# Maelove Moonlight Retinal Super Serum for acne-prone skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for acne-prone skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/maelove/moonlight-retinal-super-serum/for/acne-prone-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for the United Arab Emirates.

Brand: [Maelove](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/brands/maelove)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with acne-prone skin: breakouts, blackheads, and post-acne marks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for acne-prone skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate suitability for combination skin, as niacinamide helps regulate oil in your T-zone while squalane provides emollient action for drier areas, though it lacks stronger humectants for optimal hydration.
- Retinaldehyde effectively targets fine lines and wrinkles, but the formula does not contain specialized ingredients to address your primary concerns of acne, blemishes, and breakouts.
- The product is generally safe for your combination skin, featuring soothing ingredients like Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice and Bisabolol L-Alpha with no harsh or prohibited substances.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/maelove/moonlight-retinal-super-serum/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/maelove/moonlight-retinal-super-serum/for/dry-skin): Low
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/maelove/moonlight-retinal-super-serum/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/maelove/moonlight-retinal-super-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/maelove/moonlight-retinal-super-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): Average (this page)
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/maelove/moonlight-retinal-super-serum/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/maelove/moonlight-retinal-super-serum/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/maelove/moonlight-retinal-super-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/maelove/moonlight-retinal-super-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Retinal Retinaldehyde, Niacinamide, Squalane, Ceramide Np, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice

## What the research says

- A cream combining propolis, tea tree oil, and Aloe vera reduced erythema scars, acne severity index, and total lesion count better than erythromycin cream in sixty patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris compared to placebo. ([Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/))
- Twice daily application of retinaldehyde 0.1% and 0.05% creams for 3 months improved skin texture and hydration and reduced transepidermal water loss in 40 female Korean volunteers, with only the 0.1% cream significantly improving the melanin index. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29663701/))
- Topical retinaldehyde demonstrated significant antibacterial activity against gram-positive bacteria both in vitro and in vivo, leading to decreased bacterial counts without inducing resistance. ([Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12218231/))
- Topical 0.05% retinaldehyde applied over 1 year significantly increased epidermal thickness of the temple and cutaneous elasticity compared to an emollient control group in 40 aging skin patients. ([Dermatology, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10473959/))
- Topical post-laser application of human adipocyte-derived mesenchymal stem cell media combined with niacinamide significantly improved wrinkle index, melanin index, patient satisfaction, and investigator esthetic improvement scores compared to vehicle cream in patients with aging skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33103316/))
- Topical nicotinamide prevented solar-simulated UV-induced immunosuppression in healthy volunteers, and men experienced immunosuppression at solar-simulated UV doses three times lower than those required for women. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17882270/))
- Topical 5% niacinamide applied twice daily for 12 weeks reduced fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmented spots, red blotchiness, and skin sallowness, and improved skin elasticity compared to vehicle control in 50 female white subjects with facial photoaging. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16029679/))
- Squalane at 0.005-0.015% counteracts UVA-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and collagen metabolism inhibition while stimulating fibroblast migration in human dermal fibroblasts. ([Molecules, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40363772/))
- Plant-derived squalane protected human dermal fibroblasts against UVA-induced damage by counteracting ROS formation, suppressing apoptosis-related proteins p53, caspase-3, caspase-9, and PARP, and restoring the pro-survival p-Akt/mTOR pathway. ([Antioxidants, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40722956/))
- Topical aloe vera gel significantly accelerated split-thickness skin graft donor-site healing compared to placebo in 12 patients, but showed no significant difference in pain relief. ([Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29649056/))
- Topical application of Aloe vera cream reduced postoperative pain at rest and during defecation, accelerated wound healing at two weeks, and decreased analgesic requirements in patients after open hemorrhoidectomy compared to placebo. ([Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20569031/))
- Formulations containing 0.10%, 0.25%, and 0.50% freeze-dried Aloe vera extract increased stratum corneum water content compared with the vehicle in 20 female subjects, while transepidermal water loss was not modified. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17026654/))

## Why other serums fit acne-prone skin better

- Topical nicotinamide plus an antibacterial adhesive agent and zinc-pyrrolidone carboxylic acid combined with adapalene significantly reduced noninflammatory acne lesions by the second week of therapy compared to placebo with adapalene in patients with moderate acne vulgaris. ([The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32983333/))
- A cream combining propolis, tea tree oil, and Aloe vera reduced erythema scars, acne severity index, and total lesion count better than erythromycin cream in sixty patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris compared to placebo. ([Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/))
- Niacinamide and ferulic acid incorporated in a stable multiple emulsion successfully reduced melanin, sebum, and skin erythema while improving skin elasticity and hydration in human skin compared to a placebo. ([BioMed Research International, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35342760/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this retinal serum is highly regarded for improving uneven skin tone and smoothing rough texture, with very high frequency of positive mentions. It is frequently noted for being gentle and non-irritating, even for sensitive skin types. Users also report moderate success with hydration and nourishment. Some users experienced low frequency issues such as temporary yellow staining or initial dryness, and negligible reports of slow wrinkle improvement.

