If your current face scrub isn't delivering visible results, the issue is almost certainly formulation depth — not your skin.
Physical exfoliation alone can buff the skin's surface. But without the chemical component, the bonds holding dead skin cells together in the deeper layers of the stratum corneum remain intact. That means continued cell accumulation, blocked pores, reduced penetration of your serums and treatments, and persistent dullness no matter how often you scrub.
The Cathartes Dermal Scrub was designed to solve this — with a medical-grade dual-action system that addresses both the physical and chemical dimensions of exfoliation simultaneously.
The Physical Exfoliant: Volcanic Pumice
At the heart of Cathartes is Pumice — solidified volcanic lava, one of the most effective natural physical exfoliants in skincare science. Unlike synthetic crystalline abrasives or ground nut shells, pumice's unique porous mineral structure provides controlled resurfacing that smooths skin texture without causing the micro-tearing associated with harsher alternatives. The result is the polished, spa-quality finish of a professional microdermabrasion treatment — delivered at home.
The Chemical Complex: Three Botanical AHA Sources + PHA Gluconolactone
While pumice resurfaces the skin's surface, four chemical exfoliants work underneath to dissolve the bonds between dead cells: Saccharum Officinarum (Sugar Cane) Extract provides natural glycolic acid — the gold-standard alpha-hydroxy acid in skincare, known for its ability to penetrate and accelerate cell turnover. Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Fruit Extract contributes citric acid, which brightens uneven tone and corrects hyperpigmentation. Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract delivers malic acid for gentle renewal and surface smoothing. Gluconolactone is a polyhydroxy acid (PHA) — the next generation of exfoliant beyond AHAs. Its larger molecular structure means it works primarily at the skin's surface, making it gentler and more tolerable for reactive, sensitive, and rosacea-prone skin types.
Together, these four chemical actives provide full-spectrum exfoliation across every layer of the stratum corneum.
The Botanical Restoration Complex: 15+ Extracts
Cathartes doesn't just remove. It restores. The formula's extensive botanical complex — over 15 extracts — works concurrently with the exfoliation system to nourish, protect, and replenish the skin: Melia Azadirachta (Neem) Leaf and Flower Extract brings centuries of Ayurvedic application for antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefit — particularly valuable post-exfoliation when the skin's barrier is temporarily open. Corallina Officinalis (Coral Weed) Extract provides a marine mineral complex that conditions and supports skin elasticity. Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil — technically a liquid wax — mirrors the skin's own natural sebum, providing deep non-comedogenic nourishment. Aloe Vera Flower Extract delivers its well-documented barrier-restorative and anti-inflammatory properties. Ocimum Basilicum (Basil) and Ocimum Sanctum (Holy Basil) Leaf Extracts contribute a dual antioxidant and soothing botanical pair.
The net effect: skin that's exfoliated, nourished, and protected in a single application.
Clinical and Back-Bar Application
Cathartes is widely used in clinical settings as a back-bar and pre-treatment exfoliant — applied before dermaplaning, microdermabrasion, and chemical peels to clear the dead cell layer and maximise treatment penetration. For patients maintaining results between office visits, regular use 2–3 times weekly sustains the cell turnover needed to prevent accumulation and preserve treatment outcomes.
Who Is Cathartes For?
Recommended for: All skin types — Combination · Dry · Normal · Oily · Sensitive
Particularly beneficial for: Dull or uneven skin tone, hyperpigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles, rough or congested skin texture, post-treatment maintenance, pre-treatment preparation.
Sulfate-free. Paraben-free. Cruelty-free. Medical grade.
Directions: Apply to clean skin and massage gently over entire face and neck. Rinse with water and pat dry. Can be used two or three times weekly, or as directed by physician.
Item# 5724 v2 | 2 oz (57g)
Restore your skin's radiance. That's what Cathartes is for.