# Simple vs FRE

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/compare/simple-vs-fre

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

Simple and FRE are two distinct skincare lines known for distinct approaches to daily care. The British brand offers gentle moisturizers, soothing makeup removers, dependable cleansers, and refreshing toners featuring [niacinamide](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/ingredients/niacinamide) and [glycerin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/ingredients/glycerin), which suit oily skin and mature skin best. Meanwhile, the other brand provides targeted product types and nourishing formulas featuring [argan oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/ingredients/argan-oil), which suit acne-prone skin best. The two differ primarily in their specific ingredients, product compositions, and the distinct skin types they serve most effectively.

Simple is a British skincare brand founded in 1960 and owned by Unilever PLC since 2011.

[en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Simple_Skincare) [sec.gov](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1368457/000119312511134453/dex991.htm) [prnewswire.com](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/alberto-culver-announces-that-unilever-has-received-approval-from-the-us-department-of-justice-to-complete-the-acquisition-of-the-company-121400884.html) [simple.co.uk](https://www.simple.co.uk/philosophy.html)

This page compares some of the most popular Simple and FRE 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=pg958556733b).

### Popular Simple vs FRE products

#### Simple

- [Micellar Water](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/simple/micellar-water/for/mature-skin) — Average fit — [CA$11.99 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0GQQSFPG9?tag=lovi-care-web-product01-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Micellar Cleansing Water](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/simple/micellar-cleansing-water/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — [CA$11.99 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0GQQSFPG9?tag=lovi-care-web-product01-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Hydrating Light Moisturiser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/simple/hydrating-light-moisturiser/for/dry-skin) — Average fit — [CA$15.88 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B000LQX6XG?tag=lovi-care-web-product01-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Refreshing Facial Wash](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/simple/refreshing-facial-wash/for/acne-prone-skin) — Average fit — [CA$12.79 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B000LQUA6M?tag=lovi-care-web-product01-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Replenishing Rich Moisturiser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/simple/replenishing-rich-moisturiser/for/dry-skin) — Average fit — [CA$13.40 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B000LNHB6M?tag=lovi-care-web-product01-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Water Boost Hydrating Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/simple/water-boost-hydrating-gel-cream/for/dry-skin) — Average fit
- [Kind to Skin Soothing Facial Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/simple/kind-to-skin-soothing-facial-toner/for/mature-skin) — Superior fit — [CA$18.72 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B076V2D94Y?tag=lovi-care-web-product01-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)

#### FRE

- [Argan Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/fre/argan-oil/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — High fit

## Questions and answers

### Simple or FRE: which is better?

Simple is the better choice on this page, offering products like Kind to Skin Soothing Facial Toner which has a High fit for sensitive skin. [Niacinamide](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/ingredients/niacinamide) helps control skin aging and pigmentation.

[Antioxidants, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34439563/) [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12100180/)

### What is the difference between Simple and FRE?

Simple features a wide range of fragrance-free cleansers, makeup removers, and moisturizers that fit oily, mature, and combination skin best, whereas FRE offers a single [argan oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/ingredients/argan-oil) product with low fits for oily and combination skin. Niacinamide in Simple products helps reduce cutaneous pigmentation and skin aging.

[The British Journal of Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12100180/) [Antioxidants, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34439563/)

### Which is more affordable, Simple or FRE?

Simple features lightweight, value-friendly moisturizers on the page, while FRE offers an argan oil product with no pricing details mentioned.

### Which causes fewer breakouts, Simple or FRE?

Simple products on this page are reported to sometimes cause breakouts, while FRE does not have enough breakout feedback listed to compare. [Glycerin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/ingredients/glycerin) helps maintain skin hydration.

[Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### How do the company origins and ownership compare between Simple and FRE?

Simple was founded in the United Kingdom in 1960 and has been owned by Unilever PLC since 2011, whereas FRE was founded in 2016 and remains independently owned.

### Which products from Simple and FRE are best suited for dry sensitive skin?

For dry sensitive skin, Simple has several options including its Micellar Cleansing [Water](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/ingredients/water), which Lovi rates as High fit. FRE offers its Argan Oil, which also has a High fit according to Lovi.

### What key ingredients are found across products from both Simple and FRE?

Simple products contain key ingredients like niacinamide and glycerin across the range, whereas FRE's featured product on this page is argan oil. Glycerin helps improve skin hydration, and niacinamide helps reduce cutaneous pigmentation.

