# Simple vs MAËLYS

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/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 Kingdom.

Simple and MAËLYS are distinct skincare options, with the former recognized for gentle moisturizers, makeup removers, cleansers, and toners containing [niacinamide](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/ingredients/niacinamide) and [glycerin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/ingredients/glycerin), and the latter known for targeted [serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/ingredients/serum) and advanced formulas. The British brand founded in 1960 and owned by Unilever PLC since 2011 suits acne-prone skin and skin with dark spots best through standout choices like the Kind to Skin Soothing Facial Toner, Micellar Cleansing [Water](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/ingredients/water), and Micellar Water, where niacinamide reduces hyperpigmentation and improves aging signs while glycerin improves skin hydration and barrier function. Conversely, MAËLYS suits all skin types best, delivering thoughtful care through specialized solutions such as the TOO-FINE and the RE-LURE Tight & Tone Body Serum. While both offer distinct benefits, they differ in their foundational approach, as the first focuses on accessible daily cleansing and hydration, and the second specializes in targeted body and facial serums.

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=pgbf1315ee62).

### Popular Simple vs MAËLYS products

#### Simple

- [Micellar Water](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/simple/micellar-water/for/mature-skin) — Average fit — [£19.49 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0DYZ8JHBQ?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Micellar Cleansing Water](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/simple/micellar-cleansing-water/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — [£19.48 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0DYZ8JHBQ?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Hydrating Light Moisturiser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/simple/hydrating-light-moisturiser/for/dry-skin) — Average fit — [£2.56 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B000LQX6XG?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Refreshing Facial Wash](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/simple/refreshing-facial-wash/for/acne-prone-skin) — Average fit — [£4.28 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00H1TUFAI?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Replenishing Rich Moisturiser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/simple/replenishing-rich-moisturiser/for/dry-skin) — Average fit — [£2.74 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B014G4ZW1M?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Water Boost Hydrating Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/simple/water-boost-hydrating-gel-cream/for/dry-skin) — Average fit — [£9.50 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0D1VFWTJ9?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Kind to Skin Soothing Facial Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/simple/kind-to-skin-soothing-facial-toner/for/mature-skin) — Superior fit — [£1.90 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B076V2D94Y?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)

#### MAËLYS

- [TOO-FINE](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/maelys/too-fine/for/sensitive-skin) — Low fit
- [RE-LURE Tight & Tone Body Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/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 stands out as the better choice on this page, offering fragrance-free daily skincare with high Lovi fits for sensitive and acne-prone skin types. MAËLYS features fewer products that mostly achieve low or average Lovi fits.

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

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

Simple features fragrance-free makeup removers, cleansers, and moisturizers with Lovi fit levels ranging from Low to Superior depending on the skin type, while MAËLYS offers targeted [serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/ingredients/serum) like RE-LURE Tight & Tone Body Serum that contain fragrance and generally show lower Lovi fit levels.

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

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

Simple offers lightweight, value-friendly moisturizers, while MAËLYS is positioned differently with specialized body serums. Reviewers frequently mention Simple's affordability and everyday value across the products on this page.

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

Simple products on this page are rated as having an Average fit for acne-prone skin, whereas MAËLYS products on this page receive Low fits for acne-prone skin.

### Which brand has been established longer, Simple or MAËLYS?

Simple has been established much longer, having been founded in the United Kingdom in 1960, whereas MAËLYS was founded in 2017.

### Do any products from Simple or MAËLYS contain fragrance?

Simple lists no fragrance in the ingredients for every product on this page. In contrast, one of the two MAËLYS products on this page contains fragrance.

### Which brand offers products specifically formulated or rated as a High fit for sensitive skin?

Simple offers products rated as a High fit for sensitive skin, such as its Micellar Cleansing [Water](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/ingredients/water) and Kind to Skin Soothing Facial Toner. [Glycerin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/ingredients/glycerin) is included across the products on this page to help hydrate the skin.

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

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

## More comparisons

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- [SKIN1004 vs MAËLYS](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/compare/skin1004-vs-maelys)
- [Anua vs Simple](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/compare/anua-vs-simple)
- [Anua vs MAËLYS](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/compare/anua-vs-maelys)
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- [Medicube vs MAËLYS](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/compare/medicube-vs-maelys)
- [The Ordinary vs Simple](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/compare/the-ordinary-vs-simple)
- [The Ordinary vs MAËLYS](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/compare/the-ordinary-vs-maelys)
- [Beauty of Joseon vs Simple](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/compare/beauty-of-joseon-vs-simple)
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- [COSRX vs MAËLYS](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/compare/cosrx-vs-maelys)
- [CeraVe vs Simple](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/compare/cerave-vs-simple)
- [CeraVe vs MAËLYS](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/compare/cerave-vs-maelys)
- [La Roche-Posay vs Simple](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/compare/la-roche-posay-vs-simple)
- [La Roche-Posay vs MAËLYS](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/compare/la-roche-posay-vs-maelys)
- [Dr. Althea vs Simple](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/compare/dr-althea-vs-simple)
- [Dr. Althea vs MAËLYS](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/compare/dr-althea-vs-maelys)
- [Some By Mi vs Simple](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/compare/some-by-mi-vs-simple)
- [Some By Mi vs MAËLYS](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/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
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/compare/simple-vs-maelys (this page)
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/compare/simple-vs-maelys
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