La Roche-Posay Effaclar Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment Serum vs The Derma Co 0.1% Retinol Serum

La Roche-Posay

The Derma Co

A serum built around AHA and Glycolic acid, for smoothing and brightening.

A serum built around Vitamin C derivative and Vitamin C, for barrier repair and smoothing.

Serum

20 ingredients

27 ingredients

Brand price

USD 44.99 · checked 25 Sept 2026 · brand's site

Brand price

INR 699.00 · checked 5 Oct 2026 · brand's site

No retailer listed yet

Brand from France

Brand from India

At a Glance

They come out differently on Fragrance-free, Alcohol-free and Silicone-free; those rows are shaded. Tap any answer to see why.

AHA2
Alpha hydroxy acids — water-soluble chemical exfoliants.
Citric Acid, Glycolic Acid
Glycolic acid1
The smallest AHA, and so the most penetrating.
Glycolic Acid
Niacinamide1
Vitamin B3 — supports the barrier and evens tone.
Niacinamide

Vitamin C derivative (stable)1
Stable derivatives of ascorbic acid.
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
Polysorbates (Tween emulsifiers)1
Polysorbate (Tween) emulsifiers.
Polysorbate 20
Retinoid1
Vitamin A derivatives that speed cell turnover.
Retinol
Vitamin C1
Vitamin C in any form: an antioxidant and brightener.
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate

Hydrating1
Boosts hydration and relieves dry, tight skin.
Propanediol
Barrier Repair1
Strengthens and restores the skin's natural barrier.
Niacinamide
Redness Reducing1
Soothes visible redness and calms irritation.
Niacinamide
Anti-Aging1
Softens lines and helps skin look youthful.
Glycolic Acid

May Worsen Seborrheic Dermatitis3
May feed the yeast involved in seborrheic dermatitis.
PEG-30 Glyceryl Cocoate, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
May Worsen Irritation2
May cause stinging, redness or sensitivity.
Alcohol Denat., Fragrance
May Worsen Eczema2
May worsen itching or irritation for eczema-prone skin.
Alcohol Denat., Fragrance
May Worsen Rosacea2
Can trigger flare-ups in rosacea-prone skin.
Alcohol Denat., Fragrance

Show highlights for:

These ingredients are found in both products.

Ingredients higher up in an ingredient list are typically present in a larger amount.

Pentylene Glycol
Skin Conditioning, Solvent
1,2-Dihydroxypentane
Learn more about Pentylene Glycol →

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