[The British Journal of Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12100180/)

## 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
- [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
- [Topical use of dexpanthenol in skin disorders](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/) Panthenol, Panthenol vitamin b5 · American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002
- [Apigenin inhibits UVA-induced cytotoxicity in vitro and prevents signs of skin aging in vivo](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27279007/) Chamomilla recutita flower extract matricaria flower extract · International Journal of Molecular Medicine, 2016
- [Design, characterization, and clinical evaluation of argan oil nanostructured lipid carriers to improve skin hydration](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25143733/) Argania spinosa kernel oil argan kernel oil · International Journal of Nanomedicine, 2014
- [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
- [A new topical panthenol-containing emollient: Results from two randomized controlled studies assessing its skin moisturization and barrier restoration potential, and the effect on skin microflora](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/) Panthenol, Panthenol vitamin b5 · The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017
- [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
- [Stable Ozonides with Vitamin E Acetate versus Corticosteroid in the Treatment of Lichen Sclerosus in Foreskin: Evaluation of Effects on Inflammation](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30991399/) Tocopheryl acetate vitamin e, Tocopheryl acetate · Urologia Internationalis, 2019
- [Efficacy of a topical gel containing chitosan, chlorhexidine, allantoin and dexpanthenol for pain and inflammation control after third molar surgery: A randomized and placebo-controlled clinical trial](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32683390/) Panthenol, Panthenol vitamin b5, Allantoin · Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2020
- [High molecular compounds (polysaccharides and proanthocyanidins) from Hamamelis virginiana bark: influence on human skin keratinocyte proliferation and differentiation and influence on irritated skin](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11684194/) Witch hazel leaf water · Phytochemistry, 2001
- [Comparison of clinical efficacies of sodium ascorbyl phosphate, retinol and their combination in acne treatment](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19134126/) Sodium ascorbyl phosphate · International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2009
- [Efficacy and Tolerability of Topical Nicotinamide Plus Antibacterial Adhesive Agents and Zinc-Pyrrolidone Carboxylic Acid Versus Placebo as an Adjuvant Treatment for Moderate Acne Vulgaris in Indonesia: A Multicenter, Double-blind, Randomized, Controlled Trial](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32983333/) Zinc pca · The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2020
- [Whitening effect of alpha-bisabolol in Asian women subjects](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20642768/) Bisabolol · International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2010
- [Assessment of Combined Ascorbyl Palmitate (AP) and Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (SAP) on Facial Skin Sebum Control in Female Healthy Volunteers](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27756097/) Sodium ascorbyl phosphate · Drug Research, 2017
- [Understanding Solar Skin Elastosis-Cause and Treatment](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30052192/) Witch hazel leaf water · Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2018
- [Borage Oil Treated with Immobilized Lipase Inhibits Melanogenesis](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33128473/) Borago officinalis seed oil · Lipids, 2020
- [Influence of vitamin E acetate on stratum corneum hydration](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9706379/) Tocopheryl acetate vitamin e, Tocopheryl acetate · Arzneimittel-Forschung, 1998
- [Evaluation of the Efficacy and Safety of a Panthenol-Enriched Mask for Skin Barrier Recovery After Facial Laser Treatment: Results of a Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Study](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40613435/) Panthenol, Panthenol vitamin b5 · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025
- [Modulation of skin pigmentation by the tetrapeptide PKEK: in vitro and in vivo evidence for skin whitening effects](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22142309/) Sodium ascorbyl phosphate · Experimental Dermatology, 2012
- [Nanostructured Lipid Carrier Based Gel Containing α-Tocopherol and α-Tocopheryl Acetate for Synergistic Cutaneous Antiaging Efficacy](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41309687/) Tocopheryl acetate · Scientific Reports, 2025
- [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 vitamin e, Tocopheryl acetate · Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications, 2021
- [Impact of dermal emulsions containing diacyl phospholipids, mono acyl phospholipids, sodium lauryl ether sulfate and polysorbate 80 in combination with UVA irradiation on human skin physiology in vivo: A pilot study](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42617898/) Sodium laureth sulfate · International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2026
- [A novel facial moisturizer containing Saccharide isomerate accelerates skin barrier restoration following intense pulsed light treatment: a randomized split-face study](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41211697/) Saccharide isomerate · The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2025
- [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/) Saccharide isomerate · Lasers in Medical Science, 2025
- [Saccharide isomerate ameliorates cosmetic scalp conditions in a Chinese study population](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35279940/) Saccharide isomerate · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023

## The brands

- British skincare: [Simple](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/simple)
- Skincare: [FRE](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/fre)

## More comparisons

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

## 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

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/compare/simple-vs-fre
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/compare/simple-vs-fre
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/compare/simple-vs-fre
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/compare/simple-vs-fre
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/compare/simple-vs-fre
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/compare/simple-vs-fre
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/compare/simple-vs-fre
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/compare/simple-vs-fre
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/compare/simple-vs-fre (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/compare/simple-vs-fre
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/compare/simple-vs-fre
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/compare/simple-vs-fre
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/compare/simple-vs-fre