# Simple vs Galderma

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/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 Singapore.

Simple and Galderma are two distinct skincare names that offer specialized care for varying complexions. The British brand is known for its gentle moisturizers, makeup removers, cleansers, and toners formulated with [niacinamide](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/ingredients/niacinamide) and [glycerin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/ingredients/glycerin), while the Swiss brand is recognized for its targeted acne [serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/ingredients/serum). Both cater well to oily acne-prone skin and sensitive skin, yet they differ in their primary offerings and formulations, as the former focuses on barrier-respecting daily essentials and the latter centers on specialized treatment gels.

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=pgd220c68a78).

### Popular Simple vs Galderma products

#### Galderma

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

#### Simple

- [Micellar Water](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/simple/micellar-water/for/mature-skin) — Average fit — [S$27.93 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.sg/dp/B071HPQJJP?tag=lovi-care-web-product0e-22&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Micellar Cleansing Water](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/simple/micellar-cleansing-water/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — [S$35.70 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.sg/dp/B010RAX1L2?tag=lovi-care-web-product0e-22&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Hydrating Light Moisturiser](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/simple/hydrating-light-moisturiser/for/dry-skin) — Average fit — [S$15.00 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.sg/dp/B000LQX6XG?tag=lovi-care-web-product0e-22&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Refreshing Facial Wash](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/simple/refreshing-facial-wash/for/acne-prone-skin) — Average fit — [S$19.51 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.sg/dp/B00CHHK2B6?tag=lovi-care-web-product0e-22&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Replenishing Rich Moisturiser](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/simple/replenishing-rich-moisturiser/for/dry-skin) — Average fit — [S$18.19 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.sg/dp/B005TI7L6O?tag=lovi-care-web-product0e-22&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Water Boost Hydrating Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/simple/water-boost-hydrating-gel-cream/for/dry-skin) — Average fit — [S$28.79 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.sg/dp/B076TBCFWR?tag=lovi-care-web-product0e-22&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Kind to Skin Soothing Facial Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/simple/kind-to-skin-soothing-facial-toner/for/mature-skin) — Superior fit

## 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 gentle hydration and sensitive skin, featuring a Lovi fit level of High for products like Kind to Skin Soothing Facial Toner on sensitive skin, while Galderma focuses on effective acne-clearing [serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/ingredients/serum) that may cause severe dryness and peeling.

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

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

Simple focuses on gentle, hydrating skincare with products like cleansers and moisturizers that feature a High fit for sensitive skin, whereas Galderma specializes in effective acne-clearing serums that have a High fit for acne-prone skin. Reviewers note that Simple offers lightweight and value-friendly hydration, while Galderma treatments frequently cause 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/)

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

Simple is more affordable, as the products on this page offer value-friendly moisturizers compared to Galderma.

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

Galderma is better at clearing acne and preventing breakouts with its acne-clearing serums, whereas Simple reviewers often mention breakouts or irritations.

### Where were Simple and Galderma founded and who currently owns them?

Simple was founded in 1960 in the United Kingdom and has been owned by Unilever PLC since 2011, while Galderma was founded in 1981 in Switzerland and is owned by Galderma Group AG.

### Which brand's products are best suited for sensitive skin, and which is better for clearing acne?

Simple products are better suited for sensitive skin, while Galderma products are better for clearing acne. Lovi rates Simple as having a high fit for sensitive skin, whereas Galderma products may cause severe irritation and dryness.

[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 are the main drawbacks or negative feedback reviewers mention for each brand?

Reviewers of Simple often mention that the products on this page may cause breakouts or irritations, struggle with heavy makeup, and sometimes lack sufficient hydration. On the other hand, reviewers of Galderma mostly mention severe dryness, peeling, irritation, and discomfort.

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

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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

## 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
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- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/compare/simple-vs-galderma
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