Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant Rice-Based Face Exfoliant Powder — Daily Brightening, Gentle Salicylic & Papaya Enzyme

Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant is a rice-based exfoliating powder that transforms into a gentle paste on contact with water to brighten, smooth, and refine skin texture every day.

This iconic powder-to-paste exfoliant blends papaya enzyme and salicylic acid to lift dull surface cells and clear pore-clogging debris while maintaining a mild, non-abrasive feel. Designed for daily use, it rinses clean and primes skin for serums and makeup without over-drying. The formula has long been used by skincare professionals and consumers who want a repeatable, controlled exfoliation step in a simple ritual.

How does this powder exfoliate without being harsh?

Daily Microfoliant uses a combination of a very fine rice-derived powder, fruit enzyme, and a gentle BHA to remove dead skin cells and surface buildup with minimal friction. Because you activate it with water into a creamy paste, the texture is smooth rather than gritty, which reduces irritation risk. The action is mechanical and enzymatic, so results feel polished rather than stripped.

• Papaya enzyme helps loosen dead skin for enzymatic exfoliation.
• Salicylic acid assists in clearing pores and refining texture.
• Rice-based microgranules provide a soft polishing effect.
• Creamy paste format minimizes abrasive rubbing.

How do I use it in a daily skincare routine?

Dispense a small amount into very wet hands, rub until a creamy paste forms, then gently massage onto damp skin and rinse thoroughly. Use it in the morning to brighten and prep skin for makeup or at night to remove buildup—either way, it replaces rough scrubs with a controlled exfoliation. Adjust frequency if your skin becomes sensitized, but the product is formulated for daily application.

• Start with pea-sized amount, increase slightly if needed.
• Work into a creamy paste using plenty of water.
• Massage gently for 30–60 seconds, then rinse with lukewarm water.
• Follow with toner, serums, and moisturizer.

What skin types benefit and what should I watch for?

Its mild, multi-action formula suits many skin types seeking smoother tone and texture—normal, combination, and oily skin often notice faster results. Sensitive or very dry skin can still use it but should monitor for signs of over-exfoliation and reduce frequency if needed. Avoid using with other strong actives simultaneously unless tolerated.

• Good for refining texture and minimizing dullness.
• Adjust frequency for sensitive or reactive skin.
• Use sunscreen during the day after exfoliation.
• Avoid layering with multiple exfoliating acids until tolerated.

Can this product be used before makeup and with other Dermalogica steps?

Yes—because it rinses clean and creates a smooth surface, it's an excellent primer step before serums, moisturizers, and makeup application. Use it after cleansing and before targeted treatments or moisturizers to improve product absorption and finish. Its lightweight nature pairs well with most follow-up products.

• Apply after basic cleansing and before serums.
• Leaves skin smooth for more even makeup application.
• Compatible with most Dermalogica serums and moisturizers.
• Allow skin to dry slightly before applying heavier creams.

Who is this for? Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant is aimed at anyone seeking a dependable, everyday exfoliant that brightens and refines skin texture without harsh scrubbing. It’s especially useful for people who want a simple, repeatable step that prepares skin for treatments and makeup—ideal for normal, combination, and oily types, and usable by sensitive skin with reduced frequency. As with any exfoliant, monitor your skin and adjust use to maintain a healthy, comfortable barrier.

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.