Beauty Review: Murad Acne Cleansing Solution

First of all, I would like to send a HUGE thank you to People StyleWatch Magazine for sending me a sample of this product for free for testing purposes. I'd heard good things about the Murad brand and knew that they produced really premium products but had never tried any of them until I received this sample. So, I was pretty excited to check them out.  I was not able to specify which skincare product I received. So, I got the Acne Clearing Solution. Acne hasn't really been much of a problem for me since my teenage years, but I'm not about to suggest that my skin is always smooth and flawless. I would definitely describe it as being dry, a bit blotchy, and occasionally rough from irritation. 

On the box, Murad claims that "96% of users saw clearer skin in 72 hours". That's a pretty bold claim! So, I put it to the test. Being the bargain hunter that I am, I needed to see how someone like me could justify spending $39 for a 1.7 oz bottle of this product. 

Application: I read the directions carefully to make sure that I was applying it correctly. That is often the key with skincare products. If you're not seeing results, it can often be either because the product is too far past its expiration day or you are just not using it right. I sort of thought this would be like a cleanser but it's actually more like a thin cream. You apply it to a freshly washed face and do not wash it off. You can also use it on your neck and even your chest - vital if you work out a lot! The texture is like a thin lotion and it is fragrance-free. My skin is very dry and unlike other acne toners and cleansers I did not feel like it dried out my skin or tightened up my pores. It just felt very natural.

The Results: I applied the product right before I went to bed. The next day, around lunch time, I examined the general face/neck/chest area where I had applied the product the night before. To my amazement I already saw noticeable results! My face was looking a little more even in tone and healthy. The few irritations I'd had on my neck and chest (v-neck area) had almost completely cleared up. This stuff is fast. It was so easy too - just 1 step! From what I've seen so far, the results are pretty long-lasting, so you don't have to use it every day like other acne products.

The Verdict: Despite the hefty price tag, this product is great value. You may pay less per product for other acne clearing ranges but the total cost would end up being greater. You also might have to continue using those products every day which could really add up! This product is high quality, shows quick results, and is easy to find. You can just pick it up when you get other items for your typical beauty routine at Sephora or Ulta - and even cash in on some shopper rewards points while you're at it. 

Where to Buy: Right now both stores have some good promotions around this product. At Sephora you'll receive 3 free Murad Acne Cleansing Solution samples with any $25+ Murad purchase plus 3 free samples of your choice from top Sephora brands like Make Up For Ever, Dior, Nest, NARS, and Fresh. At Ulta you'll receive a deluxe sample of the AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser ($10 value) with ANY Murad purchase. In addition to the gifts, you can get 8% back at Sephora 10% back at Ulta through Ebates.

Spring cleaning doesn't just apply to your closet...