- Liked: Gentle on sensitive skin (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Evens skin tone (often mentioned)
- Liked: Smoothes skin texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Hydrating and nourishing (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Initial dryness or flaking (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Slow wrinkle improvement (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Temporary yellow staining (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your serum as part of your PM routine and start 3x/week before working up to daily use.
- Apply this treatment after cleansing and toner, and before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the product on clean, dry skin to help manage your breakouts safely.
- Avoid the eye area and do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Maelove Moonlight Retinal work for acne-prone skin?

Maelove Moonlight Retinal Super Serum works as an average fit for acne-prone skin because it lacks specialized ingredients to target breakouts. To work better for this skin, a product of this type needs effective ingredients like propolis, zinc PCA, and antioxidants that clear blemishes while keeping skin balanced and calm.

### Which ingredients make this serum a good fit for acne-prone skin?

This serum works for acne-prone skin thanks to niacinamide, which helps balance the skin, along with soothing aloe barbadensis leaf juice and bisabolol. However, acne-prone skin needs products with specialized blemish-fighting ingredients and targeted breakout-clearing agents to be a truly great fit.
Sources: [Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/)

### What does Retinal do for acne-prone skin?

Retinal helps clear acne-prone skin by reducing blemishes, clogged pores, and redness while improving overall skin texture. Side effects are very uncommon when using this ingredient.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42572367/), [Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10564319/)

### What does Niacinamide do for acne-prone skin?

Niacinamide helps acne-prone skin by reducing both inflamed and uninflamed breakouts and calming redness. It is also very helpful for keeping oily skin balanced by cutting down on excess oil production, and it is well tolerated by most people.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38299457/), [Cureus, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38725769/)

### Where does it go in a skincare routine for acne-prone skin?

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and toning, and before your moisturizer. Acne-prone skin needs specialized blemish-fighting ingredients and targeted acids to properly clear breakouts.

### Can I use this serum with AHA, and in what order?

You can use this serum with AHAs by alternating nights or applying them at different times, as using both at once may cause irritation for acne-prone skin. To help this skin, products of this type need targeted ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to clear breakouts.

### How often should I use it?

You can use this treatment in the evening, starting once a week and slowly using it more often if your skin tolerates it well. This gradual approach helps your skin adjust safely to the active ingredients.

### Can this serum clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for acne-prone skin?

This serum works for acne-prone skin, though other products fit it better because it lacks specialized ingredients to address breakouts. To truly help this skin, a product of this type needs blemish-fighting ingredients and targeted acne treatments. It may cause mild initial dryness or flaking.

### Is it fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

It has no fragrance and contains drying alcohol (alcohol and alcohol denat).

## Alternatives for acne-prone skin

- [Clinique Fresh Pressed Daily Booster with Pure Vitamin C 10%](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/clinique/fresh-pressed-daily-booster-with-pure-vitamin-c-10/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 365.22 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 715.99 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 89.30 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 49.95 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 49.99 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 91.81 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in United Arab Emirates has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

## Ingredients

Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Water, Niacinamide, Cyclodextrin, Glycerin, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Gluconolactone, Squalane, Bisabolol L-Alpha, Ceramide Np, Michelia Alba Oil Flower Magnolia Grandiflora Oil Flower, Witch Hazel Water, Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Rubus Chamaemorus Berry Seed Oil Cloud Berry Seed Oil, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tocopheryl Acetate D-Alpha, Cranberry Fruit Extract, Retinal Retinaldehyde, Polygonum Cuspidatum Extract Giant Knotweed Extract, Pentylene Glycol, Maltodextrin, Lonicera Japonica Flower Extract Honeysuckle Flower Extract, Lonicera Caprifolium Flower Extract Honeysuckle Flower Extract, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Gluconate, Polysorbate 20, Grapefruit Peel Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Oil, Bergamot Oil Fruit, Alcohol, Alcohol Denat
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/maelove/moonlight-retinal-super-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/maelove/moonlight-retinal-super-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/maelove/moonlight-retinal-super-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/maelove/moonlight-retinal-super-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/maelove/moonlight-retinal-super-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/maelove/moonlight-retinal-super-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/maelove/moonlight-retinal-super-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/maelove/moonlight-retinal-super-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/maelove/moonlight-retinal-super-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/maelove/moonlight-retinal-super-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/maelove/moonlight-retinal-super-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/maelove/moonlight-retinal-super-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/maelove/moonlight-retinal-super-serum/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)