Overview
Dermalogica was started in 1986 in Los Angeles by a group of researchers who also founded the International Dermal Institute, which is a graduate training facility for skincare professionals. Disturbed by the high number of cosmetic companies that used irritating ingredients in their products, including S.D. alcohol, lanolin and others, these researchers created Dermalogica with the intention of providing professionals and their clients safer alternatives that still encouraged youthful beauty in the skin. Today, Dermalogica continues to be a top choice for many skincare professionals and is available in healthy and beauty spas around the world. Like most cosmetic companies, Dermalogica offers a formula specifically for the eye area, which is called Total Eye Care.

Featured Ingredients
Total Eye Care is intended to protect and correct the delicate skin near the eye, and its ingredients are meant to reduce puffiness, decrease the appearance of crow’s feet and diminish dark circles. It attempts to accomplish these feats by a combination of specific ingredients. Total Eye Care relies on Lactic Acid to soothe the eye area skin, and there is some research suggesting this effect. The formula also contains Sodium PCA to help retain moisture in the eye area, which can help to prevent some of the signs of aging, such as dullness and dryness.

Dermalogica Total Eye Care also features three extracts derived from botanical sources to help reduce puffiness and fine lines. These include extracts of Spiraea, Hydrocotyl and Bisabolol. We are aware of some limited research suggesting that these ingredients can help reduce irritation of skin and promote the reduction of under-eye puffiness, but Dermalogica does not provide this research on its site. In addition, the company only states that it uses “light diffusers” to reduce the appearance of dark circles but does not disclose what these ingredients are - or any research attesting to their effect on dark circles. 

Web Site Description
The Dermalogica web site is quite comprehensive, especially in terms of explaining the background of the company and its current projects. It clearly describes the company’s unique approach to skincare, which includes the concept of facial mapping. Descriptions of the products are clear, but may lack specific information, such as naming specific ingredients or listing scientific research on their effects. Customers cannot purchase Dermalogica products directly from the web site, and instead must find a skincare professional near them to obtain these formulas. No customer testimonials are posted, and Dermalogica does not offer a free trial of its products.

Positives
- Company avoids using many artificial ingredients and harsh irritants
- Dermalogica has a solid reputation among skincare professionals

 Negatives
- It is not clear which ingredients are used to reduce dark circles

- Products can only be obtained through a skincare professional

- No free trial of any products are available

Conclusion
There is no doubt that Dermalogica continues to provide top-notch formulas that will benefit from the skin. We continue to be impressed by the company’s dedication to research and its continuing relationship with the skincare community. However, we are not totally sold on the Total Eye Care formula, mainly because the full ingredient list is not available.