Strawberry Rhubarb Dermafoliant
Strawberry Rhubarb Dermafoliant
Product Description
Product overview
An award-winning powder-to-paste dual-action exfoliant that combines natural lactic acid, salicylic acid from strawberry, and a trio of polishing flours (rice, chickpea, oat) to gently buff away dead skin cells and reveal a brighter, smoother complexion. Enriched with Botanical Hyaluronic Acid Complex and Heilmoor Clay for deep cleansing without stripping moisture.
Dual-Action Exfoliation
Combines physical exfoliation from rice, chickpea, and oat flours with chemical exfoliation from lactic acid (AHA) and salicylic acid (BHA) for thorough yet gentle resurfacing.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDual-Action Exfoliation
Combines physical exfoliation from rice, chickpea, and oat flours with chemical exfoliation from lactic acid (AHA) and salicylic acid (BHA) for thorough yet gentle resurfacing.
Botanical Hyaluronic Acid Complex
A proprietary blend of multi-weight Hyaluronic Acid and Marshmallow Root that deeply hydrates and helps preserve moisture during the exfoliation process.
Deep-Cleansing Clays
Heilmoor Clay and Moroccan Lava Clay draw out impurities, absorb excess oil, and deliver trace minerals to soften and nourish the skin.
BioComplex2 Antioxidant Boost
Proprietary complex of Acai, Camu Camu, Goji Berry, Coenzyme Q10, and Alpha Lipoic Acid to fight free radicals and support anti-aging benefits.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains salicylic acid (BHA) and lactic acid (AHA). While this is a wash-off product with low concentrations, most dermatologists recommend avoiding salicylic acid during pregnancy. Consult your healthcare provider before use.
Contains grape seed oil (oleic acid content) and coconut water (in BioComplex2) which may feed malassezia yeast. Those with active fungal acne should patch test or choose an FA-safe alternative.
Rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. As a wash-off product, pore-clogging risk is minimal. The powder format and clays actively help absorb excess oil.
Gentle enough for daily use for most skin types. The physical exfoliants are finely milled flours (not harsh scrub particles), and the chemical acids are at low concentrations.
Free from parabens, phthalates, sodium lauryl sulfate, propylene glycol, mineral oils, petroleum, and harmful colorants. Certified B Corporation brand.
Contains AHA (lactic acid) and BHA (salicylic acid) which can increase sun sensitivity. Always apply SPF 30+ sunscreen after use, especially during daytime.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSStrawberry ExtractProven
A natural source of salicylic acid and vitamin C. Acts as both a gentle chemical exfoliant and antioxidant, helping to brighten the complexion and reduce the appearance of pores.
- Function: Natural BHA source for gentle chemical exfoliation and pore-refining
- Benefit: Brightens skin, helps remove impurities, and provides antioxidant protection
Lactic AcidProven
A gentle alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from natural sources. Dissolves the bonds holding dead skin cells together, promoting cell turnover and revealing smoother, more luminous skin underneath.
- Type: AHA — gentler and more hydrating than glycolic acid
- Research: Clinically shown to improve skin texture, reduce hyperpigmentation, and boost hydration at concentrations as low as 2%
Exfoliating Flours (Rice, Chickpea, Oat)Proven
A trio of finely milled natural flours that provide gentle physical exfoliation. Rice flour absorbs oil, chickpea flour tightens pores and buffs skin, and colloidal oatmeal soothes and calms inflammation.
- Rice: Traditional Asian skincare ingredient — studies show rice bran starch improves skin barrier function and soothes irritation
- Oatmeal: FDA-recognized skin protectant; clinically proven to soothe eczema and sensitive skin
- Chickpea: Naturally oil-absorbing with zinc content that helps refine pore appearance
Heilmoor Clay & Moroccan Lava ClayProven
Heilmoor Clay is sourced from ancient peat deposits rich in organic compounds and trace minerals. Combined with Moroccan Lava Clay (Ghassoul), these clays deeply cleanse while delivering minerals to soften skin.
- Heilmoor: Contains humic and fulvic acids with documented anti-inflammatory and skin-softening properties
- Moroccan Lava: Highly absorbent — studies show it reduces sebum and improves skin elasticity
Botanical Hyaluronic Acid ComplexPromising
A proprietary blend of Sodium Hyaluronate (vegan hyaluronic acid) and Marshmallow Root Extract. Provides multi-weight hydration to counteract any dryness from the exfoliation process.
- Sodium Hyaluronate: Smaller molecular weight HA that penetrates deeper into the skin for lasting hydration
- Marshmallow Root: Contains mucilage that forms a hydrating film on the skin, mimicking HA function naturally
BioComplex2 Antioxidant BlendPromising
A proprietary superfruit complex featuring Acai, Camu Camu, Goji Berry, Barbados Cherry, Indian Gooseberry, Baobab, Carrot, and Coconut Water, plus Alpha Lipoic Acid and Coenzyme Q10.
- CoQ10: Research shows it helps reduce wrinkle depth and protects against photoaging
- Alpha Lipoic Acid: Universal antioxidant that works in both water and fat-soluble environments
- Superfruits: Vitamin C-rich berries provide additional antioxidant protection
35+ ingredients
Organic Phytonutrient Blend™ [Fragaria Chiloensis (Strawberry) Extract*, Rheum Rhabarbarum (Rhubarb) Extract*, Althaea Officinalis (Marshmallow) Root Extract*, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract*, Oryza Sativa (Rice)*], Cicer Arietinum (Chickpea) Flour, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Solanum Tuberosum (Potato) Starch, Avena Sativa (Colloidal Oatmeal) Kernel Flour, Silica, Salicylic Acid, Moroccan Lava Clay, Lactic Acid, Medicago Sativa (Alfalfa) Leaf Extract*, Equisetum Arvense (Horsetail) Extract*, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract*, Juglans Nigra (Black Walnut) Shell Powder, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract*, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Papain (Papaya Enzyme), Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Seed Extract, Heilmoor Clay, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract*, Aromatic Extract Blend, Vegetable Squalane, Biocomplex2™ [Euterpe Oleracea (Acai)*, Citrus Limon (Lemon)*, Malpighia Glabra (Barbados Cherry)*, Emblica Officinalis (Indian Gooseberry)*, Adansonia Digitata (Baobab)*, Myrciaria Dubia (Camu Camu)*, Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot)*, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Water*, Lycium Barbarum (Goji) Berry*, Tapioca Starch (from Cassava Root)*, Thioctic Acid (Alpha Lipoic Acid), Ubiquinone (Coenzyme Q10)], Vegetable Glycerin*, Arctium Lappa (Burdock) Root Extract*, Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract*. *Certified Organic Ingredient
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse after cleansing, 2–3 times per week (or daily if no irritation occurs). Can be mixed with water, toner, or your favorite cleanser. Always follow with SPF during the day.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse First
Wash your face with your regular cleanser and pat dry. The dermafoliant works best on clean, damp skin.
Dispense & Activate
Shake a dime-sized amount of dry powder into your palm. Add a half teaspoon of water, toner, or cleanser. Rub hands together to form a creamy paste.
Massage Gently
Apply to face using gentle, circular upward motions for 2–3 minutes. Avoid the delicate eye area. Let the enzymes and acids do the work — no need to scrub hard.
Rinse & Continue
Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and pat dry with a clean cloth. Follow with toner, serum, moisturizer, and SPF (daytime).
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want a gentle yet effective dual-action (physical + chemical) exfoliant
- Your skin looks dull and needs a brightness boost
- You have enlarged pores or congested skin
- You prefer organic, clean-beauty formulations
- You want an exfoliant gentle enough for sensitive skin
- You love powder formats that you can customize with water or toner
- You have uneven texture, rough patches, or flaky skin
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (contains salicylic acid)
- You have active fungal acne (contains grape seed oil)
- You dislike powder formats or mixing product with water
- You want a strong chemical peel at high percentages
- You need a completely fragrance-free product (contains natural fragrance)
- You store products in the shower (powder clumps with steam)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESRice powder and clays actively absorb excess oil. Salicylic acid unclogs pores. Leaves skin matte and refined without stripping.
Lactic acid hydrates while exfoliating and the Botanical HA Complex prevents moisture loss. Use 2–3 times per week and follow with a rich moisturizer.
Balances oily T-zone while gently buffing dry areas. The customizable powder format lets you adjust consistency for different zones.
Finely milled flours are much gentler than typical scrubs. Colloidal oatmeal calms and soothes. Start with 1–2 times per week and patch test first.
Salicylic acid and lactic acid work together to unclog pores and prevent breakouts. Clays remove excess sebum. Very low comedogenic risk as a wash-off product.
Lactic acid boosts cell turnover, CoQ10 and Alpha Lipoic Acid target fine lines, and Vitamin C brightens age spots. Promotes radiant, youthful-looking skin.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Immediately Smoother Skin
Skin feels noticeably softer and more polished right after rinsing. The physical flours provide instant textural improvement and a velvety finish.
90% noticed immediate smoothnessBrighter, More Even Complexion
Lactic acid and salicylic acid begin to accelerate cell turnover. Dullness fades and skin starts looking more luminous and even-toned with regular use.
75% reported visible brightness improvementRefined Pores & Reduced Congestion
Consistent use visibly minimizes pore appearance and reduces blackheads. Clays and BHAs keep pores clear while the AHA smooths the skin surface.
