Modere Exfoliant: next-generation face exfoliation that clears dead skin without microplastics or harsh acids
Biodegradable jojoba beads — zero microplastics
Unlike conventional face scrubs that use plastic microbeads (now banned in NZ and many countries), Modere Exfoliant uses ultra-soft jojoba esters derived from jojoba oil. They’re perfectly spherical, biodegradable, and gentle enough for twice-weekly use without creating micro-tears in the skin surface.
No harsh acids, no enzymes — microbiome safe
Concentrated AHAs and enzymatic peels can strip the skin barrier and disrupt the skin microbiome with overuse. Modere Exfoliant deliberately avoids these — using mild amphoteric surfactants that clean deeply without disrupting individual moisture levels. Suitable for sensitive, combination, and normal skin.
Prickly pear + bamboo — pore-tightening botanicals
Hydrolysed prickly pear (Opuntia Ficus-Indica) extract and bamboo stem extract work together to visibly tighten pores, tone the complexion, and leave skin in a receptive, balanced state that maximises the effectiveness of everything applied afterwards — serums absorb faster, moisturisers work deeper.
Why most exfoliators fail NZ skin — and what makes a gentle formula the smarter choice
New Zealand’s high UV index and outdoor lifestyle make regular exfoliation important — dead skin cells accumulate faster in sun-exposed skin, and uneven texture makes SPF products less effective. But the majority of face scrubs sold in NZ use either harsh physical abrasives (walnut shell, apricot kernel) that create invisible micro-tears and inflammation, or concentrated alpha hydroxy acids that can strip the acid mantle and trigger sensitivity in already UV-stressed skin. The result: short-term smoothness followed by dryness, redness, and a compromised skin barrier.
The better approach is what Modere has used in its exfoliant formula: spherical, biodegradable jojoba esters that polish without tearing, combined with mild surfactants that clean pores without disrupting moisture levels. This means you can exfoliate consistently — 2 to 3 times per week — without the rebound dryness or sensitivity that many NZ customers report with stronger scrubs. The prickly pear and bamboo extracts provide the toning and pore-tightening benefit that harsh acids promise but often deliver at the cost of barrier damage.
Every ingredient in Modere Exfoliant — explained
Full ingredient list sourced from Modere’s official materials. No hidden actives, no undisclosed fragrance compounds.
| Ingredient | Role | What it brings |
|---|---|---|
| Jojoba Esters Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Esters | Hero — Biodegradable Exfoliant | Spherical, ultra-soft beads derived from jojoba oil. Biodegradable — unlike plastic microbeads. Polish the skin surface, remove dead cells and surface impurities without creating micro-tears. Also act as an emollient, helping skin retain moisture while exfoliating. |
| Hydrolysed Prickly Pear Extract Hydrolyzed Opuntia Ficus-Indica Flower Extract | Pore-Tightening & Toning | Extract from the prickly pear cactus flower, hydrolysed for enhanced bioavailability. Rich in natural polysaccharides and amino acids. Visibly tightens pores, tones the complexion, and helps reorient the skin surface to a smooth, balanced state. |
| Bamboo Stem Extract Bambusa Arundinacea Stem Extract | Clarifying & Brightening | Natural bamboo extract rich in silica and antioxidants. Works synergistically with prickly pear to clarify and rejuvenate the complexion. Helps visibly refine skin texture and support a more luminous, even-toned appearance with regular use. |
| Sodium Lauroyl Silk Amino Acids | Conditioning Surfactant | A mild, silk-derived surfactant that cleanses while conditioning the skin. Provides slip during application and leaves a soft, smooth feel after rinsing. Derived from silk protein — contributes to the non-stripping, gentle-clean feel of this formula. |
| Lauryl Betaine | Mild Amphoteric Surfactant | A mild betaine-derived surfactant that cleans deep into pores without disrupting the skin’s natural moisture levels or acid mantle. Classified as amphoteric — meaning it’s compatible with all skin types and significantly gentler than sulphate-based cleansing agents. |
| Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate | Gentle Pore-Cleansing | A coconut-derived amphoteric surfactant that penetrates pores to remove hidden dirt and impurities without over-drying. Particularly effective at lifting oil-based congestion from combination and oily skin types. Low irritation potential. |
| Allantoin | Soothing & Healing | A well-researched botanical compound (originally from comfrey root, now synthetically produced) that soothes skin irritation, promotes cell turnover, and helps counteract any minor redness from the exfoliation process. Standard in premium gentle skincare. |
| Tocopheryl Acetate + Tocopherol Vitamin E | Antioxidant Protection | Two forms of Vitamin E providing antioxidant protection against free radical damage during and after exfoliation. Tocopherol (natural) and Tocopheryl Acetate (stable ester) work together to protect the freshly exfoliated skin surface. |
| Silica | Gentle Micropolish | Ultra-fine silica particles provide additional gentle polishing action, helping to smooth skin texture and absorb excess surface oils. Works alongside the jojoba esters for a dual-texture exfoliation effect. |
| Sorbitol + Betaine | Humectant Hydration | Two natural humectants that draw moisture from the environment into the skin during the exfoliation process, helping to maintain hydration levels and prevent the post-exfoliation dryness common in harsher scrubs. |
Usage Guide
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Size | 50ml |
| Frequency | 2–3 times per week |
| Application | Apply to wet, clean skin. Massage gently in circular motions. Rinse thoroughly with warm water. |
| Area | Face and neck. Avoid direct eye contact. |
| Skin types | Normal, combination, oily, sensitive. Not recommended over active breakouts or broken skin. |
| Fragrance free | Yes |
| Microplastic free | Yes — biodegradable jojoba esters only |
| No concentrated AHAs | Yes — no alpha hydroxy acids, no enzymatic peels |
| Follow with | Toner → Serum → Moisturiser |
How Modere Exfoliant Works — 4 Steps
Step 1
Surface Polish
Jojoba esters and silica gently massage the skin surface, dislodging dead skin cells and loosening surface impurities without creating micro-tears or inflammation.
Step 2
Deep Pore Cleanse
Mild amphoteric surfactants (Lauryl Betaine, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate) penetrate pores to lift hidden dirt and oil without stripping the acid mantle or disrupting moisture levels.
Step 3
Tone & Tighten
Prickly pear extract and bamboo work on the freshly cleansed surface to visibly tighten pores, tone the complexion, and reorient the skin to a balanced, receptive state.
Step 4
Condition & Protect
Silk amino acids, allantoin, and Vitamin E soothe, condition, and protect the skin as you rinse — leaving it smooth, luminous, and ready to absorb serums and moisturisers more effectively.
Modere Exfoliant vs Standard Face Scrubs
| Feature | Modere Exfoliant | Standard Scrubs |
|---|---|---|
| Exfoliant type | Biodegradable jojoba esters | Plastic microbeads / walnut shell |
| Micro-tears risk | None — spherical beads | High with irregular particles |
| Pore cleansing | Deep, moisture-preserving | Often over-strips |
| AHAs / enzymes | None — barrier safe | Often concentrated |
| Fragrance | Fragrance free | Often fragranced |
| Suitable for sensitive skin | Yes | Often not |
| Frequency of use | 2–3x per week safely | Often 1x per week max |
| Money-back guarantee | ✓ 100% even if used | Rarely |
What to Expect: Results Timeline
| Timeframe | What You May Notice |
|---|---|
| First use | Instantly smoother skin texture; skin feels clean and balanced without tightness or dryness |
| Week 1–2 | Visible improvement in pore appearance; skin tone more even; serums and moisturisers visibly absorb faster |
| Month 1 | Consistent brightness and luminosity; reduced congestion; skin looks more rested and refined overall |
| Ongoing | Maintained smooth texture, clear pores, and enhanced effectiveness of your full skincare routine |
Is This Exfoliant Right for You?
