# Simple vs MAËLYS

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/compare/simple-vs-maelys

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

Simple and MAËLYS are distinct skincare collections that offer thoughtful care through specialized solutions. The British brand is known for gentle moisturizers, makeup removers, cleansers, and toners enriched with [niacinamide](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/niacinamide) and [glycerin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/glycerin), suiting acne-prone skin and oily skin best, while the latter is loved for targeted [serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/serum) and advanced formulas that suit all skin types best. Across the collections, niacinamide reduces hyperpigmentation and improves aging signs, and glycerin improves skin hydration and barrier function. Ultimately, both differ in their formulations, as Simple focuses on balanced daily essentials and MAËLYS delivers targeted treatments for particular concerns.

Simple is a British skincare brand founded in 1960 and owned by Unilever PLC since 2011.

[en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Simple_Skincare) [sec.gov](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1368457/000119312511134453/dex991.htm) [prnewswire.com](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/alberto-culver-announces-that-unilever-has-received-approval-from-the-us-department-of-justice-to-complete-the-acquisition-of-the-company-121400884.html) [simple.co.uk](https://www.simple.co.uk/philosophy.html)

This page compares some of the most popular Simple and MAËLYS products; for every product of both brands, with a fit score for your own skin, [use the Lovi app](https://app.pora.ai/vqqJ/j1xj2b6o?af_sub2=compare&af_sub3=selection_note&af_sub4=pgf9a9b12ff2).

### Popular Simple vs MAËLYS products

#### Simple

- [Micellar Water](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/simple/micellar-water/for/mature-skin) — Average fit — [$19.50 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071XCT81N?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Micellar Cleansing Water](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/simple/micellar-cleansing-water/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — [$20.00 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0G4DWBM9V?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Hydrating Light Moisturiser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/simple/hydrating-light-moisturiser/for/dry-skin) — Average fit — [$6.24 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000LQX6XG?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Refreshing Facial Wash](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/simple/refreshing-facial-wash/for/acne-prone-skin) — Average fit — [$7.90 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000LQUA6M?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Replenishing Rich Moisturiser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/simple/replenishing-rich-moisturiser/for/dry-skin) — Average fit — [$6.40 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000LNHB6M?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Water Boost Hydrating Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/simple/water-boost-hydrating-gel-cream/for/dry-skin) — Average fit — [$15.64 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B076TBCFWR?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Kind to Skin Soothing Facial Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/simple/kind-to-skin-soothing-facial-toner/for/mature-skin) — Superior fit — [$6.67 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B076V2D94Y?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)

#### MAËLYS

- [TOO-FINE](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/maelys/too-fine/for/sensitive-skin) — Low fit
- [RE-LURE Tight & Tone Body Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/maelys/re-lure-tight-and-tone-body-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Average fit

## Questions and answers

### Simple or MAËLYS: which is better?

Simple is the better choice on this page because its products achieve higher Lovi fit levels across multiple skin types, whereas MAËLYS products generally score low or caution. Additionally, the products on this page by Simple are entirely fragrance-free and contain key ingredients like [glycerin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/glycerin), which helps hydrate the skin.

[Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What is the difference between Simple and MAËLYS?

Simple offers budget-friendly, fragrance-free daily skincare with high Lovi fits for acne-prone and oily skin types, whereas MAËLYS focuses on targeted body care [serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/serum) with lower overall Lovi fits. Glycerin in Simple's products helps maintain skin hydration.

[Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Which is more affordable, Simple or MAËLYS?

Simple offers more affordable options, as reviewers note the brand provides value-friendly moisturizers. MAËLYS features higher-priced specialty body and facial serums.

### Which causes fewer breakouts, Simple or MAËLYS?

Simple features products on this page that are generally noted for being gentle, though some reviewers mention they may cause breakouts or irritations. In contrast, MAËLYS products on this page have low fit levels for acne-prone skin.

### When was each brand founded and who owns them?

Simple was founded in 1960 in the United Kingdom and has been owned by Unilever PLC since 2011. MAËLYS was founded in 2017 and is owned by the Barinboim Group.

### Which brand's products are completely free of fragrance according to the ingredients listed on the page?

Simple is the brand whose products on this page are completely free of fragrance, as every product lists no fragrance in its ingredients. In contrast, MAËLYS includes fragrance in at least one of its listed products.

