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Are you one of the 1 in 5 people who experience dandruff in winter? Ever wondered why it rears its head more so in the cooler months?

The combination of dry air and warm indoor conditions can often lead to dry scalp flaking. Combine this with excess oils and this can lead to dead cell build-up on the scalp. Enter Malassezia fungus. This is a healthy scalp fungus which feeds on this dead cell build-up. As the build-up increases, this can lead to a Malassezia fungal overgrowth commonly known as dandruff.

Step 1: Avoid Scalp Dryness

With dry skin cells being the precursor for dandruff, tackling flaking is essential. To reduce dead cell matter, shampooing the scalp regularly is essential. By creating a thick foamy lather, a thorough shampoo can effectively reduce flaking and remove redundant skin cells with just two washes per week. Look for natural cleansing ingredients rather than chemical based products which can lead to and exacerbate further dry scalp conditions.

Step 2: Reduce Excess Oil

An abundance of excess sebum on the scalp combined with dead cell matter is what causes dandruff to remain on the scalp. It essentially creates a glue-like texture which leads to clumping, discolouration and resistance to removal methods.

A pH balanced shampoo with a gentle yet effective natural formula can detach dead cell matter from the scalp. Ingredients such as Sodium PCA will target build up and dissolve the bond between dandruff and scalp without causing dryness and irritation.

Step 3: Tackle Malassezia Fungus

Malasezzia fungus must be treated at the source. The good news is this can be achieved with natural ingredients such as Climbazole. Climbazole is a natural anti-fungal agent which can be used daily without compromising the scalp or hair shaft.

Anti-fungals inhibit fungal cells from multiplying and prevents overgrowth from recurring when used as a maintenance treatment. Natural anti-fungal based shampoos are a gentle alternative to commercial chemical-based treatments.

Step 3: Nourish your Scalp

Once you have treated the problem at the source, it’s important to create the ideal environment for your hair and scalp to thrive. Ingredients such as Sodium PCA act as hydrating agents to replenish moisture and hydrate the deeper layers of the scalp. To encourage overall hair health, ingredients such as Hdyrolyzed Wheat Protein support hair strength and raise its ability to absorb and maintain moisture.

Containing a blend of Climbazole, Sodium PCA and Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Neutriderm Anti Dandruff Shampoo naturally balances excess oils and removes dead cell matter from the scalp while relieving the scalp from Malassezia overgrowth - all while nourishing the scalp and hair with hydrating and strengthening ingredients. 

 

For effective treatment and maintenance of dandruff, Neutriderm Anti Dandruff Shampoo can be used as a twice weekly treatment for mild to moderate conditions and as a daily treatment for severe cases. The formula is designed to support scalp and hair health while revising dandruff causes and symptoms.

Ready to say goodbye to Dandruff for good? Purchase your Neutriderm Anti Dandruff Shampoo here. 

 

 

Did you know? 1 in 3 babies and toddlers experience nappy rash. It's a common yet commonly misunderstood area of infant health.

To help you ease your child's nappy rash woes, we have busted some popular nappy rash myths. 

 

MYTH #1: Buy bigger nappies to avoid friction

Buying a nappy that is too large for your baby with the hope of reducing friction won’t solve your nappy rash problems. Instead, you may risk leakage and discomfort as your baby experiences discomfort from the bulk of a bigger nappy.

Tip: Always look at the weight range of the nappy. As your baby reaches the higher end of the weight range, then is the time to explore a larger nappy. 

 

MYTH #2: Certain nappies cause nappy rash

While yes, the environment of a nappy can cause and exacerbate nappy rash, the materials themselves won’t be the leading cause. While it may be tempting to explore endless options and brands, most nappies are highly absorbent and made from minimally-irritating materials. If your baby is prone to nappy rash there are other ways to reduce its occurrence than switching brands. 

Tip: Offer your baby nappy free time whenever possible. Lay them on a towel and allow them to enjoy a break from wearing a nappy. This gives your baby’s skin time to heal without the moist environment of a nappy.

 

MYTH #3: Baby powder is a must

Baby powder has long been used to soak up excess moisture. While baby powder has had its own controversy, the formula has evolved over time. However, there are less messy, more conventional options on the market.

