Stabilizing Repair Cream Moisturizer
Stabilizing Repair Cream Moisturizer
Product Description
Product overview
A professional-grade balmy-cream moisturizer that instantly calms sensitive, reactive skin while strengthening the barrier with a proprietary Ceramide-Building Complex. Formulated with Resurrection Plant, Cica, and Tasmania Lanceolata to reduce redness and help skin become more resilient over time. Recognized by the National Eczema Association.
Barrier Repair
Proprietary Ceramide-Building Complex strengthens skin barrier and locks in moisture to keep sensitivity at bay.
Texture & feel
SENSORYBarrier Repair
Proprietary Ceramide-Building Complex strengthens skin barrier and locks in moisture to keep sensitivity at bay.
Instant Soothing
Resurrection Plant, Tasmania Lanceolata, and Boerhavia Diffusa Root work synergistically to calm redness on contact.
Deep Hydration
Sugar-derived Squalane and Shea Butter deliver nourishing lipids while balancing the skin microbiome.
Microbiome Support
Lactobacillus Ferment helps skin hold onto hydration and supports a healthy skin barrier ecosystem.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEFree of retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, and chemical sunscreens. Contains only gentle, pregnancy-safe botanicals.
Contains Lactobacillus Ferment, fatty acids (palmitic, stearic), esters, shea butter, and jojoba oil which may feed Malassezia yeast.
Formulated to be non-comedogenic. Lightweight despite rich texture, unlikely to clog pores for most skin types.
Recognized by the National Eczema Association with the Seal of Acceptance. Safe for eczema-prone and reactive skin.
Independent laboratory testing confirms this formula surpasses US FDA ingestible standards for gluten-free designation.
Free from artificial colors, artificial fragrances, mineral oil, lanolin, SD alcohol, parabens, and microplastics.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSCentella Asiatica (Cica)Proven
Also known as Gotu Kola or Tiger Grass, this powerhouse botanical helps strengthen the skin barrier, reduces wrinkles, and increases skin resilience and firmness. A staple in Korean skincare for wound healing.
- Mechanism: Stimulates collagen synthesis and enhances skin barrier function
- Research: Clinical studies show improved wound healing and reduced inflammation
Ceramide-Building Complex (Cetylhydroxyproline Palmitamide)Proven
A pseudo-ceramide similar to Ceramide 2 that provides nourishing lipids to strengthen the skin's barrier and lock in moisture. Helps skin produce more of its own ceramides within 1 week.
- Claim: Boosts ceramide levels by 88% in 48 hours
- Mechanism: Replenishes the lipid matrix between skin cells
Resurrection Plant (Myrothamnus Flabellifolia)Promising
An extraordinary plant that can survive complete desiccation and revive when exposed to water. Deeply moisturizes, hydrates, and strengthens the skin barrier.
- Origin: Native to South Africa
- Benefit: Provides intense hydration and protects against environmental stress
Tasmania Lanceolata ExtractPromising
Derived from the Tasmanian Pepperberry plant, this extract soothes skin and helps reduce the appearance of redness. Works synergistically with other calming botanicals.
- Action: Anti-inflammatory and redness-reducing properties
- Source: Native to Tasmania and southeastern Australia
Boerhavia Diffusa Root ExtractPromising
Also known as Punarnava in Ayurvedic medicine, this root extract quickly calms irritation and reduces the appearance of redness. Provides soothing and comforting effects.
- Traditional Use: Used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries
- Benefit: Anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing properties
Squalane (Sugar-Derived)Proven
A lightweight, non-comedogenic oil that hydrates and smooths skin while strengthening the barrier and balancing the microbiome. Derived from sugarcane for sustainability.
- Compatibility: Mimics skin's natural sebum
- Source: Eco-friendly sugarcane derivation, not animal-derived
Lactobacillus FermentPromising
A postbiotic ingredient created by fermenting Lactobacillus bacteria. Helps skin hold onto hydration and supports a healthy skin microbiome and barrier function.
