Dermalogica Daily Superfoliant Exfoliator 13g (travelsize)
Description
Description
Anti-pollution powder exfoliant travel size for on the go
Urban pollution, fine dust, exhaust fumes, and blue light accumulate daily on the skin and in the pores. This is not abstract damage — dermatological research directly links air pollution to accelerated skin aging, pigmentation spots, and a duller complexion. A regular scrub removes dead skin cells but does not reach this deeper pollution. Daily Superfoliant goes a step further: a powder exfoliant that activates on contact with water and delivers a triple action — alpha hydroxy acids that renew the skin surface, enzymes that dissolve dead skin cells, and activated charcoal that literally sucks pollution out of the pores.
The 13g Daily Superfoliant is the travel size for those who want to try the product or continue using it on the go. The powder form is also practical for travel: no liquid counting towards carry-on limits, no risk of leaks in your bag, and the bottle weighs almost nothing. For first-time users: a smart introduction to one of the most highly rated Dermalogica products — averaging 4.76 stars from over 900 reviews. For experienced users: a logical second bottle for your toiletry bag or gym bag.
Benefits
- Compact travel size of 13g, no liquid so no carry-on restrictions
- Contains the exact same powder formula as the regular 57g
- Combines AHAs, enzymes, and activated charcoal in one daily treatment
- Ideal introduction for those new to this exfoliant
- Anti-pollution effect for urban skin or polluted travel destinations
Active ingredients
Activated Binchotan charcoal: A high-quality Japanese charcoal with a porous structure that acts like a microscopic magnet on pollution. The activated charcoal binds fine dust, exhaust fumes, cigarette smoke, and other environmental toxins, literally pulling them out of the pores — a process called adsorption (different from absorption). For urban skin or skin in polluted travel destinations, this is the core ingredient of the formula.
Lactic Acid: An alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that belongs to the milder acids in skincare — derived from sour milk and with larger molecules than glycolic acid, making it less penetrating and gentler on the skin. Lactic acid removes dead skin cells, stimulates cell renewal, and also has a hydrating effect. The combination of effectiveness and mildness makes it suitable for daily use.
Malic acid: A second AHA derived from apples that enhances the exfoliating effect without irritating the skin. Malic acid works slightly more superficially than lactic acid, so the two acids complement each other — a layered exfoliation rather than one aggressive action.
Plant enzymes (Subtilisin, Lipase, Papain): A trio of enzymes that literally dissolve dead skin cells without scrubbing — fundamentally different from grain scrubs. Subtilisin and lipase break down proteins and fats, papain (from papaya) specifically targets dead skin cells. These enzymes only activate upon contact with water, which makes the powder form so special: the product remains completely stable until that moment.
Niacinamide (vitamin B3): A versatile active ingredient that helps refine pores, strengthen the skin barrier, and regulate pigmentation. Specifically in anti-pollution exfoliation, niacinamide plays a role in skin recovery after pollution exposure — a supportive ingredient that complements the effects of the other actives.
Red algae extract (Kappaphycus Alvarezii): A marine plant extract that forms a protective film on the skin surface. This film helps prevent fine dust from reattaching to the skin after cleansing — a proactive anti-pollution effect that keeps the skin cleaner for longer.
Tara extract (Caesalpinia Spinosa): A plant-based ingredient from the Peruvian tara fruit that has the same anti-pollution function as red algae but through a different mechanism. Tara extract neutralizes free radicals generated by pollution and helps counteract skin damage from air pollution at the molecular level.
White tea (Camellia Sinensis): An antioxidant powerhouse that provides extra protection against oxidative stress caused by UV radiation and pollution. Combined with tara and red algae, it forms a triple anti-pollution defense.
Rice bran extract (Oryza Sativa): A mild soothing ingredient traditionally used in Asian skincare to even out skin tone and soften the skin. It smooths the interaction of acids and enzymes and contributes to a finer skin texture.
