# Sesderma vs MAC

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/compare/sesderma-vs-mac

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

Sesderma and MAC are distinct beauty houses, with the former being a Spanish skincare brand founded in 1989 and the latter being a Canadian skincare brand founded in 1984. Sesderma is beloved for its advanced [serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/ingredients/serum) and meticulously engineered formulas, while the second brand is known for offering reliable moisturizers and makeup removers crafted from carefully balanced formulas. The first brand suits sensitive, hyperpigmented, and aging skin types best through botanical [extracts](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/ingredients/extract) and active compounds, whereas MAC suits balanced skin best, supported by gentle and effective ingredients. They differ because the Spanish label relies on synergistic active ingredients to refine skin texture and promote a radiant complexion, while the Canadian label provides a calm and measured foundation for daily maintenance.

Sesderma is a Spanish skincare brand founded in 1989 and owned by Grupo Sesderma since 2026.

[skinexpert.sesderma.com](https://skinexpert.sesderma.com/en/jb-capital-joins-the-shareholding-of-sesderma-group-as-a-strategic-partner/) [sesderma.com](https://www.sesderma.com/us_en/about-us.html)

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)

This page compares some of the most popular Sesderma and MAC 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=pg3d212f8acf).

### Popular Sesderma vs MAC products

#### Sesderma

- [Azelac RU Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/sesderma/azelac-ru-serum/for/acne-prone-skin) — High fit — [€28.32 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.ie/dp/B00987RKWW?tag=lovi-care-web-product02-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)

#### MAC

- [Hyper Real Serumizer](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/mac/hyper-real-serumizer/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — High fit — [€72.91 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.ie/dp/B0BV14LWTN?tag=lovi-care-web-product02-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Mineralize Timecheck Lotion](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/mac/mineralize-timecheck-lotion/for/dry-skin) — High fit
- [Hyper Real Fresh Canvas Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/mac/hyper-real-fresh-canvas-cleansing-oil/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — High fit

## Questions and answers

### Sesderma or MAC: which is better?

MAC is a better fit for dry sensitive skin because the products on this page achieve a High fit level for that type, whereas Sesderma achieves only a Low fit level there. Reviewers mention that MAC offers popular lightweight moisturizers, but the brand's products on this page all contain fragrance.

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

Sesderma offers a [serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/ingredients/serum) with a High Lovi fit for acne-prone skin and dark spots, whereas MAC provides moisturizers and cleansers that achieve High Lovi fits for dry sensitive skin. Reviewers note that MAC products often have a strong fragrance, and Sesderma's serum on this page also contains fragrance.

[Pharmaceutics, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33923739/)

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

MAC is noted for having a high price point, while Sesderma is not described as such on this page. Lovi does not provide a price comparison between the two brands.

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

For acne-prone skin, Lovi rates Azelac RU Serum by Sesderma as High, while the moisturizers and cleansers on this page by MAC are rated Average. MAC products on this page may cause irritation due to strong fragrance, which is a common concern among reviewers.

[Pharmaceutics, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33923739/)

### Which brand offers products with a High Lovi fit for dry skin, Sesderma or MAC?

MAC offers products with a High Lovi fit for dry skin, specifically through the Mineralize Timecheck Lotion and Hyper Real Fresh Canvas Cleansing Oil on this page. In contrast, Sesderma has a Low fit for dry skin with its Azelac RU Serum.

### How does the founding date and country of origin compare between Sesderma and MAC?

Sesderma was founded in Spain in 1989, whereas MAC was founded in Canada in 1984.

### Do both Sesderma and MAC products contain fragrance according to the page?

Yes, both brands include fragrance in all of the products listed on this page, as every single item from both Sesderma and MAC contains fragrance.

## Research behind their key ingredients

- [Vitamin A antagonizes decreased cell growth and elevated collagen-degrading matrix metalloproteinases and stimulates collagen accumulation in naturally aged human skin](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10692106/) Retinol · The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2000
- [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
- [Improvement of naturally aged skin with vitamin A (retinol)](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17515510/) Retinol · Archives of Dermatology, 2007
- [Nicotinic acid/niacinamide and the skin](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17147561/) Niacin · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2004
- [Molecular basis of retinol anti-ageing properties in naturally aged human skin in vivo](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/) Retinol · International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017
- [Prospective, randomized, double-blind assessment of topical bakuchiol and retinol for facial photoageing](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/) Retinol · The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019
- [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
- [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
- [Efficacy and Safety of Azelaic Acid Nanocrystal-Loaded In Situ Hydrogel in the Treatment of Acne Vulgaris](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33923739/) Azelaic acid · Pharmaceutics, 2021
- [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
- [A topical lipophilic niacin derivative increases NAD, epidermal differentiation and barrier function in photodamaged skin](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17518989/) Niacin · Experimental Dermatology, 2007
- [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
- [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/) Paeonia albiflora flower extract · 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
- [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
- [Effects of 15% Azelaic Acid Gel in the Management of Post-Inflammatory Erythema and Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation in Acne Vulgaris](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38734843/) Azelaic acid · Dermatology and Therapy, 2024
- [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
- [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
- [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
- [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
- [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
- [The efficacy of enoxolone in reducing erythema and pain after laser treatment: A randomized split-face pilot study](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38622995/) Glycyrrhetinic acid · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024
- [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

## The brands

- Spanish skincare: [Sesderma](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/brands/sesderma)
- Canadian skincare: [MAC](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/brands/mac)

## More comparisons

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

## 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/sesderma-vs-mac
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/compare/sesderma-vs-mac
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/compare/sesderma-vs-mac (this page)
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/compare/sesderma-vs-mac
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/compare/sesderma-vs-mac
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/compare/sesderma-vs-mac
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/compare/sesderma-vs-mac
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/compare/sesderma-vs-mac
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/compare/sesderma-vs-mac
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/compare/sesderma-vs-mac
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/compare/sesderma-vs-mac
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