- Research: Studies show effectiveness at repairing the skin barrier
- Production: More sustainable process helps minimize water and energy use
39 ingredients
Water/Aqua/Eau, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Squalane, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Palmitic Acid, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Propanediol, Hexyldecanol, Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, Hydroxyacetophenone, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Centella Asiatica Extract, Boerhavia Diffusa Root Extract, Myrothamnus Flabellifolia Leaf/Stem Extract, Tasmannia Lanceolata Leaf Extract, Brassica Campestris (Rapeseed) Sterols, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract, Tocopherol, Lactobacillus Ferment, Cetylhydroxyproline Palmitamide, Caprylyl Glycol, Triolein, Maltodextrin, Bisabolol, Xanthan Gum, Cetearyl Alcohol, Myristic Acid, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Hydroxystearic Acid, 1,2-Hexanediol, Sodium Hydroxide, Citric Acid, Sodium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Stearic Acid, Acacia Senegal Gum
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after cleansing and serums, before sunscreen in the AM. Can be used alone as your final moisturizer step or paired with Dermalogica UltraCalming Serum Concentrate for enhanced results.
How to use
HOW TO USEDispense
Pump a small amount (about one pump) of the cream into your fingertips.
Warm
Rub the balmy cream between your hands to warm it up and activate the ingredients.
Apply
Gently press and spread onto face and neck using light, upward strokes. Avoid the eye area.
Follow Up (AM)
Wait 1-2 minutes for absorption, then apply your SPF. In PM, this can be your final step.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have sensitive, reactive, or redness-prone skin
- Your skin barrier is damaged or compromised
- You experience eczema flares or chronic skin sensitivity
- You've overused actives (retinol, acids) and need repair
- You want a fragrance-free, clean moisturizer
- You need post-procedure recovery support
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need safe options
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You prefer ultra-lightweight gel textures
- You want anti-aging actives like retinol in your moisturizer
- You're on a tight budget (this is premium-priced)
- You have extremely oily skin that doesn't tolerate creams
- You prefer matte finishes over dewy
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSpecifically formulated for sensitive and reactive skin. NEA-accepted, fragrance-free, and calms on contact.
Rich balmy texture with shea butter and squalane provides intense nourishment for dry, dehydrated skin.
Great all-around moisturizer that maintains healthy skin barrier. Works well in any climate.
Absorbs well without feeling greasy. May want to apply sparingly on oilier T-zone areas.
Rich texture may feel heavy for very oily skin. Best used at night or when barrier is damaged.
Non-comedogenic but NOT fungal acne safe. Good for repairing barrier after harsh acne treatments.
Results timeline
6-8 WEEKSInstant Comfort & Soothing
Ultra-soothing actives calm on contact. Skin feels instantly comforted and the balmy texture melts in without greasiness.
95% noticed immediate reliefReduced Redness & Irritation
Visible reduction in redness, irritation, and itchiness. Skin starts producing more of its own ceramides. Barrier function begins improving.
88% saw reduced sensitivityStronger Skin Barrier
Significant improvement in skin resilience. Fewer reactive episodes. Skin tolerates other products better. Smoother, healthier-looking complexion.
82% reported improved textureLong-Term Resilience
Skin has broken the pattern of chronic sensitivity. Barrier is substantially strengthened. Ready to slowly reintroduce actives if desired.
78% maintained resultsRatings by platform
700+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Quickly calms redness and irritation on contact
- Effectively repairs damaged skin barrier
- National Eczema Association approved
- Layers beautifully under makeup without pilling
- Non-greasy despite rich, nourishing texture
- Fragrance-free and suitable for hypersensitive skin
- Professional-grade formulation backed by dermatology
- Cruelty-free and vegan certified
Criticized
- Premium price point ($72+ for 50ml)
- Small bottle size doesn't last long
- Not suitable for fungal acne-prone skin
- May be too rich for very oily skin types
- Some find it not moisturizing enough for severe dryness
- Takes time to see full barrier repair results
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Contains panthenol and madecassoside for repair. Thicker balm texture. NEA-accepted. Best for emergency skin repair rather than daily use.
French pharmacy favorite with copper-zinc complex. More occlusive formula. Focuses on wound healing and microbiome balance.
