Active Moist
Active Moist
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, oil-free moisturizer formulated with Prebiotic Moisture Complex and botanical extracts to hydrate combination and oily skin without clogging pores. This professional-grade formula absorbs quickly, balances hydration, and improves skin texture for a smooth, matte finish.
Prebiotic Moisture Complex
Supports skin's microbiome and provides balanced, long-lasting hydration without heaviness.
Texture & feel
SENSORYPrebiotic Moisture Complex
Supports skin's microbiome and provides balanced, long-lasting hydration without heaviness.
Botanical Astringents
Lemon, Cucumber, and Burdock extracts help refine skin texture and minimize pore appearance.
Oil-Free Formula
Won't clog pores or leave a greasy residue. Perfect for oily and combination skin types.
Texture Improvement
Smooths and improves skin surface texture while combating surface dehydration.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains essential oils (Lavender, Bergamot, Lemon). Consult healthcare provider before use during pregnancy.
Not FA-safe. Contains Polysorbate 60, ferments, and fatty acids that may feed malassezia yeast.
Oil-free formula designed not to clog pores. Low comedogenic rating of 1/5.
Free of parabens, sulfates, mineral oil, artificial colors, hydroquinone, and triclosan.
Contains naturally-derived Linalool, Limonene, and Citral from botanical extracts.
Does not contain retinol or vitamin A derivatives. Safe for daytime use.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSPrebiotic Moisture ComplexKey Feature
A proprietary blend featuring Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate and Saccharide Isomerate that supports the skin's natural microbiome while providing balanced hydration.
- Function: Supports skin barrier and microbiome health
- Benefit: Long-lasting hydration without disrupting skin's natural balance
Cucumber ExtractSoothing
Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract provides deep hydration and soothing properties, helping to calm and refresh the skin.
- Properties: Anti-inflammatory, hydrating, cooling
- Benefit: Soothes irritated skin while providing moisture
Lemon ExtractRefining
Citrus Limon Fruit Extract acts as a natural astringent that helps refine skin texture and minimize the appearance of pores.
- Properties: Astringent, brightening, clarifying
- Benefit: Helps improve skin texture and radiance
Burdock Root ExtractPurifying
Arctium Lappa Root Extract helps purify the skin by removing impurities and excess oil while providing antioxidant benefits.
- Properties: Antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant
- Benefit: Helps control oil and improve skin clarity
Lavender ExtractCalming
Lavandula Angustifolia Extract provides calming and soothing properties while contributing to the product's subtle natural scent.
- Properties: Anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, calming
- Benefit: Helps prevent acne and soothes skin
Allantoin Low %Proven
A soothing compound that helps calm irritated skin, promote healing, and soften the skin barrier.
- Research: Proven skin protectant and healing agent
- Comedogenic: 0 - Does not clog pores
42 ingredients
Water/Aqua/Eau, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Pentylene Glycol, Butylene Glycol, Methyl Gluceth-20, Coconut Alkanes, Cetearyl Alcohol, Palmitic Acid, Stearic Acid, Saccharide Isomerate, Dimethicone, Glyceryl Stearate, Hydrolyzed Jojoba Esters, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Arctium Lappa Root Extract, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Hedera Helix (Ivy) Extract, Malva Sylvestris (Mallow) Flower Extract, Nasturtium Officinale Extract, Propanediol, Polysorbate 60, Caprylyl Glycol, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Allantoin, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Polyquaternium-10, Ethylhexylglycerin, Triethyl Citrate, Myristic Acid, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Extract, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract, Lavandula Hybrida Flower Extract, Citric Acid, Sodium Citrate, Sodium Hydroxide, Citral, Linalool, Limonene.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEBest when used following Dermalogica Multi-Active Toner. Can be mixed with Dermalogica Concentrated Boosters for additional benefits.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Tone
Start with a clean face. For best results, use after Dermalogica Multi-Active Toner while skin is still slightly damp.
Dispense Product
Squeeze a nickel-sized amount onto fingertips. A little goes a long way with this formula.
Apply to Face
Apply over face and throat using light, upward strokes. Avoid pulling or tugging at the skin.
Allow Absorption
Wait 5-7 minutes for full absorption before applying makeup or sunscreen.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin
- You want lightweight hydration without greasiness
- You're looking for a non-comedogenic moisturizer
- You prefer professional-grade skincare
- You need a moisturizer that works well under makeup
- You want to improve skin texture
- You're prone to breakouts and need an oil-free option
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin (may not be enough moisture)
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You're sensitive to essential oils or citrus extracts
- You're pregnant (consult healthcare provider first)
- You're on a tight budget (premium price point)
- You need intense anti-aging benefits
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESPerfect match! Oil-free formula absorbs quickly without adding shine or greasiness. Helps balance hydration.
