Clarify Gel Plus
Clarify Gel Plus
Product Description
Product overview
A high-strength 15% glycolic acid treatment gel designed for experienced AHA users. This lightweight, fast-absorbing formula targets oily and acne-prone skin while addressing enlarged pores, uneven texture, fine lines, and signs of photoaging. Dermatologist-developed with over 40 years of clinical research.
Powerful Exfoliation
15% glycolic acid dissolves dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and accelerates cell turnover for smoother, clearer skin.
Texture & feel
SENSORYPowerful Exfoliation
15% glycolic acid dissolves dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and accelerates cell turnover for smoother, clearer skin.
Anti-Aging Benefits
Stimulates collagen synthesis to visibly reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and improve skin firmness over time.
Pore Minimizing
Helps reduce the appearance of enlarged pores and controls excess oil production for a refined complexion.
Brightening Effect
Targets hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and uneven skin tone for a more radiant, even complexion.
Safety & compatibility
SAFE15% glycolic acid exceeds the recommended 10% concentration during pregnancy. Consult your OB-GYN before use. Lower concentration AHAs are preferred.
Topical glycolic acid has minimal systemic absorption and is considered safe during breastfeeding. Avoid application on areas that contact infant skin.
Contains no oils, fatty acids, esters, or ferments that feed malassezia. Glycolic acid actually helps manage fungal acne by exfoliating affected skin.
AHAs increase photosensitivity. Daily SPF 30+ sunscreen is mandatory. Avoid sun exposure and limit outdoor time while using this product.
May be drying for some skin types. The alcohol helps with quick absorption but can cause irritation on sensitive or compromised skin barriers.
Not recommended for sensitive, rosacea-prone, or recently treated skin (post-Accutane, post-peel). Start with a lower concentration AHA product first.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycolic Acid 15%Gold Standard
The smallest molecular weight AHA, glycolic acid penetrates deeply to exfoliate, stimulate collagen, and improve skin texture. NeoStrata's founders invented the use of glycolic acid in skincare in 1974.
- Mechanism: Breaks down the "glue" holding dead skin cells together, promoting faster cell turnover
- Clinical Data: Studies show 8-15% glycolic acid reduces fine lines and hyperpigmentation within 12 weeks
- Collagen Boost: Stimulates collagen and hyaluronic acid production in the dermis
Propylene GlycolHumectant
A hydrating humectant that helps the formula spread evenly and enhances penetration of active ingredients. Also acts as a preservative and solvent.
- Function: Draws moisture into the skin and improves product stability
- Safety: Generally well-tolerated; rarely causes sensitivity in some individuals
Ammonium HydroxidepH Adjuster
Used to neutralize and adjust the pH of glycolic acid to an effective yet tolerable range. Essential for balancing efficacy with skin comfort.
- Function: Partially neutralizes glycolic acid to reduce irritation while maintaining exfoliating activity
- Result: Creates a buffered formula that's effective but less harsh than unbuffered acid
7 ingredients
Water (Aqua), Alcohol Denat., Glycolic Acid, Propylene Glycol, Ammonium Hydroxide, Polyquaternium-10, Tetrasodium EDTA
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after cleansing on dry skin. Best used at night. Always follow with moisturizer and use SPF 30+ during the day.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Thoroughly
Start with clean, dry skin. Remove all makeup and impurities with a gentle cleanser.
Apply Thin Layer
Dispense a small amount onto fingertips and smooth over face and desired areas, avoiding eye contour.
Build Tolerance
Use once daily for the first 2 weeks, then increase to twice daily as tolerated. Some tingling is normal.
Follow with Moisturizer
Apply a hydrating moisturizer after the gel has absorbed. At night, this helps prevent over-drying.
Sunscreen is Mandatory
AHAs increase sun sensitivity. Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every morning and reapply throughout the day.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or acne-prone skin
- You're an experienced AHA user looking to step up
- You want to address enlarged pores and blackheads
- You're targeting fine lines and uneven texture
- You need help with ingrown hairs (razor bumps)
- You live in a hot, humid climate
- You have keratosis pilaris on body areas
Consider alternatives if:
- You have sensitive or rosacea-prone skin
- You're new to chemical exfoliation
- You're pregnant or planning pregnancy
- You recently used Accutane or had peels
- Your skin barrier is compromised
- You have dry or very dehydrated skin
- You can't commit to daily sunscreen use
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. Lightweight gel absorbs instantly, controls shine, and keeps pores clear without adding greasiness.
Works well on T-zone without over-drying cheeks. Can be applied to oily areas only if needed.
Effective for texture and anti-aging goals. May only need 3-4x weekly application rather than daily.
The denatured alcohol may be too drying. Consider NeoStrata Lotion Plus (cream formula) or use with rich moisturizer.
Not recommended. 15% concentration is too strong. Try NeoStrata Oily Skin Solution (8%) or a PHA product instead.
Highly effective for unclogging pores and preventing breakouts. Also fungal acne safe. May cause initial purging.
Results timeline
WEEK 8-12+Adjustment Period
Initial tingling sensation when applied. Skin may feel slightly tight. Some users experience purging (temporary increase in breakouts as congestion clears).
85% reported tinglingVisible Smoothness
Skin texture becomes noticeably smoother. Rough patches improve. Pores appear smaller and cleaner. Breakouts begin to subside.
78% saw texture improvementClarity & Radiance
Skin tone becomes more even. Dark spots and post-acne marks start fading. Noticeable glow and radiance. Fewer active breakouts.