### How does the Lovi fit level for sensitive skin compare between Simple's Kind to Skin Soothing Facial Toner and MAËLYS's TOO-FINE serum?

Simple's Kind to Skin Soothing Facial Toner has a High Lovi fit level for sensitive skin, whereas MAËLYS's TOO-FINE serum has a Low fit level for sensitive skin.

## Research behind their key ingredients

- [The effect of niacinamide on reducing cutaneous pigmentation and suppression of melanosome transfer](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12100180/) Niacinamide · The British Journal of Dermatology, 2002
- [Mechanistic Basis and Clinical Evidence for the Applications of Nicotinamide (Niacinamide) to Control Skin Aging and Pigmentation](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34439563/) Niacinamide · Antioxidants, 2021
- [Topical use of dexpanthenol in skin disorders](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/) Panthenol, Panthenol vitamin b5 · American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002
- [Regulatory effects of Lactobacillus plantarum-GMNL6 on human skin health by improving skin microbiome](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33526970/) Lactobacillus · International Journal of Medical Sciences, 2021
- [Apigenin inhibits UVA-induced cytotoxicity in vitro and prevents signs of skin aging in vivo](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27279007/) Chamomilla recutita flower extract matricaria flower extract · International Journal of Molecular Medicine, 2016
- [Treatment of acne with a combination of propolis, tea tree oil, and Aloe vera compared to erythromycin cream: two double-blind investigations](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/) Aloe barbadensis leaf juice · Clinical Pharmacology, 2018
- [Efficacy of probiotic-derived lotion from Lactobacillus paracasei MSMC 39-1 in mild to moderate acne vulgaris, randomized controlled trial](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35384257/) Lactobacillus · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022
- [The 24-hour skin hydration and barrier function effects of a hyaluronic 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract moisturizing fluid: an intra-subject, randomized, assessor-blinded study](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/) Glycerin · Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017
- [Randomized controlled study for the anti-aging effect of human adipocyte-derived mesenchymal stem cell media combined with niacinamide after laser therapy](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33103316/) Niacinamide · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021
- [A new topical panthenol-containing emollient: Results from two randomized controlled studies assessing its skin moisturization and barrier restoration potential, and the effect on skin microflora](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/) Panthenol, Panthenol vitamin b5 · The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017
- [Senomorphic activity of a combination of niacinamide and hyaluronic acid: correlation with clinical improvement of skin aging](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39009698/) Niacinamide · Scientific Reports, 2024
- [Stable Ozonides with Vitamin E Acetate versus Corticosteroid in the Treatment of Lichen Sclerosus in Foreskin: Evaluation of Effects on Inflammation](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30991399/) Tocopheryl acetate vitamin e, Tocopheryl acetate · Urologia Internationalis, 2019
- [Efficacy of a topical gel containing chitosan, chlorhexidine, allantoin and dexpanthenol for pain and inflammation control after third molar surgery: A randomized and placebo-controlled clinical trial](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32683390/) Panthenol, Panthenol vitamin b5, Allantoin · Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2020
- [High molecular compounds (polysaccharides and proanthocyanidins) from Hamamelis virginiana bark: influence on human skin keratinocyte proliferation and differentiation and influence on irritated skin](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11684194/) Witch hazel leaf water · Phytochemistry, 2001
- [Comparison of clinical efficacies of sodium ascorbyl phosphate, retinol and their combination in acne treatment](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19134126/) Sodium ascorbyl phosphate · International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2009
- [Efficacy and Tolerability of Topical Nicotinamide Plus Antibacterial Adhesive Agents and Zinc-Pyrrolidone Carboxylic Acid Versus Placebo as an Adjuvant Treatment for Moderate Acne Vulgaris in Indonesia: A Multicenter, Double-blind, Randomized, Controlled Trial](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32983333/) Zinc pca · The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2020
- [Botulinum toxin injection as a single or combined treatment with non-cross-linked high molecular weight and low molecular weight hyaluronic acid gel for neck rejuvenation: A randomized clinical trial](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35775872/) Hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid · Dermatologic Therapy, 2022
- [Whitening effect of alpha-bisabolol in Asian women subjects](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20642768/) Bisabolol · International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2010
- [Assessment of Combined Ascorbyl Palmitate (AP) and Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (SAP) on Facial Skin Sebum Control in Female Healthy Volunteers](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27756097/) Sodium ascorbyl phosphate · Drug Research, 2017
- [Understanding Solar Skin Elastosis-Cause and Treatment](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30052192/) Witch hazel leaf water · Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2018
- [Borage Oil Treated with Immobilized Lipase Inhibits Melanogenesis](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33128473/) Borago officinalis seed oil · Lipids, 2020
- [Influence of vitamin E acetate on stratum corneum hydration](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9706379/) Tocopheryl acetate vitamin e, Tocopheryl acetate · Arzneimittel-Forschung, 1998
- [Evaluation of the Efficacy and Safety of a Panthenol-Enriched Mask for Skin Barrier Recovery After Facial Laser Treatment: Results of a Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Study](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40613435/) Panthenol, Panthenol vitamin b5 · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025
- [Modulation of skin pigmentation by the tetrapeptide PKEK: in vitro and in vivo evidence for skin whitening effects](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22142309/) Sodium ascorbyl phosphate · Experimental Dermatology, 2012
- [Efficacy and Tolerability of Stable Hybrid Cooperative Complexes of High- and Low-Molecular Weight Hyaluronic Acid in Asian Patients: An Open-Label Study](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40921777/) Hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid · Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, 2026
- [Nanostructured Lipid Carrier Based Gel Containing α-Tocopherol and α-Tocopheryl Acetate for Synergistic Cutaneous Antiaging Efficacy](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41309687/) Tocopheryl acetate · Scientific Reports, 2025
- [Evaluation of a retinol containing topical treatment to improve signs of neck aging](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37461826/) Glaucine · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023
- [Nanocomplex of quaternized cyclodextrin grafted chitosan and hyaluronic acid for a skin delivery](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36279763/) Hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid · Colloids and Surfaces. B, Biointerfaces, 2022
- [Safety assessment on comedogenicity of dermatological products containing d-alpha tocopheryl acetate in Asian subjects: A double-blind randomized controlled trial](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34471722/) Tocopheryl acetate vitamin e, Tocopheryl acetate · Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications, 2021
- [Clinical and histologic findings after use of a novel combined retinol, tripeptide, and glaucine containing cream in the treatment of photo-aged skin](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37584260/) Glaucine · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023
- [Impact of dermal emulsions containing diacyl phospholipids, mono acyl phospholipids, sodium lauryl ether sulfate and polysorbate 80 in combination with UVA irradiation on human skin physiology in vivo: A pilot study](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42617898/) Sodium laureth sulfate · International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2026
- [A novel facial moisturizer containing Saccharide isomerate accelerates skin barrier restoration following intense pulsed light treatment: a randomized split-face study](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41211697/) Saccharide isomerate · The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2025
- [Efficacy and safety of combination cream of stimu-tex AS™ (spent grain wax, Argania Spinosa Kernel oil, Butyrospermum Parkii (shea butter) extract), and saccharide isomerate after fractional CO2 laser procedure: split-face, double blinded, randomized controlled trial](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41134387/) Saccharide isomerate · Lasers in Medical Science, 2025
- [Saccharide isomerate ameliorates cosmetic scalp conditions in a Chinese study population](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35279940/) Saccharide isomerate · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023