Ideal for combination skin. Balances well across oily T-zone and drier cheek areas.
Works well for normal skin types looking for lightweight daily hydration.
May not provide enough moisture for dry skin. Consider layering with a hydrating serum or switching to Intensive Moisture Balance.
Generally well-tolerated. Contains soothing ingredients but patch test recommended due to botanical extracts.
Non-comedogenic and oil-free. Good for acne-prone skin but not suitable for fungal acne.
Results timeline
8+ WEEKSInstant Hydration
Skin feels moisturized and refreshed immediately after application. Light, non-greasy feel.
95% noticedImproved Texture
Skin starts to feel smoother and softer. Oil balance begins to improve for oily skin types.
80% noticedVisible Improvement
Based on clinical study, 100% of users experienced smoother, softer skin after 4 weeks of daily use.
100% noticedBalanced Hydration
Skin maintains optimal hydration balance. Many users report reduced oiliness and fewer breakouts.
85% noticedRatings by platform
6K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Lightweight, non-greasy formula
- Perfect for oily and combination skin
- Doesn't cause breakouts
- Works beautifully under makeup
- Professional-grade quality
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Long-lasting hydration
- Pleasant spa-like scent
- Improves skin texture over time
Criticized
- Not moisturizing enough for dry skin
- Premium price point ($49-77)
- Contains essential oils (potential irritant)
- Not fungal acne safe
- Takes 5-7 minutes to fully absorb
- Small bottle size for the price
- Contains fragrance allergens
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESLightweight, oil-free formula with ceramides and niacinamide. More hydrating for dry skin. Fragrance-free option available. Excellent drugstore alternative.
Lightweight, oil-free with antioxidants. Designed for acne-prone skin. Simpler formula with fewer botanicals but similarly effective for oily skin.
Oil-free gel formula for combination to oily skin. Classic formula with 3.5 pH. More basic ingredient list but dermatologist-developed and time-tested.
Refreshing gel texture, ideal for hot climates. Lacks prebiotic benefits but offers similar lightweight hydration. Cooling sensation on application.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check symbol on packaging for confirmation.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Room temperature is ideal.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap. FSC-certified recyclable carton packaging.
Yes - 1.7oz/50ml size is TSA-compliant for carry-on luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQActive Moist contains essential oils including Lavender, Bergamot, and Lemon extracts. While it doesn't contain retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone, some healthcare providers recommend caution with essential oils during pregnancy. We recommend consulting with your doctor or midwife before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
No, Active Moist is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains Polysorbate 60, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate (a ferment), fatty acids (Palmitic Acid, Stearic Acid), and esters that can feed malassezia yeast. If you have fungal acne, consider looking for a specifically FA-safe moisturizer.
Yes! Active Moist is safe to use with most active ingredients including retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. It's actually a great follow-up moisturizer after using these actives as it provides hydration without heavy oils. Apply your actives first, allow them to absorb, then apply Active Moist. Consider alternating AM/PM if using multiple actives.
Active Moist is specifically formulated for oily, combination, and normal skin types. It's ideal for those who want lightweight hydration without greasiness. If you have dry or very dehydrated skin, you may find it insufficient and should consider Dermalogica's Intensive Moisture Balance or Skin Smoothing Cream instead.
You'll notice immediate hydration after the first application. Within 1-2 weeks, skin typically feels smoother and more balanced. According to Dermalogica's clinical study, 100% of users experienced smoother, softer skin after 4 weeks of daily use. Best results come with consistent twice-daily application.
Active Moist goes after cleansing, toning, and any serums or treatments, but before sunscreen (in your AM routine). Apply to slightly damp skin for best absorption. The order is: Cleanser → Toner → Serum/Treatment → Active Moist → Sunscreen (AM only).
Active Moist has a low comedogenic rating of approximately 1/5. It's formulated to be oil-free and non-comedogenic, meaning it should not clog pores for most people. However, individual reactions vary - if you're concerned, patch test first. Many users with acne-prone skin report no breakouts from this product.
Active Moist has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. This means you should use it within one year of opening the product. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain product integrity. The squeeze tube packaging helps minimize contamination and extends shelf life.
Verdict: Dermalogica Active Moist is an excellent lightweight moisturizer for oily and combination skin types seeking professional-grade skincare. The Prebiotic Moisture Complex and botanical extracts deliver balanced hydration without greasiness. While the premium price point and essential oil content may not suit everyone, it's a proven performer that's been a cult favorite for decades. Best for those who want oil-free hydration that improves skin texture. Not recommended for very dry skin or those with fungal acne concerns.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
|
|
|
| 1 |
Pentylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Methyl Gluceth-20
Humectant, Moisturising
|
|








