# Maelove Moonlight Retinal Super Serum for oily skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for oily skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

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

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

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

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with oily skin: shine, enlarged pores, blackheads, and blemishes. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for oily skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate suitability for your oily skin, as niacinamide helps regulate sebum and gluconolactone provides mild exfoliation, but it lacks more potent ingredients for optimal results in minimizing oily shine.
- The retinaldehyde effectively targets fine lines and wrinkles, while aloe and bisabolol offer soothing benefits, supporting general skin hydration without exacerbating oiliness.
- The product is safe for your oily skin, with no risk of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the inclusion of soothing components.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Why other serums fit oily skin better

- A panthenol-enriched mask improved skin hydration, regulated sebum, and reduced redness and TEWL across dry sensitive, oily sensitive, and oily acne skin subgroups with excellent tolerance and no adverse reactions. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38366684/))
- 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 this serum in your PM routine. Start by applying it 3 times a week and build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toning, but right before your moisturizer for the best results.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin. Let it absorb ⏱ for a minute before applying the next product.
- Apply the serum on clean and dry skin since your skin is not sensitive and you want to target oily shine. This helps control excess oil throughout the night.
- Avoid the delicate eye area and do a patch test before using the serum for the very first time.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Maelove Moonlight Retinal work for oily skin?

Maelove Moonlight Retinal Super Serum offers moderate suitability for oily skin, as niacinamide helps control oil and gluconolactone provides mild exfoliation. However, it lacks more potent ingredients for optimal results in minimizing oily shine. Oily skin works best with products that combine sebum-controlling and pore-clearing ingredients like niacinamide and zinc PCA with lightweight hydration.
Sources: [Skin Research and Technology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37357656/)

### Which ingredients make this serum a good fit for oily skin?

Niacinamide helps control sebum and gluconolactone reduces oil, while aloe and bisabolol calm your skin without clogging pores. An oily skin type needs effective ingredients like niacinamide and zinc PCA to control shine and address pores, along with barrier-supporting ceramides and panthenol.
Sources: [Skin Research and Technology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37357656/)

### What does Retinal do for oily skin?

Retinal helps oily skin by reducing excess oil and clearing clogged pores when used daily. This ingredient is well-suited for managing breakouts while keeping skin smooth and calm.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34587353/)

### What does Niacinamide do for oily skin?

Niacinamide helps balance oily skin by significantly reducing excess oil production and shine. It is well tolerated and may improve skin texture without clogging pores.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16766489/), [Antioxidants, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34439563/)

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

This serum goes in the evening routine, applied after cleansing and toning and before moisturizing. Putting treatments in the evening helps keep things simple and offers extra safety around sun exposure.

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

You can use this serum with AHA, but it is best to apply them on alternate nights to lower the likelihood of irritation on oily skin. Using strong exfoliating acids alongside retinal may overload your skin, so spacing them out helps keep your face calm and smooth.

### How often should I use this serum?

Apply this treatment in your evening routine. Start using it once a week, and if your skin tolerates it well and shows good results, you can carefully use it more often.

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

This serum is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for your oily skin, as it has a safe makeup and soothing components that help keep skin calm. However, because it is an average fit, oily skin needs stronger oil-controlling ingredients like more potent blemish-fighting acids to truly stop shine and prevent clogged pores.
Sources: [Skin Research and Technology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37357656/)

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

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

## Alternatives for oily skin

- [Clinique Fresh Pressed Daily Booster with Pure Vitamin C 10%](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/clinique/fresh-pressed-daily-booster-with-pure-vitamin-c-10/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 653.00 at Amazon
- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 226.83 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/oily-skin) — High fit — SAR 865.37 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 36.33 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 53.04 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 39.70 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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