# Maelove Moonlight Retinal Super Serum for dry sensitive skin

**Lovi Fit: Low fit for dry sensitive skin.**
Dry Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: Concerning.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/maelove/moonlight-retinal-super-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin

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

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

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dry sensitive skin: flakiness, tightness, redness, fine lines, and wrinkles. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A weak match for dry sensitive skin; the serums alongside fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for dry or flaky skin, as gluconolactone and retinaldehyde promote skin renewal but may cause irritation and dryness for your dry and sensitive skin. Squalane and aloe barbadensis leaf juice provide some hydration to counteract potential dryness.
- The inclusion of alcohol denat and grapefruit peel oil can further contribute to dryness, making the formula less ideal for your dry skin type.

## Fit by skin type

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

- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))

## 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 this PM routine for your evening skincare. Start using the serum 3 times a week and increase to daily use if your skin feels comfortable.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toner, but right before your moisturizer. This step locks in deep hydration for dry skin.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin using your palms. Let it absorb completely for a minute ⏱ before applying your next product.
- Since your skin is sensitive, apply the serum on completely dry skin for better tolerance and less irritation.
- Avoid the sensitive eye area during application. Always do a patch test before your first use to ensure your skin reacts well.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### Why is Maelove Moonlight Retinal a weak match for dry sensitive skin?

This treatment is a weak match because its exfoliating ingredients and alcohol can cause irritation and dryness on your dry sensitive skin. A product of this type needs soothing, deeply moisturizing ingredients like ceramides and extra hydrators to protect your skin barrier without causing dryness.

### Which ingredients make this serum a poor fit for dry sensitive skin?

Alcohol denat and grapefruit peel oil contribute to dryness and irritation, making this serum a weak match for your dry sensitive skin. A product of this type needs effective hydrating and nourishing ingredients, such as ceramides and gentle moisturizers, that provide excellent moisture retention and skin barrier support without any risk of irritation.

### What does Retinal do for dry sensitive skin?

Retinal may help smooth fine lines and improve skin texture, but for dry and sensitive skin it is unlikely to be a good fit on its own. This skin type needs products that include gentle hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin to lock in moisture and protect the skin barrier.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39496127/), [Dermatology, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10473963/)

### What does Niacinamide do for dry sensitive skin?

Niacinamide helps dry sensitive skin by calming irritation and keeping moisture locked in so your face feels soft and smooth. It works to build up your skin barrier and calm redness while being very gentle and unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17147561/), [International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23220080/)

### Where does this serum go in a skincare routine for dry sensitive skin?

This serum goes in the evening routine after your toner and before your moisturizer. A product of this type for dry and sensitive skin needs soothing ingredients and gentle hydrators like ceramides, squalane, and aloe to keep skin calm and comfortable.

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

Using this serum with an AHA is a weak match for your dry and sensitive skin because combining active exfoliants like retinaldehyde, gluconolactone, and AHAs may cause irritation and dryness. If you still choose to use both, apply the AHA first on clean skin, let it absorb, and then follow with this treatment serum while making sure to layer on soothing hydrators like ceramides and squalane to keep the skin calm and smooth.

### How often should I use this serum?

This serum is a weak match for your dry and sensitive skin because it may cause irritation and dryness. Start using it once a week in your evening routine, and if your skin tolerates it well, you may carefully use it more often. A product of this type for dry sensitive skin needs soothing and hydrating ingredients like squalane and ceramides to keep skin soft and calm.

### Can this serum clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for dry sensitive skin?

This serum is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for your dry and sensitive skin, but it may cause initial dryness or flaking because it promotes skin renewal. A product for this skin type needs gentle hydrating ingredients like ceramides and squalane without drying alcohols or irritating oils to keep skin smooth and calm.

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

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

## Alternatives for dry sensitive skin

- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $39.99 at Amazon
- [Paula's Choice RESIST Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/paula-s-choice/resist-super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $53.00 at Amazon
- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $16.75 at Amazon

## Routine for dry sensitive skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $16.97 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $28.05 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [d'Alba UVessence Mild Waterfull Sun Cream SPF 50](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/d-alba/uvessence-mild-waterfull-sun-cream-spf-50/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $18.99 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $21.70 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $16.97 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $28.05 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $39.99 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/drunk-elephant/protini-polypeptide-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $49.95 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $21.70 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $16.97 at Amazon
- Nourishing Mask: [MEDIHEAL Vita Essential Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/mediheal/vita-essential-mask/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $22.00 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $39.99 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/drunk-elephant/protini-polypeptide-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $49.95 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in United States 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/dry-sensitive-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/maelove/moonlight-retinal-super-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/maelove/moonlight-retinal-super-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/maelove/moonlight-retinal-super-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/maelove/moonlight-retinal-super-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/maelove/moonlight-retinal-super-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/maelove/moonlight-retinal-super-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/maelove/moonlight-retinal-super-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/maelove/moonlight-retinal-super-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/maelove/moonlight-retinal-super-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/maelove/moonlight-retinal-super-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/maelove/moonlight-retinal-super-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/maelove/moonlight-retinal-super-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin