# Dermalogica Intensive Moisture Balance for acne-prone skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for acne-prone skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: Excellent.

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

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

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

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

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

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate moisturizing for your combination skin, as sodium hyaluronate and ceramide np hydrate and enhance barrier resilience, but lacks sufficient ingredients for optimal oil control relevant to your acne concerns.
- The inclusion of centella asiatica extract and aloe barbadensis extract provides soothing benefits, which are generally well-tolerated by combination skin.
- The product is safe for your combination skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the presence of soothing components.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

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

## What the research says

- A lipid mixture enriched by ceramide NP with fatty acids of diverse chain lengths significantly improved skin barrier recovery rate, stratum corneum integrity, and hydration compared to a vehicle cream in healthy adult male volunteers with corticosteroid-impaired skin. ([Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34348350/))
- Emulsions containing ceramides 1 and 3 improved skin hydration and reduced transepidermal water loss in sodium lauryl sulfate-irritated skin of fifteen healthy Asian women compared to a control emulsion. ([International Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18717861/))
- 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/))
- 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 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 your moisturizer twice a day in your AM and PM routines. Apply it daily to help keep breakouts under control.
- Apply after your cleanser and toner, and make sure to use your SPF right after in the morning.
- Gently spread a small amount of moisturizer over your face using soft motions. Let it absorb into the skin for a minute before getting dressed or applying makeup.
- Apply on slightly damp skin to help lock in extra moisture. This keeps your combination skin balanced without feeling heavy.
- Avoid the eye area and do a patch test before your first use. Stop using if you feel any irritation.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

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

Dermalogica Intensive Moisture Balance works reasonably well for acne-prone skin, though other products fit it better. It hydrates and calms your skin with ingredients like sodium hyaluronate, ceramide NP, and aloe, but a moisturizer for this skin needs extra oil-controlling ingredients.
Sources: [Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/)

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

This moisturizer works for acne-prone skin because sodium hyaluronate and ceramide NP keep the skin hydrated while centella asiatica and aloe extracts help calm the skin. However, since it lacks ingredients specifically for oil control, acne-prone skin needs a moisturizer that also includes targeted ingredients to manage oil and target breakouts.
Sources: [Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/)

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

Bioreplenish Complex is an average fit for acne-prone skin because it relies on heavy lipids that may clog pores and worsen breakouts. To properly care for acne-prone skin, a product needs lightweight, non-greasy ingredients that balance oil without adding extra buildup.
Sources: [The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 1981](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/6456312/), [Dermato-endocrinology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20224687/)

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

Hyaluronic acid helps acne-prone skin by soothing irritation, calming redness, and keeping the skin balanced without clogging pores. When combined with targeted ingredients like zinc oxide, it may also help reduce breakouts.
Sources: [Biomedicines, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41007718/), [Drug Delivery, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28155509/)

### Where does it go in a skincare routine for acne-prone skin?

This moisturizer goes as the last step of your morning routine before sunscreen, and after your treatment step in the evening routine. It helps hydrate your skin and calm it with soothing plant extracts, though acne-prone skin also needs ingredients that help with oil control.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/), [Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/)

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

You can use this cream with retinol by applying your retinol first, letting it dry, and then smoothing on this moisturizer. Using a barrier-restoring moisturizer alongside retinol helps reduce dryness and irritation while supporting your skin.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37276158/), [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/)

### How often should I use it?

You can use this moisturizer twice a day as part of your morning and evening routine. Regular use helps keep your skin hydrated and is unlikely to cause irritation.
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 acne-prone skin?

This cream is unlikely to cause severe irritation, but some reviewers mention breakouts because it lacks sufficient ingredients for oil control. Acne-prone skin needs a moisturizer with oil-balancing ingredients that keep pores clear while hydrating.

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

You can use this moisturizer on the thin skin around your eyes and on your body, as its hydrating ingredients are generally well-tolerated across different areas. However, because it lacks sufficient ingredients for optimal oil control relevant to your acne concerns, products used for this skin need targeted oil-balancing ingredients and lightweight hydrators.

### 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 acne-prone skin

- [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $15.50 at Amazon
- [COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cosrx/advanced-snail-96-mucin-power-essence/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $15.88 at Amazon
- [Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/drunk-elephant/protini-polypeptide-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $49.95 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $15.97 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $15.60 at Amazon
- SPF: [d'Alba Piedmont Waterfull Mild Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/d-alba/piedmont-waterfull-mild-sunscreen/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $15.99 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.com: $83.00 (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001B1MZ5U?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 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/acne-prone-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/dermalogica/intensive-moisture-balance/for/acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/dermalogica/intensive-moisture-balance/for/acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/dermalogica/intensive-moisture-balance/for/acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/dermalogica/intensive-moisture-balance/for/acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/dermalogica/intensive-moisture-balance/for/acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/dermalogica/intensive-moisture-balance/for/acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/dermalogica/intensive-moisture-balance/for/acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/dermalogica/intensive-moisture-balance/for/acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/dermalogica/intensive-moisture-balance/for/acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/dermalogica/intensive-moisture-balance/for/acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/dermalogica/intensive-moisture-balance/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/dermalogica/intensive-moisture-balance/for/acne-prone-skin