# MAC vs Theramid

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/compare/mac-vs-theramid

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

MAC and Theramid are distinguished skincare brands that cater to diverse dermatological needs through specialized formulations. The Canadian brand, established in 1984, offers reliable moisturizers and makeup removers that suit balanced skin best with gentle ingredients, while the Spanish brand, founded in 2022, provides advanced moisturizers and targeted [serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/ingredients/serum) that accommodate balanced, dry, combination, oily, and sensitive skin. Both manufacturers address specific concerns such as acne, dark spots, and aging through distinct approaches, differing primarily in their breadth of skin-type compatibility and the complexity of their engineered compositions.

MAC is a Canadian skincare brand founded in 1984 and owned by The Estée Lauder Companies Inc. since 1994.

[elcompanies.com](https://www.elcompanies.com/en-gb/our-brands/mac) [en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Est%C3%A9e_Lauder_Companies)

Theramid is a Spanish skincare brand founded in 2022 and owned by Cosnova Group since 2026.

[cosmeticsbusiness.com](https://cosmeticsbusiness.com/cosnova-acquires-niche-beauty-labs-expand-skin-care)

This page compares some of the most popular MAC and Theramid 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=pg4093e971c6).

### Popular MAC vs Theramid products

#### Theramid

- [Copper Peptide](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/theramid/copper-peptide/for/oily-skin) — High fit
- [DERMA-PEPTIDES](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/theramid/derma-peptides/for/mature-skin) — High fit
- [Ceramide Treatment](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/theramid/ceramide-treatment/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit

#### MAC

- [Hyper Real Serumizer](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/mac/hyper-real-serumizer/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — High fit — [CA$86.93 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0BV14LWTN?tag=lovi-care-web-product01-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Mineralize Timecheck Lotion](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/mac/mineralize-timecheck-lotion/for/dry-skin) — High fit
- [Hyper Real Fresh Canvas Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/mac/hyper-real-fresh-canvas-cleansing-oil/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — High fit

## People Say

MAC

Theramid

- Texture and Skin Softening Sometimes Noted Mostly Mentioned “the texture is a sophisticated, lightweight gel that absorbs almost instantly without leaving a sticky residue — Theramid Copper Peptide” “Absorbs quickly — Theramid DERMA-PEPTIDES” “Nice lightweight emulsion — Theramid Ceramide Treatment” “petal-soft skin — MAC Hyper Real Serumizer”
- Non-Irritating and Gentle Formula Often Mentioned Often Mentioned “Does not cause breakouts — MAC Mineralize Timecheck Lotion” “Doesn't sting my eyes or blur my vision. — MAC Hyper Real Fresh Canvas Cleansing Oil” “Suitable for sensitive skin — Theramid DERMA-PEPTIDES” “incredibly gentle... I experienced zero redness or irritation — Theramid Copper Peptide”
- Makeup Performance and Prep Mostly Mentioned Not noted “foundation glides on — MAC Hyper Real Serumizer” “Sits beautifully under makeup — MAC Mineralize Timecheck Lotion” “absorbs quickly — MAC Hyper Real Serumizer”
- Firmness and Anti-Aging Not noted Mostly Mentioned “Fine lines are less visible — Theramid DERMA-PEPTIDES” “my skin feels incredibly fed and plump — Theramid Copper Peptide”
- Radiance and Glow Often Mentioned Sometimes Noted “lit-from-within look — MAC Hyper Real Serumizer” “instantly gives the skin a radiant glow and freshness — Theramid Copper Peptide”
- High Price Point Mostly Mentioned Rarely Noted “Didn't work better than cheaper options — Theramid Ceramide Treatment” “too expensive — MAC Hyper Real Serumizer”
- Fragrance and Scent Sensitivity Often Mentioned Rarely Noted “Didn't like the scent — Theramid Ceramide Treatment” “scent is overpowering — MAC Hyper Real Serumizer”
- Skin Irritation and Breakouts Often Mentioned Rarely Noted “Gave me massive texture and bumps — Theramid Ceramide Treatment” “caused acne — MAC Hyper Real Serumizer”

## Questions and answers

### MAC or Theramid: which is better?

Neither brand is universally better, as MAC excels in makeup bases and radiance with scented formulas, while Theramid is better for fragrance-free restorative moisturizers and anti-aging care. Reviewers note that MAC products on this page feature strong fragrance, whereas Theramid products contain no fragrance.

### What is the difference between MAC and Theramid?

MAC is known for its makeup bases and lightweight moisturizers that bring radiance and glow, whereas Theramid stands out with its restorative, soothing moisturizers that help with texture, skin softening, firmness, and anti-aging. Lovi shows that Theramid offers a Superior fit for dry sensitive skin with its Ceramide Treatment, while MAC includes fragrance in all products on this page compared to none in Theramid.

[Scientific Reports, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35340018/) [International Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18717861/)

### MAC or Theramid: which moisturizer is better?

Theramid is the better moisturizer brand for dry and sensitive skin on this page, with Ceramide Treatment reaching a Superior Lovi fit level, whereas MAC moisturizers on this page contain fragrance. Reviewers note that Theramid provides restorative and soothing moisturizers.

