exfoliants

FAQs

Exfoliants remove dead skin cells from the surface to reveal smoother, brighter-looking skin, help unclog pores, and improve product absorption and skin texture. Regular exfoliation supports overall skin health by maintaining a fresh, even-looking complexion.

There are several exfoliant types, including physical (manual scrubs), chemical (AHAs, BHAs, and PHAs), enzymatic (fruit-based enzymes), and powder foliants that activate with water. Dermalogica’s daily powder foliants, including best-selling Daily Microfoliant, are designed to deliver gentle exfoliation suitable for daily use.

Exfoliation frequency depends on the product and your skin's tolerance. Some daily powder exfoliants and low‑strength chemical exfoliants are formulated for daily use, while stronger peels or more abrasive scrubs should be used weekly or less. Start slowly and adjust based on how your skin responds.

Yes, with the right approach. Choose gentler options such as PHAs, low‑concentration AHAs, enzymatic exfoliants or mild powder exfoliants, and avoid harsh physical scrubs or high‑strength peels. Patch test first and consult a Professional Skin Therapist to personalize your routine.

To reduce the risk of irritation, avoid layering high‑strength exfoliants and potent actives in the same routine. Many people alternate nights or pair daily exfoliants with stronger actives only a few times per week. Monitor your skin closely and seek professional guidance when combining multiple actives.

Not necessarily, but aggressive scrubs or sharp particles can cause irritation or micro-tears, especially on sensitive, inflamed, or acne‑prone skin. Look for formulas with smooth, rounded particles or opt for chemical or enzymatic exfoliants when skin barrier health is a concern.

Yes. Exfoliation can increase UV sensitivity by revealing fresh skin. Daily broad‑spectrum sunscreen is essential whenever you exfoliate, along with following proper sun care practices.

Choose an exfoliant based on your primary concern. Oily or acne‑prone skin often benefits from BHA (salicylic acid) or powder exfoliant formulas. Dullness or uneven texture may respond well to AHAs or enzyme exfoliants, while sensitive skin typically tolerates PHAs, enzymatic options or very gentle daily exfoliants. Face Mapping or a Professional Skin Therapist can help guide selection.

Gentle daily exfoliants can be used in the morning or evening, depending on preference. Stronger chemical peels or treatments are generally best used at night to allow skin time to recover. Always pair exfoliation with daily sunscreen in the morning.

Avoid combining multiple strong actives, limit abrasive scrubs, and follow product usage guidelines. If signs of over-exfoliation such as redness, stinging, or tightness occur, pause exfoliation, simplify your routine to gentle cleansing and barrier‑supporting moisturizers, and seek professional advice if symptoms persist.

Achieving radiant, healthy skin starts with regular exfoliation, which is why we’ve curated a diverse range of exfoliants. Exfoliating your skin is essential for removing dead skin cells, unclogging pores, and promoting cell turnover. This essential step in your skin care routine helps to maintain a vibrant, smooth complexion and prevents common skin concerns such as dullness, uneven texture, and breakouts.

Our collection features a variety of exfoliants designed to suit different skin types and preferences. Whether you prefer physical or chemical exfoliants, we have an option to fit your needs. Our physical exfoliants gently polish away dead skin cells, dirt, and debris, while our chemical exfoliants use active ingredients like AHAs, BHAs, Lactic Acid, and Salicylic Acid to reduce visible signs of skin aging, adult acne, and hyperpigmentation.

We offer more than just basic exfoliation. From our gentle daily foliants to more intensive treatments targeting persistent texture and dullness, our range of products addresses specific skin care needs and is formulated to deliver transformative results.

Enhance your skin care routine with our comprehensive selection of exfoliants for face.
Facial exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and debris to brighten dull skin and improve skin smoothness and moisture absorption.
We offer both physical and chemical exfoliant options suitable for various skin types and concerns.
Whether you have dry, sensitive or acne prone skin, Dermalogica has the exfoliants best suited for everyone's unique skin type.
Our physical exfoliant range includes the award-winning and number-one best-selling powder exfoliant, Daily Microfoliant.
Find the best exfoliant for your skin with our guide to Dermalogica Exfoliants.

Reveal Radiant Skin with Dermalogica Exfoliants

Exfoliation is a critical step in achieving smooth, healthy, and luminous skin. At Dermalogica, our exfoliants are formulated with professional-grade actives to gently yet effectively remove dulling dead skin cells, unclog pores, and accelerate cell renewal — without compromising your skin barrier.

Why Exfoliation Matters

Daily exposure to pollution, stress, and environmental aggressors can leave your skin looking dull, rough, and uneven. Exfoliation helps:

Remove dead skin cells
Unclog pores
Improve skin texture
Boost product absorption
Promote a brighter, more youthful complexion

Unlike harsh scrubs, Dermalogica exfoliants are powered by skin-friendly ingredients like AHAs, BHAs, enzymes, and rice-based powders that deliver visible results without irritation.

Choosing the Right Dermalogica Exfoliant for Your Skin

1. Daily Microfoliant

Skin Type: All skin types, including sensitive
Concern: Dullness, uneven texture, congestion

This iconic rice-based powder activates upon contact with water to gently polish away dead skin cells. Infused with papain enzyme, salicylic acid, and colloidal oatmeal, it brightens and smooths without irritation. Ideal for daily use, even on sensitive skin.

2.Daily Milkfoliant

Skin Type: Dry, dehydrated, sensitive, or reactive skin
Concern: Redness, rough texture, dehydration

This calming oat- and coconut-based powder exfoliant is enriched with AHAs, BHAs, and hyaluronic acid to smooth and replenish the skin barrier. It gently buffs away dullness while supporting hydration and barrier repair.

3.Daily Superfoliant

Skin Type: Normal, breakout/congested skin, ageing, or urban-exposed skin
Concern: Premature ageing, pollution damage, fine lines, congestion and breakouts

This advanced powder exfoliant uses activated binchotan charcoal, niacinamide, and enzymes to deeply detoxify pores and fight environmental triggers of skin ageing. It resurfaces skin while defending against pollution and oxidative stress.

Exfoliating Cleansers: Cleanse + Resurface in One Step

4.Daily Glycolic Cleanser

Skin Type: Dull, uneven, or lackluster skin
Concern: Hyperpigmentation, rough texture

Formulated with glycolic acid, this brightening cleanser helps remove buildup from pollution, makeup, and dead skin cells. It gently resurfaces the skin to reveal a more even, radiant complexion.

5.Skin Resurfacing Cleanser

Skin Type: Mature, uneven, dry, or ageing skin
Concern: Fine lines, roughness, dullness

This dual-action cleanser and exfoliant features lactic acid to smooth and retexturize skin while improving hydration. It is perfect for those looking to refine skin texture and reduce signs of ageing.

Benefits of Using Dermalogica Exfoliants

Smoother, brighter skin with improved texture
Minimized appearance of pores
Enhanced absorption of serums and moisturizers
Reduced breakouts and congestion
Improved skin tone and radiance

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Daily Microfoliant every day?

Yes! Daily Microfoliant is gentle enough for everyday use. Its rice-based powder activates with water to exfoliate without causing irritation, making it suitable even for sensitive skin.

What’s the difference between Daily Microfoliant, Daily Milkfoliant, and Daily Superfoliant?

Daily Microfoliant: Best for all skin types; gently brightens and smooths.
Daily Milkfoliant: Ideal for dry or sensitive skin; soothes while exfoliating.
Daily Superfoliant: Targets premature ageing and pollution damage; best for normal to oily or ageing skin.

How often should I use Daily Superfoliant?

Due to its more intensive resurfacing action, Daily Superfoliant is best used 2–3 times a week. If your skin tolerates it well, you can gradually increase frequency.

Is Daily Milkfoliant suitable for sensitive skin?

Absolutely. Daily Milkfoliant is formulated with oat and coconut milk to calm and nourish while gently exfoliating. It’s ideal for those with reactive or easily irritated skin.

Can I use exfoliating cleansers like Daily Glycolic Cleanser every day?

Yes, Daily Glycolic Cleanser is designed for daily use. It contains glycolic acid to brighten and smooth dull, uneven skin without over-drying.

What’s the difference between Daily Glycolic Cleanser and Skin Resurfacing Cleanser?

Daily Glycolic Cleanser: A gel-based cleanser that brightens and evens tone with glycolic acid; suitable for daily use.
Skin Resurfacing Cleanser: A creamy cleanser with lactic acid; ideal for mature or dry skin and best used once daily or a few times a week.

Should I exfoliate before or after cleansing?

If you're using a powder exfoliant (like Daily Microfoliant), cleanse first. If you're using an exfoliating cleanser (like Daily Glycolic Cleanser or Skin Resurfacing Cleanser), it combines both steps in one.

Can I combine exfoliants with other active ingredients like retinol or vitamin C?

Yes, but with caution. Avoid layering strong actives immediately after exfoliation. If using retinol or vitamin C, apply them in your nighttime routine on non-exfoliation days or as advised by your skin therapist.

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