If you've spent any time on K-beauty forums, Reddit threads, or TikTok skincare pages, you've almost certainly come across the Dr. Althea 345 Relief Cream. In Canada, it's consistently one of the most-searched Korean skincare products — and for good reason. This isn't just another gel moisturiser with a clever name. The 345 Relief Cream has become a genuine go-to for Canadians dealing with post-acne marks, redness, sensitive skin flare-ups, and the kind of chronic dryness that Canadian winters make worse every year.
This guide covers everything: what the 345 cream actually does, every key ingredient and why it matters, who it's best for, how to build a routine around it, and what to pair it with for better results. If you've been considering buying the Dr. Althea 345 Relief Cream in Canada — or you've already tried it and want to get more from it — read on.
What Is the Dr. Althea 345 Relief Cream?
The name isn't random. The "345" refers to the formula's architecture: 3 blemish-relief ingredients, 4 nourishing agents, and 5 soothing extracts. This structured approach is central to how Dr. Althea works as a brand — every formula is built with a numbered, purposeful ingredient system rather than a kitchen-sink approach.
The result is a lightweight gel-cream that does three things simultaneously:
- Calms active inflammation and redness
- Fades post-acne hyperpigmentation and blemish marks
- Repairs and reinforces the moisture barrier without clogging pores
It's vegan, cruelty-free, EWG Green Grade certified, and fragrance-free — which matters a lot for Canadian skin that deals with environmental stressors like cold temperatures, low humidity, and heating-system dryness.
The 345 Ingredients: A Deep Dive
The 3 Blemish-Relief Ingredients
1. Madecassoside
A purified triterpene from Centella Asiatica with clinical evidence for reducing redness, accelerating wound healing, and increasing collagen synthesis. For post-acne skin, madecassoside targets the inflammation that causes marks to linger — rather than just masking them.
2. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
Inhibits the transfer of melanin to skin cells — the actual mechanism behind post-acne hyperpigmentation. At the concentration in the 345 Relief Cream, niacinamide also strengthens the skin barrier, reduces pore appearance, and regulates sebum. Ideal for oily and combination skin types most prone to acne.
3. Centella Asiatica Extract
The full-spectrum centella complex — containing asiaticoside, asiatic acid, and madecassic acid alongside madecassoside — provides both immediate soothing relief and longer-term barrier repair. This dual action is why the 345 Relief Cream works for acute flare-ups and as a daily maintenance moisturiser.
The 4 Nourishing Agents
Panthenol (Provitamin B5)
A humectant that draws moisture in and locks it in. Also has documented wound-healing properties — ideal for skin irritated by acids, retinol, or active acne. Particularly valuable for Canadian skin in winter.
Allantoin
Accelerates cell turnover and helps skin shed dead cells more efficiently, speeding up the fading of blemish marks. Gentle enough for daily use on sensitive or reactive skin — unlike AHAs, it doesn't cause irritation.
Hyaluronic Acid
Multiple molecular weights work at different skin depths for hydration that feels immediate but also has duration. This is why the 345 Relief Cream doesn't feel like a one-note gel that disappears in an hour.
Ceramide NP
Ceramides make up about 50% of the skin barrier's lipid composition. Ceramide NP restores the skin's lipid matrix — the mortar between skin cells that keeps moisture in and irritants out. Fundamental for barrier recovery after acne, over-exfoliation, or harsh weather.
The 5 Soothing Extracts
Green Tea Extract (Camellia Sinensis)
Rich in EGCG, a potent antioxidant that neutralises free radical damage and reduces UV-induced inflammation. Also mildly sebum-regulating for oily skin types.
Licorice Root Extract (Glycyrrhiza Glabra)
Contains glabridin, which inhibits tyrosinase — the enzyme that triggers melanin production. Works synergistically with niacinamide to reduce hyperpigmentation from multiple pathways simultaneously.
Houttuynia Cordata Extract (Heartleaf)
Strong anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that reduce bacterial activity associated with breakouts while calming post-acne redness. A signature K-beauty ingredient for sensitive and acne-prone skin.
Portulaca Oleracea Extract (Purslane)
An omega-3-rich botanical with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Reinforces the soothing activity of the centella complex and adds protection against environmental stress.
Artemisia Absinthium Extract (Mugwort)
Contains flavonoids that reduce histamine-driven skin reactions — the kind triggered by allergens, pollution, and temperature changes. Particularly relevant for Canadian skin exposed to extreme seasonal shifts.
Who Is the 345 Relief Cream Best For?
Post-acne skin — The niacinamide, madecassoside, and licorice root address hyperpigmentation from multiple angles while keeping the barrier intact. The most targeted combination available at this price point in Canada.
Sensitive and rosacea-prone skin — Fragrance-free, high-centella, gentle enough for daily use. One of the most frequently recommended moisturisers by Canadians managing rosacea.
Oily and combination skin in Canadian winters — Provides meaningful hydration without heaviness. A go-to for oily-skin Canadians when their usual gel isn't enough for winter, but a richer cream would cause breakouts.
Skin recovering from active treatments — After retinol, acids, or professional treatments, the barrier-supporting and anti-inflammatory ingredients provide exactly the recovery environment that compromised skin needs.
Men's skincare — Lightweight texture, no fragrance, minimal steps. Works as a post-shave moisturiser thanks to the anti-inflammatory properties.
How to Use the Dr. Althea 345 Relief Cream
Morning: Cleanser → Toner → Serum (optional) → 345 Relief Cream → SPF 50+
Evening: Double cleanse → Toner → Treatment serum → 345 Relief Cream
Apply a pea-to-two-pea sized amount and press gently into skin. Absorbs quickly — no long wait before applying SPF. Less is more: a thin, even layer works better than a thick application, which can pill under sunscreen.
What to Pair with the 345 Relief Cream
Step 1: Cleanse First
The Dr. Althea Pure Grinding Cleansing Balm (CA$25.95) is the natural companion — a gentle 14-ingredient balm with camellia seed oil and a hygienic grinding mechanism. For oilier skin, the Pore Refresh Grinding Cleansing Balm (CA$23.99) adds green tea and guaiazulene for pore-clearing action.
Step 2: Vitamin C Serum for Faster Fading
The most effective pairing for post-acne marks. Vitamin C blocks melanin production upstream; the niacinamide in the 345 cream blocks it downstream — addressing hyperpigmentation from both ends simultaneously.
The Dr. Althea Vitamin C Boosting Serum (CA$25.00) with 63% Sea Buckthorn Water, 5% niacinamide, 2% Tranexamic Acid, and stable Vitamin C derivative is designed to pair directly with the 345 Relief Cream. For reactive skin, the Gentle Vitamin C Serum (CA$24.99) uses an oil capsule system for slower, gentler release.
Both come bundled in the Dr. Althea Duo Bundle (CA$55.00) — the most popular starting point for new Dr. Althea customers at VGLE Beauty.
Step 3: Richer Barrier Cream for Dry or Winter Skin
The Dr. Althea 147 Barrier Cream (CA$28.95) is richer with 4 ceramide and lipid types and a 7-layer hyaluronic acid complex. Use it layered over the 345 Relief Cream at night, or on drier areas while the 345 handles the T-zone.
Step 4: Weekly Masking
The Dr. Althea Vita Glow Mask 4-Pack (CA$18.95) delivers the Vitamin C Boosting Serum essence on 100% lyocell fabric in a 20-minute weekly treatment that amplifies the daily action of the 345 Relief Cream.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why buy the Dr. Althea 345 Relief Cream from VGLE Beauty?
VGLE Beauty sources directly from authorised distributors — every product is 100% authentic, not grey-market or repackaged stock. We ship Canada-wide with no surprise customs fees, offer free shipping on orders over CA$55, and provide bilingual support in English and French. If you're looking to buy Dr. Althea 345 Relief Cream in Canada with fast, reliable delivery and guaranteed authenticity — VGLE Beauty is the straightforward choice.
How long does it take to see results?
Redness and inflammation typically improve within a few days. Post-acne marks take 4–6 weeks with consistent twice-daily use. Pairing with the Vitamin C Serum shortens the timeline significantly.
Can I use the 345 Relief Cream with retinol?
Yes — one of the better pairings. Apply retinol first, let it absorb, then apply the 345 Relief Cream as a buffer layer. The centella, ceramide, and panthenol reduce retinol irritation substantially.
Is it suitable for men?
Yes. Fragrance-free, lightweight, minimal steps. Works as a post-shave moisturiser given the anti-inflammatory properties.
How does it compare to COSRX Snail Mucin or Anua Heartleaf?
The 345 Relief Cream is more targeted for post-acne marks and redness. COSRX Snail Mucin focuses on hydration and healing; Anua Heartleaf toner focuses on calming at the toner step. Many Canadians use all three: Anua at toner, 345 Relief Cream at moisture step.
Where can I buy it with fast shipping in Canada?
VGLE Beauty ships Dr. Althea 345 Relief Cream Canada-wide. Free shipping on orders over CA$55 — easily reached by adding the Vitamin C Serum or 147 Barrier Cream.
Best Value: The Twin Pack
For daily users, the 345 Relief Cream Twin Pack (50ml + 50ml) (CA$55.00) is the most economical option. Each 50ml jar lasts 6–8 weeks with twice-daily use — a 3–4 month supply in one order.
Final Verdict
The Dr. Althea 345 Relief Cream earns its reputation in Canada because it solves a specific, common problem — post-acne marks and chronic redness — with a formula that's both clinically grounded and gentle enough for daily use on sensitive skin. The numbered ingredient system isn't marketing; it reflects a genuine commitment to purposeful formulation. For Canadians dealing with post-acne marks, skin prone to redness, or the dryness that comes with living through extreme seasonal changes, this moisturiser offers reliable daily hydration and barrier-supporting care at an accessible price point.
Buy the Dr. Althea 345 Relief Cream in Canada
Fast Canada-wide shipping from VGLE Beauty. Free shipping on orders over CA$55.
Buy 345 Relief Cream — CA$27.95 → Shop Full Dr. Althea Range →
Related: Dr. Althea Canada — Brand Overview · Anua Canada · Biodance Canada · VGLE Beauty Blog