[Scientific Reports, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35340018/) [International Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18717861/)

### Which is more affordable, MAC or Theramid?

Theramid is the more affordable brand, as review themes note MAC has a high price point while Theramid features more budget-friendly pricing across the products on this page.

### Which causes fewer breakouts, MAC or Theramid?

MAC is the better choice for avoiding breakouts because Theramid has more complaints about skin irritation and breakouts.

### Which brand has products that are entirely free of fragrance, MAC or Theramid?

Theramid is the brand whose products on this page are entirely free of fragrance, whereas all MAC products on this page list fragrance.

### How do the founding years and countries of origin compare between MAC and Theramid?

MAC was founded in 1984 in Canada, whereas Theramid was founded in 2022 in Spain.

### Which brand performs better for texture and skin softening according to reviewers?

For texture and skin softening, Theramid performs better according to reviewers. Lovi rates Theramid's Ceramide Treatment with a Superior fit for dry sensitive skin.

## Research behind their key ingredients

- [Hyaluronic acid and wound healing](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25877441/) Sodium hyaluronate · Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2015
- [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
- [Mechanistic Basis and Clinical Evidence for the Applications of Nicotinamide (Niacinamide) to Control Skin Aging and Pigmentation](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34439563/) Niacinamide · Antioxidants, 2021
- [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 · Dermatologic Therapy, 2022
- [Moisturizing and Antiinflammatory Properties of Cosmetic Formulations Containing Centella asiatica Extract](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/) Madecassic acid · Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016
- [Effect of Camellia japonica oil on human type I procollagen production and skin barrier function](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17386986/) Camellia japonica seed oil · Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2007
- [Alteration of barrier properties, stratum corneum ceramides and microbiome composition in response to lotion application on cosmetic dry skin](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35340018/) Ceramide · Scientific Reports, 2022
- [Ceramide 1 and ceramide 3 act synergistically on skin hydration and the transepidermal water loss of sodium lauryl sulfate-irritated skin](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18717861/) Ceramide np · International Journal of Dermatology, 2008
- [Green tea extract reduces induction of p53 and apoptosis in UVB-irradiated human skin independent of transcriptional controls](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18631247/) Camellia sinensis leaf extract · Experimental Dermatology, 2009
- [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, Madecassic acid · 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
- [The Effects of a Standardized Extract of Centella asiatica on Postlaser Resurfacing Wound Healing on the Face: A Split-Face, Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32310680/) Madecassic acid · Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2020
- [The anti-wrinkle efficacy of argireline, a synthetic hexapeptide, in Chinese subjects: a randomized, placebo-controlled study](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23417317/) Acetyl hexapeptide-8 · American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2013
- [A Double-Blinded, Randomized, Vehicle-Controlled Study of the Efficacy of Moisturizer Containing Licochalcone A, Decanediol, L-Carnitine, and Salicylic Acid for Prevention of Acne Relapse in Asian Population](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/) Salicylic acid · BioMed Research International, 2020
- [Senomorphic activity of a combination of niacinamide and hyaluronic acid: correlation with clinical improvement of skin aging](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39009698/) Niacinamide · Scientific Reports, 2024
- [Self-Assembled Cubic Liquid Crystalline Nanoparticles for Transdermal Delivery of Paeonol](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26517086/) Paeonia albiflora flower extract · Medical Science Monitor, 2015
- [Systematic Study of Paeonol/Madecassoside Co-Delivery Nanoemulsion Transdermal Delivery System for Enhancing Barrier Repair and Anti-Inflammatory Efficacy](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37446936/) Centella asiatica · Molecules, 2023
- [Anti-Wrinkle Efficacy of Cross-Linked Hyaluronic Acid-Based Microneedle Patch with Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 and Epidermal Growth Factor on Korean Skin](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33911590/) Acetyl hexapeptide-8 · Annals of Dermatology, 2019
- [Efficacy of a multitargeted, salicylic acid-based dermocosmetic cream compared to benzoyl peroxide 5% in Acne vulgaris: Results from a randomized study](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/) Salicylic acid · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024
- [The pivotal role of Bifida Ferment Lysate on reinforcing the skin barrier function and maintaining homeostasis of skin defenses in vitro](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37218728/) Bifida lysate ferment · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023
- [A Lipid Mixture Enriched by Ceramide NP with Fatty Acids of Diverse Chain Lengths Contributes to Restore the Skin Barrier Function Impaired by Topical Corticosteroid](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34348350/) Ceramide np · Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 2022
- [Clay jojoba oil facial mask for lesioned skin and mild acne--results of a prospective, observational pilot study](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22585103/) Jojoba seed oil · Forschende Komplementarmedizin, 2012
- [Evaluation of dermal extracellular matrix and epidermal-dermal junction modifications using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometric imaging, in vivo reflectance confocal microscopy, echography, and histology: effect of age and peptide applications](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25817264/) Palmitoyl tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2015
- [A Salicylic Acid-Based Dermocosmetic is Effective as an Adjunct to Benzoyl Peroxide for Mild to Moderate Acne and as Monotherapy in Maintenance Post Benzoyl Peroxide](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/) Salicylic acid · Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023
- [Subclinical cutaneous inflammation remained after permeability barrier disruption enhances UV sensitivity by altering ER stress responses and topical pseudoceramide prevents them](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28631090/) Ceramide ng · Archives of Dermatological Research, 2017
- [Topical application of jojoba (Simmondsia chinensis L.) wax enhances the synthesis of pro-collagen III and hyaluronic acid and reduces inflammation in the ex-vivo human skin organ culture model](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38344180/) Jojoba seed oil · Frontiers in Pharmacology, 2024
- [Effects of 1,3-propanediol associated, or not, with butylene glycol and/or glycerol on skin hydration and skin barrier function](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37699769/) Propanediol · International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024
- [Antiacne and antiblotch activities of a formulated combination of Aloe barbadensis leaf powder, Garcinia mangostana peel extract, and Camellia sinensis leaf extract](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31239743/) Camellia sinensis leaf extract · Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019
- [The efficacy study of the combination of tripeptide-10-citrulline and acetyl hexapeptide-3. A prospective, randomized controlled study](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28150423/) Acetyl hexapeptide-8 · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2017
- [Positive and ecobiological contribution in skin photoprotection of ectoine and mannitol combined in vivo with UV filters](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37539499/) Ectoin · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024
- [Partially purified paeoniflorin exerts protective effects on UV-induced DNA damage and reduces facial wrinkles in human skin](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16676123/) Paeonia albiflora flower extract · Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2006
- [Squalane as a Promising Agent Protecting UV-Induced Inhibition of Collagen Biosynthesis and Wound Healing in Human Dermal Fibroblast](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40363772/) Squalane · Molecules, 2025
- [Effects of Investigational Moisturizers on the Skin Barrier and Microbiome following Exposure to Environmental Aggressors: A Randomized Clinical Trial and Ex Vivo Analysis](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37763018/) Yeast extract · Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2023
- [Influence of vitamin E acetate on stratum corneum hydration](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9706379/) Tocopheryl acetate · Arzneimittel-Forschung, 1998
- [Effect of an Emollient Emulsion Containing 15.0% of Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride on the Urocanic Acid of the Stratum Corneum](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37109405/) Caprylic capric triglyceride · Life, 2023
- [Safety assessment on comedogenicity of dermatological products containing d-alpha tocopheryl acetate in Asian subjects: A double-blind randomized controlled trial](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34471722/) Tocopheryl acetate · Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications, 2021
- [Efficacy and safety of combination cream of stimu-tex AS™ (spent grain wax, Argania Spinosa Kernel oil, Butyrospermum Parkii (shea butter) extract), and saccharide isomerate after fractional CO2 laser procedure: split-face, double blinded, randomized controlled trial](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41134387/) Butyrospermum parkii butter shea butter · Lasers in Medical Science, 2025
- [Augmented Skin Beneficial Effects of Thermus Thermophilus and Bacillus Subtilis Mixed-Culture Ferment Extract by Tripeptide GHK-Cu](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42573538/) Copper tripeptide-1 · Skin Research and Technology, 2026
- [Targeting Circadian Rhythm for the Regulation of Skin Collagen Metabolism](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41527525/) Palmitoyl tripeptide-1 · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2026
- [Mechanistic understanding and peptide ingredient screening for type III collagen via biological knowledge graph and molecular docking](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42683869/) Palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7, Palmitoyl tripeptide-1 · International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2026

