pHisoderm has long been a staple cleanser on drugstore shelves, and over the years the line has gone through various updates, typically following an unusual pattern of expanding then scaling back because whatever direction the expansion took was not one consumers responded to positively. Their latest crop of products shows promise, and the prices are more than reasonable. I wouldn't call any pHisoderm products state-of-the-art, but the recommended products are worthy skin-care basics for those on a budget. [More product reviews are contained in the September/October 2005 issue of my Cosmetics Counter Update newsletter, which may be purchased online.]
pH2o Daily Replenishing Wash ($6.99 for 6 ounces) contains vitamins A, C, and E, all good antioxidants but useless for that benefit when used in a product that is quickly rinsed from the skin. This is a good, gentle, water-soluble cleanser for all but very oily skin or for those who wear heavy makeup. It won't replenish skin, but will leave it feeling soft and smooth, not to mention clean!
pH2o Anytime Nurturing Scrub with Gentle Microbeads ($5.95 for 5 ounces) is a creamy formula that not only is value-priced, but also has the ability to exfoliate skin while rinsing cleanly, making it a great choice for all but very oily skin. It is thankfully free of irritants such as peppermint and menthol, although it does contain fragrance.
pH2o Everyday Moisturizer ($6.95 for 2 ounces) is a poorly formulated moisturizer that lists SD-alcohol as its third ingredient, and its jar packaging renders the vitamins (antioxidants) it contains useless over time once the product is opened. If you're shopping for a facial moisturizer at the drugstore, this is one to leave on the shelf.
By Paula Begoun
pHisoderm Reviewed
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