# SU:M37 Secret Essence for skin with dark spots

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for skin with dark spots.**
Normal Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/su-m37/secret-essence/for/dark-spots

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

Brand: [SU:M37](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/brands/su-m37)
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/best/moisturizers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dark spots: hyperpigmentation, sun spots, and uneven skin tone. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for skin with dark spots; other moisturizers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate moisturizing for your normal skin due to glycerin and sodium hyaluronate, which hydrate and plump effectively.
- The inclusion of licorice root extract and centella asiatica extract provides soothing benefits, though these ingredients are not specifically targeted for your main goal of pigmentation.
- The product is safe for your normal skin, with no risks of irritation from harsh ingredients and the presence of beneficial soothing components.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/su-m37/secret-essence/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/su-m37/secret-essence/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/su-m37/secret-essence/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/su-m37/secret-essence/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/su-m37/secret-essence/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/su-m37/secret-essence/for/dark-spots): Average (this page)
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/su-m37/secret-essence/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/su-m37/secret-essence/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/su-m37/secret-essence/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Niacinamide, Licorice Root Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Curcuma Longa Root Extract

## What the research says

- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- Cosmetic formulations containing 5% Centella asiatica extract showed the best efficacy in improving skin moisture and decreasing transepidermal water loss, while also exhibiting antiinflammatory properties in 25 volunteers compared to baseline measurements. ([Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/))
- Niacinamide significantly decreased hyperpigmentation and increased skin lightness compared with vehicle alone after 4 weeks of use in women by inhibiting melanosome transfer. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12100180/))
- 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/))
- Combining 755 nm alexandrite laser with topical licorice gel significantly reduces terminal hair counts compared to alexandrite laser with placebo in women with idiopathic hirsutism. ([Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26273313/))
- Licochalcone A activated Nrf2 signaling, elevated cytoprotective enzymes, increased the reduced-to-oxidized glutathione ratio, and decreased reactive oxygen species in human fibroblasts and neutrophils, while a LicA-rich licorice extract lowered UVA-induced oxidative processes in vivo. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25381913/))
- Bioactive glycyrrhizic acid and oxymatrine ionic liquid self-assembled nanomicelles significantly promoted the transdermal permeation, subcutaneous retention, and anti-photoaging efficacy of palmitoyl pentapeptide-4 in cellular and animal models compared to unformulated peptide. ([Advanced Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39783908/))
- Topical application of 0.05% w/w ECa 233 gel reduced erythema index by 0.03 U and improved early crusting and general wound appearance compared to placebo in thirty individuals undergoing facial laser resurfacing. ([Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32310680/))
- Moisturizer containing 5% panthenol, madecassoside, and copper-zinc-manganese decreased adverse reactions and downtime after ablative fractional carbon dioxide laser resurfacing with comparable efficacy to 0.02% triamcinolone acetonide cream in 20 subjects. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30945430/))
- Topical treatment with 5% vitamin C and 0.1% madecassoside significantly improved clinical scores for wrinkles, suppleness, firmness, roughness, and skin hydration, along with functional and structural remodeling of the elastic fiber network in 20 female volunteers with photoaged skin after 6 months compared to baseline. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18503551/))
- Topical application of 0.1% hyaluronic acid formulations of different molecular weights led to significant improvements in skin hydration and elasticity, with low-molecular-weight formulations also significantly reducing wrinkle depth in seventy-six female subjects compared to a vehicle control. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/))
- Topical application of hyaluronic acid in conjunction with free gingival graft significantly reduced donor site postoperative pain until day 7 compared to normal saline, with no significant differences in graft dimensions or patient satisfaction. ([Clinical Oral Investigations, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34623507/))
- Treatment with a hyaluronic acid-containing mouth rinse or topical gel led to significant lesion reduction, pain relief, and normalization of lesion color in adult patients with minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis, with the gel formulation showing an earlier healing onset at 3 days. ([BMC Oral Health, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31311529/))
- Topical application of curcumin or turmeric treats various skin conditions by leveraging antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. ([Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38008088/))
- Topical formulations of curcumin target oxidative damage and inflammation to improve wound healing in animal models. ([Drug Discovery Today, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28711364/))
- A curcumin-loaded spanlastic anti-aging gel utilizing formula F5 incorporated into 2% HPMC E50 demonstrated sustained release action, compatibility, and the ability to penetrate skin layers to a depth of about 112.5 um without signs of irritation. ([Saudi Pharmaceutical Journal, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38178851/))

## Why other moisturizers fit skin with dark spots better

- Treatment with ascorbyl glucoside-arginine complex lotion significantly decreased pigmentation scores and melanin index while increasing lightness in solar lentigos of Japanese females compared to placebo over 24 weeks. ([International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39769217/))
- Topical application of a disodium adenosine monophosphate-based formulation reduced wrinkles and hyperpigmentation while improving hydration, barrier function, skin lifting, and epidermal turnover in female participants. ([International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42278371/))

## What reviewers say

This product is frequently described as a "miracle water" that significantly improves skin texture, making it smoother, clearer, and dewier without feeling heavy. It is widely praised for its ability to balance hydration and refine skin tone, though those with sensitivity to fermented ingredients occasionally report breakouts.