## The brands

- Canadian skincare: [MAC](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/mac)
- Spanish skincare: [Theramid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/theramid)

## More comparisons

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- [SKIN1004 vs Theramid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/compare/skin1004-vs-theramid)
- [Anua vs MAC](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/compare/anua-vs-mac)
- [Anua vs Theramid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/compare/anua-vs-theramid)
- [Medicube vs MAC](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/compare/medicube-vs-mac)
- [Medicube vs Theramid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/compare/medicube-vs-theramid)
- [The Ordinary vs MAC](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/compare/the-ordinary-vs-mac)
- [The Ordinary vs Theramid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/compare/the-ordinary-vs-theramid)
- [Beauty of Joseon vs MAC](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/compare/beauty-of-joseon-vs-mac)
- [Beauty of Joseon vs Theramid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/compare/beauty-of-joseon-vs-theramid)
- [COSRX vs MAC](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/compare/cosrx-vs-mac)
- [COSRX vs Theramid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/compare/cosrx-vs-theramid)
- [CeraVe vs MAC](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/compare/cerave-vs-mac)
- [CeraVe vs Theramid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/compare/cerave-vs-theramid)
- [La Roche-Posay vs MAC](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/compare/la-roche-posay-vs-mac)
- [La Roche-Posay vs Theramid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/compare/la-roche-posay-vs-theramid)
- [Dr. Althea vs MAC](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/compare/dr-althea-vs-mac)
- [Dr. Althea vs Theramid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/compare/dr-althea-vs-theramid)
- [Some By Mi vs MAC](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/compare/some-by-mi-vs-mac)
- [Some By Mi vs Theramid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/compare/some-by-mi-vs-theramid)

## 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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