Meet December’s Editor Obsession: Dermalogica

When it comes to trust in the skin care industry, even the most optimistic among us can be wary of the thousands upon thousands of products claiming to smooth, tighten, brighten and heal that which is textured, sagging, uneven and blemished. What sets the brands that actually work apart decidedly crowded shelf can be boiled down to the basics: longevity and education. And Dermalogica, our December Editor Obsession, has both in spades.

“The Dermalogica brand focuses on educating both skin therapists and customers, so you know how and why you're using each and every product. The brand has been a pioneer in the US skin care industry since the 1980s. Personally, I hold a special appreciation for this brand, having worked with it early in my esthetics career, as my training was through a Dermalogica certified school,” says Lindsay Holdorf, one of Dermstore’s resident estheticians.

Grown out of a need to provide skin therapists with best-in-class skin care products and education, Dermalogica was founded in 1986 by skin therapist, Jane Wurwand. From the beginning, they’ve rooted themselves in education from the top down: their global community of skin therapists, trained by Dermalogica experts, create highly customized routines and guidance for their clients. “Dermalogica caters to professionals, yet the brand simplifies skin care routines with product lines designed for individual skin concerns. Each line offers specific steps, allowing for a personalized routine. They make it easy on you,” adds Holdorf.

Shop some of our favorites below:

1. Dermalogica Precleanse (5.1 fl. oz.)

Dermalogica Precleanse (5.1 fl. oz.)

$31 Gift

192 reviews

$49.00

150ml

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This gentle, plant-based cleansing oil melts layers of excess sebum, sunscreen, waterproof makeup, environmental pollutants and other build up. "I've been using this Dermalogica product for five years now, and it's my absolute favorite. I'm a big fan of the double cleanse, especially at night, and Precleanse works so well in breaking down my makeup, including mascara,” raves Holdorf.

2. Dermalogica Special Cleansing Gel (16.9 oz.)

Dermalogica Special Cleansing Gel (16.9 oz.)

$31 Gift

156 reviews

$68.00

500ml

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“This is a universal cleanser for pretty much any skin type. It effectively removes impurities without stripping the skin's natural moisture balance,” says Holdorf. Soap-free and designed to thoroughly remove impurities without disturbing the skin's natural moisture balance, it helps soothe inflammation while minimizing the appearance of pores and balancing pH levels.

3. Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant (2.6 oz.)

Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant (2.6 oz.)

$31 Gift

400 reviews

$66.00

74g

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Accordinf to Holdorf, “Daily Microfoliant serves as a gentle yet effective daily exfoliant, incorporating both chemical and physical exfoliation.” Its rice-based enzyme formula activates upon contact with water, releasing papain, salicylic acid and rice actives to accelerate cell renewal while a blend of Bearberry, aspergillus, grapefruit and licorice helps to even skin tone. Plus, it helps calm inflammation, thanks to a soothing blend of green tea, ginkgo and colloidal oatmeal.

4. Dermalogica AGE Smart Super Rich Repair (1.7 fl. oz.)

Dermalogica AGE Smart Super Rich Repair (1.7 fl. oz.)

$31 Gift

98 reviews

$94.00

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Restoring and reviving, “this heavyweight nourishing treatment cream, infused with peptides, shea butter, and primrose oil, is a perfect choice for those seeking to replenish, smooth, and hydrate mature skin. Its rich formulation offers a luxurious experience, leaving the skin with a renewed and youthful appearance,” says Holdorf. It also discourages collagen degradation and rigidity, promoting firmness and elasticity in turn. For those with slitghtly reactive skin, madecassoside, colloidal oatmeal, zinc and oat kernel extracts calm inflammation and reduce irritation for soft, comfortable skin.

5. Dermalogica Intensive Moisture Balance (3.4 fl. oz.)

Dermalogica Intensive Moisture Balance (3.4 fl. oz.)

$31 Gift

33 reviews

$76.00

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Creamy and nourishing, this daily formula not only improves skin's moisture content, but it also helps reduce the appearance of fine lines. "This moisturizer is ideal for normal to dry skin, effectively restoring lipid balance for barrier recovery and promoting a healthy skin microbiome – both crucial for achieving a vibrant, radiant complexion," adds Holdorf.

6. Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF 50 (1.7 oz)

Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF 50 (1.7 oz)

$31 Gift

3 reviews

$79.00

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This 3-in-1 formula helps visibly firm and moisturize skin, while protecting with broad spectrum SPF50 and leaves skin with a flawless finish. “This is an excellent choice for customers who prefer a lightweight feel on their skin. With a built-in moisturizer and SPF 50, it seamlessly combines these essential steps for a non-greasy finish,” says Holdorf.