FORMULATE A DAILY ENZYME CLEANSING POWDER
Table of Contents
ABOUT THE DAILY ENZYME CLEANSER FORMULA
Today’s formula is a powder-to-foam cleanser designed for those who seek a gentle yet effective cleansing experience. It is user-friendly, travel-friendly and enriched with some superb ingredients. This powder cleanser checks all the boxes and more! The formulation is influenced by the well-liked Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant cleanser, and while I refrain from making exact copies/ dupes, it incorporates some of the same ingredients found in the Dermalogica product.
The best part? It’s a dry formula, so there’s no need to worry about preservatives. Simply mix it with some water to activate, and you’re good to go! Whether you’re at home or on the go, this powder cleanser will leave your skin feeling clean, soft, and refreshed.
ABOUT THE INGREDIENTS USED IN THE ENZYME CLEANSER
One of the standout ingredients in this formulation is Microcrystalline Cellulose (MCC). MCC is a versatile ingredient that plays multiple roles in our powder cleanser. First, it acts as a texturising agent, giving the powder a soft, smooth feel that makes it easy to blend with water. This ensures that when you activate the cleanser, it transforms into a luxurious, creamy lather that glides effortlessly over the skin. Additionally, MCC offers a gentle, non-abrasive exfoliation. Unlike harsher scrubs, MCC provides a mild, mechanical exfoliating action that helps to remove dead skin cells without irritating the skin. This makes it perfect for those who want the benefits of exfoliation without the risk of overdoing it.
Furthermore, MCC contributes to the stability and consistency of the powder, preventing clumping and ensuring that the formula remains free-flowing and easy to use, even in humid conditions. Although MCC may not be readily available, it can be found on platforms such as Amazon or in stores selling supplement ingredients, as it is commonly used as a bulking agent in tablets. I recommend checking out the one I used below in the SOURCING section to help you get started. If you cannot source MCC, replace it with a clay of your choice, such as kaolin or bentonite clay.
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (SCI) powder provides the cleansing power. This sulfate-free surfactant creates a creamy lather without stripping the skin’s natural oils. It’s mild, making it perfect for sensitive skin types, yet effective enough to cleanse thoroughly.
The formula also features a powerful duo of enzymes: Protease and Lipase. These enzymes work synergistically to provide gentle yet effective exfoliation. Protease helps to break down proteins in dead skin cells, promoting a smoother, more radiant complexion. Lipase, however, targets excess sebum and lipid-based impurities, making this cleanser particularly effective for those with oily or combination skin. Together, these enzymes offer a deep cleanse, leaving the skin soft and refreshed. If you cannot source this blend, you can also consider papain and bromelain, which are fruit-derived enzymes from papaya and pineapple. In that case, please follow the supplier’s recommendation for usage rates and adjust the formula to make it 100% again.
To enhance the skin-soothing benefits, I added zinc oxide and betaine. These ingredients help calm and hydrate the skin, making this cleanser a fantastic choice for those with irritated or sensitive skin. The formula is rounded out with oat silk for a silky feel and a delightful blend of petitgrain and sweet orange essential oils for a refreshing, uplifting aroma. Blue spirulina provides that lovely blue hue when the powder is activated.
This formula leaves lots of room for creativity. You can use different powders, clays, botanicals, and essential oils.
HOW TO USE
Pour a small amount of powder ( approx. 1/2-1 teaspoonful) into your palm and add a small amount of water. Rub your palms together to activate the powder and apply it to damp skin. Use a circular motion to cleanse the skin. Rinse thoroughly. Follow with a hydrating toner and a moisturiser.
POSSIBLE SOURCES
THE FORMULA
| Phases | Ingredient | Function | %w/w |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | Microcrystalline Cellulose (MCC) | Bulking, mild abrasive | 30.0 |
| A | Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (SCI) | Surfactant-anionic | 17.0 |
| A | Cocamidopropyl betaine - powder | Surfactant-amphoteric | 3.0 |
| A | Zinc oxide | Absorbent, soothing | 15.0 |
| A | Kaolin | Clay | 7.30 |
| A | Oat silk / Colloidal oat | Soothing | 5.0 |
| A | Betaine | Humectant | 3.0 |
| A | Natural enzyme blend (protease and lipase) | Exfoliating, purifying | 3.0 |
| A | Blue Spirulina | Botanical, colour | 1.0 |
| B | Cornstarch | Absorbent, bulking | 15.0 |
| B | Petitgrain essential oil | Fragrance | 0.20 |
| B | Sweet orange essential oil | Fragrance | 0.50 |
Method:
Blend Phase A ingredients.
Blend Phase B . The starch will allow better aroma retention.
Blend Phases A and B together until smooth and free of clumps.
If you can, blend it in a coffee grinder.
Please wear a mask to avoid breathing in the free-flowing powders.
