# Dermalogica Skin Smoothing Cream for dry sensitive skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for dry sensitive skin.**
Dry Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/dermalogica/skin-smoothing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-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 dry sensitive skin: flakiness, tightness, redness, fine lines, and wrinkles. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for dry sensitive skin; other moisturizers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers excellent moisturizing for your dry skin due to the presence of glycerin and sodium hyaluronate, which effectively draw moisture into the skin and plump it.
- While the product provides general hydration and soothing benefits, it lacks specialized ingredients to directly address your dry or flaky skin concerns and sensitivity.
- The product is safe for your dry and sensitive skin, as it contains soothing ingredients like Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice and Arnica Montana Flower Extract, and avoids harsh or prohibited substances.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Active Hydramesh Technology, Sodium Hyaluronate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Vitis Vinifera Seed Extract Grape Seed Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate

## What the research says

- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- 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/))
- 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 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/))
- Topical CE Ferulic plus resveratrol BE serum following ablative fractional CO2 laser treatment reduced erythema index (308.9 vs. 325.3), shortened complete scabbing detachment time (6.0 vs. 6.5 days), decreased melanin index (-7.4% vs. +0.2%), and improved skin hydration compared to normal saline in 51 Chinese patients. ([Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38828801/))
- Resveratrol cream improved skin hydration and tightening compared to cream without resveratrol in a group of probands. ([Acta Biochimica Polonica, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31518087/))
- Topical application of a water-in-oil emulsion containing 2% Muscat hamburg grape seed extract significantly improved melanin, elasticity, and sebum content compared to a placebo in human volunteers over 8 weeks, with no reported skin hypersensitivity. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25402429/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant serum containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented particulate matter-induced degradation of extracellular matrix components, inflammation, and oxidative stress in the skin of 15 female volunteers compared to untreated controls. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40642809/))
- Dermatological products containing d-alpha tocopheryl acetate showed non-comedogenic potential with less than a 50% increase in microcomedones in 12 healthy male subjects compared to octyl palmitate. ([Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34471722/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant mix containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented PM and UV-induced skin barrier perturbation, lipid peroxidation, inflammatory markers, MMP9 activation, and Type I collagen loss in 15 healthy females compared to untreated exposed skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590207/))

## Why other moisturizers fit dry sensitive skin better

- 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/))
- Nanoemulsions containing Macadamia integrifolia seed oil successfully enhanced skin hydration and reduced wrinkles in human volunteers, outperforming conventional emulsions in skin hydration enhancement. ([Nanomaterials, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38668218/))

## What reviewers say

Users consistently praise this moisturizer as a hydration hero that effectively balances moisture levels for normal, dry, and combination skin without feeling heavy. While the vast majority report smoother, plumper skin and improved texture, a small minority experienced breakouts or found the price point too high for the quantity.

- Liked: Texture & absorption (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Deep hydration (often mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle on skin (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Improved skin texture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Greasy residue (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Could be used as part of your AM or PM routine. Start using this moisturizer 3 times a week and move to daily use if your dry skin tolerates it well.
- Apply this moisturizer after cleansing and toner in the morning, or after your serum in the evening. Always pair it with SPF in the morning.
- Gently press a small amount of the moisturizer into your skin. Avoid rubbing it harshly to protect your sensitive skin.
- Apply the moisturizer on slightly damp skin to help with hydration absorption. This also works well for dry and flaky skin types.
- Do a patch test before your first use. Avoid the eye area to prevent any irritation.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Skin Smoothing Cream work for dry sensitive skin?

Dermalogica Skin Smoothing Cream works reasonably well for dry sensitive skin by drawing in moisture and soothing irritation, though other products fit this skin type better. A product of this type needs richer nourishing ingredients, deep hydration, and skin barrier support to properly target dry, flaky concerns and sensitivity.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Which ingredients make this cream a good fit for dry sensitive skin?

This cream works for your dry sensitive skin because it contains glycerin and sodium hyaluronate to draw in moisture, alongside aloe vera leaf juice and arnica montana flower extract to help calm irritation. However, a moisturizer of this type needs richer nourishing ingredients and specialized barrier support to properly care for flaky or sensitive skin.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Active Hydramesh Technology do for dry sensitive skin?