Tip: A barrier cream will prevent moisture build-up, while providing your baby’s skin with a protective layer from ammonia in urine and the bacteria in faeces. A thick nappy rash cream which contains anti-inflammatories such as colloidal oatmeal will also provide the skin with healing and soothing benefits. Use it at every nappy change to protect and heal inflamed skin.

 

MYTH #4: Cloth is best 

For the environment – yes! However, disposable nappies have come such a long way. There are plenty of organic, chemical-free options which are designed to provide your baby with the same support and comfort as cloth.  

Tip: If you are environmentally conscious, cloth nappies are a great alternative to disposable. They may not reduce the likelihood of nappy rash; however, they are much better for the environment and your wallet!

 

MYTH #5: All rashes are created equal

A nappy rash may appear due to a number of reasons, including friction, exposure to ammonia in urine as well as diet. Aside from infant thrush, a not so commonly known cause of a rash in the nappy region is hand, foot and mouth (HFM). While it presents on the hands, feet and mouth, it can also rear its head in the nappy area and be very uncomfortable.

Tip: If your baby presents with a persistent or blister-like rash see your doctor to explore the possibility of infant thrush or HFM.

 

Dermavive Nappy Rash Cream contains a range of natural ingredients designed to sooth inflammation caused by nappy rash. It also creates a barrier between the skin and the nappy to reduce exposure to ammonia and bacteria. This cream encourages healing, reduces inflammation and protects infant skin with a thick application.

 

Dermavive Nappy Rash Cream is a dermatologically endorsed pH balanced cream designed to protect against irritants, prevent moisture build up and calm irritated and inflamed skin.

Ready to say goodbye to red, inflamed skin and reduce nappy rash for good? Purchase your Dermavive Nappy Rash Cream here.

 

 

Are you guilty of some potentially detrimental skin habits?

If you’re ticking off one of these skin care sins you’re not alone - approximately 46% of people surveyed are guilty of number 4! Can you relate?

 

1. Going to bed with your make-up on

We all have those nights where we drift off in front of the TV, but this one is an easily avoidable no-no. Make-up tends to coat the skin, with mineral make-up (especially) sitting within the pores and creating a gateway to congestion. If you suffer from oily skin, removing your make-up can reduce breakouts, skin dullness and unnecessary dead skin cell build-up.

Furthermore, Dermatologist, Dr Bhanusali, says that the since the skin naturally exfoliates itself as we rest, “makeup can disrupt the process, leading to pollutants being trapped in the skin.”

2. Washing your face with just water

Ironically washing with plain old H20 does not hydrate your skin. Shocking I know. It also sits high on the pH scale, which means it can disrupt the functioning of your skin. If the pH of your skin is raised it will further struggle to hold onto precious moisture and defend itself against nasties.

An easy way to solve this issue is to utilise a cleanser that is pH balanced. After-all cleansing your skin isn’t just about removing make-up, it’s a vital step in your skin care regime for replenishing and preparing the skin for further product absorption.

3. Forgetting to moisturise

Those who commit to a regular moisturising routine benefit from hydrated, softer and bouncier skin. Why? A good skin moisturiser which contains vital elements such as antioxidants and skin hydrators can lead to a healthier overall skin. The kind that defends itself against pollutants, drying environments and ageing elements such as the sun.

4. Skimping on sunscreen

This is a big one. In countries such as Australia, the sun is harsh. UV rays in particular are known to degrade the quality of the skin and lead to ageing characteristics such as freckling, pigmentation, sun spots and even skin cancers. By incorporating a daily SPF into your routine, year-round, you can minimise the damage and skin degradation caused by UV exposure.

And before you think your make-up has you covered, Licenced Aesthetician, Karen Fernandez warns, "The SPF levels and formulas in makeup are usually not adequate to be broad spectrum protection, which is the gold standard for anti-aging." So, always apply sunscreen under your makeup and as the final step in your skin care regime. 

 

For a moisturiser the whole family can use, Dermavive Moisturising Lotion provides hydration and skin nourishment with the added benefit of an all natural formulation. The inclusion of colloidal oatmeal encourages optimal skin functioning with anti-inflammatory and calming effects for all skin types.

Ready to experience your softest and smoothest skin ever? Purchase your Dermavive Moisturising Lotion here.

 

 

Just how common is an itchy scalp? Studies have shown an itchy scalp affects almost 25% of the population*.

Sun exposure, chlorine and salt water, and low humidity environments can lead to severe scalp dryness therefore increasing itchy scalp symptoms in the warmer months. 

Follow these five steps to relieve your itchy scalp this summer.  

 1. Avoid Scalp Burn

Heat rash and sunburn can lead to a list of uncomfortable skin symptoms including pain, redness, swelling, itching and flaking. To avoid this, you must minimise harsh UV exposure by wearing a hat while walking, boating and sunbaking. This is a must for scalp protection.

2. Go Soap-Free

Soap dries the skin leaving it feeling tight and itchy. The same goes for your scalp. A soap-free shampoo will provide your scalp with a pH balanced cleanse which avoids that typical drying discomfort caused by soap. This means your scalp will be less likely to itch and flake as your hair washing regime increases during the warmer months.

3. Rinse Hair After Swimming

Exposure to harsh chemicals in chlorine swimming pools, as well as moisture-stripping salt water, will dry your scalp, fast. By rinsing your hair with water post-swim you will minimise exposure to drying elements and chemicals. Better yet, shampoo your hair quickly after your swim and you will be able to restore balance to your scalp with minimal disruption to scalp health. 

4. Avoid Harsh Environments

Although they are essential to survive an Australian summer, air conditioners wreak havoc with our skin - and our scalp is not immune to its drying effects. These elements can drastically reduce the moisture in your scalp. If you are experiencing symptoms of scalp dryness, reduce your direct exposure to air conditioning where possible. 

5. Utilise Colloidal Oatmeal To Restore Moisture, Calm Irritation And Itch

A dry scalp shampoo containing colloidal oatmeal will provide the scalp with several benefits. These include a natural pH balanced, soap-free cleanse. Colloidal Oatmeal actively delivers moisture to the skin cells while forming a protective layer to prevent moisture loss for a hydrated, flake-free scalp.

Colloidal Oatmeal products have the unique ability to provide cleansing with a soap-like action without disrupting the acid mantle or stripping the skin of precious oils therefore supporting dry scalp conditions. It's anti-inflammatory benefits will also reduce the discomfort and redness associated with dry scalp conditions. 

Dermavive Dry Scalp Shampoo: 

• Removes surface impurities and flaking
• pH balanced to support normal scalp functioning
• Regulates scalp oils
• Restores and maintains scalp hydration
• Provides anti-inflammatory properties for scalp relief 

*US National Library of Medicine

Dermavive Dry Scalp Shampoo combines natural ingredients for effective and immediate dry scalp relief. Working to remove dry flakes from the scalp and hair shaft, colloidal oatmeal restores hydration and forms a protective layer over the scalp to reduce moisture loss. 

Ready to say goodbye to embarrassing flaking and intense itching? Purchase Dermavive Dry Scalp Shampoo here. 

 

 

Dry skin can be frustrating to treat, yet 50%* of men and women suffer with dry skin symptoms at some point. Here's what we know about dry skin and how to avoid it.  

 

What is dry skin?

Dry skin has a scaly appearance which may become itchy and red over time. Symptoms may occur simply due to the lack of moisture content within the skin and may also be related to an underlying dry skin condition such as dermatitis. 

How does skin become dry?

Dry skin can be caused by exposure to hot or cold weather (with low humidity levels) which commonly rob the skin of moisture. Harsh soaps or detergents can strip the skin of precious oils due to their high fat content. Other factors that compromise the skin's ability to hold water include swimming in chlorinated pools, hot showers and baths, as well as the natural effects of skin ageing. 

How to prevent it

Dry skin prevention comes down to a few keys habits which can be implemented into your daily routine.

1. Hydrate – drink up to replenish the body's water levels. 
2. Support your skin with a cream that restores and locks in moisture for both face and body. 
3. Avoid overuse of air conditioning. If you can't avoid it, a humidifier can add moisture back into the air. 
4. Steer clear of skin care products that strip your skin and leave it feeling dry and tight – such as body soaps and harsh cleansers. Instead look for pH balanced products and natural ingredients.
5. Avoid hot lengthy showers and baths as these can cause the skin to lose moisture rapidly. 

How to treat it, fast

Dry skin can be uncomfortable, unsightly, and difficult to manage. Once you determine what causes your dry skin, you can find solutions to relieve the symptoms and prevent them from returning – with great success.