## The brands

- British skincare: [Simple](https://lovi.care/skincare/brands/simple)
- Skincare: [MAËLYS](https://lovi.care/skincare/brands/maelys)

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- [CeraVe vs Simple](https://lovi.care/skincare/compare/cerave-vs-simple)
- [CeraVe vs MAËLYS](https://lovi.care/skincare/compare/cerave-vs-maelys)
- [La Roche-Posay vs Simple](https://lovi.care/skincare/compare/la-roche-posay-vs-simple)
- [La Roche-Posay vs MAËLYS](https://lovi.care/skincare/compare/la-roche-posay-vs-maelys)
- [Dr. Althea vs Simple](https://lovi.care/skincare/compare/dr-althea-vs-simple)
- [Dr. Althea vs MAËLYS](https://lovi.care/skincare/compare/dr-althea-vs-maelys)
- [Some By Mi vs Simple](https://lovi.care/skincare/compare/some-by-mi-vs-simple)
- [Some By Mi vs MAËLYS](https://lovi.care/skincare/compare/some-by-mi-vs-maelys)

## About the Lovi Fit

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

Lovi compares products by their fit scores, calculated 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 comparison: 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/compare/simple-vs-maelys (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/compare/simple-vs-maelys
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/compare/simple-vs-maelys
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/compare/simple-vs-maelys
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