Exfoliation is the step most people overdo. This shelf is deliberately small because we would rather stock five things that work than twenty that tempt you to use them nightly. It is for skin that looks dull, feels rough to the touch, or has stopped absorbing serums the way it used to a few months ago.

Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant is the gentle rice-based powder, and Daily Milkfoliant is its softer sibling for reactive skin. iS Clinical Tri-Active Exfoliant is stronger and belongs on a twice-weekly schedule, and Green Envee Illuminate Cleansing Powder is the enzyme option for anyone who dislikes grit. In studio we exfoliate and then hydrate immediately. Do the same at home, and skip exfoliation entirely in the days on either side of a facial.