Tried & Tested: Dermalogica Milkfoliant

Top Line On Dermalogica Daily Milkfoliant

A gentle, powder exfoliant packed with alpha hydroxy acids and beta hydroxy acids (aka AHAs and BHAs) to help polish away dead skin cells and dig out pore debris. While effective at exfoliating, it also leaves skin feeling calm, courtesy of smoothing, softening coconut milk and soothing oat bran extracts. In the formula, you’ll also find papain extract with its excellent resurfacing action, a blend of a naturally derived plant saccharide, atomised sea salt and hyaluronic acid to help support the skin's moisture barrier.

Everything you need to know about Dermalogica’s Exfoliator

As someone with pretty reactive, sensitive skin, I’ve always been wary of chemical exfoliators. Why? One simple reason - I don’t want my skin barrier to be weakened. Now, in some ways this is an irrational fear as chemical exfoliators have a very specific role. They work by dissolving the ‘glue’ that holds dead skin cells in place (the cells that contribute to skin looking lacklustre), causing these - plus pore debris - to be lifted away and allowing our new, fresh, glowy skin cells beneath to shine through. Of course, if you go overboard with a product of this kind, your barrier may well be compromised. That said, avoid it completely and you may be doomed to a life with blackheads and a dull complexion.

So, when questioning how to exfoliate sensitive skin, Dermalogica Daily Milkfoliant strikes the perfect balance. Used in moderation (Dermalogica suggests daily on the packaging, however I’ve opted for a more cautious twice-a-week exfoliating routine) my skin texture and appearance have undoubtedly improved.

But more surprisingly, so have my flare ups. Especially at a time of year when an increase in SPF and heat usually sparks breakouts and sensitivity. That’ll be the moisture-barrier-boosting blend of saccharide, atomised sea salt and hyaluronic acid, I expect.

The verdict on Dermalogica Daily Milkfoliant

If, like me, you’re still deciding whether or not to add a chemical exfoliator into your weekly routine, Dermalogica Daily Milkfoliant, £18.00 is the product to try. Its ultra-gentle approach to an action which can (when approached in the wrong way) leave skin feeling stripped and sensitised has completely converted me. And it still gets results. Blackheads in particular have always been a concern of mine, but with a twice-weekly dose of this, I can confirm my nose is looking considerably less polka dot than before.

More from Dermalogica

As I mentioned, Dermalogica is all about its no-compromise routines, whatever your skin type. Chances are, if you’ve turned to this kind of gentle exfoliator (as opposed to the popular Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant), you’re also seeking a sensitive skin routine. So, what other Dermalogica products does the brand recommend? A twice-daily cleanse with Dermalogica Ultracalming Cleanser, £42.00, a daily dose of Dermalogica Ultracalming Serum Concentrate, £65.00, , and of course, UV protection is a must, so Dermalogica Invisible Defense SPF 30, £49.00. Want more? Read our roundup of the best Dermalogica products for acne-prone, sensitive skin.