Daily Microfoliant · complete usage guide
exfoliate the right way.
Some concerns about daily exfoliation are justified — but not all of them. Here’s how to use it correctly, based on Dermalogica’s own claims.
not all skin is the same
Before talking about results, it is important to clarify when you should not use it. These are precise precautions — not to discourage you from trying it, but to help you use it at the right time for your skin.
temporarily stop using it if any of the following applies to you:
you are using prescription exfoliating products (retinoids, or high-concentration AHA/BHA prescribed by a doctor)
your skin is sunburned or irritated
you have recently waxed or removed facial hair
your skin has an open wound
If none of the above applies to you, the next section is for you.
understanding how the product works
The smooth feeling right after rinsing is real — but it will fade if you skip the next step.
the rinsing step
it is not a leave-on product — moisturize immediately after each use.
salicylic acid
penetrates inside the pores — where the skin’s surface cannot reach.
3 commonly misunderstood points
A comparison between what many people think and what Dermalogica actually claims.
many people think
“My skin gets dry when I use it every day.”
the reality
Dermalogica’s instructions clearly state that beginners should start every other day and gradually increase to daily use once their skin has adjusted. Daily use is for skin that has already adapted — it is not the default for everyone.
Try this now: use it every other day for one week, then moisturize immediately after rinsing.
many people think
“It brightens the skin, but not noticeably.”
the reality
Dermalogica’s claim is that it takes 1–4 weeks of daily use to see brighter-looking skin — not just a few uses. Gradual changes are always hard to notice day by day, so photos are the fairest way to compare.
Take a photo before opening the jar tonight — that’s the only way to make a fair assessment after a month.
many people think
“Pores do not visibly get smaller.”
the reality
no topical product can shrink pore size — that’s not how skin works. What Daily Microfoliant actually claims is that it reduces the appearance of blackheads, thanks to salicylic acid penetrating inside the pores. “Pores look smaller” really means “pores look less clogged” — different, but still a visible result.
how to use it correctly, step by step
five steps, every time you use it. The final step is not optional.
wet your hands and face
use warm water to thoroughly wet your face and both palms.
use the right amount
about half a teaspoon—using more will not improve results.
lather thoroughly
add a little water and rub between both hands until the product forms a fine lather.
massage for 60 seconds
gently massage in circular motions all over the face, avoiding the eye area.
rinse thoroughly and moisturize immediately
rinse with water, then moisturize immediately. This step is mandatory, not optional.
proof, not just promises
independent clinical results, conducted with 35 volunteers over 4 weeks.
| size | price | number of uses | cost / use | usage time — daily | usage time — every other day |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 13g | ₫610,000 | ~26 uses | ~₫23,500 | ~3.7 weeks | ~7.4 weeks (~1.7 months) |
| 40g | ₫1,730,000 | ~80 uses | ~₫21,600 | ~2.7 months | ~5.3 months |
| 74g | 2,620,000₫ | ~148 uses | ~₫17,700 | ~4.9 months | ~9.9 months |
| 74g — refill | 2,030,000₫ | ~148 uses | ~₫13,700lowest | ~4.9 months | ~9.9 months |
*independent clinical results, 35 volunteers, 4-week trial. Results may vary depending on individual skin.
not sure yet? start with the smaller size
if you're unsure, the travel size is the lowest-risk way to try it before committing to the full size.
Never used it before? Start with the 13g size, follow the five steps above exactly, and give your skin a full month before evaluating.
Frequently asked questions
Can sensitive skin use it?
Yes, but you should start every other day rather than daily, and always moisturize immediately after rinsing. If your skin is sunburned, irritated, recently waxed, or you’re using a prescription exfoliant, pause use until your skin has stabilized.
Will using it every day dry out my skin?
Dryness usually comes from using it daily from the start or skipping moisturizer. Dermalogica’s guidance is to begin every other day, gradually increase to daily use once your skin has adjusted, and moisturize immediately after each use.
How long does it take to see results?
Improved smoothness and the appearance of blackheads may be noticeable after 1–7 days. Brightening and reducing the appearance of dark spots takes 1–4 weeks of daily use. Since changes happen gradually, taking a photo on day one is the fairest way to evaluate the results.
Does the product really make pores smaller?
No topical product can actually shrink pore size. What Daily Microfoliant claims is to reduce the appearance of blackheads by allowing salicylic acid to penetrate inside the pores—making them look less congested, which means they appear smaller.
Which size should I choose to start?
If you’ve never tried it before, the 13g size is the lowest-risk option for getting familiar with the product and routine before investing in the larger size. Once you’re familiar with it and use it regularly, the 74g refill has the lowest cost per use.
Do I need to use any other products?
Yes—moisturizing immediately after rinsing is essential, not optional. This step helps your skin maintain a smooth feel after exfoliation, rather than just feeling temporarily smooth right after rinsing.
Day 1 starts today
Take a photo, start using it every other day, moisturize after each use—and give your skin time to prove it.
Buy Daily Microfoliant