- Liked: Refined texture (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Deep hydration (often mentioned)
- Liked: Lightweight absorption (often mentioned)
- Disliked: High price point (often mentioned)
- Liked: Luxurious experience (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Soothing and balancing (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Heavy packaging (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Ferment sensitivity (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Herbal scent (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Subtle results (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Could be used as part of your AM and PM routine. Start using it 3 times a week and move to daily use if your skin likes it.
- Apply this moisturizer after your cleanser and toner, right before your morning SPF.
- Gently press a small amount of the moisturizer into your skin. Avoid rubbing it too hard so it absorbs nicely.
- For the best moisture, you can apply it when your skin is slightly damp. This helps your skin stay soft and happy.
- Remember to avoid the eye area when applying. Always do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does SU:M37 Secret Essence work for skin with dark spots?

SU:M37 Secret Essence works as an average fit for skin with dark spots, as it provides moderate hydration with safe ingredients but lacks targeted brightening components for this specific goal. To properly care for dark spots, this type of product needs targeted brightening ingredients and effective antioxidants that directly fade discoloration while maintaining skin health.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12100180/)

### Which ingredients make this treatment a good fit for skin with dark spots?

Niacinamide is the key ingredient that makes this treatment a good fit for dark spots by helping to brighten the skin. While licorice root extract and centella asiatica extract offer soothing benefits, a product of this type needs dedicated brightening ingredients and powerful antioxidants that directly target dark spots for this skin.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12100180/)

### What does Niacinamide do for skin with dark spots?

Niacinamide helps fade dark spots and uneven pigmentation by slowing down the transfer of pigment in the skin. It is generally well tolerated and may improve overall skin brightness with consistent use.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12100180/), [Antioxidants, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34439563/)

### What does Licorice Root Extract do for skin with dark spots?

Licorice root extract helps fade dark spots and uneven areas by calming the skin and gently reducing excess pigment formation. It is generally well-tolerated and works gradually to give your skin a more even, clear look over time.
Sources: [Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40350048/), [Pigment Cell Research, 1998](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9870547/)

### Where does it go in a skincare routine for skin with dark spots?

This moisturizing treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing, though it can also be used in the morning or twice a day. For skin with dark spots, a product of this type needs targeted brightening ingredients like vitamin C or retinoids.

### Can I use this treatment with retinol, and in what order?

You can use this treatment with retinol by applying the treatment first to hydrate your skin, followed by your retinol. This product is safe and unlikely to cause irritation for your normal skin.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### How often should I use it?

You can use this moisturizing treatment twice a day as part of your routine. Daily application helps keep your skin hydrated and smooth while supporting your skin barrier.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32141711/), [Health Science Reports, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34141902/)

### Can this treatment clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for skin with dark spots?

This treatment is unlikely to cause breakouts or clog pores on your skin with dark spots, as it has a safe formula without harsh, pore-clogging ingredients. To effectively treat dark spots, a product of this type needs dedicated brightening ingredients like vitamin C or kojic acid.

### Can I use it around the eyes or on my body?

This moisturizing treatment is safe to use around the eyes and on the body because it features a gentle formula with soothing ingredients and no harsh irritants. However, skin on the body and around the eyes needs targeted active ingredients like brightening agents or specialized firming peptides to effectively address dark spots or thinning in those specific areas.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Is this treatment fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. Cetearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for skin with dark spots

- [Isntree Green Tea Fresh Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/isntree/green-tea-fresh-serum/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €12.56 at Amazon
- [Revision Skincare Hydrating Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/revision-skincare/hydrating-serum/for/dark-spots) — High fit — €237.70 at Amazon
- [innisfree Green Tea Seed Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/innisfree/green-tea-seed-hyaluronic-acid-hydrating-serum/for/dark-spots) — High fit — €37.64 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €11.75 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Pyunkang Yul Calming Deep Moisture Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/pyunkang-yul/calming-deep-moisture-toner/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €11.30 at Amazon
- SPF: [d'Alba UVessence Mild Waterfull Sun Cream SPF 50](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/d-alba/uvessence-mild-waterfull-sun-cream-spf-50/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €16.99 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

