Maelove Serum Review
Our verdict
Maelove's niacinamide serum leads with a disclosed 10% concentration of vitamin B3 and a clean formulation that is dye-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free, fragrance-free, vegan, and cruelty-free. At $39.90 for 1 oz, it is priced higher than many competitors, but the ingredient transparency and clean-formula commitments justify the premium for the right buyer.
Check price on AmazonBest for
Sensitive skin types who want a 10% niacinamide serum with a fully disclosed formulation, no fragrance, and clean-beauty certifications at a trusted brand price point.
Skip if
You are on a strict budget, you prefer a serum with multiple actives rather than a single-ingredient focus, or your skin is not sensitive and you do not prioritize fragrance-free formulas.
- Form Drop
- Skin type Sensitive
- Key ingredients 10% Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
- Benefits Redness Removal, Strengthening
- Size 1 Fluid Ounces
- Scent Unscented
- Priced 81% above the category median ($22.00 across 291 tracked models)
Our scorecard
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Owner rating4.7/5
4.7 average across 146 owner ratings
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Popularity1.2/5
146 owner reviews, fewer than most models here
The overall score is owner satisfaction weighted by how many reviews back it, so a high rating from few reviews counts for less. The bars below show where this model stands against the other anti-aging skincare: serums, night creams, facial peels, wrinkle patches and anti-aging devices we track in this category on price, popularity and size. Context, not marks against it, and our read of the data, not a lab test.
Overview
['Maelove is a direct-to-consumer skincare brand that competes on ingredient quality and formula transparency. This serum leads with 10% niacinamide (listed as vitamin B3), a widely studied ingredient known for supporting the appearance of pore size, skin tone evenness, and redness reduction. The concentration is meaningful rather than token.', 'The formula is free from dyes, parabens, phthalates, and fragrance, and is certified vegan and cruelty-free. These credentials matter most to buyers with reactive or sensitive skin, and the sensitive skin listing confirms that as the target audience. At 1 fl oz in a drop format with an unscented finish, it is designed to layer comfortably under moisturizer.', "At $39.90 and 146 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, this is a newer product with very strong early reception. The review count is modest, but the average is high and the brand's reputation for quality formulation gives additional context for the rating."]
Pros
- Disclosed 10% niacinamide concentration is a meaningful and well-studied active level
- Fragrance-free, dye-free, paraben-free, and phthalate-free formulation
- Vegan and cruelty-free certified
- 4.7-star average from early buyers
- Designed specifically for sensitive skin
Cons
- At $39.90, it is priced higher than most comparable niacinamide serums
- Only 146 reviews, so the data pool is still limited
- Single-active focus means you may still need other serums for concerns outside niacinamide's range
- Low monthly purchase volume
Specifications
- Form
- Drop
- Skin type
- Sensitive
- Key ingredients
- 10% Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
- Benefits
- Redness Removal, Strengthening
- Size
- 1 Fluid Ounces
- Scent
- Unscented
- Free of
- Dye Free, Paraben Free, Phthalate Free
- Skin tone
- All
- Features
- Cruelty Free, Gluten Free, Vegan
Performance notes
10% niacinamide is a well-documented concentration for supporting the appearance of enlarged pores, uneven skin tone, and redness. Niacinamide also strengthens the skin barrier over time, which is especially relevant for sensitive skin types prone to irritation. The clean formulation reduces potential confounding irritants, making it easier to assess the niacinamide's contribution.
What buyers say
With 146 reviews at 4.7 stars, early buyers are highly positive. The brand's transparency-first approach tends to attract buyers who already understand the ingredient, which may account for the strong satisfaction rate. Early adopters of Maelove products across the line frequently cite the formulation quality and clean ingredients as the primary reason for repeat purchasing.
More from Maelove
Similar anti-aging skincare: serums, night creams, facial peels, wrinkle patches and anti-aging devices to consider
Frequently asked questions
Is 10% niacinamide too strong for sensitive skin?
10% is a commonly used and generally well-tolerated concentration for niacinamide. Most skin types handle it without significant irritation, though very reactive skin may prefer starting at a lower concentration. This product is specifically designed for sensitive skin, which suggests the formulation accounts for tolerability beyond just the niacinamide percentage.
Can I use niacinamide with vitamin C or retinol?
Niacinamide is generally compatible with both vitamin C and retinol, though older guidance suggested pairing them could cause flushing. Current evidence indicates this is unlikely at typical concentrations. Layering niacinamide and retinol is a common and effective pairing for supporting skin texture and tone. Applying to dry skin and spacing applications can further reduce any chance of interaction.
What does niacinamide actually do for the appearance of aging skin?
Niacinamide may help with the look of enlarged pores, uneven skin tone, and surface redness, all of which become more noticeable with age. It also supports the skin barrier, which can improve the appearance of skin that looks dehydrated or fragile. Results are typically gradual over four to eight weeks of consistent use.