As anybody who has been tasked with wiping a messy kitchen counter knows, a wet sponge absorbs stuff much better than a dry one. Your skin works the same way, which is why dermatologists say that you need to apply your skincare on clean, damp skin. Otherwise, the formula’s active ingredients (hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, etc.) can’t get through your bone-dry skin barrier. Now, of course, you can absolutely splash water on your face to make it damp. That’s what I’ve always done. But what if there was a better way? That’s where the Neuraé Treatment Lotion comes in. Not only does it effectively dampen my skin, prepping it for the rest of my skincare, but it also moisturizes and, as I soon discovered, offers a few unexpected benefits, too.

Neuraé’s formula is really carving out a new skincare category for itself. I like to think of it as a skincare primer because it works a lot like a makeup primer, creating a smooth and even canvas for the rest of your products. It also hydrates, soothes, and nourishes tired, dull, and stressed-out skin. Here’s more on how this treatment lotion is changing the game and my skin.

<p>Harmonie The Treatment Lotion</p>How the formula affects your skin

This has the consistency of a milky toner or essence and the effectiveness of a potent serum thanks to a combination of active ingredients: hydrators like hyaluronic acid and squalane, and barrier-strengthening minerals, such as magnesium and potassium. Fascinatingly, it also contains what the brand calls “neuro-active” ingredients. Alpine skullcap, red indigo, and eperua extracts send positive chemical messengers, such as endorphins, to the brain to help combat the impacts cortisol and negative emotions can have on skin.

How I use it

The beauty of this treatment lotion is that it works well with all skin types, concerns, and beauty routines, making it the perfect prep step for anyone. I apply it on clean skin as the first step in the morning, and after cleanser at night. The liquid, milky consistency goes a long way, so one pump is usually enough to cover my whole face, but since my skin has been drier because of New York’s inconsistent weather (if you know, you know), I often apply a second pump to saturate my skin with its moisturizing, soothing goodness—and my complexion is better for it.

My review of Neuraé Treatment Lotion:

For background, as a recently married 20-something-year-old living in New York City and working a busy job, I’m often stressed and tired, and I definitely notice the impact that has on my complexion. During my busiest weeks, my skin looks more textured, dull, and uneven. But, immediately after using this treatment lotion, my blah-looking skin appears refreshed, radiant, and plump. I also love the sensorial experience. Applying this creates a small moment of self-care, which is nice considering this is a habit I do every day, twice a day. It also smells like a spa, so it’s hard not to feel a wave of calm as you inhale while you apply. I feel like it makes my entire routine work harder for me, and as a result, my skin looks more even, smooth, glowing, and hydrated, no matter what my busy schedule has in store.

Bottom line: this has such an elegant texture and a truly calming scent, as well as a list of ingredients backed by science. It checks off all the boxes, making me and my skin feel refreshed.

Shop the Neuraé Treatment Lotion.

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Genesis Rivas is the Beauty Editor at Oprah Daily, where she covers hair, makeup, skin, nails, and more. Before joining the Oprah Daily team, she wrote for several publications, including InStyle, Real Simple, and Shape. When she’s not testing, researching, and writing fun and educational beauty content, you can find her dancing and eating her way through New York City. Follow her on Instagram or TikTok