Powder Exfoliants: What They Are & How To Use Them

Exfoliants come in all types and textures, from exfoliating cleansers and scrubs to enzyme peels and in-spa treatments. One of our all-time favorites: the powder exfoliant. Used for centuries to brighten, smooth and hydrate skin, these ultra-fine powders gently remove impurities and exfoliate skin for a glowing complexion. The trick: Just add water. Here’s why you should add a powder exfoliant to your skin care routine, plus our tips and tricks for using one properly.

Benefits Of Using A Powder Exfoliant

Gentle

Powder exfoliants are incredibly gentle. When mixed with water, these finely-milled powders transform into a luxurious paste or lather that removes impurities and smooths skin – without scratching its surface. In addition to physical exfoliants like oat and rice flour, many also include naturally-derived AHAs and BHAs. These provide additional exfoliation by dissolving dead skin cells and leaving you with a silky smooth complexion.

Customizable

When it comes to powder exfoliants, the power is – literally – in your hands. The amount of water you add to the mix informs the strength of the scrub, allowing you to make adjustments depending on the day, the season or your skin type. Yoon-Soo Cindy Bae, MD tells Byrdie: “Use less water to feel more texture, and for more of a general soft cleanser, use more water.”

Word of advice: If you’re after deeper exfoliation, don’t scrub harder. Instead, adjust your water-to-powder ratio. Eminence Organic Skin Care Product Support Representative and licensed esthetician Alicia Hawthorne says: “No extra pressure is needed for a physical exfoliant; the granules will do the work!”

Liquid-Free

Another benefit of powder exfoliants is that they are liquid-free. Bacteria and mold have a much harder time growing in dry environments, which means powder exfoliants often contain fewer preservatives and have a longer shelf life than their liquid counterparts. Another bonus: They are TSA-approved. These travel-friendly cleansers can be slipped into your carry-on with zero fuss from airport security.

How To Use One

Now that you know the benefits of using a powder exfoliant, here is how to apply one properly:

1. Dispense a dime-sized amount of dry powder into the palm of your hand
2. Add a small amount of water
3. Rub your hands together to create a creamy paste or lather
4. Apply to your face using circular motions, careful to avoid the delicate eye area
5. Rinse thoroughly with water and pat skin dry

Pro Tip: For an extra boost of exfoliation, add a dash of your favorite cleanser to step one! Alicia’s favorite mixology blends Stone Crop Oxygenating Fizzofoliant™ with new Acne Advanced Cleansing Foam.

Dermafoliant vs. Fizzofoliant: Which Is Right For Me?

Are you ready to add a powder exfoliant to your skin care routine? Read our guide to the key differences between two Eminence Organics favorites: Strawberry Rhubarb Dermafoliant and Stone Crop Oxygenating Fizzofoliant™.

Pro Tip: Use caution when combining exfoliation treatments; although some work together, there are some combinations that should be avoided!