So Dermalogica finally tweaked their cult powder scrub. And the internet is fighting in the comments like it’s a political debate.
The old version was basically rice flour magic — fine, fizzy, foolproof. The new one? They swapped the papain enzyme for salicylic acid. That’s the real story nobody’s talking about.
Still a rice-based powder you activate with water. Still $68 for 2.6 oz. The claim: “gentler, more effective.” I rolled my eyes — but tested it anyway.
Salicylic Acid (0.5%)
Replaced the papain enzyme — targets clogged pores instead of just surface dead skin
Rice Enzyme Complex
Still there — breaks down keratin without scrubbing your face off
Niacinamide (Added)
New addition — meant to calm things down. Does it? Mostly.
They leaned into acne-fighting territory. The old version was a gentle exfoliant for anyone. This one has an agenda — and it’s pores.
- Salicylic Acid: Unclogs without the sting of a toner
- Rice Bran: Polishes without microplastics
- Niacinamide: Takes the edge off the acid
- Allantoin: The unsung hero — calms redness in 2 minutes
First use: foams up faster than the old one. Like, instant foam — you have to work quicker. Texture feels slightly grainier wet, but dries down to nothing.
Week two: my chin texture is noticeably smoother. But my cheeks? Slightly pinker. It’s less forgiving if you over-lather. Unexpected win: it actually helps my post-shave irritation heal faster.
Fewer clogged pores on my nose. Same glow. But my dry patches stayed dry — this isn’t hydrating, don’t let the “gentle” marketing fool you.
It’s a better product for acne-prone skin. A worse one for sensitive skin. The old formula wasn’t broken — but this one knows who it’s for.