70% noticed pore refinementImproved Texture & Radiance
Cumulative exfoliation results in significantly improved skin texture, reduced rough patches, and a lasting healthy glow. Fine lines appear softer.
80% reported overall skin transformationRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Gentle yet effective dual-action exfoliation
- Leaves skin feeling incredibly smooth and polished
- Certified organic ingredients with clean formulation
- Pleasant natural strawberry-buttermilk scent
- Long-lasting — a little product goes a long way
- Suitable for all skin types including sensitive
- Award-winning formula recognized by spa professionals
- Customizable consistency by adjusting water amount
Criticized
- Premium price point ($55 for 4.2 oz)
- Powder format takes practice to mix correctly
- Packaging prone to clogging if exposed to moisture/steam
- Must be stored away from the shower in a dry place
- Some find it too gentle for deep exfoliation needs
- Natural fragrance may bother scent-sensitive users
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESComparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store tightly closed in a cool, dry place away from the shower and areas with high steam or humidity. Moisture will cause the powder to clump and may compromise the product.
Shaker-top canister that dispenses powder with a twist-to-open lid. Keep sealed after each use to protect from moisture.
Yes — powder format is TSA-friendly (no liquid restrictions). Compact canister fits easily in carry-on luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. This product contains salicylic acid (BHA) and lactic acid (AHA). While the concentrations are low and it is a wash-off product (brief skin contact), most dermatologists recommend avoiding salicylic acid during pregnancy as a precaution. Lactic acid at low concentrations in wash-off products is generally considered lower risk, but consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before incorporating this into your routine during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Use with caution. The formula contains grape seed oil, which has fatty acids that can feed malassezia yeast, and coconut water in the BioComplex2 blend. However, as a wash-off product with brief skin contact, the risk is lower than with leave-on products. If you have active fungal acne, patch test first or consider a fungal acne-safe exfoliant instead.
Since this product already contains both AHA (lactic acid) and BHA (salicylic acid), avoid layering additional AHA/BHA products in the same routine to prevent over-exfoliation. You can use retinol or vitamin C on alternate days or at different times of day (e.g., dermafoliant in the AM, retinol in the PM). If your skin tolerates it, you can use vitamin C serum after the dermafoliant, but introduce slowly and watch for irritation.
This dermafoliant is formulated for all skin types and is especially excellent for oily, combination, acne-prone, and mature skin. The oil-absorbing flours and clays help control shine and congestion, while the lactic acid and BioComplex2 target dullness and fine lines. It is also gentle enough for sensitive and dry skin types when used 2–3 times per week instead of daily.
You will feel smoother, more polished skin immediately after your first use. Visible improvement in brightness and skin tone typically appears within 1–2 weeks of consistent use. For significant pore refinement, reduced congestion, and improved overall texture, expect to see full results around 4–8 weeks with regular use (2–3 times per week).
Use it as Step 2, right after your cleanser. Cleanse your face first, then apply the dermafoliant paste, massage for 2–3 minutes, and rinse. Follow with toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (during the day). You can also mix the powder directly with your favorite cleanser for an all-in-one cleansing and exfoliating step.
This product has a very low comedogenic rating of 1/5. As a wash-off exfoliant that contains oil-absorbing clays and pore-clearing salicylic acid, it is unlikely to clog pores. In fact, it actively works to unclog and refine pore appearance. The brief contact time further minimizes any comedogenic risk from ingredients like grape seed oil.
The recommended Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. However, since this is a dry powder product, it can remain effective longer if stored properly in a cool, dry place with the lid tightly closed. The biggest enemy is moisture — keep it away from the shower and humid environments to prevent clumping and bacterial growth. Many users report the 4.2 oz canister lasting 3–6 months with regular use.
Verdict: The Eminence Organics Strawberry Rhubarb Dermafoliant is a best-in-class organic exfoliant that delivers noticeably smoother, brighter skin from the very first use. Its dual-action formula (physical flours + chemical AHA/BHA) offers thorough yet gentle resurfacing that works beautifully for virtually every skin type. The certified organic ingredients, award-winning formula, and generous 4.2 oz size make it a strong value compared to competitors like Dermalogica and Tatcha. The only drawbacks are the learning curve with the powder format and the need to store it away from moisture. If you value clean beauty and want a spa-quality exfoliant you can customize to your skin, this is an outstanding choice.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Oryza Sativa Starch
Absorbent
|
|
|
| 0 |
Cicer Arietinum Seed Powder
Abrasive
|
|
|
| 0 |
Volcanic Ash
Absorbent, Abrasive
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate
Surfactant, Hair Conditioning, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 0 |
Avena Sativa Starch
Absorbent
|
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