# Galderma vs Grown Alchemist

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/compare/galderma-vs-grown-alchemist

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Australia.

Galderma and Grown Alchemist are two distinct skincare lines offering targeted [serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/ingredients/serum) and formulations for varied complexions. The Swiss brand, established in 1981, specializes in serums suited best for oily, acne-prone, and mature skin, with standout options like Epiduo Gel and Benzac AC gels. In contrast, the second label is known for cleansers and serums that care best for sensitive, dry, and combination skin through formulas such as its Hydra-Restore Cream Cleanser and Instant Smoothing Serum. Ultimately, both differ primarily in their core ingredient approaches and the specific skin types they serve most effectively.

Galderma is a Swiss skincare brand founded in 1981 and owned by Galderma Group AG.

[en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galderma)

This page compares some of the most popular Galderma and Grown Alchemist products; for every product of both brands, with a fit score for your own skin, [use the Lovi app](https://app.pora.ai/vqqJ/j1xj2b6o?af_sub2=compare&af_sub3=selection_note&af_sub4=pge602f3ecb8).

### Popular Galderma vs Grown Alchemist products

#### Galderma

- [Epiduo Gel](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/galderma/epiduo-gel/for/acne-prone-skin) — High fit
- [Benzac AC 5](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/galderma/benzac-ac-5/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — [A$25.49 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B076VMBQKP?tag=lovi-care-web-product-22&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Benzac AC Mild Strength 2.5% Acne Gel](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/galderma/benzac-ac-mild-strength-2-5-acne-gel/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — [A$24.59 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B08GKHH72J?tag=lovi-care-web-product-22&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)

#### Grown Alchemist

- [Gentle Gel Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/grown-alchemist/gentle-gel-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Average fit
- [Hydra-Restore Cream Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/grown-alchemist/hydra-restore-cream-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — [A$52.00 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B00G3J8ISI?tag=lovi-care-web-product-22&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Instant Smoothing Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/grown-alchemist/instant-smoothing-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Average fit

## People Say

Galderma

Grown Alchemist

- Acne Clearance and Breakout Prevention Mostly Mentioned Not noted “cleared up my skin — Galderma Benzac AC Mild Strength 2.5% Acne Gel” “cystic acne gone — Galderma Epiduo Gel” “stops new pimples — Galderma Epiduo Gel”
- Gentle on Sensitive Skin Sometimes Noted Mostly Mentioned “Perfect for sensitive skin — Grown Alchemist Gentle Gel Facial Cleanser” “calms my skin down — Grown Alchemist Hydra-Restore Cream Cleanser” “didn't burn my face — Galderma Benzac AC Mild Strength 2.5% Acne Gel”
- Non-Stripping and Effective Cleansing Not noted Mostly Mentioned “Doesn't dry out my skin — Grown Alchemist Gentle Gel Facial Cleanser” “Gets everything nice and clean — Grown Alchemist Gentle Gel Facial Cleanser” “doesn't strip at all — Grown Alchemist Hydra-Restore Cream Cleanser”
- Hydrating and Luxurious Texture Not noted Mostly Mentioned “Skin version of chugging water — Grown Alchemist Instant Smoothing Serum” “silkiest cleanser — Grown Alchemist Hydra-Restore Cream Cleanser” “Very light weight — Grown Alchemist Instant Smoothing Serum”
- Pleasant and Soothing Scent Not noted Mostly Mentioned “Smells amazing — Grown Alchemist Gentle Gel Facial Cleanser” “smell is divine — Grown Alchemist Hydra-Restore Cream Cleanser”
- Severe Dryness and Peeling Mostly Mentioned Not noted “face on fire — Galderma Epiduo Gel”
- Redness, Irritation, and Stinging Mostly Mentioned Not noted “red as tomato — Galderma Epiduo Gel”
- Initial Purging Phase Mostly Mentioned Not noted “got worse first — Galderma Epiduo Gel”
- Fabric Bleaching Mostly Mentioned Not noted “bleached my towel — Galderma Benzac AC 5”
- Makeup Removal Issues Not noted Often Mentioned “Isn't going to be your makeup remover — Grown Alchemist Gentle Gel Facial Cleanser”

