Mary & May
Niacinamide + Chaenomeles Sinensis Serum (30 ml)
- Regular price £15.90
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This is a brightening serum for anyone dealing with dullness, uneven tone, or excess sebum. Unlike many brightening serums that sting or feel heavy, this one is surprisingly gentle and sinks in immediately .
It's formulated with just two key active ingredients — niacinamide and quince extract — plus a short, clean list of supporting ingredients. No fragrance. No alcohol. No essential oils .
How it works
The higher the natural extract formulation, the harder the texture can be to absorb. Mary&May optimised the formula so it absorbs quickly without stickiness .
Who it's for
✔️ Dull, tired, or uneven-looking skin
✔️ Oily and combination skin (sebum control is a key benefit)
✔️ Anyone with hyperpigmentation, dark spots, or acne scars
✔️ Sensitive skin — EWG Green Grade ingredients, dermatologically tested
✔️ Acne-prone skin — helps reduce breakouts while fading post-acne marks
A few honest notes
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Results take time — reviewers saw visible brightening after 4+ weeks of consistent use . Don't expect overnight miracles
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Can be slightly sticky for some — one user reported slight stickiness upon application, especially under makeup . Apply to damp skin and let it fully absorb before layering
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Not for very dry skin seeking hydration — this serum focuses on brightening and sebum control, not deep hydration. If your skin is very dry, layer a barrier cream over it
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Potent for some — one reviewer noted it "lightened their face" with overuse . Use as directed (2-3 drops, once or twice daily)
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Fragrance-free — no artificial fragrance, but the natural ingredients have a very light, cosmetic scent
Where it fits in your routine
After toner, before moisturiser. Morning and evening .
The simple version
- After cleansing and toning, dispense 2-3 drops into your palm
- Gently pat or press into your face and neck
- Allow a few seconds for absorption
- Follow with moisturiser (and SPF in the morning)
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Pro tips for best results
- Apply to slightly damp skin — After toner, your skin should be damp but not wet. This helps the serum spread more evenly and absorb faster
- Don't overuse — 2-3 drops is plenty for face and neck. Some users reported over-lightening with excessive use
- Let it absorb before layering — Wait 30-60 seconds before applying moisturiser to prevent any slight tackiness
- Pair with hydrating ingredients — If your skin is dry, layer a barrier cream or hyaluronic acid serum underneath or over this
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What not to do
- Don't mix with other high-concentration niacinamide products (2% is enough; too much can irritate)
- Avoid immediate combination with strong exfoliating acids (AHA/BHA) or pure vitamin C in the same routine to limit irritation risk
- Don't skip SPF — niacinamide brightens; SPF prevents new dark spots
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A note on patch testing
Before using this serum on your full face, patch test first. Apply a small amount behind your ear or along your jawline. Wait 24 hours. If you notice any redness, itching, or irritation, do not use it on your face.
This is especially important if you have very sensitive skin or have reacted to niacinamide before.
A patch test takes 30 seconds. Dealing with a reaction takes weeks. Worth it.
Chaenomeles Sinensis Fruit Extract, Glycereth-26, Niacinamide, 1,2-Hexanediol, Arginine, Carbomer, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylyl Glycol
We dispatch all orders within 1 business day (Monday–Friday) from our London, UK base via Royal Mail Tracked.
- UK Standard £3.99: Royal Mail Tracked Standard Delivery (2-3 working days from dispatch) Free on orders over £30
- UK Express £5.50: Royal Mail Tracked First Class Delivery (1-2 working days from dispatch)
- EU: £12.99 (3–7 working days) – Free on orders over €150
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Please note: EU orders may be subject to local VAT or handling fees upon delivery, depending on your country’s customs rules.