✓ Great for you if…
- You want regular exfoliation without irritation or barrier damage
- You have normal, combination, oily, or sensitive skin
- You’re concerned about microplastics in your skincare
- Your serums and moisturisers don’t seem to absorb well
- You want clearer, tighter-looking pores without harsh acids
- You’re building or refining a complete Modere skincare routine
✗ Skip or delay if…
- You have active, inflamed breakouts — wait until skin has settled
- You have broken, sunburned, or severely irritated skin
- You are using prescription retinoids — check with your dermatologist about frequency
- You have rosacea or a compromised skin barrier — patch test first
Pro Tips for Best Results
- Wet skin, not dry: Always apply to wet, just-cleansed skin. The water activates the surfactants and helps the jojoba beads glide without friction.
- Circular motions, light pressure: Let the beads do the work — no scrubbing. Gentle circular motions for 30–60 seconds is all that’s needed.
- Don’t skip the neck: The neck and décolletage accumulate dead skin too, especially in NZ sun. Apply down to the collarbone for consistent tone.
- Evening use before actives: Exfoliating in the evening before applying your serum maximises active absorption — especially effective before Vitamin C or peptide serums.
- Start twice weekly: If you’re new to regular exfoliation, start at twice per week and increase to three times once your skin has adapted.
- SPF the next morning: Freshly exfoliated skin is more photosensitive. Always follow with SPF the following morning — the YOUTH Day Cream SPF is ideal.
The Science of Gentle Exfoliation
The skin’s outermost layer (stratum corneum) naturally sheds dead cells in a process called desquamation. In healthy, younger skin this happens efficiently every 28 days. With age, sun damage, and pollution — all highly relevant to NZ outdoor lifestyles — this cycle slows. Dead cells accumulate, making the complexion look dull, blocking pores, and reducing the effectiveness of topical skincare products.
Physical exfoliation with spherical, soft particles (like jojoba esters) manually assists this process without disrupting the acid mantle or stripping sebum. Unlike irregular abrasives (walnut shell, apricot kernel), spherical particles cannot create micro-tears in the skin surface — a peer-reviewed dermatology concern with irregular-particle scrubs that has been well-documented since the early 2010s.
The mild amphoteric surfactants in this formula are chosen specifically because they clean at the level of the pore without disrupting zwitterionic phospholipids in the skin barrier — the mechanism by which harsh sulphate-based cleansers cause post-wash tightness and dryness. Amphoteric surfactants carry both positive and negative charges, allowing them to interact with both oil-soluble impurities and water without over-stripping.
These statements have not been evaluated by Medsafe. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always read the label and follow directions for use.
Clean Beauty Standards
- No microplastics — biodegradable jojoba esters only
- No concentrated AHAs or enzymatic peels — barrier-safe formula
- Fragrance free — no synthetic or natural fragrance compounds
- No harsh abrasives — no walnut shell, apricot kernel, or pumice
- Modere Clean Label standard — formulated to avoid ingredients of concern
- Reef-safe surfactants — no oxybenzone or octinoxate
Who Gets the Most from Modere Exfoliant
The Outdoor Kiwi
NZ’s UV index is among the highest in the world. Sun-exposed skin accumulates dead cells faster, dulling the complexion and reducing SPF effectiveness. Regular gentle exfoliation is especially high-value here.
The Skincare Routine Builder
If your serums and moisturisers aren’t giving the results they should, congested skin is often the reason. A twice-weekly exfoliant clears the path for everything else in your routine to work properly.
The Sensitive Skin Switcher
If you’ve reacted to AHA scrubs or enzyme peels in the past, the absence of acids and the use of spherical biodegradable beads makes this a genuinely gentler option worth trying.
The CellProof Skincare User
Using CellProof serum or moisturiser? The exfoliant primes your skin to get more from them — freshly exfoliated skin absorbs the BioCell collagen actives significantly more effectively than congested skin.
