Dermalogica Liquid Peelfoliant Review

Dermalogica Liquid Peelfoliant Review

Dermalogica Liquid Peelfoliant
dermalogica liquid peelfoliant
£65
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PLEASE NOTE: I am a Skin Expert, Facialist and Dermalogica stockist and was not gifted this product or paid by Dermalogica to give a honest review. This page contains affiliate links. Making a purchase via my affiliate link means I may receive a small share of the sale.

In the world of skincare, finding a product that bridges the gap between a gentle daily exfoliant and a professional-grade chemical peel can be a challenge.

Dermalogica’s Liquid Peelfoliant enters the market as a potent, at-home solution designed to transform dull, uneven skin and is one of my favourite Dermalogica exfoliating product.

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Dermalogica promises that the Liquid Peelfoliant will deliver the "glow" of a clinical treatment from the comfort of your own bathroom, targeting everything from fine lines to congested pores. Let's take a deep dive into this great multi-acid and enzymes blended Dermalogica product and look into why we need to exfoliant and why its so important as we age.

Product Details

showing the dermalogica liquid peelfoliant box and bottle

The Liquid Peelfoliant is a high-performance, daily-use (subject to skin tolerance) peel that features a sophisticated blend of exfoliating acids and enzymes.

Unlike physical scrubs, this liquid formula works chemically to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells. It is specifically formulated to work at different layers of the skin's surface which is super clever, ensuring a thorough exfoliation that reveals brighter, smoother skin underneath.

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Exfoliants Explained

So before we go into the details of the Liquid Peelfoliant I wanted to take the time to explain the different types of exfoliants that are available.

Physical: Physical exfoliants or scrubs work by manually creating a friction on the skin's surface by using granular particles such as sugar or finely milled powders to physically detach and remove dead skin cells. This boosts circulation, improves the skin's texture and also aids in unclogging pores while also stimulating cell re-development and renewal.

Chemical: Chemical exfoliants mostly use acids and enzymes to dissolve/detach the bonds/glue that hold our skin cells together while removing the dead skin cells sitting further into the skin's layers. Again this boosts circulation, improves the skin's texture and also aids in unclogging pores while also stimulating cell re-development and renewal.

Here are the main different categories of exfoliants: 

  • Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA's) are water soluble meaning they dissolve in water so wash away. Acids such as Glycolic and lactic. These acids work on the skin's surface revealing brighter and smoother skin.
  • Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA's) are oil based acids which work by penetrating through sebum (our natural skin's oil) from within our pores dissolving debris and un-clogging them. Beta Hydroxy Acids such as Salicylic acid are ideal for acne prone or oily prone skin types.
  • Polyhydroxy Acids (PHA's) have a much larger molecular structure allowing them to be less aggressive on the skin and work gently on the surface not penetrating deeply into the skin, so are more suitable for sensitive skin.
  • Enzymes Mostly obtained from fruits these enzymes break down the keratin proteins in dead skin cells for a gentle exfoliation, again suitable for sensitive skin.

Both: There are exfoliants that consist of both chemical and physical ingredients in the one product which will treat the skin through many layers and in multiple ways.

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Why Do We Need To Exfoliate?

me exfolianting

As a skincare expert and just turned 46 years old, I know the importance of regular exfoliation and the use of resurfacing products to encourage our skin cells to re-generate and re-produce.

As we age our skin cell turnover rate starts to slow leaving our skin starts to look dull, rough and not functioning very well causing premature and accelerated skin ageing.

Regular exfoliation gets more important as we age because our natural surface renewal or cell turnover slows and extends, this is the process where our new skin cells replace the old skin cells. - Taking 12 to 25 days in our 20’s to taking 40 days in our 40’s and then 50+ days in our 50's.

This is a skin cell life cycle starting from proliferation where keratincytes divide and multiply rapidly in the basal layer of our skin called the epidermis, this is the stage responsible for making new cells that migrate through the skin's layers replacing the dead cells that sit at the very most outer layer, top of our skin.

As these cells travel they take on different shapes and structure while preparing to fulfil their specific function when they meet the surface. Once at the surface they are the protective barrier against external factors. Over time the cells start to die and the process starts again.

Size

liquid peelfoliant

So let's now that a closer look at the Liquid Peelfoliant, it is currently only available in one size a 59ml bottle with a dropper application. This size is designed to last several months, even with regular use, as only a small amount is required for each application.

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How To Use It

me using the dermalogica liquid peelfoliant

To get the best results while maintaining your skin's barrier health, follow these steps:

  • Cleanse: Begin with a double cleanse to ensure your skin is free from makeup, oil, and pollutants. Pat your skin completely dry.
  • Apply: Dispense one full dropper into your fingertips. Massage evenly over your face and neck using gentle circular motions, being careful to avoid the delicate eye and lip areas.
  • Process: Leave the product on for 1 to 3 minutes. It is normal to feel a slight tingling sensation as the active ingredients work.
  • Rinse: Rinse thoroughly with cool-to-tepid water or remove with a soft, damp face cloth.
  • Protect: Always follow up with a moisturiser and, if using during the day, a high-SPF sunscreen.
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When To Use It

showing the bottle and dropper for the liquid peelfoliant

Dermalogica recommends starting slowly. Use the product 2–3 times a week initially to monitor how your skin responds.

If your skin tolerates it well, you can gradually increase frequency to daily use. Due to the high concentration of AHAs, many users prefer to use it during their evening routine to avoid immediate sun exposure.