72% reported clearer skinAnti-Aging Benefits
Fine lines appear softer. Skin firmness improves from collagen stimulation. Long-term users report consistently clear, youthful-looking skin.
65% noticed anti-aging effectsRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Highly effective at clearing acne and congestion
- Visibly smoother skin texture within weeks
- Lightweight, non-greasy gel formula
- Works on body areas (back, chest, arms)
- Helps with ingrown hairs and keratosis pilaris
- Long-lasting results with consistent use
- Dermatologist-developed with clinical backing
- Minimalist ingredient list (only 7 ingredients)
Criticized
- Too strong for sensitive or beginner AHA users
- Contains denatured alcohol (can be drying)
- Noticeable alcohol scent
- May cause initial purging period
- Higher price than budget alternatives
- Requires strict sunscreen compliance
- Not suitable during pregnancy
- Can cause irritation if overused
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Lower concentration (7% vs 15%) makes it gentler and better for beginners. Larger size (240ml) offers excellent value. Toner format requires cotton pad application.
8% glycolic acid with added chamomile and green tea for soothing benefits. No alcohol. Better for sensitive-normal skin but less potent for stubborn concerns.
Same brand, lower strength. Perfect stepping stone before upgrading to Gel Plus 15%. Liquid toner format for all-over application.
Much gentler 5% formula with aloe vera and ginseng. Great for beginners. Won't deliver the same intensity for stubborn texture or aging concerns.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. The simple formula with alcohol preserves well but efficacy decreases over time.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep cap tightly closed to prevent evaporation of alcohol.
Plastic squeeze bottle with flip-top cap. Dispenses easily and allows controlled application.
125ml exceeds 100ml TSA limit. Transfer to smaller container for carry-on or pack in checked luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQPregnancy: Use with caution. While the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists considers topical glycolic acid generally safe, they recommend concentrations of 10% or less during pregnancy. At 15%, this product exceeds that recommendation. Consult your OB-GYN before use.Breastfeeding: Generally considered safe. Topical glycolic acid has minimal systemic absorption and is unlikely to appear in breast milk. Avoid applying to areas that may contact your infant's skin.
Yes, this product is fungal acne safe. The formula contains no oils, fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, or fermented ingredients that feed malassezia yeast. In fact, glycolic acid can help manage fungal acne by exfoliating the affected skin and promoting healthy cell turnover. The simple 7-ingredient formula makes it one of the cleaner options for those with malassezia concerns.
Retinol: Do not use together in the same routine. Both increase photosensitivity and can cause significant irritation. Alternate nights (retinol one night, Gel Plus another).Vitamin C: Can be used, but apply vitamin C in the morning and Gel Plus at night to avoid potential irritation.Other AHA/BHA: Avoid layering multiple exfoliating acids. 15% glycolic is already potent—adding more acids increases risk of over-exfoliation and barrier damage.
This product is ideal foroily, combination, and acne-prone skin. The lightweight gel formula absorbs quickly without adding greasiness, and the 15% glycolic acid effectively targets excess oil, clogged pores, and blemishes. It's also excellent for those dealing with enlarged pores, uneven texture, and signs of photoaging.Not recommended for: sensitive skin, rosacea-prone skin, dry skin, or those new to chemical exfoliation.
Week 1-2: Adjustment period with possible tingling and temporary purging.Week 2-4: Noticeable improvement in skin texture and smoothness. Pores appear cleaner.Week 4-8: Visible clarity, brighter complexion, fading of dark spots and post-acne marks.Week 8-12+: Anti-aging benefits become apparent with softer fine lines and improved firmness. Best results come with consistent, long-term use.
Apply after cleansing on clean, dry skin. The order is:Cleanser → (Optional Toner) → Gel Plus → Serum → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM only). Best used at night to allow skin to recover while you sleep. If using in the morning, sunscreen application is mandatory. Wait 1-2 minutes after applying before layering other products to allow the acid to work effectively.
No, this product has acomedogenic rating of 0/5. The formula is completely oil-free with no comedogenic ingredients. In fact, it does the opposite—glycolic acid actively unclogs pores by dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells and clearing sebum buildup. It's designed specifically for oily and acne-prone skin that tends to clog easily.
The product has aPeriod After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. The formula's denatured alcohol acts as a preservative, helping maintain stability. However, glycolic acid efficacy can decrease over time, especially if exposed to heat or sunlight. Store in a cool, dry place with the cap tightly closed. If the product changes color, consistency, or develops an unusual odor, discontinue use.
Verdict: NeoStrata Clarify Gel Plus is a powerful, no-nonsense glycolic acid treatment backed by decades of dermatological research. At 15%, it delivers serious exfoliation that effectively targets acne, enlarged pores, texture issues, and signs of aging. The minimalist formula (just 7 ingredients) is ideal for those who want potent actives without unnecessary additives. However, the denatured alcohol and high concentration make it unsuitable for sensitive skin or AHA beginners. If you're an experienced acid user with oily or acne-prone skin looking for professional-grade results, this is an excellent choice. For those new to acids, consider starting with NeoStrata's 8% Oily Skin Solution or The Ordinary's 7% Glycolic Toner first.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Alcohol Denat.
|
|
|
| 4 |
Glycolic Acid
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Exfoliant, Exfoliating, Buffering
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Ammonium Hydroxide
Buffering
|
|