2-Hexanediol, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract Licorice Root Extract, Diospyros Kaki Fruit Extract, Curcuma Longa Root Extract, Cassia Obtusifolia Seed Extract, Ipomoea Batatas Root Extract, Lycium Chinense Fruit Extract, Glycosphingolipids, Glycereth-26, Niacinamide, Daucus Carota Sativa Root Extract Carrot Root Extract, Camellia Japonica Leaf Extract, Dipropylene Glycol, Lavandula Angustifolia Oil Lavender Oil, Lauryl Dimethicone Polyglycerin-3 Crosspolymer, Rubus Idaeus Fruit Extract Raspberry Fruit Extract, Lactobacillus Soybean Extract Ferment, Melissa Officinalis Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract Rosemary Leaf Extract, Allium Sativum Bulb Extract, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Spiraea Ulmaria Extract, Methyl Gluceth-20, Prunus Persica Fruit Extract, Chaenomeles Sinensis Fruit Extract, Leuconostoc Radish Root Extract, Bergamot Leaf Extract, Betaine, Centella Asiatica Extract, Cucumis Sativus Fruit Extract, Beta Vulgaris Root Extract, Eriobotrya Japonica Leaf Extract, Pyrus Malus Fruit Extract, Morus Bombycis Leaf Extract, Prunus Armeniaca Fruit Apricot Fruit, Zingiber Officinale Root Extract, Dandelion Extract, Thymus Vulgaris Leaf Extract, Ceramide Np, Salvia Officinalis Leaf Extract, Cetearyl Alcohol, Pelargonium Graveolens Oil Flower, Equisetum Arvense Extract, Watermelon Fruit Extract, Spinach Leaf Extract, Acrylates C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Artemisia Princeps Leaf Extract, Brassica Oleracea Capitata Leaf Extract, Onion Bulb Extract, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Anthemis Nobilis Oil Flower, Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract Matricaria Flower Extract, Citrus Junos Fruit Extract, Ginkgo Biloba Nut Extract, Perilla Frutescens Leaf Extract, Water, Geranium Robertianum Extract, Anemarrhena Asphodeloides Root Extract, Rehmannia Glutinosa Root Extract, Rehmannia Chinensis Root Extract, Sesamum Indicum Seed, Undaria Pinnatifida Extract, Acorus Calamus Root Extract, Cichorium Intybus Root Extract, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycerin, Cholesterol, Vanilla Tahitensis Fruit Extract, Carica Papaya Fruit Extract, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Polyquaternium-51, Corthellus Shiitake Extract Mushroom Extract, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Helianthus Annuus Seed Extract Sunflower Seed Extract, Carthamus Tinctorius Flower Extract, Saccharomyces Xylinum Black Tea Ferment, Bergamot Oil Fruit, Tromethamine, Ferulic Acid, Citrus Aurantifolia Oil, Peg Ppg-17 6 Copolymer, Lippia Citriodora Leaf Extract, Ficus Carica Extract, Actinidia Polygama Fruit Extract, Trichosanthes Kirilowii Root Extract, Glechoma Hederacea Extract, Platycodon Grandiflorum Root Extract, Acer Palmatum Leaf Extract, Codonopsis Lanceolata Root Extract, Lactobacillus Water Hyacinth Ferment, Lactobacillus Ginseng Root Ferment Filtrate, Lactobacillus, Musa Sapientum Fruit Extract, Ocimum Basilicum Leaf Extract, Monascus Rice Ferment, Brassica Rapa Leaf Extract Turnip Leaf Extract, Sasa Veitchii Leaf Extract, Nelumbo Nucifera Root Extract, Plantago Major Seed Extract, Hemerocallis Fulva Flower Extract, Akebia Quinata Extract, Crataegus Cuneata Fruit Extract, Grifola Frondosa Fruiting Body Extract, Prunus Salicina Fruit Extract, Phaseolus Angularis Seed Extract, Peppermint Stem Extract Flower Leaf, Poloxamer 234, Schizonepeta Tenuifolia Extract, Saccharomyces Potato Extract Ferment Filtrate, Saccharomyces Barley Seed Ferment Filtrate, Saccharomyces Grape Extract Ferment, Lactobacillus Rye Flour Ferment
## 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/su-m37/secret-essence/for/dark-spots
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/su-m37/secret-essence/for/dark-spots
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/su-m37/secret-essence/for/dark-spots
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/su-m37/secret-essence/for/dark-spots (this page)
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/su-m37/secret-essence/for/dark-spots
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- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/su-m37/secret-essence/for/dark-spots
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- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/su-m37/secret-essence/for/dark-spots
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/su-m37/secret-essence/for/dark-spots