# Simple vs Galderma

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/compare/simple-vs-galderma

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

Simple and Galderma are established skincare brands offering distinct approaches to daily wellness. The British label, founded in 1960, is celebrated for its gentle moisturizers, makeup removers, cleansers, and toners enriched with [niacinamide](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/ingredients/niacinamide) and [glycerin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/ingredients/glycerin), which suit oily and acne-prone skin best. Meanwhile, the Swiss company, founded in 1981, features targeted [serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/ingredients/serum) such as Epiduo Gel and Benzac treatments for specialized needs. While both brands address acne and aging concerns, they differ in their heritage, core formulations, and product range.

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)

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 Simple and Galderma 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=pg80c812bb2e).

### Popular Simple vs Galderma products

#### Galderma

- [Epiduo Gel](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/galderma/epiduo-gel/for/acne-prone-skin) — High fit
- [Benzac AC 5](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/galderma/benzac-ac-5/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit
- [Benzac AC Mild Strength 2.5% Acne Gel](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/galderma/benzac-ac-mild-strength-2-5-acne-gel/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit

#### Simple

- [Micellar Water](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/simple/micellar-water/for/mature-skin) — Average fit — [€12.99 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.ie/dp/B0793Z5XZB?tag=lovi-care-web-product02-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Micellar Cleansing Water](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/simple/micellar-cleansing-water/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — [€11.99 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.ie/dp/B00X3OQ6N0?tag=lovi-care-web-product02-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Hydrating Light Moisturiser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/simple/hydrating-light-moisturiser/for/dry-skin) — Average fit — [€7.75 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.ie/dp/B000LQX6XG?tag=lovi-care-web-product02-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Refreshing Facial Wash](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/simple/refreshing-facial-wash/for/acne-prone-skin) — Average fit — [€7.24 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.ie/dp/B00CHHK2B6?tag=lovi-care-web-product02-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Replenishing Rich Moisturiser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/simple/replenishing-rich-moisturiser/for/dry-skin) — Average fit — [€6.04 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.ie/dp/B014G4ZW1M?tag=lovi-care-web-product02-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Water Boost Hydrating Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/simple/water-boost-hydrating-gel-cream/for/dry-skin) — Average fit — [€15.68 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.ie/dp/B07CZR7ST1?tag=lovi-care-web-product02-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Kind to Skin Soothing Facial Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/simple/kind-to-skin-soothing-facial-toner/for/mature-skin) — Superior fit — [€8.88 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.ie/dp/B014G4Z42O?tag=lovi-care-web-product02-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)

## People Say

Simple

Galderma

- Gentle on sensitive skin Mostly Mentioned Sometimes Noted “Does not cause any form of irritation on the skin which I love. — Simple Micellar Cleansing Water” “The only cleanser that doesn't turn my face red. — Simple Micellar Water” “no artificial perfume — Simple Hydrating Light Moisturiser” “didn't burn my face — Galderma Benzac AC Mild Strength 2.5% Acne Gel”
- Clears acne and prevents breakouts Not noted Mostly Mentioned “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”
- Hydration and non-drying Mostly Mentioned Not noted “banished dryness within days — Simple Replenishing Rich Moisturiser” “Instantly boosts skin's hydration... face doesn't feel dry and tight. — Simple Micellar Cleansing Water” “Leaves my face feeling soft, not tight. — Simple Micellar Water”
- No residue or lightweight absorption Often Mentioned Not noted “sinks in instantly — Simple Water Boost Hydrating Gel Cream” “absorbs very quickly — Simple Hydrating Light Moisturiser” “absorbs really well — Simple Replenishing Rich Moisturiser”
- Affordable value Often Mentioned Not noted “great value for money — Simple Kind to Skin Soothing Facial Toner” “super affordable — Simple Hydrating Light Moisturiser” “Can't beat the price for the quality. — Simple Micellar Water”
- Effective cleansing Often Mentioned Not noted “Takes off any makeup residue and makes my face feel refreshed. — Simple Micellar Cleansing Water” “Best morning cleanser — Simple Refreshing Facial Wash” “removes last traces of makeup — Simple Kind to Skin Soothing Facial Toner”
- Intense burning and dryness Not noted Mostly Mentioned “face on fire — Galderma Epiduo Gel”
- Acne purge and irritation Not noted Mostly Mentioned “got worse first — Galderma Epiduo Gel”
- Bleaches fabrics Not noted Mostly Mentioned “bleached my towel — Galderma Benzac AC 5”
- Formula and packaging issues Often Mentioned Not noted “New bottle ingredients do not match... lower amounts of beneficial ingredients. — Simple Micellar Cleansing Water”

## Questions and answers

### Simple or Galderma: which is better?

Simple is better for sensitive skin, hydration, and gentle daily use, whereas Galderma is better for clearing acne and preventing breakouts. [Glycerin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/ingredients/glycerin) helps provide moisture in Simple products, while [benzoyl peroxide](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/ingredients/benzoyl-peroxide) helps treat acne in Galderma [serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/ingredients/serum).

[The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32175593/)

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

Simple stands out for its lightweight, affordable, and hydrating options with a High Lovi fit for sensitive skin, whereas Galderma focuses on effective acne-clearing serums that may cause dryness and peeling. The products on this page for both brands list no fragrance in their ingredients.

[The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32175593/)

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

Simple is more affordable, as reviewers frequently mention its affordable value. Galderma is not noted for affordability on this page.

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

Galderma is better at clearing acne and preventing breakouts, while Simple may sometimes cause breakouts or irritations.

[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/)

### Which brand is better for dry skin, Simple or Galderma?

Simple is better for dry skin because its moisturizers and cleansers generally offer Average or High fit levels, whereas Galderma products mostly rate Low or Caution for dry skin. Glycerin helps provide hydration in Simple products.

### Do products from Simple and Galderma contain fragrance?

Every product on this page from both Simple and Galderma lists no fragrance in its ingredients.

### What are the main skin types that Simple products fit best according to their brand-focused routines?

According to their brand-focused routines, Simple products fit oily skin, acne-prone skin, and mature skin best.

## 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
- [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
- [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
- [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
- [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 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
- [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
- [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
- [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
- [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
- [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
- [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/ie/brands/simple)
- Swiss skincare: [Galderma](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/brands/galderma)

## More comparisons

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- [CeraVe vs Simple](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/compare/cerave-vs-simple)
- [CeraVe vs Galderma](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/compare/cerave-vs-galderma)
- [La Roche-Posay vs Simple](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/compare/la-roche-posay-vs-simple)
- [La Roche-Posay vs Galderma](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/compare/la-roche-posay-vs-galderma)
- [Dr. Althea vs Simple](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/compare/dr-althea-vs-simple)
- [Dr. Althea vs Galderma](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/compare/dr-althea-vs-galderma)
- [Some By Mi vs Simple](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/compare/some-by-mi-vs-simple)
- [Some By Mi vs Galderma](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/compare/some-by-mi-vs-galderma)

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