# Dermalogica Intensive Moisture Balance for oily acne-prone skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for oily acne-prone skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/dermalogica/intensive-moisture-balance/for/oily-acne-prone-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Ireland.

Brand: [Dermalogica](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/brands/dermalogica)
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/best/moisturizers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with oily acne-prone skin: shine, breakouts, blemishes, and enlarged pores. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for oily acne-prone skin; other moisturizers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate suitability for your oily skin, as Sodium Hyaluronate and Ceramide NP provide excellent hydration and enhance barrier resilience, though it lacks targeted ingredients like Salicylic Acid to effectively address your acne and breakouts.
- Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate and Centella Asiatica Extract offer antioxidant benefits and soothing properties, which are beneficial for your skin, but stronger oil control ingredients are not present.
- The product is safe for your oily skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the inclusion of soothing components.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/dermalogica/intensive-moisture-balance/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/dermalogica/intensive-moisture-balance/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/dermalogica/intensive-moisture-balance/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/dermalogica/intensive-moisture-balance/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/dermalogica/intensive-moisture-balance/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/dermalogica/intensive-moisture-balance/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/dermalogica/intensive-moisture-balance/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/dermalogica/intensive-moisture-balance/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/dermalogica/intensive-moisture-balance/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average (this page)

## Key ingredients

Bioreplenish Complex, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ceramide Np, Aloe Barbadensis Extract, Chlorella Vulgaris Extract

## What the research says

- Cosmetic formulations containing 5% Centella asiatica extract showed the best efficacy in improving skin moisture and decreasing transepidermal water loss, while also exhibiting antiinflammatory properties in 25 volunteers compared to baseline measurements. ([Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/))
- A cream combining propolis, tea tree oil, and Aloe vera reduced erythema scars, acne severity index, and total lesion count better than erythromycin cream in sixty patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris compared to placebo. ([Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/))
- Co-delivery of paeonol and madecassoside via nanoemulsions improved transdermal delivery, promoted barrier repair proteins, inhibited inflammatory cytokine secretion in cellular and 3D models, and reduced transepidermal water loss and acne in human facial skin compared to free components. ([Molecules, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37446936/))
- Topical combination of 5% sodium ascorbyl phosphate and 0.2% retinol reduced inflammatory acne lesions by 29.28% at 4 weeks and 63.10% at 8 weeks, outperforming either agent alone. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19134126/))
- Topical application of 0.1% hyaluronic acid formulations of different molecular weights led to significant improvements in skin hydration and elasticity, with low-molecular-weight formulations also significantly reducing wrinkle depth in seventy-six female subjects compared to a vehicle control. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/))
- Topical application of hyaluronic acid in conjunction with free gingival graft significantly reduced donor site postoperative pain until day 7 compared to normal saline, with no significant differences in graft dimensions or patient satisfaction. ([Clinical Oral Investigations, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34623507/))
- Treatment with a hyaluronic acid-containing mouth rinse or topical gel led to significant lesion reduction, pain relief, and normalization of lesion color in adult patients with minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis, with the gel formulation showing an earlier healing onset at 3 days. ([BMC Oral Health, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31311529/))
- Topical aloe vera gel significantly accelerated split-thickness skin graft donor-site healing compared to placebo in 12 patients, but showed no significant difference in pain relief. ([Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29649056/))
- Topical application of Aloe vera cream reduced postoperative pain at rest and during defecation, accelerated wound healing at two weeks, and decreased analgesic requirements in patients after open hemorrhoidectomy compared to placebo. ([Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20569031/))
- Formulations containing 0.10%, 0.25%, and 0.50% freeze-dried Aloe vera extract increased stratum corneum water content compared with the vehicle in 20 female subjects, while transepidermal water loss was not modified. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17026654/))
- Lipid extracts of Chlorella vulgaris and Arthrospira platensis protect Normal Human Dermal Fibroblasts against UVA-induced oxidative stress and 2-propanol-induced IL-6 expression in vitro. ([Food Science and Technology International = Ciencia Y Tecnologia de Los Alimentos Internacional, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39033441/))
- Oral and topical administration of ROQUETTE Chlorella sp. at higher doses significantly reduced skin inflammation scores and improved the healing process and duration of skin wounds in mice compared to untreated models. ([Anti-inflammatory & Anti-allergy Agents in Medicinal Chemistry, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24965517/))
- Resilient factor (RF, an aqueous extract fraction of Chlorella) suppressed PMA- and UVB-induced MMP1 production, protein, and gene expression, prevented UVB-suppressed elastin protein, and increased pro-collagen mRNA expression in human skin fibroblasts compared to untreated controls. ([European Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18474460/))

## Why other moisturizers fit oily acne-prone skin better

- A panthenol-enriched mask improved skin hydration, regulated sebum, and reduced redness and TEWL across dry sensitive, oily sensitive, and oily acne skin subgroups with excellent tolerance and no adverse reactions. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38366684/))
- A facial serum containing snail secretion filtrate, Calendula officinalis, and Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract significantly reduced inflammatory acne lesions compared to placebo in 66 participants with mild-to-moderate maskne over 12 weeks. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35763437/))

## What reviewers say

This moisturizer is highly recommended for dry to very dry skin, providing significant and lasting hydration that improves skin texture and reduces fine lines. Based on a very large amount of data, this should be definitely taken into account. While users appreciate its rich yet non-greasy feel and gentle formulation, some individuals with oily or acne-prone skin find it too heavy, and a few have noted concerns about the price and scent.