The fastest way to treat dry skin is to lather the skin with a moisturiser that does two things. First it must hydrate the skin by penetrating the skin barrier and increasing moisture levels. Secondly, it must lock in moisture and prevent moisture loss by creating a protective film over the skin.

In addition to this, a natural moisturiser that actively soothes the symptoms of dry skin with anti-inflammatory and antioxidants is a bonus, as it will encourage skin comfort and boost the skin’s defenses.

Dermavive Dry Skin Creme contains a pH balanced blend of natural hydrating and calming ingredients which support the skin's moisture levels and prevent moisture loss. Those who use Dermavive Dry Skin Creme experience prolonged skin hydration and dry skin relief with regular use. 

 

*Daily Mail UK

Dermavive Dry Skin Creme restores moisture and locks it in for long lasting hydration. The dermatologically approved formula soothes dry skin symptoms with calming, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant support thanks to the inclusion of colloidal oatmeal. 

Purchase Dermavive Dry Skin Creme here.

 

 

Struggling with skin dullness? 

While dry skin affects almost 50%* of us, severe dry skin can lead to unsightly and uncomfortable skin complications which require intense treatment to restore plump, soft and moisture-rich skin. 

 

Causes 

Dry skin occurs for several reasons, including environmental factors such as humidity, dry cool air and exposure to indoor heating and cooling. Dry skin can also be caused by the use of soaps and harsh skin care products which strip the skin of natural oils and compromise the skin barrier.

An impaired skin barrier can lead to excess moisture loss from the skin. When this occurs, the skin struggles to maintain hydration levels and becomes vulnerable to external bacteria and impurities as they penetrate the skin's barrier and instigate flare ups and inflammation. 

Remedy

Humectants absorb moisture from the air and then deliver that moisture directly to the skin cells. This hydrating action improves the skin’s ability to absorb moisture and nutrients for hydrated, healthy skin.  When humectant ingredients such as Sodium PCA are incorporated in skin care products, they essentially "hydrate skin cells by increasing their water content," says board-certified dermatologist, Meghan Feely. Humectants remedy severely dry skin with rich hydrating properties that are easily absorbed for targeted delivery to the skin's cells. 

Prevention 

Emollients play a vital skin protection role (in moisturisers) for protecting the skin and preventing moisture loss. Moisturisers condition the skin while emollients such as Liquid Paraffin and Colloidal Oatmeal form an occlusive layer over the skin which holds water and supports the skin barrier. 

In addition to supporting water levels, Colloidal Oatmeal soothes the skin with anti-inflammatory action and softens the surface of the skin ultimately relieving itch, dryness and flaking, and promoting skin suppleness. 

Moisturisers prevent severe skin dryness and the exacerbation of dry skin symptoms when they combine the actions of emollient, humectant and occlusive ingredients. 

Dermavive's Intensive Body Hydrating Oil is a rich and nourishing skin treatment with humectant and emollient actions due to the inclusion of Sodium PCA, Liquid Paraffin and Colloidal Oatmeal. Dermavive Intensive Body Hydrating Oil is recommended for severe dry skin as it actively restores and maintains water levels - relieving the feeling of skin dryness instantly. 

*Daily Mail UK

Dermavive Intensive Body Hydrating Oil remedies severe dry skin conditions and prevents the occurrence of inflammation and redness. Dermatologically approved, it can be applied to chapped, broken skin without sensitivity or reactivity. 

Are you ready to achieve soft, supple and most importantly, hydrated skin? 

Add the super nourishing Dermavive Intensive Body Hydrating Oil to your skin regime and experience the benefits of a rich oil-based hydrator.

Purchase Dermavive Intensive Body Hydrating Oil here.

 

 

 

 

Did you know that skin whitening is one of the most searched beauty terms in 2020? It's clearly a front-runner for many women in their quest for flawless skin. 

Here’s how to make clear, glowing skin a reality for you.

 

1. Use a Broad Spectrum Sunscreen

First and foremost, pigmentation is the culprit for many uneven skin and skin darkening concerns. This comes down to melanin formation, mainly. The many forms of pigmentation which lead to uneven skin tone are UV induced. These include skin darkening, sunspots and freckles. Utilising a sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB radiation is a must during sun exposure in order to prevent the exacerbation of existing pigmentation and the development of new symptoms.

