A spot-prone woman has said she no longer needs to use foundation after trying a £30 skincare product she describes as a 'desert island' essential. The Dr Sam's Flawless Neutralising Gel, created by Harley Street cosmetic dermatologist Dr Sam Bunting, has received over 1,000 five-star ratings from customers who call it a 'miracle product' for addressing skin imperfections.
Summer can bring an unwanted rise in spots, blocked pores and outbreaks, driven by warm temperatures that lead to perspiration and excessive oil production. Outbreaks can also stem from hormonal changes, stress or diet-related blemishes, acne and beyond.
How the gel works
The formulation is driven by 5% azelaic acid to address the appearance of pigmentation and redness while clearing pores and blemishes, while 2% salicylic acid helps buff away dead skin cells and diminish congestion. It also features 0.5% bakuchiol, frequently characterised as a milder substitute for retinol, alongside 5% squalane, to target blemishes while helping to maintain the skin barrier feeling comfortable.
It can be applied directly to individual blemishes, used across breakout-prone zones or added to a skincare routine as an all-over serum. It is fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, and the brand claims it can be worn under makeup, making it ideal for those wanting to tackle a breakout during the day without resorting to visible solutions like pimple patches.
Customer reviews and results
According to Dr Sam Bunting, 83% of customers using her formula experienced an overnight reduction in blemishes. One shopper said: 'This is my holy grail, desert island product.' They added: 'It was the first Dr Sam product I bought along with the face wash and honestly use it every day, morning and night under moisturiser (and under my Dr Sam Nightly Serum in the night). The only time I don't use it is if I'm putting a full face of makeup on as it does pill under too many layer. However my skin is so good now most days I don't wear makeup on my skin, or will use the minimum like concealer. I never thought I'd have skin like that. Last year I had awful acne all over my chin and neck. I still get the odd spots but they go down faster and are far less.'
A 41-year-old reviewer commented: 'This product has significantly improved my self-esteem. I am 41 years old and my skin was a combination of dryness, redness, and roseca sore inflamed bumps. It was becoming quite distressing and was clearly screaming at me for help. I used various products, yet none had been successful. I have been using this product for 3 weeks now, and I must say, the transformation in my skin has been quite impressive. I no longer need to apply foundation to conceal my skin. My skin now feels smooth and fresh, I'm no longer suffering with any soreness or inflammation. I still have a few old blemish marks on my skin, but with consistent use of this product, they are gradually vanishing. This item has now become a monthly necessity for me now. If you find yourself at a loss and nothing seems to be effective, I highly recommend giving it a try. You will not be disappointed.'
Mixed feedback and usage tips
Not all shoppers were won over, with some expressing dissatisfaction with the fragrance and others failing to achieve the results they anticipated. One remarked: 'I've used this just a couple of times and I've started seeing some different, although the only think I would I say don't like is it has a strong scent.' Another commented: 'I haven't noticed much of a change after hearing it was good for acne and rosacea. I'll use it until it's empty, but if no change will not reorder.'
Yet several customers praised it as a 'miracle product', with one writing: 'Literally a miracle product. I've been suffering with peri menopausal acne around my chin, and this has cleared it up in 2-3 uses. I now daren't stop.' Another shared: 'I've tried so many products before but this one has saved my skin from break outs. It helps to reduce the redness and inflammation. I use it everyday and night on my whole face and looks fab under my makeup.'
Dr Sam Bunting suggests the gel can be incorporated into a daily routine as a preventative measure. She said: 'Dr Sam's Flawless Neutralising Gel is a versatile treatment. While it's commonly applied directly to blemishes to target breakouts, it can also be used as an all-over serum to help prevent them.' She further advises applying it to areas particularly susceptible to breakouts, such as the chin or cheeks. For hormonal acne, Dr Sam recommends consistent use on problem areas like the chin or jawline, which can help reduce inflammation and ward off future flare-ups. The Flawless Neutralising Gel is available from £30, and a 50ml roller version is also available for £42.