- Liked: Intense hydration (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Good texture (often mentioned)
- Disliked: High price point (often mentioned)
- Liked: Efficient use (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Improves skin (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Soothing and gentle (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging complaints (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Reformulation issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this AM and PM routine every day to help clear your skin. Always remember to finish with SPF in the morning.
- Apply the moisturizer after your cleanser and toner, right before your SPF during the day.
- Gently press a small amount into your skin and avoid rubbing to keep pores clear.
- Apply on clean, slightly damp skin to help the product absorb better and control oil.
- Avoid the sensitive eye area and do a simple patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Intensive Moisture Balance work for oily acne-prone skin?

This moisturizer works moderately well for oily acne-prone skin because it hydrates and soothes with ingredients like sodium hyaluronate and centella asiatica extract, but it lacks targeted acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid or strong oil control components. Oily acne-prone skin needs lightweight, oil-free hydration alongside blemish-fighting and pore-clearing ingredients to keep breakouts under control.
Sources: [Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/), [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19134126/)

### Which ingredients make this cream a good fit for oily acne-prone skin?

Sodium Hyaluronate and Ceramide NP make this cream a moderate fit for your skin by providing hydration and strengthening the skin barrier, while Centella Asiatica Extract and Aloe Barbadensis Extract help soothe the skin. However, since it lacks targeted ingredients like Salicylic Acid for breakouts and strong oil control, an ideal moisturizer for this skin type needs acne-fighting agents and lightweight, oil-free hydrators.
Sources: [Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/), [Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/)

### What does Bioreplenish Complex do for oily acne-prone skin?

Bioreplenish Complex is unlikely to suit oily, acne-prone skin because its heavy oils can clog pores and make breakouts worse. A product for this skin type needs light, oil-free hydrators and ingredients that clear pores without feeling heavy.

### What does Hyaluronic Acid do for oily acne-prone skin?

Hyaluronic acid helps calm oily acne-prone skin by reducing sebum production and lipid synthesis in sebaceous glands. It also supports skin barrier function and improves hydration while helping deliver treatments without causing irritation.
Sources: [The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28163068/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35796638/)

### Where does this cream go in a skincare routine for oily acne-prone skin?

This moisturizer goes near the end of your morning and evening skincare routines, right before sunscreen in the morning and after treatments at night. Oily acne-prone skin needs a moisturizer of this type to include targeted blemish-clearing ingredients like salicylic acid alongside soothing hydrators.

### Can I use this cream with retinol, and in what order?

You can use this cream alongside retinol, and it works best when applied after your retinol treatment to help keep your skin calm and moisturized. Using a barrier-supporting moisturizer helps reduce the dryness and irritation that often come with retinol use.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/)

### How often should I use this cream?

You can use this moisturizer twice a day as part of your morning and evening routine. Regular use helps keep your skin hydrated and supports your skin barrier, though an oily and acne-prone skin type also needs targeted ingredients like salicylic acid to effectively manage breakouts.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32141711/), [Health Science Reports, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34141902/)

### Can this cream clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for oily acne-prone skin?

This cream is unlikely to cause irritation on oily acne-prone skin because it avoids harsh ingredients and includes soothing components. However, because it lacks targeted blemish-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid and stronger oil control components, an average fit moisturizer for this skin type needs those specific acne-managing ingredients and oil-balancing agents to keep pores clear.

### Can I use this cream around the eyes or on my body?

This moisturizer is safe to use on the body and around the eyes, though the skin there is much thinner than on other areas. It provides hydration and soothing benefits, but an eye cream or body lotion containing targeted anti-aging or firming ingredients would fit those specific areas better.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/)

### Is this cream fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. Cetyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cosrx/advanced-snail-96-mucin-power-essence/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €14.07 at Amazon
- [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €18.99 at Amazon
- [belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/belif/the-true-cream-aqua-bomb/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — €35.01 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [IS Clinical Cleansing Complex](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/is-clinical/cleansing-complex/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €95.00 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €36.00 at Amazon
- SPF: [CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cerave/am-facial-moisturizing-lotion-spf-30/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €15.64 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.ie: €89.00 (https://www.amazon.ie/dp/B001B1MZ5U?tag=lovi-care-web-product02-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Notino: €63.90 (https://www.notino.ie/dermalogica/daily-skin-health-nourishing-antioxidant-cream-with-moisturizing-effect/p-488572/)
- Lookfantastic: €41.40 (https://www.lookfantastic.ie/p/dermalogica-intensive-moisture-balance-2.0-50ml/12008803/)
Prices checked 15 Oct – 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Ethylhexyl Hydroxystearate, Butylene Glycol, Cetearyl Ethylhexanoate, Cetyl Caprylate, Stearic Acid, Peg-8, Octyldodecanol, Dimethicone, Glyceryl Stearate Se, Peg-100 Stearate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Chlorella Vulgaris Extract, Ceramide Np, Phytosterols, Centella Asiatica Extract, Linoleic Acid, Echinacea Purpurea Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Extract, Palmitic Acid, Myristic Acid, Rosa Centifolia Flower Extract, Lactic Acid, Linolenic Acid, Propanediol, Tocopherol, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil Sunflower Seed Oil, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Cetyl Alcohol, Carbomer, Hydroxystearic Acid, Aminomethyl Propanol, Sodium Hydroxide, Phenoxyethanol
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/dermalogica/intensive-moisture-balance/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/dermalogica/intensive-moisture-balance/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/dermalogica/intensive-moisture-balance/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/dermalogica/intensive-moisture-balance/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/dermalogica/intensive-moisture-balance/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/dermalogica/intensive-moisture-balance/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/dermalogica/intensive-moisture-balance/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/dermalogica/intensive-moisture-balance/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/dermalogica/intensive-moisture-balance/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/dermalogica/intensive-moisture-balance/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/dermalogica/intensive-moisture-balance/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/dermalogica/intensive-moisture-balance/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/dermalogica/intensive-moisture-balance/for/oily-acne-prone-skin