This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of NeoStrata SKIN ACTIVE Tri-Therapy Lifting Serum. The opinions and text are all mine.
You know what’s the worst part about winter? How dry my skin gets, thanks to indoor heating. I don’t mind the cold and the snow as much, really. In fact, I think that living in an area that experiences all four seasons is really fun! But I just can’t deal with all that static in the air that results in thirsty, flaky skin. That is why I begin using products that provide superior water retention as soon as the temperature outside starts to consistently fall below 40 degrees. This year I started with NeoStrata SKIN ACTIVE Tri-Therapy Lifting Serum ($100 for 1 oz).
I’ve been using – and loving! – NeoStrata products for years, so I had really high expectations, and Tri-Therapy Lifting Serum turned out to be just what my skin is craving right now. The serum was designed to promote a youthful, more lifted appearance by delivering deep hydration to the areas that need it the most. Sounds like the perfect product for the cold season, doesn’t it?
The name ‘Tri-Therapy’ is a reference to three main components that make the serum a must-have for winter. First of all, it contains Low Molecular Weight (LMW) Hyaluronic Acid. This superstar beauty ingredient can hold over 1,000 times its weight in water, and is capable of deeply hydrating the skin from within. The formula also includes Gluconolactone, a polyhydroxy acid that helps gently resurface the top layer of the skin, revealing brighter, more even complexion with regular use. Last, but not least, the serum also contains a proprietary amino acid derivative Aminofil® that plumps the skin, effectively pushing out fine lines and wrinkles, and making the facial contours appear smoother and more lifted.
Tri-Therapy Lifting Serum is very gentle on the skin, because it doesn’t contain common irritants, like alcohol and added fragrance. The formula is also oil-free and paraben-free. While I personally have no issues with oils or parabens, it’s good to know that NeoStrata decided to exclude these ingredients, since many people prefer to avoid them in their beauty products.
I am currently using NeoStrata SKIN ACTIVE Tri-Therapy Lifting Serum AM and PM, as recommended. In the morning I apply it after cleansing, exfoliating, and toning the skin. In the evening, I like to layer it between my retinol treatment [which goes on first], and a nighttime moisturizer. A little goes a long way, so I only use 3-5 drops, which seems to be the perfect amount to thoroughly cover my face and neck. The serum has a watery gel-like consistency and fully absorbs into the skin after a few minutes, without leaving it sticky or greasy. I also noticed that my makeup wears better after I started incorporating Tri-Therapy Lifting Serum into my daily routine, which is a nice bonus.
While it might take a few weeks to fully appreciate the brightening benefits, the hydrating and skin-plumping are pretty much instant. I love how soft and smooth my skin feels after applying Tri-Therapy Lifting Serum. It will take some time before I finally get into the habit of running a humidifier in my office every day, but at least now my skin is not suffering from the effects of dry indoor air.
Have you tried NeoStrata skincare before? Do you think your skin would benefit from SKIN ACTIVE Tri-Therapy Lifting Serum? Let me know in the comments below!
Neostrata is such an excellent line that I’m not surprised this is fabulous. I’ll have to check Ulta to see if they have it since I have a 20% off coupon for them right now.
This is a very lovely hydrating serum, and it’s fragrance-free. I think you would like it, Marcia!
I love NeoStrata skincare. I use a number of their products. This sounds like it was made for my skin. Just curious about understanding the order in which you apply this. You said you apply it after your retinol and before moisturizer. Why retinol first, then this lightweight serum? I’m always trying to figure out the order of application since I often use several skincare products.
So nice that you’re a fellow NeoStrata fan! As far as the product layering order, there are several reasons I use actives first.
Some of the actives, like AHAs, are pH-sensitive, and have a very narrow window when they’re the most effective. They only work until my skin normalizes the pH naturally, making them almost useless afterward. I want to make sure that I apply them when my skin is already slightly acidic from low-pH cleansers, so they don’t waste time trying to bring it down to the level where they can start actually working.
Then there is Vitamin C, that will brighten the skin if applied directly to it as the first layer (10% or higher concentration), or act as an antioxidant when layered on top of other products.
And another reason is, pH-stable actives like retinoids are more effective, the closer they are to the skin. If I slather it over other products, it’s just more layers for the actives to soak through before they start treating the skin.
Thank you, Anastasia! So I’m still having a hard time figuring out the order for what I’m using. Unfortunately, I don’t know the pH of the cleansers that I use. I have 3 HA essences that I use in rotation and occasionally together, one of which is the Korean HA essence you recommended. I usually use them first because they are lighter in weight. I have a 10% AHA serum from Paula’s Choice RESIST line that I usually put on after the HA essences because it’s a cream serum and is somewhat thick. What to do?
Well, if it was up to me, I would probably apply HA after your 10% AHA serum, even if the HA has a lighter formula. This is all super confusing, but I promise, the more you do it, the more it will make sense.
I haven’t tried this line before but I have similar winter skin issues – especially on my forehead. The flaking has already begun. I’ll have to consider this serum as I work out my winter skin routine.
Winter really does a number on our skin, doesn’t it?
Yes for sure but I feel better equipped in winter than summer. This past summer I could not stop the oil slick!!! Lol
I wish I could sample this for that price. The weather is killing my skin
Do you have an Ulta nearby? Mine has a NeoStrata counter and they had the serum on display. Maybe you could try it over there?
I agree, it would be nice if higher end brands offered samples.
It sounds great for this harsh winter months, like you said. My skin is so dry this month!
My skin drinks it up! It’s been so dry here this winter.
I think my skin would love these!
The ingredients are definitely suited for someone with dry or dehydrated skin.
I love skincare!
You’re in the right place then, haha!