Dr Sheth’s vs Minimalist: Which Skincare Brand is Better for Indian Skin in 2025?
The Indian skincare market has exploded with homegrown brands focusing on ingredient-led formulations. Among the most talked-about names are Dr Sheth’s and Minimalist—two popular brands offering clean, effective, and dermatologist-backed products. But which one is better for your skin concerns—especially pigmentation, acne, and aging?
In this detailed comparison, we’ll explore everything from brand philosophy and product range to ingredients, price, and effectiveness so you can make the best choice for your skin.
Brand Overview
🧴 Dr Sheth’s
Founded by dermatologist Dr. Rekha Sheth, Dr Sheth’s is a brand formulated specifically for Indian skin, which tends to be more prone to pigmentation, tanning, and pollution-related damage. Their products are a mix of Western actives and traditional Ayurvedic ingredients, offering a unique blend of science and heritage.
Brand Philosophy: Doctor-formulated, tailored to Indian skin needs, Ayurvedic + Scientific.
USP: Combines ingredients like Glycolic Acid, Vitamin C, and Niacinamide with Ashwagandha, Turmeric, and Liquorice.
🧪 Minimalist
Minimalist burst onto the scene with a no-BS approach to skincare, focusing on transparency, science-backed actives, and minimalist ingredient lists. It is often dubbed as "India's The Ordinary" and appeals to ingredient-conscious millennials.
Brand Philosophy: Transparent, effective, clean formulations with no marketing fluff.
USP: Clear ingredient percentages, clean packaging, focus on efficacy over trends.
Product Range Comparison
| Category | Dr Sheth’s | Minimalist |
| Vitamin C Serums | 15% Vitamin C + E + Ferulic Acid | 10% Vitamin C with Ethyl Ascorbic Acid |
| Niacinamide Serums | 5% Niacinamide + Licorice | 5% & 10% Niacinamide options |
| Exfoliants | AHA + Lactic Acid Peel | 25% AHA + 2% BHA Peeling Solution |
| Sunscreens | Ceramide & Vitamin C Sunscreen SPF 50 | SPF 60 PA+++ Multivitamin Sunscreen |
| Moisturizers | Haldi & Hyaluronic Acid | Marula Oil, Squalane-based |
| Pigmentation Care | Depigmentation Serum with Kojic + Tranexamic Acid | Alpha Arbutin + Kojic Acid Serum |
| Acne Care | Neem + Salicylic Cleanser, Clarifying Serum | 2% Salicylic Acid, Azelaic Acid 10% |
Price & Affordability
| Product | Dr Sheth’s | Minimalist |
| Vitamin C Serum | ₹799 – ₹999 | ₹599 – ₹699 |
| Niacinamide Serum | ₹699 | ₹599 |
| Sunscreen | ₹649 | ₹399 – ₹599 |
| Peeling Solution | ₹899 | ₹699 |
Observation: Minimalist is generally more affordable, making it ideal for budget-conscious consumers. Dr Sheth’s may be slightly premium, but the blend of Ayurveda and actives may justify the cost.
Skin Suitability: What Works for Whom?
💡 Choose Dr Sheth’s If You Have:
-Sensitive or pigmented Indian skin
-Preference for Ayurvedic ingredients
-Need for anti-pollution and anti-pigmentation care
-Love products with heritage + science
🔬 Choose Minimalist If You Want:
-Specific actives at known concentrations
-Simple, clean formulations with few ingredients
-No fragrance or harsh additives
-More affordable alternatives to international brands
Popular Bestsellers: What Customers Love
⭐ Dr Sheth’s Bestsellers:
-Amla Vitamin C Serum
-Cica & Ceramide Sunscreen SPF 50
-Haldi & Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer
-Neem & Salicylic Cleanser
⭐ Minimalist Bestsellers:
-10% Niacinamide + Zinc
-25% AHA + 2% BHA Peeling Solution
-Alpha Arbutin 2% + Hyaluronic Acid
-Vitamin B5 10% Moisturizer
Packaging & Brand Experience
Minimalist uses sleek, lab-style packaging, appealing to modern, tech-savvy users.
Dr Sheth’s has a more traditional feel with richer branding and Ayurvedic storytelling.
If you like clean minimalism and transparency, Minimalist wins. If you value rich heritage and holistic messaging, Dr Sheth’s feels more personal.
Where You Can Buy
Both brands are available across:
-Amazon, Nykaa, Flipkart
-Their own websites
-Blinkit (select products)
-Health & Glow, Tira
Both are cruelty-free, Made in India, and dermatologically tested.
Final Verdict: Which One’s Better?
| Factor | Winner |
| Price & Accessibility | Minimalist |
| Ayurvedic Integration | Dr Sheth’s |
| Ingredient Transparency | Minimalist |
| Product Innovation | Dr Sheth’s |
| Sensitive Skin Suitability | Dr Sheth’s |
| Acne & Oil Control | Minimalist |
✅ Choose Dr Sheth’s if:
You want a balance of tradition + science, have pigmented or sensitive skin, and don’t mind paying a bit more for ayurvedic ingredients blended with actives.
✅ Choose Minimalist if:
You prefer a global, ingredient-focused, affordable brand that lets you build a routine with complete control over actives.
Bonus Tip: Add Wild Oak to Your Routine
Looking for a skincare brand that bridges tradition, science, and affordability? Try Wild Oak’s serums—like our Kojic Acid + Licorice Serum for pigmentation or our Niacinamide formula that brightens and evens tone.
2% Kojic Centella Face Serum with Licorice for Dark Spots & Hyperpigmentation
Formulated with dermatologists, Wild Oak is perfect for Indian skin and made for those who want clean beauty with strong results.
Still confused? Try patch testing both brands and see what your skin responds to best—because when it comes to skincare, one size never fits all.