Pro Tip: I like to use my liquid peelfoliant in the morning, I double cleanse over my sink then apply a thin layer of peelfoliant and while I wait I often clean my teeth, then I jump into the shower to rinse off my exfoliant.

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Key Ingredients and Benefits

The formula boasts a powerful 30% blend of both AHA's and BHA's acids plus enzymes, in one formula, these ingredients include:

  • Glycolic Acid (AHA's)The smallest AHA, which penetrates deeply to shed dead layers and clear pores.
  • Lactic Acid (AHA's): Exfoliates while providing hydrating and brightening benefits. 
  • Salicylic Acid (BHA's): Oil-soluble to help unclog pores and reduce congestion.
  • Tranexamic Acid & Phytic Acid: Work together to even out skin tone and minimise the appearance of hyperpigmentation.
  • Fermented Pomegranate Enzyme: Helps break down the outermost layer of dead skin. 
  • Up-cycled Cranberry Extract & Ceramides: A lipid-rich blend that ensures the skin remains hydrated and the barrier stays supported during the peeling process.

Pairing & Layering Combinations

daily glycolic cleanser, liquid peelfoliant, cerimidemist biolumin-c serum and biolumin-c heat ageing protector

I would recommend these other products that work so well paired with the Liquid Peelfoliant for maximum glow, hydration and brightness:

  • Daily Glycolic Cleanser: Cleanses and removes skin build-up while renewing dull uneven skin tone while also conditions and replenishes your skin. 
  • Hyaluronic Ceramide Mist : Strengthens the skins protective barrier by smoothing fine lines while sealing in moisture that lasts all day. To Read My Hyaluronic Ceramide Mist Review - CLICK HERE
  • Biolumin-C Serum: Prevents free radical damage and reduces appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while brightening and firming your skin. To Read My Biolumin-C Serum Review - CLICK HERE
  • Biolumin-C Heat Aging Protector: Immediately brightens, hydrates and soothes. Also helps to protect against UV rays defending against heat ageing. To read My Biolumin-c Heat Aging Protector Review - CLICK HERE
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So skincare can be very confusing, especially when it comes to layering products. Well, I'm here to help you. I have written a blog, that will take you step by step through each layer and in which order is best. By the end of the blog, you should feel more confident with your home skincare routine and understand where your products fit nicely into this easy plan.

To read my blog click below ⬇️

read my blog

Alternative Dermalogica products

Here are some alternative exfoliating products from the Dermalogica range to check out.

  • Multivitamin Thermafoilant a powerful physical and chemical exfoliant skin polisher using micro-granules with a unique thermal technology containing Lactic, salicylic and retinol.
  • Daily Superfoliant: Anti-pollution powder exfoliant that helps to fight against enviromental triggers known for accelerating skin ageing. Includes, Niaciamide, red algae and fruit extracts.
  • Daily Microfoliant: a gentle rice based powder exfoliant rich is AHA's which activate on contact with water with a complex of salicylic, papain and phylic acid. To Read My Review on Daily Microfoliant - Click Here
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Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is it suitable for sensitive skin? Because of its high acid content, those with very sensitive or reactive skin should proceed with caution. Always perform a patch test first and start with a shorter processing time (1 minute).
  • Will my skin actually 'peel' off? No. Unlike "shedding" peels, this is a liquid exfoliant. It dissolves dead skin cells at a microscopic level, so you won't see sheets of skin peeling away; instead, you'll see a gradual improvement in texture and radiance.
  • Can I use it with Retinol? It is generally advised not to use a high-percentage peel in the same routine as Retinol to avoid over-sensitising the skin. Use them on alternate nights.

Dermalogica's Sustainability Goals

If like me you are someone that wants to support sustainability then Dermalogica is the brand for you.

By 2025, Dermalogica is committed to achieving or exceeding the following sustainability goals:

  • 90% of our ingredients will be sourced from suppliers with verified sustainable practices*
  • 100% of our tubes, bottles, and boxes will be designed for reuse, recycling, and/or composting
  • The majority of plastic used in our packaging will come from recycled or plant-based materials**
  • We will primarily partner with suppliers who actively monitor and manage their carbon footprint***
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Dermalogica Is A Brand You Can Trust

I fully put my love and trust into the skincare brand Dermalogica and have done for over 25 years.

I use only Dermalogica on my own skin and also in the salon on my clients. I really wouldn't use any other brand, I really appreciate Dermalogica's vision and ethics as there are completely Cruelty Free certified by PETA, Certified Vegan and uses NO artificial colours or fragrances.

Overview

I love the Liquid Peelfoliant and use mine 3 times a week within my 10 step home skincare rountine, and I truly believe this product is a standout choice for those looking to level up their exfoliation game.

It tackles the three main pillars of skin ageing: texture, tone, and pores. I highly recommend this product to many of my more advanced skincare clients that are enjoying Pro Power chemical peels and other advanced treatments in the salon to help keep their skin results performing at home and in-between appointments.

The inclusion of hydrating lipids also found int he Liquid Peelfoliant means that despite its strength, it doesn't leave the skin feeling "stripped" or tight, which is a common complaint with high-acid products.

I find that after using my Liquid Peelfoliant my skin looks and feels smooth, lifted and firm with an amazing glow. I love that is has strength but doesn't leave my skin irritated. It just looks great, brighter, smoother and healthier. 

Thank you for taking the time to read my review and I hope you have found it informative and inspires you to try Dermalogica's Liquid Peelfoliant, If you have any questions or comments please leave a message below.

love nicola x

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Dermalogica Liquid Peelfoliant
dermalogica liquid peelfoliant
£65
Buy Now From Dermalogica
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