Leading dermatologist Dr Sam Bunting has launched the Flawless Moisturiser Balance, a new formulation designed specifically for oily, combination and blemish-prone skin. The product has already garnered praise from shoppers, with many describing it as a 'game changer' for those struggling to find a suitable moisturiser.
The lightweight, fast-absorbing formula aims to address a common complaint heard in Dr Bunting's Harley Street clinic: 'I don't really use moisturisers. Everything I've tried either breaks me out or feels too heavy.' The new product follows the success of the brand's Flawless Moisturiser Intense, which has won 10 beauty awards since its 2023 launch.
Advanced formulation with clinically proven ingredients
Flawless Moisturiser Balance takes the science from the original award-winning formulation and reimagines it for oilier skin types. Its hero ingredient is two per cent Sunflower Sprout Extract (SSE), developed to bolster mitochondrial resilience against environmental stress. Trials conducted by Professor Mark Birch-Machin, Professor of Molecular Dermatology at Newcastle University, demonstrated that SSE reduced UV-induced damage to mitochondrial DNA in human skin cells by 34 per cent, while preserving cellular energy reserve by 18 per cent. Dr Bunting described these as 'statistically significant results'.
The formula also features three per cent Silymarin, an antioxidant that protects against oxidative stress, and one per cent Ectoin, which calms reactive skin and enhances hydration. Ceramides help reinforce the skin barrier, while Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract reduces redness. The fragrance-free, non-comedogenic formula is designed not to clog pores and works well with other skincare ingredients like retinoids.
Clinical testing and customer feedback
The brand states that clinical testing on 32 participants with oily, combination skin over two weeks found that 100 per cent agreed the moisturiser hydrated without clogging pores, and 97 per cent reported that stressed and sensitive skin felt soothed after use. Customer feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with the product accumulating a 4.84-star rating out of five.
One reviewer called it 'an absolute game changer', adding: 'I've used Dr Sam's moisturiser for about 5 years now and I love it, but I think I love moisturiser balance even more. It feels so hydrating but absorbs straight away. Doesn't feel sticky at all either and moisturises throughout the day.' Another praised: 'This moisturiser is great because it goes on so smoothly and sinks into the skin really quickly, without clogging pores and breaking me out! It works beautifully under makeup and SPF. New favourite.'
A third wrote: 'I have very sensitive, acne-prone skin, and this moisturiser is perfect for me. It's lightweight but still leaves my skin feeling hydrated without being greasy. It absorbs quickly and, unlike many other moisturisers I've tried, it doesn't cause any burning or stinging.'
Comparisons and alternatives
For those seeking similar benefits, Mantle's The Lite Cream also harnesses SSE and niacinamide, usually priced at £42 but currently reduced to £35. A more budget-friendly option is the CeraVe Oil Control Moisturising Gel-Cream, priced at £17 at Boots, which contains three essential ceramides, niacinamide, and oil-absorbing technology for a matte finish.
However, one user noted that the Flawless Moisturiser Balance does not mix as well with tanning drops, which may be a consideration for those who like to combine products. The moisturiser is available for £36 on the Dr Sam's website.