Colloidal oatmeal-based with ceramides. Lighter texture, larger size (170g). Contains eucalyptus oil which some find irritating.
Ceramide-rich formula at fraction of price (539g tub). Less targeted for sensitivity but excellent barrier repair. Contains petrolatum.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep cap tightly closed.
Airless pump bottle that protects formula integrity and ensures hygienic dispensing
Yes, 50ml is under the 100ml TSA limit for carry-on liquids
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this cream is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It's formulated without retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or any other ingredients commonly flagged for pregnancy concerns. The formula relies on gentle botanicals like Centella Asiatica, squalane, and shea butter that are well-tolerated during pregnancy. However, always consult your healthcare provider before adding new products to your routine during pregnancy.
No, this cream is NOT safe for fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis). It contains several ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast, including: Lactobacillus Ferment (a fermented ingredient), fatty acids (Palmitic Acid, Stearic Acid, Myristic Acid), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (esters), Shea Butter, and Jojoba Seed Oil. If you have fungal acne, consider alternatives like CeraVe PM Lotion or EltaMD Barrier Renewal Complex.
Yes, but with caution. This cream is specifically designed to repair sensitive, reactive skin, so it pairs well with potentially irritating actives. For retinol: Apply retinol first, wait 10-15 minutes, then apply this cream to buffer and soothe. For Vitamin C: Use vitamin C in AM, this cream works in both AM/PM. For AHA/BHA: Apply acids first, wait until absorbed, then follow with this cream. If your skin is severely compromised, consider pausing actives entirely while using this for barrier repair, then slowly reintroduce them.
This cream is BEST for: sensitive, reactive, redness-prone, dry to normal skin types, and anyone with a damaged or compromised skin barrier. It's also excellent for eczema-prone skin (NEA-accepted). It's GOOD for: combination skin and those recovering from harsh treatments. It may be TOO RICH for: very oily skin types who may find the balmy texture heavy. Those with fungal acne should avoid it entirely.
Results timeline varies by concern: Immediate comfort and soothing happens on first application. Within 1 week: visible reduction in redness, irritation, and itchiness; skin begins producing more ceramides. 2-4 weeks: noticeable improvement in skin resilience and barrier function. 6-8 weeks: significant long-term improvement in chronic sensitivity. Clinical studies show 88% ceramide boost within 48 hours and visible sensitivity reduction within 1 week of consistent use.
This cream goes in the moisturizer step: AM Routine: Cleanser → Toner → Serum → Stabilizing Repair Cream → Sunscreen. PM Routine: Cleanser → Toner → Treatment/Serum → Stabilizing Repair Cream. It can be used as your sole moisturizer or layered. For best results with the Dermalogica UltraCalming line, use after UltraCalming Cleanser and UltraCalming Serum Concentrate.
This cream has a LOW comedogenic rating of approximately 1/5. While it contains some ingredients like shea butter and jojoba oil that can be comedogenic at high concentrations, they're present in amounts that most skin types tolerate well. The formula is specifically designed to be non-comedogenic. However, individual reactions vary – if you're highly prone to clogged pores, patch test first. Those with fungal acne should avoid this product regardless of the comedogenic rating.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for best efficacy and safety. The airless pump packaging helps preserve the formula by minimizing air exposure and contamination. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. At typical usage (once or twice daily), the 50ml bottle lasts most users 2-3 months, well within the PAO period.
Verdict: Dermalogica Stabilizing Repair Cream is a premium, professional-grade moisturizer that delivers on its promises for sensitive and reactive skin. The ceramide-building complex combined with botanical soothers like Cica, Resurrection Plant, and Tasmania Lanceolata creates an effective formula that calms on contact and builds resilience over time. While the price point is steep and it's not suitable for fungal acne-prone skin, those struggling with chronic sensitivity, eczema, or barrier damage will find this NEA-accepted cream worth the investment. For best value, consider using it as a targeted treatment during reactive periods rather than daily, supplementing with more affordable options for maintenance.
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 skin’s 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 «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.
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 3 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 6 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
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Squalane
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Refatting
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Butyrospermum Parkii Butter
Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|