Side by side
La Roche-Posay vs Good Molecules
La Roche-Posay
85 positive (75%) · 9 mixed (8%) · 20 negative (18%)
Trust + time weighted: +59%
AI summary — not a quote
La Roche-Posay is widely regarded as a premium 'gold standard' pharmacy brand, particularly praised for its advanced sunscreen filters and specialized lines like Effaclar for acne. While frequently recommended alongside brands like CeraVe and Cetaphil, it is positioned at a higher price point. Users generally trust it for barrier repair and sensitive skin, though a minority of reviewers report adverse reactions such as burning or breakouts, and some note that US formulations differ from the original French versions.
Pros
- Proprietary sunscreen filters are considered highly effective for anti-aging
- Effaclar line is a frequent recommendation for managing acne
- Double Repair cream is highly valued for skin barrier recovery
- Minimal ingredient lists are often suitable for sensitive skin
Cons
- Significantly more expensive than comparable brands like CeraVe or Vanicream
- Occasional reports of skin irritation, rashes, or burning sensations
- Some users experienced increased breakouts when using products intended for barrier repair
- Small product sizes relative to the cost
Top excerpts
La roche Posay = burnt my skin/ rashes
My fave also didn’t like it as much as it did the other one and I’m suspecting it had to do with whatever fragrance this one has in it. I’m pretty sure it’s counterfeit, but perhaps there are others who have more intel on why the bottles are different.
And a really good moisturizer, immediately after, day and night. Cerave and La Roche Posay have OTC moisturizers people really like. I have been using the NIDA moisturizing cream and then lock it in with cerave moisturizing cream (I like thicker moisturizers).
The Effaclar line from La Roche is great for acne!
La Roche is incredible if you don't mind spending a little bit more, but I think its worth every penny!
Good Molecules
14 positive (82%) · 2 mixed (12%) · 1 negative (6%)
Trust + time weighted: +82%
AI summary — not a quote
Good Molecules is highly regarded as an effective and budget-friendly skincare brand, frequently recommended as a comparable alternative to The Ordinary and The Inkey List. Users consistently praise the brand for its lightweight, non-sticky formulas that help manage oil production without causing breakouts. Its product line is noted for having well-reviewed formulas for basic serums like Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, and Vitamin C.
Pros
- Highly affordable pricing across the product line
- Effective at regulating oil production for some users
- Non-sticky and non-greasy textures that absorb well
- Reliable basic serums (Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin C)
Cons
- Some users find the products too similar to The Ordinary, which may not suit everyone
- Presence of potential 'trigger' ingredients in specific formulations like sunscreen
Top excerpts
Brands to look into: (creams/gels) the ordinary, good molecules, inkey list. (serums) cos de baha, anua.
I do some skincare like retinol, lactic acid too. Good molecules is a good brand.
Good Molecules and INKEY List have lots of well-reviewed formulas;
I use the one by Good Molecules but The Ordinary has a good affordable one too.
a basic hyaluronic acid serum (like The Ordinary or Good Molecules) works for both AM/PM and just helps your moisturizer work better.