## Questions and answers

### Galderma or Grown Alchemist: which is better?

Galderma is better for acne clearance, as the products on this page achieve a High fit level for oily acne-prone skin, whereas Grown Alchemist is better for gentle, hydrating care on sensitive skin. Reviewers note that Galderma delivers effective acne-clearing [serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/ingredients/serum), though users may experience severe dryness and peeling.

[The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32175593/) [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29549588/)

### What is the difference between Galderma and Grown Alchemist?

Galderma excels at acne clearance and breakout prevention with products like Epiduo Gel, whereas Grown Alchemist performs better at providing hydrating and gentle cleansing options such as Hydra-Restore Cream Cleanser.

### Which is more affordable, Galderma or Grown Alchemist?

The products on this page for both Galderma and Grown Alchemist do not list pricing information, so a comparison of affordability cannot be made from the available facts.

### Which causes fewer breakouts, Galderma or Grown Alchemist?

Galderma does a better job clearing acne and preventing breakouts with the products on this page. Reviewers frequently mention its serums clear acne effectively, though they may also cause dryness and peeling.

[The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32175593/) [Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33545336/)

### Which brand has products that are better suited for oily acne-prone skin, Galderma or Grown Alchemist?

Galderma has products on this page that are better suited for oily acne-prone skin, with Lovi fit levels rated High. Grown Alchemist products on this page have an Average Lovi fit level for this skin type.

[The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32175593/) [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29549588/)

### Do either Galderma or Grown Alchemist products contain fragrance?

Every product from Galderma and Grown Alchemist on this page lists no fragrance in its ingredients.

### What are the main negative review themes associated with Galderma skincare products?

Reviewers frequently mention severe dryness and peeling alongside severe irritation and discomfort as the main negative review themes associated with the products on this page by Galderma.

