| ATTRIBUTE | SKIN SMOOTHING CREAM | ACTIVE MOIST |
| Skin Type | Normal/Dry | Combination/Oily |
| Weight | Medium | Lightweight |
| Purpose | Smooths fine lines, promotes elasticity, deeply hydrates | Combats surface dehydration, smoothes texture |
| Feature | Provides deep hydration that lasts 48 hours, fights free radicals | Hydrates without leaving a greasy film |
| Feel | Creamy | Water-based balm |
Choosing the right moisturiser can make all the difference in your skincare routine, especially when it comes to supporting your skin’s hydration and barrier function. Dermalogica offers a bunch of options, with these two being its most popular daily moisturisers – Skin Smoothing Cream and Active Moist – each designed for different skin types and concerns.
If you’ve already checked out the quick comparison table above, you’ll have a sense of which product might suit you best. But if you’re still unsure, here’s a deeper look at how these two cult favourites differ and what skin types they’re best suited for.
Skin Smoothing Cream: Long-Lasting Hydration for Normal to Dry Skin
Skin Smoothing Cream is a medium-weight moisturiser designed for normal, dry or dehydrated skin. Its standout feature is Dermalogica’s Active HydraMesh Technology™, which helps infuse the skin with 48 hours of continuous hydration while also shielding it from environmental stress.
This moisturiser is enriched with skin-replenishing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, mallow, cucumber, and arnica, which help to smooth the skin’s texture and reinforce the moisture barrier. It’s ideal for those experiencing tightness, flakiness, or dullness, especially in cooler or drier climates.
Perfect for:
✔ Normal to dry or dehydrated skin
✔ Those needing long-lasting hydration
✔ Skin that feels tight or rough throughout the day
Not ideal for:
✖ Oily or congested skin types
Texture Comparison
The Dermalogica Skin Smoothing Cream is medium in weight and very creamy. The Active Moist is a lot more lightweight and has a water-based, balmy texture.
Active Moist: Lightweight Hydration for Oily or Combination Skin
Active Moist is a feather-light, oil-free moisturiser designed to hydrate oily or combination skin without adding extra shine or heaviness. It uses a blend of prebiotic algae complex and botanical extracts like lavender, cucumber, and mallow to balance oil production and improve skin texture.
Despite its light consistency, Active Moist still delivers enough hydration to keep the skin soft and comfortable. It absorbs quickly and wears well under makeup, making it a go-to option for daytime use.
Perfect for:
✔ Oily, combination, or breakout-prone skin
✔ Humid climates
✔ Those who dislike the feel of heavy moisturisers
Not ideal for:
✖ Very dry or flaky skin
Which One Should You Choose?
If your skin is thirsty, tight, or dry, go with Skin Smoothing Cream. It’s formulated to deeply hydrate and support the skin barrier, which is especially helpful in colder months or air-conditioned environments.
If your skin leans oily, congested, or combination, Active Moist will provide the right level of hydration without clogging pores or contributing to excess shine.
Final Thoughts
Dermalogica Skin Smoothing Cream vs Active Moist – Both of these Dermalogica moisturisers are high-quality options formulated without artificial fragrances or colours, and both are cruelty-free. The key is understanding your skin’s hydration needs and texture preferences.
View the full range of Dermalogica Moisturisers here.
Still not sure? Feel free to reach out to our team – we’re happy to help match you with the perfect product for your skin type and concerns.
Where to Buy Dermalogica in Australia
You can shop the full range of Dermalogica skincare products at My Haircare & Beauty. We’re proud to offer over 200 leading brands across haircare, skincare, makeup and wellness, all delivered Australia-wide. Whether you’re after cult favourite serums or everyday essentials, our curated selection ensures you have access to the best in beauty from the comfort of your home.
Mel
Mel is a former Hair Stylist with over a decade of industry experience. She enjoys writing about all aspects of the hair & beauty world including, trends, new products & best-sellers.