By minimising melanin activation and build-up we can prevent further pigmentation formation. 

2. Exfoliate to Remove Dead Skin Cells

In many cases simply slacking off your skin care regime can leave your skin looking dull and uneven - not to mention feeling rough and bumpy. Exfoliating the outer layer of the skin with a cleanser that breaks the bond between dead cells and the surface of the skin will reveal a brighter and more even complexion. This encourages the darker redundant skin cells to lift away and reveal the younger lighter cells beneath. 

Exfoliating will also prepare the skin for further treatment including whitening cremes by creating a blank canvas which will aid absorption and penetration of ingredients into the epidermis - where it is most effective.

3. Look for Natural Lightening Ingredients that Work 

Want to see real results? Lightening ingredients that actively lighten the complexion are vital in any quest for brighter, younger, clearer skin. While it’s important to avoid sensitising ingredients such as Hydroquinone, there are many natural lightening ingredients which work effectively without causing UV sensitivity or irritation over long term use.

Gentle and effective lightening ingredients to look for:

• Tetrahydrocurcumin: Works as a powerful tyrosinase inhibitor which prevents melanin activation in the skin leading to less pigmentation and skin darkening overall. It also provides UV protection for pigmentation protection, antioxidant support for overall skin health and anti-inflammatory benefits to prevent signs of skin ageing all while lightening dark spots and overall skin tone.
  
• Tetrahydropiperine: A potent antioxidant, Tetrahydropoperine enhances the efficacy of Tetrahydrocurcumin by improving its free radical scavenging properties that take place during the melanin formation process. It also improves the absorption of Tetrahydrocurcumin into the epidermal layers where melanin forms.  

Containing an expertly formulated blend of both Tetrahydrocurcumin and Tetrahydropiperine, Neutriderm Skin Whitening Crème is a natural topical pigmentation inhibitor and potent antioxidant cream which has been expertly formulated to minimise the appearance of pigmentation and enhance overall skin tone in as little as two weeks. 

 

Are you ready to go brighter?

A flawless, brighter, even skin tone is just a whitening creme away. Add Neutriderm Skin Whitening Crème to your regime and see the difference. Purchase yours here.

For best results it is recommended to use Neutriderm Skin Whitening Crème for 60-90 days.

 

 

 

Are you guilty of using make-up wipes or skipping your daily cleanse? Rest assured you are not alone - more than 50% of people surveyed admitted to not cleansing daily.*

While cleansing may not be the most exciting step in your skin care regime, skipping this step could be standing between you and your best skin. Here's why: 

1. Cleansing Unclogs Pores

Each day the skin encounters a build-up of dirt and debris from the environment, sunscreen, face creams and make-up. This build-up and make-up can inhibit the skin from functioning optimally by blocking the pores and causing congestion. To explain this further, Dermatologist, Hadley King, says “Makeup (alone) has pigment, preservatives, minerals, and metals that often clog your pores if left on too long. It is essential to remove makeup as the first step in your night-time routine."

2. Cleansing Preps the Skin for Further Treatment

By removing dead cell matter, dirt and debris, the skin becomes a blank canvas which can readily accept further skin treatment. A skin which is clean and clear of congestion will readily absorb nutrients and vitamins from creams, oils and serums better than one which is compromised due to surface build-up. Dr King adds that by not cleansing the surface of the skin adequately, we are essentially "preventing penetration of skin care products".

3. Cleansing Wipes Don’t Cut It

Cleansing wipes are handy for when you are on the go, or when you need to remove make-up before a gym session, however they don’t replace the real deal. "Cleansing wipes remove a bulk of bacteria, dirt, and oil, but also leave a trail of residue behind," says King. "Appropriate facial cleansing requires a water-based rinse to fully clean."

4. Cleansing Reduces the Occurrence of Acne

"Cleansing before bed is generally recommended not only to remove makeup, but also to remove dirt and pollution that accumulates on our skin during the day," says King.

This is relevant for sensitive skins as well as acne sufferers. Dirt, pollution and bacteria overgrowth can lead to inflammation and when combined with dead cell build up and excess oil this can lead to irritation, itching, redness and swelling. In acne sufferers, bacteria can exacerbate symptoms including the formation of acne lesions which may become infected. Cleansing the skin of bacteria is vital to allow the skin to heal and to reduce the occurrence of breakouts. 

