I've been reading more and more about Dermalogica products lately. They've been referenced in the fashion mags quite a bit and there are a number of websites that sell the products, as well as Dermalogica.com (They don't accept Internet orders -- you can call 1-800-831-5150 instead). So, naturally, I was curious.

Dermalogica is an extensive skin, body and hair care line researched and developed by the International Dermal Institute in Los Angeles. They combine the latest advances in ingredient technology along with botanicals and other natural ingredients. They claim to be remarkably effective and innovative, surpassing those "outdated, time consuming rituals."

Hey, maybe I like to spend extra time pampering myself!

I ordered a few of the basics through greatskin.com. They give you the option of ordering three different sizes of each product. I opted for the smallest sizes of each. Their service was fast and efficient. Here's what I chose for my oily/combination skin:

Special Cleansing Gel
A soap free, foaming cleanser that will remove impurities without stripping moisture. It lathered up nicely, but left a greasy film on my face and stung my eyes. That did not make me happy.

Multi Active Toner
A toner spray containing Lavender, Balm Mint and Arnica. You might as well spray plain water on your face. This product doesn't do much.

Skin Prep Scrub
A very abrasive scrub product containing ground Corn Cob meal. It's supposed to "gently polish away dead surface cells without overstimulating." After one use, I woke up with a conspicuous blemish on my cheek.

Active Moist
A lightweight oil-free moisturizer. Contains silk proteins, sage and cucumber. Used at night, I woke up oily and quite displeased.

Oil Control Lotion
A light lotion with microsponge technology that is supposed to keep shine in check throughout the day. I'm a sucker for these types of products because I desperately need extra help controlling shine during the day. I applied a light layer of the lotion under my regular make-up. I was reaching for my powder compact less than an hour-and-a-half later. A major disappointment.

After my disappointment with the Dermalogica products I chose, I came to the conclusion that they may not be a good choice for women in their thirties and beyond, still battling oily skin. If you are a teenager, or in your twenties, there are more aggressive cleansers and treatments in the Dermalogica arsenal that may suit your needs. You've got choices if you're normal-to-dry, as well. For me, there's always something new to try!

Happy Shopping!

review: 8/99