Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant rice-based face exfoliant powder — Papaya Enzyme & Salicylic Acid for brighter, smoother skin

Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant is a rice-based exfoliating powder that activates with water to gently polish skin, refine texture, and promote a brighter, more even complexion for daily use.

This iconic, professional-grade microfoliant arrives as a dry powder you mix with water to form a creamy paste that exfoliates without harsh scrubbing. Powered by papaya enzyme and salicylic acid, it targets surface dullness and helps smooth skin while remaining mild enough for everyday routines. The formula supports faster skin turnover and creates a clean base for serums and makeup.

How do I use Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant correctly?

Wet your face and hands thoroughly, then dispense about a half-teaspoon of powder into your palms. Rub your hands together with water to create a light paste, massage over the face for about a minute focusing on rough or discolored areas, then rinse thoroughly. Use daily in the morning or evening depending on your skin’s tolerance.

• Dispense: ~1/2 teaspoon per use
• Activate: mix with very wet hands to form a creamy paste
• Apply: massage gently for 60 seconds, avoiding the eye area
• Rinse: remove completely and follow with toner/serum

What ingredients make it effective without irritation?

The formula combines papaya enzyme to dissolve dead skin cells with salicylic acid to help clear pores and refine texture, plus mild rice-derived exfoliants that physically buff without aggressive abrasion. Additional calming components help minimize redness so you can use it regularly without over-drying. The dry-powder format stays stable until activation, preserving ingredient potency.

• Papaya enzyme: enzymatic exfoliation for smoother skin
• Salicylic acid: beta-hydroxy acid to help decongest pores
• Rice-based powder: gentle mechanical polishing
• Soothing agents: reduce irritation risk during daily use

Can I use it with other actives like retinol or vitamin C?

Yes, but introduce combinations gradually. If you use strong retinoids or professional acids, alternate days at first to monitor tolerance, then increase frequency as your skin adjusts. Always follow with sunscreen in the morning because exfoliation can increase sun sensitivity.

• Start slow when combining with retinol or professional-strength acids
• Alternate days if you experience sensitivity
• Apply sunscreen after morning use to protect renewed skin
• Pair with hydrating serums to maintain moisture balance

How long before I notice brighter, smoother skin?

Many users report immediate improvement in skin texture and radiance after the first use thanks to removal of surface dead cells. More visible changes in tone and clarity typically appear within 2–4 weeks of consistent daily use as skin cell turnover improves. Results vary by skin type and prior condition.

• Immediate: smoother surface and improved makeup application
• 2–4 weeks: reduced uneven tone and clearer texture
• Consistency: daily use yields the most noticeable results
• Adjust frequency if irritation appears

Who is this for: Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant suits anyone seeking a gentle, daily exfoliant to tackle dullness, uneven texture, and congested pores without harsh scrubbing. It’s appropriate for normal, combination, and oily skin types; sensitive skin users should patch-test and introduce slowly. Ideal for people who want a polished complexion that layers well under skincare or makeup.

Ingredients

Microcrystalline Cellulose, Magnesium Oxide, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Colloidal Oatmeal, Disodium Lauryl Sulfosuccinate, Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Extract, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Starch, Coconut Acid, Allantoin, Papain, Salicylic Acid, Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, PCA, Populus Tremuloides Bark Extract, Cyclodextrin, Sodium Isethionate, Lauryl Methacrylate/Glycol Dimethacrylate Crosspolymer, Maltodextrin, 4-Terpineol, Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Peel Oil, Sodium Dehydroacetate, Water/Aqua/Eau, Limonene, Citric Acid, Tocopherol.