Compare Products: 345 Relief Cream vs Intensive Anti-Spot Essence
Who It's Designed For
- Those with compromised or sensitized skin barriers
- Users recovering from skin procedures or environmental damage
- Sensitive skin types seeking a fragrance-free calming cream
- People who want centella benefits with added antioxidant support
- Those looking for a non-greasy barrier repair cream
- Those targeting specific dark spots and post-acne marks
- Users who want a targeted spot treatment rather than a full-face serum
- People interested in Japanese skincare approaches to brightening
- Budget-conscious shoppers seeking L-ascorbic acid at a low price
- Acne-prone skin that benefits from antibacterial vitamin C products
Key Ingredients
Centella Asiatica Extract, Resveratrol, Ceramide NP, Panthenol, Madecassoside
Ascorbic Acid (L-Ascorbic Acid), Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Alpinia Katsumadai Seed Extract
Product Composition
9% similarity (4 ingredients in common)
Only in Dr. Althea (33)▾
Only in Melano CC (7)▾
User Feedback Patterns
Users frequently report reduced redness and calmer skin within days of use. Popular among those with rosacea-prone or post-procedure skin.
Multiple reviewers note the texture is lighter than expected for a repair cream. Absorbs well and works under makeup.
Many users report using this as their primary moisturizer long-term, not just for recovery periods. Consistent performance across seasons.
Some users with significantly compromised barriers note the cream helped but was not sufficient on its own. Needed pairing with other barrier products.
The most consistent praise is for fading post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from acne. Users report visible improvement in dark marks within 4-8 weeks of targeted daily application.
This product has a dedicated following in r/AsianBeauty and Japanese beauty communities. It is one of the most recommended affordable vitamin C products in these spaces.
The oil-based formula absorbs slowly and leaves a slight residue. Some users find this hydrating; others find it greasy and incompatible with their routine.
The small opening and drop-by-drop dispenser means a 20ml tube can last 2-3 months or longer. Users consider this excellent value despite the small volume.
Which Should You Buy?
Melano CC Intensive Anti-Spot Essence offers great value at a lower price point. Dr. Althea 345 Relief Cream may be worth the premium if you want Centella Asiatica Extract.