[New] Top 10 Best Korean Serums for Glowing Skin You Should Try

Korean skincare has taken the world by storm, and serums are a cornerstone of their radiant beauty routines. Known for their lightweight formulas and potent ingredients, Korean serums can deliver dramatic improvements to skin texture, hydration, and overall glow. From the iconic glass skin perfected by K-pop idols like Lisa from BLACKPINK to the dewy complexion of actors like Song Hye-kyo, Korean serums have become synonymous with youthful, luminous skin. In this blog post, let’s dive into the top 10 best Korean serums that you should consider adding to your skincare regimen.

* Before adding serums to your routine, be sure to click on the related articles below to learn why properly cleansing and toning your skin first can help you get the most out of your serums for an optimized skincare regimen.

1. Selecting the best Korean Serum for Your Skin Type

The effectiveness of a serum is contingent upon its ingredients, each designed to target specific skin concerns. To maximize the benefits of your serum, consider the following tailored recommendations for each skin type:

Sensitive Skin

Opt for serums with soothing natural ingredients such as aloe vera, green tea, pomegranate, chamomile, and licorice to avoid irritation.

* For those with easily irritated skin, our guide highlights some of the most gentle yet effective Korean serums that cater to sensitive skin needs.

Oily Skin

Look for formulas that balance oil production and hydrate without clogging pores. Seek out ingredients like BHA, Niacinamide, and zinc. Prefer light, gel textures that penetrate the skin quickly and forego any serums containing alcohol to prevent over-drying and subsequent oil overproduction.

* If you want to learn about effective Korean serums that can help control excess oil and sebum production, be sure to check out our guide below highlighting some top options for oily skin types.

* Looking to add a potent niacinamide serum to your skincare routine? Don't miss our roundup of Korean niacinamide serums to help control oil, minimize pores, and improve skin texture.

Dry Skin

Your serum should be rich in vitamin B5, Hyaluronic Acid, and vitamin E to deeply moisturize, aid in skin repair, and protect against oxidative stress. Creamy or oily serums are best for delivering intense hydration and nourishment.

* If you struggle with dry skin, check out our guide below covering some of the most moisturizing and hydrating Korean serums to help nourish and restore smoothness.

Combination Skin

If you lean towards oily, steer clear of alcohol and heavy oils that can exacerbate oiliness and block pores. Ingredients such as cherry blossom extract, grape seed-derived linoleic acid, soybeans, and Hyaluronic Acid are preferable. Choose fast-absorbing, water-based serums.

If your skin is more dry than oily, go for serums enriched with vitamin E, Hyaluronic Acid, and emollients like shea butter and almond oil, avoiding fragrant or alcohol-based options to minimize the risk of irritation and skin barrier disruption.

* In case you have combination skin and need products to balance both oily and dry areas, our guide below covers top Korean serum options for combination skin.

* If you're interested in learning more about the top hyaluronic acid serums from South Korea, be sure to check out the helpful buying guide linked below for the 9 best options.

2. Top 10 Best Korean Serums for Glowing Skin You Should Try

Discover the secrets to radiant, youthful skin with our curated list of the top 10 best Korean serums. From hydrating hyaluronic acid to brightening niacinamide, these powerful formulas will leave your skin feeling refreshed, revitalized, and glowing.

2.1. Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum

Key ingredients: Herbal extracts, Ginseng, Peony, Licorice | Skin type: All types | Time to take effect: 2-4 weeks

Indulge in centuries-old Korean beauty rituals with Sulwhasoo's First Care Activating Serum. Experience the revitalizing power of ginseng, a treasured ingredient for generations.

• Hydrates and moisturizes: Ginseng helps to replenish and retain moisture in the skin, leaving it feeling hydrated and plump.
• Strengthens the skin barrier: Ginseng can help to strengthen the skin's protective layer, making it more resilient against external factors like pollution and environmental stressors.
• Improves skin elasticity: Ginseng may help to enhance the skin's elasticity, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
• Promotes a healthy glow: Ginseng can contribute to a brighter, more radiant complexion by improving skin tone and texture.
• Antioxidant benefits: Ginseng contains antioxidants that can help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals.

In addition to ginseng, the serum contains a blend of herbal extracts that work synergistically to nourish and revitalize the skin. These extracts help improve hydration levels, enhance the skin's moisture barrier, and promote a brighter complexion. The combination of these ingredients aims to address multiple skin concerns, including dryness, dullness, and uneven skin tone. By incorporating these herbal components, the serum not only hydrates but also strengthens the skin's defenses against external stressors.

* To purchase Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum. with lowest price, please click the button below.

* If you want to learn more about some of the most popular and effective peptide serums from South Korea's top brands for restoring damaged skin, be sure to check out the informative buying guide linked below.

2.2. JIGOTT Natural Retinol Perfect Serum

• Boosts collagen production: Retinol stimulates collagen synthesis in the dermis, enhancing skin firmness and elasticity.
• Accelerates cell turnover: It promotes faster shedding of dead skin cells, leading to improved skin texture and reduced appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
• Neutralizes free radicals: Retinol helps combat oxidative stress by neutralizing free radicals, which can contribute to aging and skin damage.
• Improves skin tone: The serum targets age-related pigmentation, helping to even out skin tone and enhance brightness.
• Exfoliates the skin: Retinol has an exfoliating effect, improving overall skin texture and promoting a smoother appearance.
• Enhances moisture retention: By increasing collagen levels, retinol helps boost hydration and elasticity in the skin.
• Reduces pore size: Regular use can lead to smaller, less noticeable pores due to improved skin texture and reduced clogging.

Additionally, Vitamin A acts as a potent antioxidant, combating free radicals and reducing oxidative stress, which can lead to premature aging. The serum may also include moisturizing agents that hydrate the skin, improving its overall appearance and preventing dryness. Furthermore, anti-inflammatory properties help soothe conditions like acne and eczema, while promoting healing and reducing redness. Together, these ingredients contribute to a brighter, firmer, and more youthful complexion.

* To purchase Jigott Natural Retinol Perfect Serum with lowest price, please click the button below.

* If fading dark spots and evening out your skin tone is a priority, check out our recommendations below for some of the top Korean serums to combat hyperpigmentation.

2.3. The AHC PHA Solution Ampoule Directory Refining Serum

Key ingredients: PHA (Succinic and Lactobionic acid), 5% Niacinamide, CeraPresso™ technology | Skin type: All types | Time to take effect: 1 week

Ready to unveil your skin's hidden glow? AHC PHA Solution Ampoule, enriched with Succinic and Lactobionic acids, works wonders to refine and rejuvenate.

• Gentle Exfoliation: Removing dead skin cells, unclogging pores, and refining skin texture.
• Brightening: Inhibiting melanin production to reduce dark spots and even out skin tone.
• Hydration: Maintaining skin moisture, preventing dryness and flakiness.
• Antioxidant Protection: Protecting skin from free radicals and preventing premature aging.
• 5% Niacinamide: Brightens the skin, reduces the appearance of dark spots, enhances skin barrier function, improves overall texture, and provides anti-inflammatory benefits.
• CeraPresso™ technology enhances the absorption of these active ingredients into the skin, ensuring that they penetrate effectively and deliver their benefits more efficiently. This smart delivery system allows for deeper penetration of niacinamide and other actives, maximizing their efficacy in promoting a clearer, brighter complexion while maintaining skin hydration and resilience.
• Succinic and Lactobionic Acids (PHA): Offer a gentle yet effective exfoliation, revealing smoother, brighter, and more refined skin.

* To purchase The AHC PHA Solution Ampoule Directory Refining Serum with lowest price, please click the button below.

* Note: We offer a wide variety of authentic serum skincare products designed for your skin. You can visit our comprehensive serum skincare page to view them.

2.4. Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin C Drop

Key ingredients: L-ascorbic acid, Centella Asiatica Extract | Skin type: All types | Time to take effect: 4 wweks

Want skin as radiant as BLACKPINK's Rosé? Try Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin C Drop. Packed with pure L-ascorbic acid, it's your secret to a brighter, more youthful complexion.

• Brightens skin: L-ascorbic acid inhibits the production of melanin, a pigment that gives skin its color. This can help reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
• Reduces signs of aging: L-ascorbic acid is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to premature aging. It also stimulates collagen production, which can help improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.  
• Improves skin texture: L-ascorbic acid can help to improve the overall texture of the skin by reducing the appearance of pores and promoting a smoother, more even complexion.

Centella Asiatica (Cica) in Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin C Drop offers a range of benefits for the skin. Its anti-inflammatory properties soothe irritation and redness, making it ideal for sensitive skin. Cica also promotes wound healing and collagen synthesis, improving skin elasticity and firmness. Additionally, its antioxidant content protects against environmental damage, while its moisturizing properties hydrate and restore the skin's natural barrier. By complementing the brightening and anti-aging effects of vitamin C, Cica contributes to a healthier, more resilient complexion.

* To purchase Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin C Drop with lowest price, please click the button below.

* Discover the top vitamin C serums from South Korea's innovative beauty brands with our must-read list of the top best options to brighten and even out your complexion.

2.5. The MEDIPEEL LHA Soonsoo Peel Serum

Key ingredients:  Niacinamide, Salicylic Acid, Glycerin, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Lactobionic Acid | Skin type: All types | Time to take effect:  2-4 weeks

Dreaming of a complexion as flawless as Jennie from BLACKPINK? Look no further. The MEDIPEEL LHA Soonsoo Peel Serum, infused with Niacinamide, is your ticket to a brighter, more even-toned skin.

• Boosts ceramide production: Enhances the skin's natural ceramides, improving its protective barrier and preventing moisture loss.
• Reduces inflammation: Calms redness and irritation from acne, rosacea, and eczema with its anti-inflammatory properties.
• Minimizes pores: Normalizes pore lining, reducing debris buildup and shrinking visible pores.
• Brightens skin tone: Inhibits melanin transfer, reducing dark spots and promoting a more even complexion.
• Improves aging signs: Reduces wrinkles, improves elasticity, and boosts collagen for youthful skin.
• Shields against oxidative stress: Acts as an antioxidant, protecting skin from UV rays, pollution, and toxins.

MEDIPEEL LHA Soonsoo Peel Serum combines salicylic acid, glycerin, Camellia sinensis leaf extract, and lactobionic acid to enhance skin health. Salicylic acid exfoliates and reduces acne, glycerin hydrates, Camellia sinensis leaf extract protects and soothes, and lactobionic acid gently exfoliates and hydrates. These ingredients work together to improve skin texture, clarity, and overall appearance while providing hydration and protection against environmental damage.

* To purchase The MEDIPEEL LHA Soonsoo Peel Serum with lowest price, please click the button below.

2.6. SOME BY MI Galactomyces Pure Vitamin C Glow Serum

Key ingredients: Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate, Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid), Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid | Skin type: All types | Time to take effect:2-4 weeks.

Feeling a little lost in translation when it comes to your skincare routine? Let the K-beauty magic of Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate transform your skin. The SOME BY MI Galactomyces Pure Vitamin C Glow Serum, inspired by the radiant glow of your favorite Korean stars, is a game-changer for a brighter, healthier complexion.

• Fermentation Process: Derived from the fermentation of yeast (Galactomyces), enhancing bioavailability of nutrients.
• Rich in Nutrients: Contains vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and enzymes beneficial for skin health.
• Hydration: Increases moisture levels in the skin, preventing dryness and maintaining suppleness.
• Brightening Effect: Helps even out skin tone and reduces dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
• Anti-aging Benefits: Promotes collagen production and cell turnover, reducing fine lines and wrinkles.
• Smoothing Texture: Refines and smooths the skin's texture for a more polished appearance.
• Calming Properties: Exhibits anti-inflammatory effects, soothing irritated or sensitive skin.
• Pore Minimization: Regulates sebum production, leading to smaller pores and reduced acne breakouts.
• Antioxidant Protection: Protects the skin from environmental stressors and oxidative damage.
• Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid): Protects skin cells from damage caused by free radicals and plays a crucial role in collagen production.
• Niacinamide: Evens out skin tone, minimizes the appearance of pores, and reduces inflammation.
• Hyaluronic Acid: Attracts and retains moisture in the skin, keeping it hydrated and plump.

* To purchase SOME BY MI Galactomyces Pure Vitamin C Glow Serum with lowest price, please click the button below.

* If you want to know more about top collagen serums from South Korea to help improve firmness and elasticity, don't miss the helpful buying guide linked below.

2.7. NEOGEN Real Ferment Micro Serum

Key ingredients: 61% Natural Fermented Ingredients, Vitamins C, E, B5, Glutathione | Skin type: All types| Time to take effect: 1-2 weeks.

Wake up your skin with NEOGEN Real Ferment Micro Serum. Powered by 61% Natural Fermented Ingredients, it’s like a nourishing elixir for your complexion. Feel the vitality of your skin Enhanced Absorption: Fermentation breaks down ingredients into smaller molecules, allowing for better penetration into the skin.

• Increased Bioavailability: Nutrients become more bioavailable through fermentation, enhancing their effectiveness.
• Potent Antioxidant Properties: Fermented ingredients help combat free radicals, providing anti-aging benefits and reducing fine lines.
• Improved Hydration: Ingredients like bio-fermented hyaluronic acid retain moisture more effectively, leading to long-lasting hydration.
• Skin Barrier Reinforcement: Fermented oils and fatty acids strengthen the skin's natural barrier, reducing trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL).
• Reduced Irritation and Sensitivity: The fermentation process can isolate specific compounds, minimizing the risk of irritation and enhancing tolerance for sensitive skin types.
• Brightening Effects: Ingredients like Aspergillus ferment and rice ferment filtrate help even out skin tone and reduce pigmentation spots.
• Anti-Aging Benefits: Fermented ingredients improve skin elasticity and texture, contributing to a more youthful appearance.

Neogen Real Ferment Micro Serum incorporates Vitamins C, E, and B5, along with Glutathione, to enhance skin health through their potent antioxidant properties. Vitamin C helps brighten the complexion and reduce pigmentation, while Vitamin E protects against oxidative stress and supports skin repair. Vitamin B5 (Panthenol) provides hydration and enhances the skin barrier, promoting a smoother texture. Glutathione works synergistically with these vitamins to combat free radicals, further aiding in skin brightening and evening out skin tone, resulting in a healthier and more radiant appearance overall

* To purchase NEOGEN Real Ferment Micro Serum with lowest price, please click the button below.

2.8. MEDIPEEL Dutch Tea A.C Calming Serum

Key ingredients: Tea Tree Extract (72 hours cold brew), Vegan formulation, Hydrating agents| Skin type: All skin types| Time to take effect: 2-4 weeks.

Ever wondered how K-pop stars maintain their radiant, blemish-free skin? One secret lies in the power of natural ingredients. Enter MEDIPEEL Dutch Tea A.C Calming Serum, a skincare marvel that's infused with the soothing properties of Tea Tree Extract. Just like how BTS's Jungkook relies on a consistent skincare routine, this serum can be your daily companion to achieve a calm and balanced complexion.

• Antibacterial: Tea tree extract kills bacteria, reducing infection and acne risk.
• Anti-inflammatory: It soothes irritation and reduces redness.
• Sebum Control: Regulates oil production to prevent clogged pores and acne.
• Wound Healing: Promotes quicker healing of wounds and cuts.
• Hydration: Supports skin moisture alongside other ingredients.
• Cold Brew Extraction: A 72-hour cold brew preserves the extract’s active benefits.
• Skin Texture: Improves rough skin for a smoother look.

MEDIPEEL Dutch Tea A.C Calming Serum utilizes vegan formulations and hydrating agents to provide effective skin soothing and moisture retention. The vegan formulation ensures that the serum is free from animal-derived ingredients, making it suitable for ethical skincare practices. Hydrating agents, such as glycerin and sodium hyaluronate, attract and retain moisture in the skin, enhancing hydration levels and improving overall skin texture. This combination helps to calm irritation, reduce redness, and maintain a balanced, healthy complexion.

* To purchase MEDIPEEL Dutch Tea A.C Calming Serum with lowest price, please click the button below.

2.9. COSRX Centella Aqua Soothing Ampoule

Key ingredients: Centella Asiatica Extract, Glycerin, D-Panthenol (Vitamin B5), Madecassoside, Betaine, Chondrus Crispus Extract, Saccharum Officinarum (Sugarcane) Extract | Skin type: All types | Time to take effect: 2-4 weeks.

Ever feel like you're starring in a K-drama with stressed-out skin? Let BTS's Jin and BLACKPINK's Jennie reveal the secret to achieving a calm, hydrated complexion. Powered by Centella Asiatica Extract, the COSRX Centella Aqua Soothing Ampoule is the ultimate backstage pass to a flawless, radiant glow.

• Anti-inflammatory: Helps soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing redness and inflammation.
• Wound healing: Promotes skin cell regeneration and tissue repair, aiding in the healing of minor wounds and blemishes.
• Antioxidant: Protects skin from environmental damage and free radicals, helping to prevent premature aging.
• Moisturizing: Provides deep hydration to the skin, improving its elasticity and plumpness.
• Soothing: Offers a calming and soothing effect on sensitive skin, reducing discomfort and irritation.

In COSRX Centella Aqua Soothing Ampoule, Betaine, Chondrus Crispus Extract, and Saccharum Officinarum (Sugarcane) Extract work synergistically to enhance skin hydration and soothing properties.

Betaine, a natural osmolyte derived from sugar beets, helps to maintain moisture levels in the skin, providing a plumping effect and reducing dryness. Chondrus Crispus Extract, also known as Irish moss, is rich in polysaccharides that create a protective barrier on the skin, locking in moisture and enhancing skin softness.

Meanwhile, Saccharum Officinarum Extract contains glycolic acid, which gently exfoliates the skin while promoting hydration and improving overall texture, making this ampoule particularly effective for calming sensitive or irritated skin.

* To purchase COSRX Centella Aqua Soothing Ampoule with lowest price, please click the button below.

 2.10. Dr.G A'Clear Spot For Face Serum

Key ingredients: Succinic Acid, 2% Niacinamide, Derma Clear Complex, Plant extracts  | Skin type: All types | Time to take effect: 4 weeks

Like a brushstroke of beauty, a canvas of clarity. Succinic Acid, a gentle artist, paints away blemishes, leaving a masterpiece of radiant skin. Dr.G A’Clear Spot For Face Serum, your path to a flawless complexion, inspired by the ethereal beauty of K-pop stars.

• Exfoliation: Succinic Acid helps to gently exfoliate dead skin cells, which can prevent clogged pores that lead to acne breakouts.
• Oil Control: It aids in reducing excess oil production, addressing one of the primary causes of acne. This oil control is crucial for maintaining a balanced complexion.
• Anti-inflammatory Properties: Succinic Acid possesses anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce redness and swelling associated with acne lesions.
• Skin Conditioning: It acts as a skin conditioning agent, promoting overall skin health and hydration without stripping essential moisture, making it suitable for sensitive skin types.

In Dr.G A'Clear Spot For Face Serum, the Derma Clear Complex and plant extracts work together to effectively combat acne and soothe irritated skin. The Derma Clear Complex, which includes MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) and licorice root extract, helps reduce excess oil production, accelerates the healing of acne lesions, and enhances skin resilience while alleviating redness and inflammation.

Complementing this, the plant extracts such as Centella Asiatica and Houttuynia Cordata provide anti-inflammatory benefits, calming sensitive skin and promoting a clearer complexion by supporting skin repair and hydration. This synergistic formulation ensures effective treatment of acne without causing dryness or irritation.

* To purchase COSRX Centella Aqua Soothing Ampoule with lowest price, please click the button below.

* After applying your serums, don't forget to check out the related articles below on why it's important to follow up with moisturizer and sunscreen to seal in the benefits of your serums and protect your skin.

3. Conclusion

In the realm of beauty, where potions and elixirs promise miracles, Korean skincare stands as a beacon of innovation. Among its treasures, serums emerge as potent and transformative agents, capable of infusing skin with a luminous glow. These lightweight, nutrient-rich liquids penetrate deep into the epidermis, delivering hydration, antioxidants, and essential ingredients that awaken the skin's natural radiance.

Join on a journey through the world of Korean skincare as we unveil the top 10 serums that have captured the hearts of beauty enthusiasts worldwide. From soothing aloe vera to revitalizing snail mucin, these serums promise to nourish, protect, and illuminate your complexion, leaving you with a radiant, youthful glow that rivals the morning dew.