I finally tried Dermalogica’s cult exfoliator after 25 years of hype - here’s my honest verdict on how it changed my skin
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Exfoliating is one of the most important things you can do for your skin - helping to brighten dullness, smooth texture and keep pores clear. And for 25 years, Dermalogica's Daily Microfoliant has been a cult favourite.
The first powder exfoliant, the Daily Microfoliant is designed to revitalise dull, uneven and breakout prone skin. I finally took the plunge and tried it - but what did I think?
If you're looking for brighter, smoother skin, this exfoliating powder is the thing to buy.
Made with a rice-based powder rich in Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs), this releases papain, salicylic acid and rice bran into the skin, leaving it smooth and polished.
It thoroughly exfoliates the skin, removing any external pollutants and grime, while still remaining gentle thanks to a calming blend of allantonin and collodial oatmeal.
Simply mix the powder in your hands with water to form a smooth paste
The Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant is a powder exfoliant designed to revive uneven, breakout-prone skin with a gentle formula that skincare fans swear by.
It essentially combines physical, chemical and enzymatic exfoliation; the rice-based powder physically polishes, while salicylic acid chemically unclogs pores, and the papain helps to helps to dissolve and remove dead skin cells enzymatically.
The first powder based exfoliator, this unique formula is incredibly kind to the skin as the powder essentially dissolves with the water to form a paste, leaving no residue. This means there's no risk of a harsh chemical reaction on the skin, and no risk of microtears since it the formula turns completely smooth.
The rice-based powder is rich in AHAs, and when met with water, released papain, salicylic acid and rice bran which help expertly polish the skin, leaving a smooth, fresh base.
It also uses a skin brightening complex of phytic acid, white tea and licorice that balances out uneven skin tone, and works to reduce blemishes. As a bonus, the blend of collodial oatmeal and allantoin leaves the skin calm too.
And it couldn't be easier to use. Once a day in the morning or evening, simply pour half a teaspoon into your wet hands, rub to form a paste, and then massage onto your face for about a minute before rinsing thoroughly.
Results after a month of use - there is much less redness and blackheads
And shoppers are impressed, with one satisfied customer saying: 'If you prefer a physical exfoliation rather than the chemical one, this is the best there is! It is super gentle on my sensitive skin, but still leaves skin feeling really clean and fresh'.
'It took me a little while to figure out how to use it without getting the powder everywhere (trick is to have wet hands) but now it’s the best thing ever!'.
Another added: 'I can’t use this daily as it does dry my skin a little but I use it maybe every other day. It really does keep my skin looking so fresh and clear though. It stops breakouts from happening and blackheads are a thing of the past.'
A third shopper raved, 'You really can use this every day without destroying the skin barrier. It's gentle and a little goes a long way. It's also quick and easy to use and leaves my skin feeling comfortable and smooth - not stripped. I cannot think of a better exfoliator and will definitely continue to purchase this one.'



