# Dr. Althea vs Sesderma

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/compare/dr-althea-vs-sesderma

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

Dr. Althea and Sesderma are two esteemed skincare brands offering thoughtful moisturizers, gentle cleansers, effective makeup removers, and advanced [serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/ingredients/serum) driven by soothing formulas and active compounds. The Korean line suits dry skin and acne-prone skin best through balanced hydration and calm comfort, featuring standout solutions like the Amino Acid Gentle Bubble Cleanser, the 345 Relief Cream, and the [Vitamin C](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/ingredients/vitamin-c) Boosting Serum. Meanwhile, the Spanish line suits sensitive, hyperpigmented, and aging skin types best, offering botanical [extracts](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/ingredients/extract) that work synergistically to refine skin texture and promote a radiant complexion, anchored by the Azelac RU Serum. Ultimately, both offer distinct paths to healthier skin through meticulously engineered care.

Dr. Althea is a Korean skincare brand founded in 2014 and owned by The Pure Lab Co., Ltd..

[doctoraltheaglobal.com](https://doctoraltheaglobal.com/) [doctoralthea.co.kr](https://doctoralthea.co.kr/shopinfo/company.html)

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)

This page compares some of the most popular Dr. Althea and Sesderma 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=pg2d0625ebf8).

### Popular Dr. Althea vs Sesderma products

#### Sesderma

- [Azelac RU Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/sesderma/azelac-ru-serum/for/acne-prone-skin) — High fit — [£26.27 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00987RKWW?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)

#### Dr. Althea

- [345 Relief Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/dr-althea/345-relief-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — [£16.81 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07PK2P2XB?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Barrier Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/dr-althea/barrier-cream/for/mature-skin) — High fit — [£8.80 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0H1KRBSTV?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Pure Grinding Cleansing Balm](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/dr-althea/pure-grinding-cleansing-balm/for/dry-skin) — High fit — [£9.69 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CTK1TYNG?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Amino Acid Gentle Bubble Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/dr-althea/amino-acid-gentle-bubble-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — [£12.90 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07RY6Q6QM?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Amino Gel Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/dr-althea/amino-gel-cleanser/for/mature-skin) — Average fit — [£12.90 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07RY6Q6QM?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Vitamin C Boosting Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/dr-althea/vitamin-c-boosting-serum/for/mature-skin) — High fit — [£14.79 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CW99ZRWB?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)

## Questions and answers

### Dr. Althea or Sesderma: which is better?

Dr. Althea is a better fit for shoppers seeking fragrance-free formulas, as every product on this page lists no fragrance, whereas Sesderma includes fragrance in its Azelac RU [Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/ingredients/serum). Dr. Althea also offers a wider variety of products on this page with superior fit levels for skin types like acne-prone and dry skin.

### What is the difference between Dr. Althea and Sesderma?

Dr. Althea offers a wide range of fragrance-free cleansers, moisturizers, and serums that achieve a Superior or High Lovi fit for dry and acne-prone skin, whereas Sesderma features just a single serum on this page that contains fragrance and achieves a High Lovi fit for acne-prone skin and dark spots. Reviewers frequently mention that Dr. Althea products are gentle and soothing, but some note potential scent or breakout issues.

### Which is more affordable, Dr. Althea or Sesderma?

The provided page comparison does not contain pricing or affordability details for either Dr. Althea or Sesderma.

### Which causes fewer breakouts, Dr. Althea or Sesderma?

Dr. Althea helps with breakouts and its 345 Relief Cream achieves a Superior fit for acne-prone skin, whereas Sesderma lacks a specific acne-focused rating advantage on this page and its Azelac RU Serum contains fragrance. Reviewers note that Dr. Althea sometimes causes breakouts, but its products on this page list no fragrance.

### Which brand has more fragrance-free products, Dr. Althea or Sesderma?

Dr. Althea has more fragrance-free products than Sesderma, as every product on the Dr. Althea page lists no fragrance in its ingredients.

### How does the founding year and country of origin compare between Dr. Althea and Sesderma?

Dr. Althea was founded in South Korea in 2014, whereas Sesderma was founded in Spain earlier in 1989.

### What are the main skin types that Dr. Althea's routine is designed to fit best?

Dr. Althea's routine is designed to fit dry skin, acne-prone skin, and skin with dark spots best. Reviewers often mention the brand's soothing and hydrating moisturizers as well as gentle, soothing cleansers.

