptives. Correct skin tone with topical skin brighteners and exfoliators and be sure to avoid the sun and use sunscreen daily. For product recommendations, visit our Uneven Skin Tone category.

Helps to build skin strength and resiliency which helps to reduce the appearance of dark under eye circles.

Nearly all of the visible signs of aging are due to accumulated sun exposure. This condition, known as photoaging, causes the appearance of wrinkled, dull and lifeless skin on sun exposed areas of the body. The alpha hydroxyacids, including glycolic acid and the polyhydroxy acids including gluconolactone and lactobionic acid, along with daily sunscreen usage have been shown to help reverse some of the visible signs of photodamage. Repeated use makes the skin texture smooth with a reduced appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. AHAs also improve skin brightness and luminosity, helping to revitalize dull, lifeless skin. AHA products which are combination sunscreen plus moisturizers are recommended for daytime use. More intense corrective therapies are available from dermatologists and plastic surgeons as well as other skin care professionals. These include superficial peels, retinoids, lasers and dermabrasions. For product recommendations, visit our Lines & Wrinkles category.

An inorganic and physical sunscreen that blocks or scatters UVA and UVB rays for broad-spectrum protection.

1. CTFA Cosmetic Ingredient Handbook, Second Edition, 1992.
2. The Bantam Medical Dictionary, Laurence Urdang Associates, 1981.