Dermalogica Skin Resurfacing Lactic Acid Cleanser 150ml
Description
Description
Cleansing cream with lactic acid for daily exfoliation
Most cleansers remove surface dirt. Most exfoliants are separate products used two or three times a week. The idea behind Skin Resurfacing Lactic Acid Cleanser is different: a cleanser that every day — morning and evening — also gently exfoliates thanks to a lactic acid concentrate. No separate step, no extra product, no waiting time. The skin is not only cleaned daily but also structurally improved in texture, clarity, and smoothness. A form of daily maintenance exfoliation that prepares the skin for better absorption of what comes next: serums, treatments, anti-aging actives.
For those seeing signs of skin aging — dullness, fine lines, uneven texture — this is one of Dermalogica’s most highly rated cleansers, with a 4.67-star rating from over 770 reviews. The creamy, non-foaming texture means one pump is enough for the entire face. Antioxidants and plant oils nourish the skin at the same time, while the subtle rose scent makes cleansing a pleasant sensory moment. For the right customer — mature or prematurely aging skin — this cleanser can noticeably refine visible texture in two to three weeks.
Benefits
- Cleanses and exfoliates in one step thanks to lactic acid (AHA)
- Speeds up cell renewal for visibly smoother, brighter skin
- Reduces dullness, fine lines, and uneven texture
- Prepares the skin for optimal absorption of serums and anti-aging products
- Suitable for daily use, morning and evening
Active ingredients
Lactic Acid concentrate: The key ingredient and the reason for this product's success. Lactic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) with larger molecules than glycolic acid, meaning it penetrates less deeply and is therefore gentler on the skin — while still effectively dissolving dead skin cells and stimulating cell renewal. What makes lactic acid special compared to other AHAs: it also binds water to the skin, providing hydration at the same time. This makes it suitable for daily use, even for skin that fears dryness from acids. Dermalogica does not specify the exact percentage (proprietary), but its position in the INCI list — third, right after water and the main surfactant — suggests an effective, targeted level.
Vitamin E (Tocopherol & Tocopheryl Acetate): A dual form of vitamin E in the formula. Tocopherol is the active, antioxidant form that neutralizes free radicals and protects the skin from oxidative damage. Tocopheryl Acetate is the more stable ester that slowly converts into the active form in the skin — a gradual release of antioxidant action. Important in a cleanser with AHA, as exfoliation temporarily makes the skin more accessible to free radicals.
Rose oil (Rosa Damascena): An ingredient that works both functionally and sensorially. Functionally: rose oil soothes the skin and helps buffer any mild irritation from lactic acid. Sensorially: the soft rose scent makes cleansing a pleasant routine experience, which many reviews specifically praise. Rose is a classic dermatological ingredient rarely missing in a high-quality formula.
Sunflower seed oil (Helianthus Annuus): A light plant oil that nourishes the skin without interfering with cleansing. Sunflower oil is rich in linoleic acid, an essential fatty acid that strengthens the skin barrier — an important compensation in an exfoliating cleanser, as the barrier needs extra care during exfoliation.
Essential oil blend (rosewood, geranium, clove, lemon, eucalyptus, cedar): An aromatherapeutic blend that gives the cleanser a distinctively herbal, lightly spicy character. Besides the scent, these oils contribute to antioxidant effects (especially clove and eucalyptus). No synthetic fragrance.
Lemon extract (Citrus Limon): A mild brightening ingredient that helps the skin look lighter and clearer due to its vitamin C content and mild AHA action — a complement to lactic acid that visibly refreshes the complexion.
Mild surfactant combination (Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate & Sodium Cocoamphoacetate): The cleansing base of the product, made up of a milder coconut-derived surfactant and a second supporting cleanser. Together they dissolve dirt, sebum, and residues without drying out the skin — an important balance in a formula that also exfoliates.
