[R.e.v.i.e.w] Dermalogica Trip-Active Cleanse

I received a sample of Dermalogica Trip Active Cleanse some days ago. Dermalogica is known by the natural high-quality skin care products without cheap and harmful artificial fragrance. Before using it, I analysed the ingredients as usual. The result shows most of them are mild and safe except PEG-100 Stearate and Potassium Hydroxide.

PEG-100 Stearate is said a "moderate to hazard ingredient depending on usage". Cosmetic formulations containing these ingredients should not be used on damaged skin. Here is a quotation about the risk of PEG-100 Stearate:

"The EWG issues warnings regarding: cancer, developmental and reproductive toxicity, contamination concerns, irritation, and organ system toxicity.

PEGs (including PEG 100 Stearate) can contain harmful impurities, including: Ethylene Oxide, known to increase the incidences of uterine and breast cancers and of leukemia and brain cancer, 1,4-dioxane, a known carcinogen; PAHs, known to increase the risk of breast cancer.

Products and formulas containing PEG 100 Stearate should not be used on broken or irritated skin. Although PEGs are considered safe for use topically on healthy skin, studies showed that patients suffering from severe burns were treated with PEG-based antimicrobial cream; this treatment resulted in kidney toxicity. "

Though Potassium Hydroxide itself contains strongly alkaline and corrosion, it has been widely used in shampoo, cream and lotion producing. It is moderate but may bring a high risk for irritation. I believe it won't be that harmful for just short term use for sensitive skins as long as you don't feel actual pain.

I tried it at a normal cleaning way. Applying the white paste on hands, it contains no artificial flavor but slightly acceptable medicine smell. When stroked for a while, no lather appeared. Gently massaged it on cheek, chin and forehrad, avoiding the eye area, for at least 30 seconds, and then wipe off the warm water. I don't feel dry or irration at all after using it, frankly, the Shea butter really did a great job to keep skin nourishing and soft. Due to I have combination skin without any broken parts, I feel good about it. Many non-foaming facial cleaners may bring the non-clear feeling for being too mild. I think addtional face cleaning brush can be also applied. Addtionaly, this cleaner does not have any make-up remover function.

Dermalogica can be a bit pricey, Trip Active Cleanse 150ml for $38, website, included in Chromawhite TRx series, which aims to brighten skin tone with great moisturization. Suggested using C-12 Concentrate and Extreme C after the cleaner, also applying for a minimum SPF 30 sunscreen daily for better effect. If you have sensitive skin and enough budget, seeking a set of products to make a change of the dark skin tone, you can make a trial at this ChromaWhite TRx series.