Dr. Althea is a South Korean skincare brand that has quickly gained success in the k-beauty world. Launched in 2014, Dr. Althea combines scientific expertise with natural ingredients to create innovative skincare products. The name reflects the brand's philosophy: “Dr” represents research and expertise in product development, while “Althea” refers to Korea's national flower, hibiscus, which inspires their skincare principles. Dr. Althea's vision is to offer gentle yet effective skincare – ”When skin heals, you bloom” – where safe, natural ingredients soothe and strengthen the skin.
Philosophy and Background
Dr. Althea focuses on addressing skin issues through extensive research and carefully selected, pure ingredients. All products are formulated to be gentle yet effective and contain no parabens, sulfates, alcohol, mineral oils, or synthetic fragrances and dyes. Dr. Althea emphasizes vegan and cruelty-free skincare.
Examples of ingredients include plant-based squalane, natural azulene (extracted from chamomile extract), and resveratrol with antioxidant properties. At the same time, it is ensured that harsh chemicals are completely avoided.
Dr. Althea's research-based methodology positions the brand as a pioneer in the new generation of South Korean beauty, where advanced formulations are harmonized with gentle ingredients.
What Makes Dr. Althea Unique?
Patented Formulas and Signature Ingredients
Several of the products are developed with unique extracts to deliver effective results. For example, 147 Barrier Cream contains a patented extract of Paeonia albiflora, combined with nourishing avocado oil and four different ceramides. The product offers long-lasting hydration through its advanced formulation with seven-layer hyaluronic acid. The light blue color in 147 Barrier Cream comes from guaiazulene and chamomile extract, and the cream is specifically developed to strengthen the skin's barrier and provide intense hydration.
Gentle Yet Effective
Dr. Althea's products are fragrance-free and free from unnecessary additives, making them particularly gentle on sensitive skin. At the same time, they offer powerful results – for example, 345 Relief Cream combines anti-inflammatory and brightening ingredients like niacinamide and resveratrol with soothing CICA (centella) and ceramides to effectively care for acne-prone skin without causing irritation.
Natural Ingredients
Dr. Althea combines pure, well-proven plant extracts and sugar complexes in its products. Many of the formulas contain key ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, panthenol, centella (cica), green tea, and squalane – all known for their moisturizing and skin-enhancing properties. CICA extract is a consistent component (for example, in Cica Skin Calming Toner and Skin Relief Essence) thanks to its anti-inflammatory and healing-promoting properties.
Popular Products from Dr. Althea
Here are some of Dr. Althea's bestsellers, all carefully developed for specific needs.
345 Relief Cream (50 ml)
A A nourishing gel cream specially developed for acne-prone skin and pigmentation. The formula contains 10,000 ppm Niacinamide, along with panthenol and several soothing extracts such as hibiscus and centella. 345 Cream is designed to counteract pimples, acne scars, and uneven skin tone while strengthening the skin's barrier. The light, fast-absorbing texture offers intense hydration without feeling greasy. The product is free from perfume and artificial colorants, making it ideal for sensitive skin.
147 Barrier Cream (50 ml)
An advanced barrier cream developed for dry or damaged skin. The patented formula combines peony flower extract (Paeonia) with avocado oil, argan oil, and green tea (Camellia sinensis) to effectively strengthen the skin's barrier function. The characteristic light blue color comes from chamomile extract (guaiazulene), which helps to soothe and balance irritated skin. 147 Barrier Cream also contains four types of ceramides and seven forms of hyaluronic acid for intense and long-lasting hydration. Ideal for dry and dehydrated skin – it helps restore the skin's natural protective layer and provides lasting comfort.
Vitamin C Boosting Serum (30 ml)
A highly concentrated serum with vitamin C that promotes radiance and skin evenness. The formula contains 63% sea buckthorn water (Hippophae) and 5% niacinamide, which effectively reduces dark spots and revitalizes dull skin. Additionally, 2% tranexamic acid helps to further even out the skin tone and reduce redness. The serum has a light, water-like consistency that is quickly absorbed by the skin and is completely free from synthetic colorants and fragrances. For best results, it is recommended to use in the morning under sunscreen, which provides a more even skin tone and a natural glow.
