Intensive Moisture Cleanser
Intensive Moisture Cleanser
Product Description
Dermalogica Intensive Moisture Cleanser is a light, creamy cream cleanser designed for dry and dehydrated skin. Powered by the brand's BioReplenish Complex, ceramides and Vitamin E, it lifts away makeup, sunscreen and impurities using a gentle, sulfate-free surfactant system that helps preserve the skin's natural lipids instead of stripping them, leaving skin feeling soft, comfortable and luminous rather than tight.
β¨ Texture & Feel
BioReplenish Complex
A blend of skin-identical lipids, phytosterols and fatty acids that mimics the skin's own barrier to help limit moisture loss during cleansing.
Gentle DEFI Surfactant System
A lipid-enriched, sulfate-free cleansing base that removes dirt and makeup while minimizing damage to the proteins and lipids that defend against dryness.
Coconut & Murumuru Phytoactives
Plant butters that nourish and soften depleted skin, helping preserve its natural resilience for a smoother feel after rinsing.
Ceramide + Vitamin E
Ceramide NP supports the moisture barrier while antioxidant Vitamin E helps protect skin against environmental stress.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone or chemical sunscreens, so it is generally considered suitable. As always, confirm with your doctor.
Contains fatty acids and plant butters (palmitic, stearic, myristic acids, shea, almond and safflower oils) that can feed malassezia. Rinse-off use lowers the risk.
Scented with citrus, jasmine and palmarosa essential oils plus limonene (EU-listed allergens). Patch test if your skin is reactive or fragrance-sensitive.
Uses a mild isethionate-based surfactant system and a phenoxyethanol preservative, with no harsh sulfates, parabens or drying alcohols.
As a rinse-off cleanser it pairs with virtually any routine, including retinol, Vitamin C and exfoliating acids applied afterward.
Removes light makeup but is not a dedicated eye-makeup remover; avoid getting it directly in the eyes and rinse well.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π‘οΈ Ceramide NP Low % Proven
A skin-identical ceramide (formerly Ceramide 3) that slots into the outer layer's lipid matrix to reinforce the moisture barrier and reduce water loss.
- Research: A study of 312 patients found a ceramide-containing routine reduced atopic dermatitis severity by over 61% in 4 weeks.
- Tolerance: Considered non-irritating with little to no observed adverse effects in safety testing.
𧬠Phytosterols (BioReplenish) Under 5% Proven
Plant-derived sterols structurally similar to skin's own cholesterol. They fit into the barrier's lipid matrix to support repair and reduce irritation.
- Research: A human study showed topical soybean phytosterols sped up barrier recovery within three days on compromised skin.
- Tolerance: Testing in soy-allergic subjects found no sensitization signals at typical use levels.
π§ Glycerin ~3-10% Proven
A powerhouse humectant that draws water into the outer layer of skin, helping the formula leave skin hydrated rather than tight after rinsing.
- Mechanism: Naturally present in skin and shuttled to the surface via aquaporin-3, which is essential for normal hydration and elasticity.
- Profile: Non-irritating and compatible with virtually every other ingredient and skin type.
π Tocopherol (Vitamin E) 0.1-1% Proven
A fat-soluble antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals from UV and pollution and helps improve the skin's water-binding capacity over time.
- Research: Topical Vitamin E has been shown to support the skin's own UV-defense enzymes.
- Synergy: Works as a stabilizer that also protects other oxidation-prone ingredients in the formula.
𫧠Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate Surfactant Proven
An ultra-gentle, coconut-derived cleansing agent that creates a soft lather and lifts away oil and dirt without compromising the skin barrier.
- Profile: Far milder than traditional sulfates and not shown to feed fungal-acne yeast.
- Bonus: Improves how evenly the product spreads across the skin.
πΈ Citrus, Jasmine & Palmarosa Oils Fragrance Promising
Botanical extracts that give the cleanser its fresh, natural scent and add minor antioxidant character to the sensory experience.
- Antioxidants: Citrus peel and flower oils contain flavonoids with antioxidant properties.
63 ingredients
Water, Glycerin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate, Divinyldimethicone/Dimethicone Copolymer, Sodium Astrocaryum Murumuruate, Ceramide NP, Phytosterols, Palmitic Acid, Stearic Acid, Hydrogenated Coconut Acid, Hydrolyzed Cottonseed Protein, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Oil, Tocopherol, Xanthan Gum, Dimethicone, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter, Carthamus Tinctorius Seed Oil, C12-13 Pareth-3, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Oil, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Caprylyl Glycol, Citrus Paradisi Peel Oil, Citrus Reticulata Leaf Oil, Myristic Acid, Trideceth-12, Jasminum Officinale Oil, Linoleic Acid, Amyris Balsamifera Bark Oil, Cananga Odorata Flower Oil, Citrus Limon Peel Oil, Cymbopogon Martini Oil, Eugenia Caryophyllus Leaf Oil, Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil, Salvia Sclarea Oil, Citrus Limon Fruit Extract, Decyl Glucoside, Canarium Luzonicum Gum Nonvolatiles, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Flower Oil, Guaiacum Officinale Wood Oil, Rosa Damascena Flower Oil, Zingiber Officinale Root Oil, Disodium EDTA, Equisetum Arvense Extract, Humulus Lupulus Extract, Pinus Sylvestris Cone Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract, Hexylene Glycol, Linolenic Acid, Pentylene Glycol, Aminomethyl Propanol, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Isethionate, Propanediol, Butylene Glycol, Polysilicone-11, Sodium Hydroxide, Ethylhexylglycerin, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, PEG-12 Dimethicone, Limonene, Phenoxyethanol.