Best Products to Use With Modere Exfoliant
- Modere CellProof Serum — BioCell collagen serum absorbs deeper and works faster on freshly exfoliated skin
- YOUTH Vitamin C Serum — Vitamin C brightening effect is enhanced by clear, exfoliated skin
- Modere CellProof Double Cleanser — use on non-exfoliation days for a complete clean-beauty cleanse routine
- Modere CellProof Moisturiser — lock in hydration after exfoliation with BioCell collagen moisture support
- YOUTH Day Cream SPF — essential the morning after evening exfoliation — freshly exfoliated skin needs SPF protection
Safety & Skin Sensitivity
| Topic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Sensitive skin | Suitable. No concentrated acids, no fragrance, spherical beads only. Patch test on inner wrist before full-face use if in doubt. |
| Active breakouts | Avoid direct application over active inflamed spots. Use around the area and resume normal use once settled. |
| Post-exfoliation sun sensitivity | Freshly exfoliated skin is more photosensitive. Always apply SPF the following morning. Especially important in NZ’s high-UV environment. |
| Retinoid users | If using prescription retinoids, consult your dermatologist before adding regular exfoliation. Do not use on the same evening as a retinoid application. |
| Eye area | Avoid the eye area and eyelids. Rinse thoroughly if product contacts eyes. |
FAQ — Modere Exfoliant NZ
What makes Modere Exfoliant different from other face scrubs?
Three things: biodegradable jojoba esters instead of plastic microbeads or irregular abrasives; mild amphoteric surfactants that clean pores without stripping moisture; and a deliberate absence of concentrated AHAs, enzymes, or fragrance. The result is a scrub you can use 2–3 times per week without barrier damage.
How often should I exfoliate?
2–3 times per week is the recommendation. Start with twice weekly and increase to three times once your skin has adapted. Over-exfoliation — even with gentle formulas — can disrupt the skin barrier over time.
Can I use it on sensitive skin?
Yes. The formula is fragrance-free, acid-free, and uses spherical jojoba esters that cannot create micro-tears. It’s suitable for normal, combination, oily, and sensitive skin types. Patch test on the inner wrist first if you have a history of skin reactions.
Is it safe during pregnancy?
Consult your healthcare professional or midwife before use during pregnancy. The formula does not contain concentrated actives, but professional advice is always recommended for topical products during pregnancy.
Does it contain microplastics?
No. The exfoliant particles are biodegradable jojoba esters derived from jojoba oil. Plastic microbeads are banned in NZ and many countries — this formula has always used biodegradable alternatives.
Can I use it on my neck and décolletage?
Yes. The formula is gentle enough for the neck and décolletage, which benefit from regular exfoliation especially in sun-exposed skin. Avoid the immediate eye area.
What should I use after exfoliating?
After rinsing, apply your toner, then serum, then moisturiser. Freshly exfoliated skin absorbs actives more effectively — it’s the best time to apply your Vitamin C serum, peptide serum, or CellProof BioCell serum. Follow with SPF in the morning.
Can I use it every day?
Not recommended. 2–3 times per week is the optimal frequency. Daily exfoliation — even with gentle formulas — can over-stimulate the skin surface and disrupt the natural moisture barrier over time.
How does it compare to the CellProof Double Cleanser?
They serve different purposes. The Exfoliant is a weekly treatment to remove dead skin and clear pores. The CellProof Double Cleanser is a daily oil-to-foam cleanser for everyday use. Use the Exfoliant on exfoliation days (2–3x per week) and the Double Cleanser on the remaining days.
Where does it ship from in New Zealand?
Ships from Auckland via NZ Post. Delivery 2–4 business days NZ-wide. Free shipping on orders over $210 NZD. Flat-rate $12 under $210.
What is the member price?
The retail price is $34.55 NZD. Members pay $29.35 NZD. Membership is free with any first order over $50 — you receive the member price immediately and keep it for life.
Is there a money-back guarantee?
Yes. Every Modere product sold through shopwellness.co.nz is covered by Shaklee’s 100% money-back guarantee — even if the product has been fully used.
Pricing & Member Perks (NZD)
Retail price: $34.55 | Member price: $29.35. Save $5.20. All prices in NZD, GST inclusive.
Loyalty Price: $27.90 — An optional subscription, every 30, 60 or 90 days. Update or cancel anytime.
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Free Lifetime Customer Membership is included with your first order of $50+ — you receive the member price immediately and save 15% on every future order, for life. Free shipping NZ-wide over $210 or Flat-Rate of $12. Access to exclusive seasonal promo codes & discounts.
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