How to use
- Optionally start with a pre-cleanser or makeup remover to remove oil and makeup
- Dispense one pump onto wet hands and rub until a light lather forms
- Apply the cleanser to a damp face and neck
- Massage with light, upward movements for at least 30 seconds, avoiding the eye contour
- Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and then apply your skincare, finish in the morning with sun protection
Suitable for
- Mature skin with visible signs of aging
- Prematurely aging skin from age 35
- Skin with dull tone, fine lines, and uneven texture
- Skin that needs daily but gentle exfoliation
- Customers who want to upgrade their cleansing to an active product
- Women who want to integrate anti-aging from the very first step of their routine
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I really use this cleanser every day, morning and evening?
Yes, that’s exactly what the formula was developed for. The lactic acid percentage is deliberately dosed for daily use without over-exfoliating the skin. For sensitive skin, it’s better to start once a day and possibly build up — some customers stick permanently to once daily because that provides enough effect for their skin.
What is the difference compared to the Daily Microfoliant or Daily Superfoliant?
Skin Resurfacing Lactic Acid Cleanser is a cleanser with built-in exfoliation; the Microfoliant and Superfoliant are separate exfoliants you use after cleansing. In a complete routine, you can combine them: first this cleanser, then a targeted exfoliant like the Microfoliant or Superfoliant when you want more. For those who want fewer steps, this cleanser fully replaces the exfoliant step.
Is this a foaming cleanser?
No. It’s a creamy formula that lightly lathers but doesn’t foam like classic gel cleansers. Many customers actually like the creamy texture — it feels nourishing rather than stripping. Important: one pump is enough for the whole face, and lather well in your hands before applying to the face to avoid irritation from pure cream on the skin.
Can I use this alongside retinol or vitamin C?
Yes, and it’s actually a good combination. Use the cleanser in the evening, followed by your retinol serum — the exfoliation from the cleanser helps the retinol absorb better. In the morning, it pairs well with a vitamin C serum because the exfoliation makes the serum more effective. For sensitive skin: be cautious with layering, and consider using only one active per part of the day.
How much AHA is in this cleanser?
Dermalogica does not share the exact percentage — that is a company secret. What we do know: lactic acid is listed third in the INCI list, right after water and the main surfactant, which suggests an effective level. In practice, this translates to visible improvement in texture within two to four weeks of daily use.
When will I see results?
Many customers report that the skin feels smoother and brighter immediately after the first cleansing. Structural improvement in texture, fine lines, and skin tone builds up over two to four weeks. Reviews often mention the turning point around week two — that’s when the cumulative effects start to become noticeable.
Is this product suitable for sensitive skin?
For mildly sensitive skin, it is usually well tolerated, but for very reactive skin or rosacea, Dermalogica advises caution. Always do a patch test on the neck or jawline before using it on your entire face. In case of irritation: reduce usage frequency to once a day or every other day.
Can I use this during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Yes. Lactic acid in cosmetic concentrations is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding — unlike retinoid products. Dermalogica itself confirms that this cleanser is safe during breastfeeding. Consult your midwife if in doubt.
Do I still need a pre-cleanser or makeup remover?
For light day makeup or no makeup, this cleanser is sufficient. For heavy makeup, waterproof products, or SPF, we recommend a pre-cleanse step (for example, Dermalogica PreCleanse cleansing oil). A double cleansing routine completely removes makeup and allows the active effect of lactic acid to work optimally.
Can I also use this on my neck and décolleté?
Yes, and it is even recommended. The skin on the neck and décolleté often ages as fast or faster than the face but is often forgotten in many routines. Feel free to apply the cleanser beyond the neckline — the same exfoliating effect also helps improve texture and brightness there.
How long does a 150ml bottle last approximately?
When used twice a day (morning and evening), 150ml typically lasts two to three months. When used once a day, that duration doubles. One pump is enough for both face and neck, which keeps consumption favorable despite the active formula.
Does this also work for hyperpigmentation or pigmentation spots?
For mild, superficial pigmentation spots, daily exfoliation can help speed up fading by stimulating cell renewal. For stubborn pigmentation spots, this cleanser works best in combination with a vitamin C serum or a pigmentation-regulating serum during the day, plus consistent use of SPF — pigmentation spots do not fade without sun protection.