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use as your first step, morning and night. For heavy or waterproof makeup, double-cleanse with a balm or oil cleanser first, then follow with this cleanser.
π How to Use
Dampen
Splash your face and neck with warm water to prep the skin.
Lather
Work a pea-size amount into very wet hands until it turns creamy.
Massage
Gently massage over face and neck for 30-60 seconds, avoiding the eyes.
Rinse
Rinse thoroughly with warm water and pat dry. Use twice daily, AM and PM.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have dry, dehydrated or tight-feeling skin
- You want a cleanser that won't strip the barrier
- You have mature skin and value lipid and antioxidant support
- You prefer a soft, creamy cleanser over a foaming gel
- You're loyal to professional, dermatologist-trusted brands
β Consider alternatives if:
- You have oily skin and want a deep, squeaky-clean finish
- Your skin is fragrance-sensitive or highly reactive
- You're prone to fungal acne (malassezia)
- You want a strictly fragrance-free formula
- You're shopping on a tight budget
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Purpose-built for dryness. Replenishes lipids and leaves skin soft and comfortable instead of tight.
Ceramides and antioxidants support the barrier and help skin look smoother and more luminous.
Nourishing and balanced, though it may feel a touch rich across an oilier T-zone.
Sulfate-free and gentle, but contains botanical essential oils, so patch test very reactive skin first.
The creamy formula can feel heavy and may not deliver the deep-clean sensation oily skin often wants.
π Results Timeline
Soft, comfortable skin
Skin feels clean and supple right after rinsing, without the tight, stripped feeling many cleansers leave behind.
90% noticedLess tightness & flaking
Daily use helps reduce the dryness and rough patches that come from over-stripping the skin.
70% noticedSmoother texture
Consistent lipid and ceramide support contributes to a smoother, healthier-looking surface.
58% noticedMore resilient, luminous skin
With ongoing use the barrier feels stronger and skin looks brighter and more even.
45% noticedβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Cleanses without stripping or tightness
- Gentle, sulfate-free formula ideal for dry skin
- Ceramide and lipid barrier support
- Creamy, pleasant texture and a clean feel
- Leaves skin soft, smooth and luminous
β Criticized
- Expensive next to drugstore alternatives
- Botanical essential oils may bother reactive skin
- Not ideal for removing heavy makeup alone
- Can feel too rich for oily skin types
- Not fragrance-free or fungal-acne safe
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Creamy, fragrance-free cleanser with ceramides and hyaluronic acid that also cleanses without stripping. Lacks the botanical extracts and luxe feel, but excellent value for dry skin.
Ceramide-3 and niacinamide cream cleanser, fragrance-free and built for sensitive skin. A better pick than the Dermalogica for fragrance-reactive users.
A classic ultra-gentle, low-lather cleanser for dry and sensitive skin. Far simpler with no ceramides or botanicals, but very affordable and well tolerated.
π Comparison with Competitors
Dermalogica Intensive Moisture Cleanser (Featured)
$48.00CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser
$16.99La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating
$16.99Dermalogica UltraCalming Cleanser
$48.00π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat
Squeeze tube (5.1 oz) or pump bottle (10 oz)
The 5.1 oz / 150ml size exceeds the 100ml carry-on limit; decant for flights
β Frequently Asked Questions
It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone or chemical sunscreens, the ingredients most often flagged during pregnancy, so it is generally considered suitable. It does contain citrus and floral essential oils; if you prefer to limit fragrance during pregnancy, or have any concerns, check with your doctor or midwife first.
No. The formula includes several fatty acids (palmitic, stearic, myristic, linoleic and linolenic) plus shea, sweet almond and safflower oils that can feed malassezia yeast. Because it is a rinse-off cleanser with limited contact time, the real-world risk is lower than in a leave-on product, but it isn't considered a fully fungal-acne-safe formula.
Yes. As a rinse-off cleanser it doesn't interfere with active ingredients. Cleanse first, then apply your retinol, Vitamin C or exfoliating acid afterward. If your skin is sensitized from strong actives, the gentle, non-stripping formula is a good companion.
It's designed for dry, dehydrated and mature skin, and works well for normal and combination skin too. Oily skin types may find it too rich and may prefer a gel or foaming cleanser. Sensitive skin generally tolerates it well but should patch test because of the botanical fragrance.
Most people feel the difference immediately, skin is soft and comfortable rather than tight after the first wash. Reduced dryness and flaking typically appear within about a week, with smoother texture and a stronger-feeling barrier building over four to eight weeks of consistent twice-daily use.
It's your first step, morning and night. If you wear heavy or waterproof makeup or sunscreen, double cleanse: use an oil or balm cleanser first, then follow with this cream cleanser. After rinsing, continue with toner, serums, eye cream, moisturizer, and SPF in the morning.
It scores low on the comedogenic scale (around 2 out of 5). It does contain a few higher-rated oils such as sweet almond oil and myristic acid, but because it is rinsed off rather than left on the skin, the pore-clogging risk for most people is minimal.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Store it in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight, and replace it once the texture, color or scent noticeably changes.
Verdict: The Dermalogica Intensive Moisture Cleanser is one of the most reliable cream cleansers for dry, dehydrated and mature skin. Its sulfate-free, lipid-enriched formula cleanses thoroughly while protecting the barrier with ceramides, phytosterols and Vitamin E, so skin feels soft rather than stripped. The main trade-offs are the premium price and a botanical fragrance that makes it less ideal for very reactive or fungal-acne-prone skin. If you want a non-stripping daily cleanser and don't mind the cost or the light natural scent, it's an excellent, well-reviewed choice.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skinβs own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
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 Β«promisesΒ» 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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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
Anti-Aging from 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate
Surfactant, Hair Conditioning, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate
Surfactant, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
|