Gentle Vitamin C Serum (30 ml)
A serum specially developed for sensitive skin that needs a more even and radiant skin tone. The formula contains 5% niacinamide and 20% sea buckthorn extract – a natural and gentle source of vitamin C, especially suitable for sensitive skin compared to pure ascorbic acid. The innovative oil-based capsule technology provides a moisturizing and pleasantly light texture that both soothes and protects. The serum's main benefits are to improve the skin's radiance and elasticity in a gentle way, making it suitable even for acne-prone skin with regular use.
Pure Grinding Cleansing Balm (50 ml)
A hygienic cleansing balm developed for sensitive skin. The product is delivered in an innovative case where the solid balm transforms into a cream upon use. The formula is gentle yet effective and removes both makeup and impurities without affecting the skin's pH balance. The balm contains 14 carefully selected ingredients, including camellia oil, grape seed oil, and madecassoside, which together create a fine microfoam for deep cleansing without irritation. After use, the skin feels clean, soft, and hydrated, with less visible pores and reduced redness.
What skin types and conditions is Dr. Althea suitable for?
Dr. Althea develops its products to meet a variety of needs – especially for sensitive skin, but also for issues such as acne, dryness, and uneven skin texture.
Sensitive and stressed skin
Dr. Althea focuses on mild skincare adapted for sensitive skin, which means that many of the products are fragrance-free and rich in soothing CICA (centella). For example, Skin Relief Essence contains a full 85% centella asiatica extract, which effectively reduces redness and strengthens the skin's barrier. The formula is also enriched with panthenol and ceramides for extra softness and hydration. In summary, the brand's products are carefully developed to be gentle, even for irritated and red skin.
Acne-prone skin and pimples
For blemished skin, 345 Relief Cream offers an effective solution with powerful active ingredients. Niacinamide and licorice root help reduce discoloration, calm pimples, and decrease the visibility of red scars, while anti-inflammatory plant extracts, such as hibiscus, soothe skin irritation. The oil-free and lightweight formula is particularly suited for oily and combination skin, as it hydrates without clogging pores.
Dry and damaged skin (impaired barrier)
Red, tight areas and surface dryness can be effectively treated with products like 147 Barrier Cream and Aqua Glowing Sunscreen. These contain moisture-binding hyaluronic acid in multiple molecular dimensions and a high content of ceramides to strengthen the skin's natural protective barrier. Aqua Glowing Sunscreen is, for example, a lightweight sunscreen enriched with panthenol and vinegar water algae, which both immediately hydrates dry skin and creates a protective moisture barrier.
Uneven skin tone and pigmentation
Dr. Althea offers several products with brightening properties. Both Vitamin C serums (Vitamin C Boosting and Gentle Vitamin C) are formulated with high levels of sea buckthorn water and tranexamic acid to effectively reduce dark spots. Niacinamide is another prominent ingredient, known for improving skin radiance, counteracting pigmentation, and evening out skin tone. With regular use, the products contribute to a more even complexion and enhanced glow.
Oily skin and pores
Cleansing is an important part of skincare to reduce visible pores and control sebum production. Pure Grinding Cleansing Balm and other gentle gel cleansers effectively dissolve excess oil and makeup without drying out the skin. This helps maintain the skin's natural balance and contributes to the natural tightening of pores.
Aging and the eye area
For treating fine lines and sagging, To Be Youthful Eye Serum is recommended, containing adenosine, vitamin E, and niacinamide. The serum deeply hydrates the skin and reduces the visibility of small wrinkles around the eyes. Additionally, the ingredients help strengthen the skin's elasticity, resulting in a firmer and more resilient feel.