Active Hydramesh Technology helps keep dry sensitive skin continuously hydrated by locking in moisture throughout the day. It supports the skin barrier to reduce water loss, leaving the skin feeling soft and comfortable.
Sources: [Skin Research and Technology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39324311/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42087425/)

### What does Hyaluronic Acid do for dry sensitive skin?

Hyaluronic acid is a great fit for dry, sensitive skin because it brings a large boost in hydration, making the skin feel soft and smooth while improving barrier function. It helps calm tightness and dryness, and is unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/), [Dermatology and Therapy, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34176098/)

### Where does this cream go in a skincare routine for dry sensitive skin?

This moisturizer goes in the evening routine after your cleanser, soothing toner, and treatment, and it can also be used as part of your weekly routine. It helps keep skin soft and comfortable, though dry sensitive skin also needs specialized ingredients that directly target flaky areas and calm irritation.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/)

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

You can use this moisturizer with retinol by applying the retinol first, letting it absorb, and then following with the cream to keep your skin calm and hydrated. This cream is safe for your skin, but because it lacks specialized ingredients for deep dryness and flakiness, dry sensitive skin typically needs a richer moisturizer with ceramides and barrier-repairing lipids.

### How often should I use this cream?

You can use this moisturizing cream twice daily to help keep your dry and sensitive skin hydrated and calm. To better care for dry or flaky skin and sensitivity, this type of product needs specialized ingredients like extra nourishing barriers and targeted calming compounds.
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 dry sensitive skin?

This cream is unlikely to cause breakouts for dry sensitive skin, as only a small number of reviewers report this issue. It is a good idea to patch test new products to check how your skin reacts.

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

You can use this moisturizing cream around the eyes and on your body, as it has a very good skin safety profile for sensitive areas. However, because skin is thinner around the eyes and varies in thickness across the body, a dedicated eye cream or rich body lotion with targeted barrier-repair ingredients and soothing plant extracts may fit these specific areas better.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/)

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

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (benzyl salicylate and linalool). Cetearyl alcohol and cetyl alcohol are fatty alcohols, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for dry sensitive skin

- [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Enrich Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-probio-cica-enrich-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $22.00 at Amazon
- [Obagi Hydrate Luxe Moisture-Rich Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/obagi/hydrate-luxe/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $85.00 at Amazon
- [The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-ha/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $12.50 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $16.97 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $28.05 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [d'Alba UVessence Mild Waterfull Sun Cream SPF 50](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/d-alba/uvessence-mild-waterfull-sun-cream-spf-50/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $18.99 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.com: $83.00 (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000980PGW?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 5 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Ethylhexyl Hydroxystearate, Stearic Acid, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Dimethicone, Peg-8, Cetearyl Alcohol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Vitis Vinifera Seed Extract Grape Seed Extract, Saccharide Isomerate, Cucumis Sativus Fruit Extract, Arnica Montana Flower Extract, Hedera Helix Extract, Malva Sylvestris Flower Extract, Parietaria Officinalis Extract, Sambucus Nigra Flower Extract, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Trehalose, Algin, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Serine, Linoleic Acid, Phytosterols, Cananga Odorata Oil Flower, Urea, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Pullulan, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Citrus Aurantium Amara Flower Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Hexanediol, Pentylene Glycol, Glyceryl Polyacrylate, Sodium Citrate, Disodium Phosphate, Palmitoyl Hydroxypropyltrimonium, Amylopectin Glycerin Crosspolymer, Caprylyl Glycol, Potassium Phosphate, Citric Acid, Tocopherol, Methylpropanediol, Polysorbate 60, Panthenol, Polyquaternium-10, Cetyl Alcohol, Peg-100 Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate, Aminomethyl Propanol, Carbomer, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Hydroxide, Hydroxystearic Acid, Bht, Benzyl Benzoate, Benzyl Salicylate, Linalool
## 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/skin-smoothing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/dermalogica/skin-smoothing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/dermalogica/skin-smoothing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/dermalogica/skin-smoothing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/dermalogica/skin-smoothing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/dermalogica/skin-smoothing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/dermalogica/skin-smoothing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/dermalogica/skin-smoothing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/dermalogica/skin-smoothing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/dermalogica/skin-smoothing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/dermalogica/skin-smoothing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/dermalogica/skin-smoothing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/dermalogica/skin-smoothing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin