Mary & May - Niacinamide + Chaenomeles Sinensis Brightening Serum 30ml

Mary & May’s Niacinamide + Chaenomeles Sinensis Brightening Serum is a thoughtfully crafted Korean‐beauty (K‑beauty) formulation designed to help revitalize dull skin, even out skin tone, and restore radiance with a gentle, skin‑friendly approach. Packaged in a 30 ml size, it combines a modest concentration of niacinamide (2 %) with a very high proportion of Chaenomeles sinensis fruit extract (93 %) to deliver a balanced brightening, soothing, and antioxidant boost. 

This serum is marketed as “brightening and soothing,” targeting common concerns such as pigmentation, uneven tone, visible pores, redness, and lackluster skin.  Its lightweight texture, skin‑friendly ingredients, and certification from EWG green grade make it suitable for many skin types—including sensitive skin—when introduced properly.

Below we break down the features, ingredient rationale, usage guidance, benefits, precautions, and consumer feedback.

Key Ingredients & Their Functions

Niacinamide (2 %)

Niacinamide (a form of vitamin B3) is well known in skincare for its versatility. At 2 %, this serum uses a moderate strength that is effective yet generally more tolerable for many users. Its major functions include:

• Brightening / Pigmentation control: Niacinamide helps inhibit the transfer of melanosomes (pigment granules) from melanocytes to surrounding skin cells, which can reduce the formation or visibility of dark spots and hyperpigmentation. 

• Sebum regulation: It may help balance oil production, which is beneficial for combination or oily skin. 

• Maintaining skin barrier: Niacinamide is known to improve the barrier function, reduce transepidermal water loss, and support overall skin resilience.

Because the concentration is modest (2 %), it's less likely to cause irritation than higher percentages (e.g., 5 %, 10 %)—making it a “beginner‑friendly” brightening ingredient. This is also mentioned in user reviews that consider the lower percentage a gentler option. 

Chaenomeles Sinensis Fruit Extract (93 %)

The standout feature of this serum is its extraordinarily high proportion (93 %) of Chaenomeles sinensis (also known as Chinese quince or Japanese quince) fruit extract. This botanical ingredient is rich in:

• Vitamin C and flavonoids: Powerful antioxidants that neutralize free radicals, brighten skin tone, and promote skin radiance. 

• Soothing / anti-inflammatory effects: The extract helps calm redness, irritation, and external stress on the skin. 

• Texture smoothing: Over time, regular use can support a more even, refined texture by supporting skin health.

The high percentage means the formula is mostly botanical water (i.e. the extract) which gives it a gentle base; the niacinamide and other functional actives are added in a backing formulation.

Other Supporting Ingredients

The formula is relatively minimal and clean, focusing on safety, gentleness, and efficacy. Some of the supporting ingredients include:

• Glycereth‑26: A humectant and mild emollient, to help give slip and hydration.

• 1,2‑Hexanediol: A multifunctional solvent and preservative booster.

• Arginine, Carbomer: pH regulation, viscosity control, and texture stability.

• Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylyl Glycol: Mild preservative / skin conditioning agents. 

Mary & May highlights that the product is formulated with EWG green grade ingredients, and is free from 16 harmful ingredients (such as parabens, artificial fragrances, artificial colorants, alcohol, mineral oil, surfactants, allergens) and cruelty‑free. 

Texture, Sensory Experience & Packaging

• Texture / Feel: The serum is described as lightweight, non‑sticky, with a light gel or fluid consistency that absorbs quickly into the skin.  In a video review, the texture is said to feel like water when applied, leaving behind a subtle glow but not heavy or greasy.

• Scent: The formulation is marketed as fragrance‑free. However, some users perceive a very subtle scent (e.g. “honey‑like”) in reviews, likely from botanical sources. 

• Packaging: Typical K‑beauty style, in a compact 30 ml bottle (with dropper or pump type dispensing). The size is well suited for regular use in a skincare routine. 

Benefits & Claims

When used consistently (as part of a daily or nightly skincare routine), this serum aims to deliver:

1. Brighter, more even skin tone
   The combined action of niacinamide and antioxidant action from Chaenomeles sinensis helps reduce pigmentation over time, improving dull or sallow skin. 

2. Reduced visibility of pores / refined texture
   By balancing sebum and supporting skin health, the formula may help make pores appear less pronounced and give smoother surface appearance.

3. Soothing and calming
   The botanical extract is intended to calm redness and irritation, making this suitable even for skin under stress or mild sensitivity. 

4. Antioxidant defense against environmental stress
   The high botanical content acts as a free radical scavenger support, helping protect skin from oxidative damage.

5. Barrier support & hydration
   Through humectants and barrier-friendly ingredients (niacinamide especially), the formula helps maintain moisture balance and strengthen skin resilience.

Because of its moderate potency and gentle formulation, it often suits individuals who are newer to brightening actives or prefer gentler everyday use.

Directions for Use

To maximize results while preserving skin health, follow these recommended steps:

1. Patch test
   Before full use, apply a small amount on the inner arm or behind the ear for 24 hours to check for unwanted reaction.

2. Cleanse & tone
   Begin with a gentle cleanser, then apply your normal toner or balancing liquid to prep skin.

3. Apply the serum
   Dispense a few drops (or pump) onto fingertips and spread evenly over face and neck. Use gentle tapping or smoothing motions for absorption.

4. Follow up with moisturizer / emulsion / cream
   Seal the serum with a hydrating and occlusive layer to lock in moisture.

5. Sunscreen in the daytime
   Because brightening and antioxidant actives can make skin more vulnerable to UV damage, always follow with a broad‑spectrum sunscreen during the day.

6. Usage frequency
   This serum is typically safe for twice daily use (morning + evening) for many skin types. But if you have sensitive skin, starting with once daily (evening only) for a week can help your skin acclimate.

Consistency is key: visible improvements in tone and texture often become noticeable after 4–8 weeks of regular use.

Precautions & Considerations

• Sensitivity / irritation
  Even though the formula is gentle, any active ingredient can cause irritation in rare cases. If redness, stinging, or discomfort persists, discontinue use.

• Combining actives
  When layering with potent acids (AHA/BHA), vitamin C, retinoids, etc., proceed cautiously. It is advisable to space usage (e.g. alternate nights) or consult a dermatologist.

• Storage
  Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight to preserve the integrity of botanicals and stability.

• Avoid contact with eyes
  In case of contact, rinse well with water.

• Expiry & shelf life
  Follow the manufacturing or expiry date printed on the packaging, and close the cap tightly after each use to reduce oxidation.

Consumer Feedback & Real‑World Use

User reviews and community feedback offer additional context to how the product performs in practice:

• Some users with sensitive or acne‑prone skin report that within a few days to a week, they felt their skin calm down and existing blemishes reduced in intensity. 

• Reviewers appreciate that it’s gentle (low 2 % niacinamide), non‑sticky, and fast absorbing. 

• According to a video review, the serum dries down matte but leaves a subtle glow, making it convenient under makeup layers. 

• Some observations include that for those already using 10 % niacinamide, stepping down to 2 % may feel like a lighter regimen, but it can serve as a gentler alternative or maintenance product.

• However, as is typical with skincare, results vary. Some users feel strong brightening effects; others say it offers gradual improvements rather than instant transformation. 

Overall, the feedback leans positive, emphasizing comfort, gentleness, and visible brightening with consistent use.

Comparison & Positioning

In the crowded market of brightening serums, Mary & May’s formula positions itself as a middle‑ground, gentle but effective choice:

• Not as aggressive as high‑percentage actives (such as 10 % niacinamide, high-dose vitamin C, or potent acids), making it more accessible for sensitive or beginner users.

• The extraordinarily high botanical content (93 % extract) is a distinguishing feature, signaling its natural/plant-based identity.

• A “clean skincare” branding (EWG green grade, cruelty‑free, free from many common irritants) appeals to consumers looking for safer, more mindful formulations.

When compared to pure niacinamide serums or pure vitamin C serums, this is more of a hybrid “brightening + soothing” formula rather than a maximum potency product. It may be ideal as a daily support serum or part of a multi‑step routine, rather than a one‑and‑done superstar.

Suggested Marketing / Label Highlights

If you plan to use this description for a product page or marketing brochure, here are some headline features and selling points you may highlight:

• “Gentle Brightening with 2 % Niacinamide + 93 % Botanical Extract”

• “Dual Action: Tone Correction + Calming Antioxidants”

• “Clean & Green: EWG Green Grade, 16‑Free, Cruelty‑Free Formula”

• “Lightweight & Fast Absorbing – No Stickiness, No Heavy Feel”

• “Safe for Sensitive Skin (When Patch Tested)”

• “Daily Radiance Booster for Even Skin Tone & Smooth Texture”

You may also use before/after visuals or texture shots to illustrate its thin, hydrated finish.

Summary

Mary & May Niacinamide + Chaenomeles Sinensis Brightening Serum (30 ml) is a well-balanced, gentle, and botanical-forward skincare product designed for those seeking gradual but reliable improvement in brightness, tone, and skin texture. The 2 % niacinamide delivers functional brightening and sebum balance, while the 93 % Chaenomeles sinensis extract offers antioxidant and soothing benefits. Combined with a clean formulation and tolerable profile, it holds appeal for a wide range of users—from skincare beginners to those with delicate or reactive skin.