By know I’m sure you will know that I’m a huge fan of the Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant for its instant smoothing properties, but the R850 price tag really, really hurts. Until recently, there hasn’t been an alternative on the market, let alone an affordable one, so I just forked out the cash with my eyes closed. Then Indeed Labs (makers of Hydraluron, among others) launched this, their Facial Powdered Exfoliator and I knew I had to give it a try. Here’s the lowdown:
Points of similarity
Both are water-activated micro-powders
Both are gentle enough to use every day (although I only use them about once a week)
Both contain fruit enzymes (papain in DM, bromelain in FPE)
Both contain rice bran powder as the exfoliating agent
Both containers hold 75g of product
Points of difference
The exfoliating particles in FPE aren’t consistent in size – some grains are larger than others. In DM, the powder is fine and consistently milled.
FPE forms a foaming paste when you add water; DM doesn’t foam at all.
Active ingredients in FPE are: Bamboo extract, red algae and hyaluronic acid
Active ingredients in DM are: Salicylic acid, rice enzymes, green tea, ginkgo and colloidal oatmeal
DM leaves my skin feeling really smooth and polished. PFE doesn’t quite have the same effect.
FPE costs £18.99 and DM costs £41.30*
Verdict
As much as it makes my wallet want to weep, I think Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant wins this one. I think it is a superior product overall; the formulation suits me better (I can’t get enough salicylic acid, plus the consistency of the granules is perfect) and the results speak for themselves. If however your budget doesn’t stretch to Dermalogica (and honestly, this is the only product I buy from them on a regular basis because everything is SO pricey!) then the Indeed Labs version is certainly a good alternative.
*I’ve use GBP for the cost comparison because FPE isn’t available in SA.