Example of a skincare routine with Dr. Althea
Here we present a complete suggestion for a morning or evening routine with Dr. Althea products, specifically tailored for sensitive to normal skin.
Cleansing
Start with Pure Grinding Cleansing Balm to effectively remove makeup and impurities. Apply a small amount of balm to dry skin, massage in, add water, and rinse off. The skin is left clean and fresh without feeling tight.
Toner
Apply Cica Skin Calming Toner on cleansed skin. The product contains 85% centella asiatica, known for its soothing and hydrating properties. Pour a small amount onto a cotton pad or into the palm and gently apply over the face with patting motions. movements.
Essence
Apply a few drops of Skin Relief Essence (ampoule essence) for extra nourishment. The product is enriched with centella and ceramides (85% CICA extract) that strengthen the skin barrier and provide intense hydration. Gently pat the essence over the face and neck.
Serum
Depending on your needs, you can apply a serum. For a brighter skin tone and reduction of pigmentation, Gentle Vitamin C Serum or Vitamin C Boosting Serum is recommended. These serums contain a high concentration of vitamin C and niacinamide to provide radiance and a more even skin tone. Apply a few drops and let the serum absorb before moving on to the next step.
Eye serum (optional)
If you wish to treat the eye area, To Be Youthful Eye Serum can be applied at this step. Gently massage the product around the eyes – it reduces fine lines and moisturizes the sensitive skin in the eye area.
Moisturizing Cream
Finish with a moisturizer. In the morning, the lightweight 345 Relief Cream is recommended for oily or combination skin, or 147 Barrier Cream for drier skin. Both products provide ample moisture and strengthen the skin's barrier – choose the one that best suits your skin type.
Sunscreen (morning)
If it's morning, finish your routine with Aqua Glowing Sunscreen SPF30. It is light in texture and provides a fresh glow while protecting against UV radiation. The formula contains panthenol for extra hydration and allows the skin to breathe without clogging pores.
Result: After a few weeks with this routine, the skin may feel calmer, more resilient, and hydrated. A balanced skin barrier contributes to both radiance and improved skin health.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dr. Althea
Is Dr. Althea a vegan brand?
Yes, Dr. Althea is described as vegan-friendly and cruelty-free. The products are made without animal ingredients and have not been tested on animals.
Do the products contain perfume or alcohol?
No, Dr. Althea's formulations are free from artificial fragrances, perfumes, and irritating alcohols. Any scent comes from natural oils, such as chamomile or lavender, in small amounts. Several products are also labeled as sensitive skin safe.
Is Dr. Althea suitable for sensitive skin?
Absolutely. Dr. Althea focuses entirely on gentle skincare for sensitive and reactive skin. The products are formulated with soothing ingredients like centella (CICA), panthenol, and ceramides, and do not cause itching or irritation. Even the more active serums, such as the vitamin C serums, have carefully balanced and skin-friendly formulas that are tailored for sensitive users.
Which ingredients should I avoid if I have allergies?
Dr. Althea products are formulated without common allergens such as parabens, sulfates, mineral oils, and colorants. However, we always recommend reviewing the ingredient list for each individual product, especially if you have sensitive skin. Several of the products contain natural extracts and essential oils, such as lavender and bergamot. These can provide a mild fragrance but are used only in limited amounts.
What does the name “Dr. Althea” mean?
The name reflects the brand's philosophy: "Dr." represents research and expertise in the development process, while "Althea" refers to Korea's national flower (Mugunghwa) – a symbol for the country that serves as the inspiration behind their skincare.
Korean skincare with care – give your skin the best with Dr. Althea
With a combination of advanced research, pure ingredients, and a focus on sensitive skin, Dr. Althea has established itself as a prominent player in Korean skincare. Their products deliver results without compromising skin health – whether the goal is to reduce blemishes, strengthen the skin barrier, or enhance a natural glow.
Discover Dr. Althea and upgrade your skincare routine with a perfect balance between innovation and gentleness.