Ginger root extract (Zingiber Officinale): Stimulates microcirculation and provides a light invigorating, warming sensation during application. Contributes to the lively, fresh feeling this exfoliant is known for.
How to use
- First cleanse the face with a suitable cleanser
- Scoop half a teaspoon of the powder into very wet hands
- Rub hands together until a creamy paste forms
- Massage the paste in circular motions over the face and neck for about a minute, avoiding the eye area
- Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and always finish with sun protection in the morning
Suitable for
- Travelers who want to continue their exfoliation routine on the go
- Customers who want to try the exfoliant for the first time
- City dwellers exposed to air pollution and fine dust
- Normal, combination, and oily skin
- Skin with dull tone, uneven texture, or visible pores
- Women looking for a powder as a travel-friendly alternative to a scrub
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the 13g in my carry-on luggage?
Yes, and this is actually a big advantage of this product. Because Daily Superfoliant is in powder form, it does not count as a liquid for carry-on baggage restrictions. You can take it without any issues without needing to put it in the transparent toiletry bag for liquids. One recommendation: keep it in the outer packaging to prevent the sifter from accidentally opening.
What is the difference between Daily Superfoliant and Daily Microfoliant?
Both are powder exfoliants from Dermalogica but for different skin types. Daily Microfoliant is milder, focused on brightening and suitable for sensitive skin. Daily Superfoliant is stronger, focused on anti-pollution and resurfacing, recommended for normal to oily skin seeking more correction. Do you have sensitive skin? Then choose the Microfoliant.
Is the formula of the 13g exactly the same as the 57g?
Yes, identical. The same concentrations of AHAs, enzymes, activated charcoal, and plant extracts. Only the bottle size differs.
How long does 13g approximately last?
With daily use, 13g typically lasts two to three weeks. For a vacation of one to two weeks, you are well supplied. For those trying it for the first time: this is a realistic period to experience how your skin reacts to the formula and whether the product suits you.
Does my need for exfoliation change when traveling?
Often yes. On trips, pollution, hotel smells, sweat, different diet, and makeup build up faster on the skin. At the same time, thorough exfoliation is especially welcome to keep the skin fresh. A travel size makes this practical without carrying a full 57g bottle.
Is this a good way to try Dermalogica for the first time?
An excellent choice. The 13g size gives you two to three weeks to experience the effects on your skin — enough to notice differences in texture, brightness, and pore size. If you like it, you can switch to the 57g or the refill pack for the best price per gram.
Can I use the exfoliant every day, or does that overstrip the skin?
The formula is specifically developed for daily use on normal, combination, and oily skin. The AHA concentration is below 1%, mild enough for daily exfoliation without overstripping the skin. For sensitive skin, Dermalogica recommends every other day until the skin gets used to it.
Can I use the exfoliant in the shower?
Better not. High humidity can enter the bottle through the sifter and cause the powder to clump — a common complaint with this product. Store the bottle in a dry place outside the shower and only dispense when you need the product.
Can I also use the exfoliant on my body?
Yes. Dermalogica confirms that the product can be used from head to toe. Especially on areas with rough skin texture (elbows, knees) or enlarged pores on the upper back, the same formula can be valuable. For sensitive skin on the body — stomach, inner thighs — use less frequently.
Can I combine this with retinol or a vitamin C serum?
Yes, provided it is not layered in the same routine. The common approach: use Daily Superfoliant in the morning as a cleansing step, followed by a vitamin C serum and SPF. Apply retinol in the evening, well after exfoliation. For sensitive skin, it’s better to use the exfoliant every other day when also using retinol.
What does the exfoliant smell like?
The formula contains essential oils of bitter orange, lavender, lemon, rosemary, sage, and ginger. This gives a fairly pronounced spicy, earthy scent — some customers find this pleasant and refreshing, others experience it as "sulfurous." For those looking for fragrance-free: this product is not suitable.
