A longtime Dermalogica fan (in University I would scrape together my part-time job earnings to splurge on a tube of Active Moist), I always get a little thrill when a new product from the 31-year-old California-based skincare line comes across my desk.
One of the most recent such prezzies is the Daily Superfoliant.
My first thought upon tearing open the signature silver packaging: “An exfoliator and it’s Dermalogica? I’m already practically sold.” Let me explain. Exfoliators, whether in the form of a mask or a cream, are an essential component in my skincare routine.
They immediately slough away dry, dead skin cells to reveal the new healthy layer underneath, making way for nourishing serums and moisturizers to penetrate the dermis.
The Superfoliant, Dermalogica’s second iteration of the brand’s uber-popular Daily Microfoliant (released in 2002), does everything a good exfoliator should, and more.
Unlike the Daily Microfoliant, which uses rice enzymes as its active ingredient, this one contains binchotan charcoal to purify the skin, alpha-hydroxy acid to smooth plus niacinamide, red algae and tara fruit extract to protect skin from pollutant damage.
What the Superfoliant doesn’t have is the rough particles often present in other exfoliators, such as ground shells and sugar, which can be harsh on the skin and cause tiny tears. Instead the Superfoliant has a fine powder consistency, gentle enough to be used daily.
The first time I tried it, I followed the package directions, shaking half a teaspoon of the charcoal-coloured powder into my palm (careful, it comes out quick).
Next, I dribbled a quarter teaspoon of water onto the small pile of powder, and combined the two with my fingers to create a silky-smooth, bubbly paste.
Using circular motions, I massaged the mixture onto my face and neck for about 60 seconds, avoiding the eye area, then rinsed with warm water. Immediately I noticed my skin was baby-soft – the “resurfacing” claims definitely held up.
Though my face felt a bit tight and dry, as it normally does after an exfoliation, my newly polished visage drank up my moisturizer (I use Dermalogica’s Active Moist mixed with Dermalogica’s Skin Hydrating Booster and a bit of SPF) as soon as I smoothed it on, leaving a glowy dew that lasted all day.
Like my Active Moist in my university days, this product is definitely worth the splurge.
Cost: $79 for 57 grams. Available on the North Shore at Fruition Skin Therapy, Mary Beauty Spa and Hennessey Salon and Spa
at Park Royal South.
