Last week we looked at the difference between the Dermalogica Skin Smoothing Cream vs Active Moist. This week, by popular demand, we are diving into another comparison blog. This time: Dermalogica Skin Smoothing Cream vs Intensive Moisture Balance.
| ATTRIBUTE | SKIN SMOOTHING CREAM | INTENSIVE MOISTURE BALANCE |
| Skin Type | Normal/Dry | Dry/Very Dry |
| Weight | Medium | Heavier |
| Purpose | Smooths fine lines, promotes elasticity, deeply hydrates | Offers intense hydration and nourishment for drier, more aging skin types |
| Feature | Provides deep hydration that lasts 48 hours, fights free radicals | Intensely moisturizes dry, depleted skin |
| Feel | Creamy | Thick/Creamy |
When it comes to keeping your skin healthy, radiant, and resilient, choosing the right moisturiser is key – especially if you have dry or dehydrated skin. Dermalogica Skin Smoothing Cream and Intensive Moisture Balance are two popular choices in the brand’s range, but they’re formulated for slightly different needs.
If you’ve already glanced at the table above, you’ll know the essentials. But for a more in-depth understanding, here’s a breakdown of the benefits and ideal use cases for each.
Skin Smoothing Cream: Advanced Hydration for Dehydrated Skin
Skin Smoothing Cream is a best-seller for a reason – it delivers lasting hydration using Active HydraMesh Technology™, which helps lock in moisture and shield the skin from environmental stress for up to 48 hours.
This medium-weight formula suits normal to dry or dehydrated skin. It contains hyaluronic acid, mallow, cucumber, and arnica, which soothe the skin and support a healthy barrier. The result is smooth, comfortable, and refreshed skin throughout the day.
Perfect for:
✔ Normal to dry skin that feels dehydrated
✔ Daytime hydration that doesn’t feel too rich
✔ Barrier support and moisture retention
Not ideal for:
✖ Very dry or lipid-depleted skin that needs intense nourishment
Texture Comparison
The Dermalogica Skin Smoothing Cream is medium in weight and very creamy. The Intensive Moisture Balance is also creamy, but also a lot thicker.
Intensive Moisture Balance: Rich Nourishment for Very Dry or Mature Skin
Intensive Moisture Balance is Dermalogica’s richest moisturiser, formulated for very dry, mature, or lipid-depleted skin. Its strength lies in its ability to deeply replenish the skin’s barrier with barrier-repairing lipids, vitamins C and E, and phytoactives from Coconut and Murumuru Seed Butter.
This cream provides immediate comfort to dry, tight skin and is especially effective in harsh or dry climates. It helps smooth fine lines caused by dryness and strengthens the skin’s natural defence system.
Perfect for:
✔ Very dry, thin, or mature skin
✔ Dry climates or winter months
✔ Replenishing lost lipids and restoring comfort
Not ideal for:
✖ Combination or oily skin types
Dermalogica Skin Smoothing Cream vs Intensive Moisture Balance: Which One Should You Choose?
Choose Skin Smoothing Cream if your skin is generally balanced but occasionally dehydrated, especially from environmental stressors. It’s lightweight enough for daily use and wears well under makeup.
Opt for Intensive Moisture Balance if your skin is consistently dry, flaky, or mature. It provides a rich, comforting layer of nourishment to help restore and protect your skin barrier.
Final Thoughts
Both moisturisers are excellent for dry skin, but they serve different needs. Think of Skin Smoothing Cream as your everyday hydrator and Intensive Moisture Balance as your rescue cream for times when your skin needs deeper replenishment.
View the full range of Dermalogica Moisturisers here.
Need help deciding which is best for your current skin condition? Get in touch with our team – we’re happy to guide you to the perfect Dermalogica product for your skin.
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.
