Chemical vs. Physical Exfoliation: What’s the Difference? And Which Dermalogica Option Is Right for Your Skin Type?
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Time to read 2 min
We all want smoother, brighter, more radiant skin—and regular exfoliation is key to achieving that glow. But one question we get asked all the time is: Should I be using a chemical exfoliant or a physical exfoliant?
At Gloskinbody, we’re here to help you make the right choice for your unique skin type. Whether your skin is sensitive, dry, oily, or ageing, there’s a Dermalogica exfoliant that can work beautifully for you.
🔬 What Is a Chemical Exfoliant?
Chemical exfoliants use AHAs, BHAs, or enzymes to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells, helping them shed more easily. Unlike physical exfoliants, there's no scrubbing involved —just smooth, even resurfacing over time.
Best For:
✔ Sensitive skin – no harsh scrubbing means less irritation
✔ Dry or dehydrated skin – improves texture without stripping moisture
✔ Pigmentation or dullness – helps fade uneven tone and boosts radiance
✔ Ageing skin – supports cell renewal and refines fine lines
✔ Dry or dehydrated skin – improves texture without stripping moisture
✔ Pigmentation or dullness – helps fade uneven tone and boosts radiance
✔ Ageing skin – supports cell renewal and refines fine lines
Top Dermalogica Chemical Exfoliants:
Daily Milkfoliant – A calming, oat-based exfoliant with AHAs and coconut milk. Ideal for dry or sensitive skin types.
Liquid Peelfoliant – A potent blend of AHAs, BHAs, and enzymes for a more intensive exfoliation. Great for uneven texture or congestion.
Rapid Reveal Peel – A powerful, professional-grade at-home peel that brightens, smooths, and targets signs of ageing. Use 1–2 times weekly.
🧖♀️ What Is a Physical Exfoliant?
Physical exfoliants contain fine particles or granules that physically buff away dead skin cells. They provide that satisfying, instant smoothness many of us love—but they must be gentle to avoid damaging the skin.
Best For:
✔ Normal to oily skin – especially if you enjoy that ‘polished’ feeling
✔ Thicker or textured skin – where build-up is more common
✔ Experienced exfoliators – who know their skin tolerates granular scrubs
✔ Thicker or textured skin – where build-up is more common
✔ Experienced exfoliators – who know their skin tolerates granular scrubs
Top Dermalogica Physical Exfoliants:
Daily Microfoliant – A cult favourite for a reason. This rice-based powder is gentle enough for sensitive skin and leaves skin instantly smoother.
Daily Superfoliant – A detoxifying charcoal exfoliant that targets pollution-related ageing. Ideal for skin exposed to environmental stress.
MultiVitamin Thermafoliant – A warming, granular exfoliant enriched with anti-ageing actives. Best for mature, dull, or uneven skin.
Which One Is Right for You?
If you have sensitive, dry, or reactive skin → Go for a chemical exfoliant like Daily Milkfoliant or Rapid Reveal Peel.
If your skin is normal, oily, or textured → A physical exfoliant like Daily Superfoliant or MultiVitamin Thermafoliant may be a better fit.
If you’re new to exfoliating → Start gently with Daily Microfoliant and see how your skin responds.
Exfoliation should leave your skin glowing—not tight or irritated. Choosing the right type for your skin will ensure you get the benefits without compromising barrier health.
Final Thoughts from Gloskinbody
Dermalogica has taken exfoliation to a whole new level—each formula is designed with skin health in mind, using high-performance ingredients that respect your skin’s natural balance.
Not sure which one is right for you? Our team of skin therapists is here to help you choose the perfect match based on your skin type and goals.
Ready to glow?
Shop our full range of Dermalogica exfoliants at Gloskinbody today.
