# SU:M37 Secret Essence 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/nl/p/su-m37/secret-essence/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 Netherlands.

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

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 moisturizers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate moisturizing for your combination skin due to glycerin and sodium hyaluronate, which provide hydration but lack sufficient ingredients for optimal oil control on your oily areas.
- The formula provides general skincare benefits like hydration and soothing, which are supportive but not targeted for your acne, blemishes, and breakouts.
- There are no risks of irritation for your combination skin due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

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

- A peel-off facial mask containing myoinositol and trehalose-loaded liposomes improved adult female acne by decreasing lesion counts, sebum production, GAGS scores, and local androgen levels while increasing beclin-1 levels. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28342238/))
- A Tris/Arg-formulated cleanser significantly decreased noninflammatory and inflammatory acne and pore size with keratotic plugs compared to an AEC/AC cleanser in male Thai subjects with mild to moderate acne over 4 weeks. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31347768/))

## 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

- Use your moisturizer twice a day in your AM and PM routines. Apply it daily to help keep breakouts under control.
- Apply after your cleanser and toner, and make sure to use your SPF right after in the morning.
- Gently spread a small amount of moisturizer over your face using soft motions. Let it absorb into the skin for a minute before getting dressed or applying makeup.
- Apply on slightly damp skin to help lock in extra moisture. This keeps your combination skin balanced without feeling heavy.
- Avoid the eye area and do a patch test before your first use. Stop using if you feel any irritation.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does SU:M37 Secret Essence work for acne-prone skin?

SU:M37 Secret Essence works reasonably well for acne-prone skin, providing moderate hydration and soothing benefits without causing irritation. However, it lacks targeted ingredients for optimal oil control and breakout management. A product of this type needs effective ingredients like Niacinamide and Sodium Hyaluronate that provide excellent benefits for acne and hydration while helping control excess oil.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/)

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

This essence works for acne-prone skin with the help of niacinamide, licorice root extract, and centella asiatica extract, which offer general soothing benefits. However, a moisturizing treatment for this skin needs targeted ingredients like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid to manage breakouts and control excess oil while providing hydration.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/)

### 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/)

### What does Licorice Root Extract do for acne-prone skin?

Licorice Root Extract helps calm red, irritated skin and soothe breakouts. It also works to fade the dark marks that pimples often leave behind.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14522625/)

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

This treatment is used in the evening after cleansing and toning, and before moisturizing. To better fit acne-prone skin, this type of product needs ingredients that help control oil and target breakouts.

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

You can use this essence with retinol by applying the essence first to damp skin to boost hydration, followed by your retinol once it absorbs. This product for acne-prone skin needs ingredients like soothing botanical extracts and oil-balancing agents to help calm breakouts and manage excess shine.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/)

### How often should I use it?

You can use this treatment in the evening as part of your routine. Daily application of this type of product helps maintain hydration and supports the skin barrier.
Sources: [Health Science Reports, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34141902/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

This moisturizing treatment is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for acne-prone skin since it has no harsh ingredients, though its hydration is not specifically targeted to keep oil and blemishes under control. To properly care for acne-prone skin, a product of this type needs specialized ingredients for oil control and targeted blemish soothing.

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

This moisturizing treatment is gentle enough to use around the eyes and on the body. Its hydrating ingredients help keep delicate areas soft and comfortable without irritation.

### Is this essence 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 acne-prone skin

- [Revision Skincare Hydrating Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/revision-skincare/hydrating-serum/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €252.17 at Amazon
- [MISSHA Super Aqua Ultra Hyalron Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/missha/super-aqua-ultra-hyalron-ampoule/for/acne-prone-skin) — Average fit — €22.80 at Amazon
- [Elizavecca Witch Piggy Hell Pore Control Hyaluronic Acid 97%](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/elizavecca/witch-piggy-hell-pore-control-hyaluronic-acid-97/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €14.50 at Notino

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [B.LAB Matcha Hydrating Foam Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/b-lab/matcha-hydrating-foam-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €13.99 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €19.90 at Amazon
- SPF: [d'Alba Piedmont Waterfull Mild Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/d-alba/piedmont-waterfull-mild-sunscreen/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €16.75 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.nl: €67.85 (https://www.amazon.nl/dp/B0DCXZTG2L?tag=lovi-care-web-product085-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 6 Nov 2026.

## 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/acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/su-m37/secret-essence/for/acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/su-m37/secret-essence/for/acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/su-m37/secret-essence/for/acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/su-m37/secret-essence/for/acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/su-m37/secret-essence/for/acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/su-m37/secret-essence/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/su-m37/secret-essence/for/acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/su-m37/secret-essence/for/acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/su-m37/secret-essence/for/acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/su-m37/secret-essence/for/acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/su-m37/secret-essence/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/su-m37/secret-essence/for/acne-prone-skin