Dermalogica Intensive Moisture Balance

What It Is — Rich Moisturizer for Dry / Dehydrated Skin

Dermalogica Intensive Moisture Balance is an ultra-nourishing facial moisturizer formulated to restore hydration and reinforce the skin’s barrier — especially effective for skin that’s dry, depleted, or stressed from environmental factors. 

According to the brand, it uses a proprietary BioReplenish Complex™ — a blend of lipids and barrier-supportive ingredients — plus a prebiotic algae complex to help rebalance the skin’s microbiome, supporting overall skin health. 

It also includes humectants like hyaluronic acid and soothing botanicals (like aloe vera, Centella Asiatica, and Echinacea) to lock in water, reduce dryness, and help smooth fine lines associated with dehydration.

$82.00

Key Benefits & What Users Typically See

When used regularly (morning and/or night), many users report:

  • Deep, long-lasting hydration: Skin feels much softer, less tight or flaky — even in dry climates or winter months.

  • Improved skin barrier and moisture retention: Thanks to barrier lipids + humectants + nourishing extracts, skin retains hydration better and feels more resilient. 

  • Smoother, plumper skin texture: Dry lines, fine dryness-induced wrinkles, and rough patches tend to soften over time.

  • Balanced feel — moisturizing but not overly greasy: Many users say it melts into skin and stays comfortable even for combination skin (or normal skin needing hydration).

  • Good for sensitive or easily dehydrated skin: The formula’s soothing ingredients (aloe vera, Centella, Echinacea) and prebiotic algae help comfort skin and possibly reduce irritation. 

In short: for skin that’s dry, dehydrated, winter-worn, or just needing consistent moisture and barrier support — this moisturizer tends to make skin feel smooth, supple, and healthy again.

Key Ingredient Science & Why It Works

BioReplenish Complex™

A lipid-rich blend that helps restore the skin’s natural barrier and improve moisture retention.

Hyaluronic Acid

Deeply hydrates and plumps the skin by attracting water into the skin’s surface layers.

Chlorella (Prebiotic Algae)

Supports the skin’s microbiome for healthier, more resilient skin.

Aloe Vera & Centella Asiatica

Calm irritation, soothe dryness, and support skin repair.

Vitamin E & Antioxidants

Protect the skin from environmental stress and premature aging.

Ceramides & Natural Emollients

Strengthen the barrier and lock in long-lasting hydration.

Who Should Use It — Best Skin Types & Situations

This moisturizer is best suited for:

  • People with normal to dry or dehydrated skin — especially if skin feels tight, flaky, or “thirsty.”

  • Individuals living in cold, dry climates or during winter, when skin barrier needs extra support.

  • Users following active skincare routines (retinoids, acids, exfoliants) — after those treatments, barrier and moisture replenishment is essential.

  • Anyone who wants a reliable daily moisturizer that deeply hydrates, softens, and supports long-term skin health.

  • People with sensitive skin that tends to dry or react — the soothing botanical and prebiotic complex can help nurture skin gently.

Less ideal for those with persistently oily skin, or for those in hot/humid climates who prefer very lightweight moisturizers.

Pros & Cons

P
  • Rich hydration and skin-barrier support — excellent for dry or depleted skin. 

  • Helps lock in moisture and reduces dryness, flaking, tightness. 

  • Softens skin texture and helps with fine lines caused by dehydration.

  • Absorbs fairly nicely (not overly greasy) and layers well under makeup or sunscreen. 

  • Includes beneficial botanical extracts, lipids, and humectants — a balanced, nourishing formula.

O
  • Because it’s rich and moisturizing — might feel too heavy for very oily skin or in hot, humid climates.

  • For extremely dry or damaged skin — might still need additional oil or occlusive balm at night (especially in harsh winter conditions).

  • As with many richer creams, when skin is already well-hydrated or oily, over-use could potentially contribute to congestion or leave a slightly heavy feel. (Some reviewers report occasional breakouts when using too much / too often.) 

  • Results — in terms of smoothing and improving skin resilience — generally build over time, not instantly. Consistent use is key.

Pure Skin Source Recommended

Yes — if your skin tends to dryness, dehydration, or barrier sensitivity, Dermalogica Intensive Moisture Balance is a very strong, reliable daily moisturizer. It strikes a good balance between rich hydration and non-greasy feel, helps skin feel soft and resilient, and can significantly improve comfort and skin texture over time.

For anyone wanting to preserve skin health, reduce dryness-induced fine lines, or simply keep skin balanced and healthy, this is a solid, high-quality moisturizer — especially in seasons or climates where moisture retention is challenging.

Dermalogica: Professional-Grade Skincare Backed by Science

Dermalogica is a globally respected skincare brand known for its professional-grade, results-driven formulas developed by skincare experts and used in spas and clinics around the world.