Dr. Althea cream 147 vs 345

What Are These Creams For?

Dr. Althea may be known for its calming, skin-loving formulas, but when it comes to picking between the 147 Barrier Cream and the 345 Relief Cream, it really comes down to what your skin is asking for.

Dr. Althea 147 Barrier Cream: For Deep Repair and Hydration

If your skin feels tight, flaky, or reactive, the 147 Barrier Cream is like a soft blanket for your face. It’s designed to restore the skin’s barrier, which is essential for anyone dealing with dryness, sensitivity, or post-treatment irritation.

What it targets:

• Damaged or weakened skin barrier
• Dryness and dehydration
• Redness or irritation from external stressors (like cold weather or over-exfoliating)

Star Ingredients

• Paeonia Albiflora (Peony) Extract: Patented ingredient for barrier health
• Avocado & Kale Extracts: Moisturising and nourishing
• Azulene: Calms irritated skin
• 10,000 ppm Artemisia Extract: Soothes inflammation

It’s packed with ceramides and fatty acids, which mimic your skin’s natural lipids and help lock in moisture. The texture is rich but not greasy, making it great for dry or combination skin—especially during colder seasons.

Dr. Althea 345 Relief Cream: For Soothing, Brightening, and Breakout Care

On the other hand, if your skin leans acne-prone, inflamed, or dull, the 345 Relief Cream has your back. It’s formulated with soothing ingredients and brightening agents, making it a great match for combination or stressed-out skin that still needs hydration but not the heaviness.

What it targets:

• Blemishes and post-acne marks
• Inflammation and redness
• Uneven skin tone or dullness

This one feels lightweight and calming, making it ideal for day use or layering under sunscreen. It includes ingredients like Centella Asiatica and Niacinamide, giving it that gentle but effective edge for sensitive, acne-prone skin.

Star Ingredients

• Niacinamide (1%): Evens tone, reduces spots
• Panthenol (1%): Calms and hydrates
• Opuntia (Prickly Pear) Extract: Antioxidant, soothing
• Centella Asiatica: Strengthens and calms the skin

In short:
✔️ Go for 147 if your skin is dry, barrier-compromised, or craving moisture.
✔️ Choose 345 if your concerns are redness, breakouts, or pigmentation.

Key Differences at a Glance

Ingredient Breakdown: Which Does What?

My Review: 147 vs. 345 Creams

After testing both the 147 Barrier Cream and 345 Relief Cream, I found that each serves a different purpose, depending on your skin’s needs.

The 345 Relief Cream has a lightweight, refreshing texture that absorbed quickly into my skin. While it felt soothing at first, it didn’t provide enough moisture for my dry skin, leaving it a bit tight. I didn’t see any noticeable brightening either, so I think it’s best suited for oilier skin types or anyone looking for a lighter option that won’t feel heavy. It works especially well if your skin is prone to breakouts or irritation, and its minimalistic formula makes it a great choice for humid climates or post-breakout care.

On the other hand, the 147 Barrier Cream was much more satisfying. Its richer texture offered deep hydration, keeping my skin soft and nourished throughout the night. I noticed a reduction in redness after just a week of use, which was a big plus. This cream is perfect for those with dry or sensitive skin that needs extra care. It’s great for replenishing the skin barrier, especially in drier seasons or after using exfoliants and retinoids, making it ideal for skin that’s in need of repair and protection.

Which One Should You Choose?

Choose 345 Relief Cream if…

• Your skin is oily, acne-prone, or prone to redness
• You want a light, fast-absorbing product
• You need something to calm breakouts and irritation

Choose 147 Barrier Cream if…

• You struggle with dryness, flaking, or barrier damage
• Your skin feels tight or easily irritated
• You want rich hydration without heaviness