5. Cleansers Can Hydrate, Restore and Protect

While some cleansers simply remove unwanted nasties, a pH balanced soap-free cleanser will actually support and regulate the functioning of the skin and cleanse without drying. Ingredients which support the skin to reduce inflammation, regulate oil production and hydrate the skin are the kind to look for if you want to upskill your beauty regime.

Natural cleansing ingredients such as Colloidal Oatmeal physically expand and hold water onto the skin while addressing redness and inflammation. Citric Acid breaks the bond between dead cells and the skin's surface, while hydrators such as Sodium PCA and Glycerin provide the skin with a superior moisture boost. 

Dermavive Hydra Cleanser is a natural pH balanced soap-free cleanser formulated utilising Colloidal Oatmeal, Citric Acid, Sodium PCA and Glycerin. The dermatologically approved cleanser is formulated to relieve the skin of bacteria and build-up, hydrate and prepare the skin to readily absorb vital nutrients. 

* Face Wash Study - Medium 

Are you ready to supercharge your skin care regime with a cleanser that cleanses, supports and maintains the health of your skin, while preparing it for further treatment?

Cleanse smarter with Dermavive Hydra Cleanser.

Purchase yours here.

 

 

 

It is considered one of the leading anti-ageing ingredients, but what is fact and what is fiction when it comes to Retinol?  

 

1. Fact: Retinol Slows Ageing 

Retinol falls within the Retinoid family of Vitamin A-derived ingredients. Retinol not only reveals younger cells beneath the surface as it encourages cell turnover, it actually encourages collagen production for smooth, plump skin. Retinol has shown to smooth existing fine lines by targeting the skin from a cellular level - not just the surface. Dr Gohara, clinical professor at Yale, links Retinol's success to its ability to actually sink into the skin while speeding up cell turnover which actively boosts collagen and elastin - effectively revealing fresher, smoother skin.

2. Myth: Retinol Cannot Be Used Long Term 

This is incorrect for a number of reasons. Firstly, Retinol actually requires ongoing use for users to experience the full effect of Retinol. Results are often seen after two months and ongoing use will enhance these results even further. Secondly, while some people may experience reactions to Retinol, this is often a symptom experienced during early use. The skin generally adapts to Retinol over time as its effectiveness enhances without symptoms after just two weeks. 

3. Fact: Retinol Evens Skin Tone and Prevents Acne 

By encouraging cell regeneration, Retinol reveals a brighter complexion, effectively fading dark circles, pigmentation and acne scars. This occurs through exfoliation of the skin surface which reveals the younger cells beneath and relieves congestion. This process of dead cell removal revises the appearance of fine lines, scars and skin imperfections including pigmentation as the younger skin cells are uncovered.  

Ready to reap the benefits of a Retinol cleanser? Neutriderm Brightening Bar is a multi functioning cleanser which revises over all skin tone and condition for a youthful appearance. Complementary ingredients further support optimal skin health and hydration through antioxidant and vitamin support for a bright, plump and clear complexion. 

Ingredients

• Retinol - A form of Vitamin A which reduces the appearance of wrinkles through cell regeneration, exfoliation and collagen production. 
• Lactic Acid - An alpha-hydroxy acid which provides anti-ageing and pigment fighting properties to the skin. 
• Tocopherol Acetate - A natural form of Vitamin E, Tocopherol Acetate supports the skin with antioxidant, skin moisturising and protectant properties. 
• Sodium PCA - With natural moisturising factors, Sodium PCA increases the water content of the skin's surface by drawing moisture from the surrounding air. 
• Tetrahydrodiferuloylmethane - Also known as Tetrahydrocurcuminoids (THC) this ingredient has skin-brightening, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties for healthy functioning skin and a bright complexion. 

 

Rich in anti-ageing and brightening properties, Neutriderm Brightening Bar is a skin brightening treatment recommended as an essential age management product. For pigmentation, scar and fine line revision, Neutriderm Brightening Bar can be used ongoing without drying or sensitivity. 

Are you ready to experience the benefits of Retinol yourself? Purchase your Neutriderm Brightening Bar here.