Clinical-Grade Microdermabrasion at Home
The ZO® Skin Health Exfoliating Polish brings spa-level exfoliation into daily home routines with professional-grade magnesium crystals and a dual antioxidant complex. Designed by Zein Obagi, MD, this vibrant blue formula targets surface roughness, uneven skin tone, and dull texture in a single step. Unlike generic scrubs, it incorporates medical-grade components typically reserved for in-office procedures. The formulation achieves both resurfacing and antioxidant protection in under a minute, making it ideal for patients seeking smoother skin without downtime.
At Fountain of Youth in Fort Myers, FL, our providers frequently recommend this product for clients preparing for or recovering from more intensive aesthetic treatments. Its skin-smoothing results complement procedures such as RF microneedling, chemical peels, and injectables by maintaining a healthy skin barrier and improving treatment receptivity.
How the Polish Works: Targeting Surface Buildup and Skin Dullness
The Exfoliating Polish works by removing dead keratinized cells from the skin’s outermost layer using ultra-fine magnesium crystals. These physical exfoliants provide mechanical resurfacing without tearing the skin, even on thinner or mature skin types. This helps unclog pores, refine skin texture, and restore a brighter, more even complexion.
Meanwhile, a duo of stabilized antioxidants—vitamin C and vitamin E—combat free radical damage during exfoliation. These antioxidants shield the skin from post-exfoliation oxidative stress, which is often overlooked in conventional scrubs. A squalane-rich emollient base prevents over-drying, creating a comfortable finish with a hydrated glow.
Because the polish doesn’t rely on acids or enzymes, patients with sensitivities to AHAs or retinols can often tolerate it well. Many report noticeably smoother texture after the first use and continued improvements in radiance with consistent use.
Supporting Ingredients and Their Functional Role
Each ingredient in the Exfoliating Polish is curated to deliver both immediate tactile benefits and longer-term skin health improvements. Its standout characteristic lies in balancing powerful exfoliation with replenishment.
Key components include:
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Magnesium Oxide Crystals – These ultra-refined crystals create microdermabrasion-like polishing without scratching or irritating the skin.
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Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) – Helps support collagen synthesis and provides antioxidant protection post-exfoliation.
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Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E) – Stabilizes cell membranes and reduces oxidative damage during exfoliation.
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Squalane – A biomimetic emollient that nourishes and prevents post-polish dehydration.
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Tea Tree Leaf Oil – Offers additional antibacterial properties for patients with breakout-prone skin.
These ingredients make the polish suitable for both preventive skincare routines and targeted resurfacing plans.
Ingredient Breakdown Chart
Below is a full view of the product’s primary ingredients, their function, and corresponding benefits.
| Ingredient | Function | Skin Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Magnesium Oxide | Physical exfoliant | Polishes away dead cells, refines surface texture |
| Ascorbic Acid | Antioxidant, brightener | Fights oxidative stress and supports brightness |
| Tocopheryl Acetate | Lipid antioxidant | Stabilizes skin post-exfoliation, enhances barrier repair |
| Squalane | Emollient | Restores skin hydration and suppleness |
| Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil | Botanical antimicrobial | Supports clearer skin, helps reduce breakout risk |
Usage Timing and Frequency: When to Use in a Skincare Regimen
The polish fits best after a cleanser and before a toner or treatment serum. Most patients benefit from using it two to three times per week. For oilier skin types, it can be used more frequently as tolerated. Sensitive or mature skin types may benefit from once-weekly use, especially when integrated into protocols with retinol, glycolic acid, or RF treatments.
Patients undergoing RF microneedling or laser resurfacing can use the polish up until 48 hours before their appointment to optimize skin turnover and ensure more even penetration of therapeutic wavelengths. Post-procedure use should resume only after full epidermal healing.
Clinical Role in Aesthetic Treatment Support
From a clinical perspective, the ZO® Exfoliating Polish plays a pivotal role in pre-treatment skin conditioning. Smoother skin allows for better energy dispersion in fractional laser or microneedling sessions. Post-treatment, it assists in maintaining a radiant, even-toned result by preventing buildup and dullness.
For clients on long-term skin rejuvenation plans, consistent use of this product helps extend the visible results of professional procedures. It can also reduce the frequency of in-office microdermabrasion for those using it as directed at home.
Contraindications and Product Pairings
Though gentle, the Exfoliating Polish should not be used on broken or inflamed skin, active rosacea flares, or immediately after chemical peels. Patients using prescription tretinoin or undergoing isotretinoin therapy should consult their provider before integrating physical exfoliants.
It pairs especially well with the ZO® Gentle Cleanser, Calming Toner, and Complexion Renewal Pads, creating a complete home-care routine that supports skin clarity, texture, and barrier repair.
Questions? We’re here to help! Give us a call at 239-355-3294 for product pairing advice or clinical preparation guidelines.
FAQ
Can I use ZO® Exfoliating Polish with sensitive skin?
Yes, many patients with sensitive skin tolerate this product well due to its smooth crystal base and antioxidant-rich formula. Start with once-weekly use and monitor for signs of redness or tightness before increasing frequency.
How long does one jar typically last?
Used twice weekly, one 2.3 oz (65 g) jar usually lasts 8–10 weeks. Patients using it more frequently for oily skin may go through it faster, especially when also using on neck or décolleté.
Is this suitable for acne-prone skin?
Yes, the inclusion of tea tree oil and magnesium crystals makes it beneficial for decongesting pores and minimizing non-inflammatory acne. For active inflammatory acne, check with your provider before use.
Can I use this after microneedling?
Do not use the polish immediately after microneedling. Wait until the skin has fully re-epithelialized, typically 5–7 days post-treatment. Then reintroduce the polish to maintain brightness and smoothness.
The Exfoliating Polish refines texture and enhances glow, but a full ZO® regimen elevates your outcomes. Gentle cleansing options like the Gentle Cleanser or Hydrating Cleanser provide foundational care. For daily exfoliation and oil control, consider the Exfoliating Cleanser. Toning and balancing are easier with our Calming Toner, while the Complexion Renewal Pads and Acne Treatment Pads support breakouts and pore clarity. For a more intensive clean, the Dual Action Scrub offers dual-phase exfoliation.
Medical review: Reviewed by Dr. Keith Lafferty MD, Medical Director at Fountain of Youth SWFL on November 1, 2025. Fact-checked against government and academic sources; see in-text citations. This page follows our Medical Review & Sourcing Policy and undergoes updates at least every six months. Last updated November 1, 2025.