## Research behind their key ingredients

- [The effect of niacinamide on reducing cutaneous pigmentation and suppression of melanosome transfer](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12100180/) Niacinamide · The British Journal of Dermatology, 2002
- [Final report on the safety assessment of Benzyl Alcohol, Benzoic Acid, and Sodium Benzoate](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11766131/) Benzyl alcohol · International Journal of Toxicology, 2001
- [Benefits of topical hyaluronic acid for skin quality and signs of skin aging: From literature review to clinical evidence](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36200921/) Sodium hyaluronate molecule · Dermatologic Therapy, 2022
- [Treatment of acne with a combination of propolis, tea tree oil, and Aloe vera compared to erythromycin cream: two double-blind investigations](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/) Aloe barbadensis leaf extract · Clinical Pharmacology, 2018
- [Topical benzoyl peroxide for acne](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32175593/) Benzoyl peroxide, Benzoyl peroxide 25mg g · The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2020
- [Prevention and Reduction of Atrophic Acne Scars with Adapalene 0.3%/Benzoyl Peroxide 2.5% Gel in Subjects with Moderate or Severe Facial Acne: Results of a 6-Month Randomized, Vehicle-Controlled Trial Using Intra-Individual Comparison](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29549588/) Adapalene · American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2018
- [Benzoyl peroxide treatment decreases Cutibacterium acnes in shoulder surgery, from skin incision until wound closure](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33545336/) Benzoyl peroxide, Benzoyl peroxide 25mg g · Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery, 2021
- [The 24-hour skin hydration and barrier function effects of a hyaluronic 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract moisturizing fluid: an intra-subject, randomized, assessor-blinded study](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/) Glycerin · Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017
- [Randomized controlled study for the anti-aging effect of human adipocyte-derived mesenchymal stem cell media combined with niacinamide after laser therapy](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33103316/) Niacinamide · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021
- [Efficacy and Safety of a Fixed-Dose Clindamycin Phosphate 1.2%, Benzoyl Peroxide 3.1%, and Adapalene 0.15% Gel for Moderate-to-Severe Acne: A Randomized Phase II Study of the First Triple-Combination Drug](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34674160/) Benzoyl peroxide, Benzoyl peroxide 25mg g · American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2022
- [A topical gel of tea tree oil nanoemulsion containing adapalene versus adapalene marketed gel in patients with acne vulgaris: a randomized clinical trial](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34251536/) Adapalene · Archives of Dermatological Research, 2022
- [Development of Multifunctional Cosmetic Cream Using Bioactive Materials from Streptomyces sp. T65 with Synthesized Mesoporous Silica Particles SBA-15](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32224894/) Silicon dioxide · Antioxidants, 2020
- [Efficacy of olive leaf extract-containing cream for facial rejuvenation: A pilot study](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32333467/) Olive leaf extract · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020
- [Formulating octyl methoxycinnamate in hybrid lipid-silica nanoparticles: An innovative approach for UV skin protection](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32395645/) Silicon dioxide · Heliyon, 2020
- [Clindamycin phosphate 1.2%/adapalene 0.15%/benzoyl peroxide 3.1% gel for moderate-to-severe acne: Efficacy and safety results from two randomized phase 3 trials](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37656094/) Adapalene · Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 2023
- [Efficacy and safety of microencapsulated benzoyl peroxide and microencapsulated tretinoin for the treatment of acne vulgaris: Results from two phase 3 double-blind, randomized, vehicle-controlled studies](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37356627/) Benzoyl peroxide, Benzoyl peroxide 25mg g · Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 2023
- [Semi-Solid Dosage Forms Containing Pranoprofen-Loaded NLC as Topical Therapy for Local Inflammation: In Vitro, Ex Vivo and In Vivo Evaluation](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37367119/) Carbomer 940 · Gels, 2023
- [A Rose Extract Protects the Skin against Stress Mediators: A Potential Role of Olfactory Receptors](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33081083/) Rose bud · Molecules, 2020
- [Is benzyl alcohol a significant contact sensitizer?](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35080274/) Benzyl alcohol · Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2022
- [Effect of a botanical cleansing lotion on skin sebum and erythema of the face: A randomized controlled blinded half-side comparison](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/) Willow bark extract · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019
- [Anti-Inflammatory Effect of a Novel Topical Herbal Composition (VEL-091604) Consisting of Gentian Root, Licorice Root and Willow Bark Extract](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30690691/) Willow bark extract · Planta Medica, 2019
- [Noninvasive evaluation of the influence of aucubin-containing cosmetic macroemulsion on selected skin parameters](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32750209/) Plantago extract · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021
- [Rosa gallica and its active compound, cyanidin-3,5-O-diglucoside, improve skin hydration via the GLK signaling pathway](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36573713/) Rose bud · BioFactors, 2023
- [Clinical efficacy of herbal extract cream on the skin hydration, elasticity, thickness, and dermis density for aged skin: A randomized controlled double-blind study](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30636339/) Botanical extracts · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019
- [Influence of the emulsifier on nanostructure and clinical application of liquid crystalline emulsions](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36918671/) Camellia seed oil · Scientific Reports, 2023
- [Development and efficacy assessments of tea seed oil makeup remover](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27988044/) Camellia seed oil · Annales Pharmaceutiques Francaises, 2017
- [Effects of fermented tea seed oil on the skin lipid barrier and microbiome of sensitive skin](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41319188/) Camellia seed oil · International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2026

## The brands

- Swiss skincare: [Galderma](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/brands/galderma)
- Skincare: [Grown Alchemist](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/brands/grown-alchemist)

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## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi compares products by their fit scores, calculated from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this comparison: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

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