## 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
- [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/) Hyaluronic acid · Dermatologic Therapy, 2022
- [Topical use of dexpanthenol in skin disorders](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/) Panthenol · American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002
- [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
- [Anti-aging and brightening effects of a topical treatment containing vitamin C, vitamin E, and raspberry leaf cell culture extract: A split-face, randomized controlled trial](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/) Tocopherol, Ascorbic acid · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020
- [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
- [Moisturizing and Antiinflammatory Properties of Cosmetic Formulations Containing Centella asiatica Extract](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/) Centella asiatica, Centella asiatica extract · Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016
- [Topical Application of Centella asiatica in Wound Healing: Recent Insights into Mechanisms and Clinical Efficacy](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39458583/) Centella asiatica · Pharmaceutics, 2024
- [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
- [Effect of a topical antioxidant serum containing vitamin C, vitamin E, and ferulic acid after Q-switched 1064-nm Nd:YAG laser for treatment of environment-induced skin pigmentation](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32052907/) Ascorbic acid, Tocopherol · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020
- [Clinical, biometric and structural evaluation of the long-term effects of a topical treatment with ascorbic acid and madecassoside in photoaged human skin](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18503551/) Centella asiatica leaf extract · Experimental Dermatology, 2008
- [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 · International Journal of Nanomedicine, 2014
- [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
- [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, Madecassoside · 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/) Madecassoside · Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2020
- [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 · The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017
- [Adenosine-loaded dissolving microneedle patches to improve skin wrinkles, dermal density, elasticity and hydration](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29574973/) Adenosine · International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2018
- [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/) Allantoin · Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2020
- [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, Centella asiatica leaf extract, Paeonia albiflora flower extract, Centella asiatica extract · Molecules, 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
- [Efficacy and safety of moisturizer containing 5% panthenol, madecassoside, and copper-zinc-manganese versus 0.02% triamcinolone acetonide cream in decreasing adverse reaction and downtime after ablative fractional carbon dioxide laser resurfacing: A split-face, double-blinded, randomized, controlled trial](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30945430/) Centella asiatica leaf extract · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019
- [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
- [Whitening effect of alpha-bisabolol in Asian women subjects](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20642768/) Bisabolol · International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2010
- [Two-phase delivery using a horse oil and adenosine-loaded dissolving microneedle patch for skin barrier restoration, moisturization, and wrinkle improvement](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30160014/) Adenosine · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019
- [Development of solid lipid microparticles (SLMs) containing asiatic acid for topical treatment of acne: Characterization, stability, in vitro and in vivo anti-acne assessment](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38460769/) Centella asiatica leaf extract · International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2024
- [Clinical Development and Evaluation of a Multi-Component Dissolving Microneedle Patch for Skin Pigmentation Disorders](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37571190/) 3-o-ethyl ascorbic acid · Polymers, 2023
- [Moisturizing effect of serine-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles and polysaccharide-rich extract of root Phragmites communis incorporated in hydrogel bases](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27778274/) Serine · Archives of Pharmacal Research, 2017
- [Formulation of Ascorbic Acid and Betaine-based Therapeutic Deep Eutectic System for Enhanced Transdermal Delivery of Ascorbic Acid](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38794349/) 3-o-ethyl ascorbic acid ascorbic acid · Pharmaceutics, 2024
- [Combined Skin Moisturization of Liposomal Serine Incorporated in Hydrogels Prepared with Carbopol ETD 2020, Rhesperse RM 100 and Hyaluronic Acid](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26557021/) Serine · The Korean Journal of Physiology & Pharmacology, 2015
- [Why is sodium cocoyl isethionate (SCI) mild to the skin barrier? - An in vitro investigation based on the relative sizes of the SCI micelles and the skin aqueous pores](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17598025/) Sodium cocoyl isethionate · Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2007
- [Influence of vitamin E acetate on stratum corneum hydration](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9706379/) 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 · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025
- [Translational Evaluation of a Disodium Adenosine Monophosphate (AMP2Na)-Based Topical Formulation for Physiology-Aligned Skin Rejuvenation: Integrated In Vitro, Ex Vivo, and Clinical Evidence](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42278371/) Adenosine · International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2026
- [Effect of isosecotanapartholide isolated from Artemisia princeps Pampanini on IL‑33 production and STAT‑1 activation in HaCaT keratinocytes](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28447741/) Artemisia princeps leaf extract · Molecular Medicine Reports, 2017
- [Development and efficacy assessments of tea seed oil makeup remover](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27988044/) Camellia sinensis seed oil · Annales Pharmaceutiques Francaises, 2017
- [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
- [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
- [Effects of fermented tea seed oil on the skin lipid barrier and microbiome of sensitive skin](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41319188/) Camellia sinensis seed oil · International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2026
- [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/) Argania spinosa kernel oil · Lasers in Medical Science, 2025
- [Clinical Evaluation of a Soap-Free Cleansing Lotion Containing Sodium Cocoyl Apple Amino Acids for Effective Impurity Removal and Skin Barrier Preservation in Healthy Adults With Diverse Skin Types](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40978887/) Sodium cocoyl apple amino acids · Cureus, 2025
- [Efficacy of a Topical Formulation on Skin Hydration and Barrier Function in Individuals With Xerosis: A 28-Day Randomized, Split-Leg, Untreated-Controlled Trial](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42108609/) Dipotassium glycyrrhizate · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2026

## The brands

- Korean skincare: [Dr. Althea](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/brands/dr-althea)
- Spanish skincare: [Sesderma](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/brands/sesderma)

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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

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