How to choose a facial serum: finding a formula that suits your skin

A facial serum can be a valuable addition to your daily skincare routine, but not every product is right for every skin type. A lightweight formula can feel great on oily skin, while dry or mature skin benefits more from hydrating ingredients and a richer texture. What’s more, if you focus solely on claims like “glow”, “lifting” or “pore-minimising”, you run the risk of buying a product that doesn’t fit your own routine.

So the most important question isn’t which serum promises the most, but which ingredients, texture and usage instructions match your skin type and goal.

Common pitfalls when buying a serum

1. Confusing marketing claims with guaranteed results

Words like anti-ageing serum, collagen serum and PDRN serum sound specific, but they don’t automatically tell you how your skin will react. A brand might claim, for example, that collagen or PDRN makes skin firmer or more radiant. Put it this way: according to the brand’s own research or the product description, the product may contribute to a visibly smoother, more hydrated or firmer-looking skin surface. That’s quite different from a medically proven effect.

2. Choosing an active ingredient without looking at the full formula

Niacinamide, peptides, retinol, acids and hyaluronic acid are often highlighted on the front of the packaging. Always check the full ingredients list too. A serum might contain perfume, alcohol, exfoliating acids or retinol, for example. That’s not necessarily a problem, but it can determine whether it’s suitable for sensitive skin.

3. Underestimating the texture

A hydrating serum with a heavy, oily texture can feel unpleasant on oily or combination skin. Conversely, a very watery formula may not provide enough comfort for dry skin. So look out for terms like watery, gel, emulsion, non-sticky and fast-absorbing.

Which specifications should you check?

1. Skin type and main skin goal

First, choose one primary goal. Examples:

• Hydration: look for glycerin, panthenol and different forms of hyaluronic acid.
• Oily or combination skin: seek a lightweight texture and information about oil control or a non-comedogenic formula.
• Less visible pores: a pore-refining serum may contain ingredients like niacinamide, centella and peptides. Expect an improvement in the appearance of your skin, not the permanent disappearance of pores.
• Firmness and elasticity: a firming serum or collagen serum often contains peptides, adenosine or collagen derivatives.
• More even skin tone and glow: niacinamide, vitamin C derivatives and hydrating ingredients are common here.
• Sensitive skin: choose a simple formula, avoid too many active ingredients at once, and always patch test first.

2. Ingredient order and warnings

Ingredients are usually listed in descending order of quantity, although there are exceptions for low concentrations. Also check for warnings. For example, the MEDICUBE PDRN Pink Exosome Shot Serum contains retinol. According to the product information, retinol can increase sensitivity to sunlight; therefore, use a sunscreen during the day and avoid prolonged sun exposure.

The VT COSMETICS Collagen Reedle Shot 100 Serum contains a spicule-like ingredient and may cause a tingling sensation, according to the product information. The brand advises against using it on damaged or irritated skin, after dermatological treatments, or together with a beauty device. This type of product therefore requires more attention than a simple hydrating serum.

3. Volume, dosage and daily use

Don’t just compare the price of a bottle – compare the volume too. A 30 ml serum and a 100 ml ampoule can differ significantly in how long they last. Also check whether the product is applied once or twice a day, how many drops you need, and whether a moisturiser can be applied on top.

Generally, apply a serum after cleansing and, if you use one, toning, and before a moisturiser. Use sun protection during the day if the product information advises it. Stop using it if irritation persists, and if in doubt, consult a doctor or dermatologist.

Recommended choices by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners

SKIN1004 Himalayan Rose Salt Pore Care Serum 100ml

Why it fits this profile: The lightweight formula is designed for oily and combination skin and is easy to incorporate into a daily routine.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information mentions a fast-absorbing, non-greasy texture and specifies use for oily or combination skin. Always check the current ingredients list on the packaging.

Key benefit & highlights

100 ml volume; centella, glycerin and multiple forms of hyaluronic acid in the listed formula; vegan and, according to the product information, cruelty-free.

Suitable for: Shoppers seeking top quality

Medicube PDRN Pink Collagen 3-Step Glow Set

Why it fits this profile: This is a complete K-beauty serum routine for anyone who wants to combine serum, device and gel mask in one set.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The steps and contents are clearly described: booster serum, beauty device and four PDRN Pink Collagen gel masks. So you can see exactly what you’re getting before you buy.

Key benefit & highlights

Three components for a fixed routine; aimed at hydration, a radiant appearance and a smoother-looking skin, according to the product description.

Suitable for: Specific use & intensive users

VT COSMETICS Collagen Reedle Shot 100 Serum

Why it fits this profile: Suitable for users who consciously choose a more intensive K-beauty routine focused on texture, hydration and a firmer-looking skin.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information explicitly mentions warnings about tingling, damaged skin, beauty devices and combining with other Reedle Shot strengths.

Key benefit & highlights

50 ml volume; contains niacinamide, glycerin, centella, adenosine and hyaluronic acid according to the ingredients list.

Frequently asked questions about facial serums

How do you use a facial serum?

First, cleanse your face, then apply a small amount of serum. Gently pat it in and finish with a moisturiser. Don’t use several powerful active ingredients at once. Always follow the specific usage instructions on the packaging.

How long does a serum last?

The shelf life is stated on the packaging as an expiry date or period after opening. Store the serum tightly closed, in a dry place away from direct sunlight. If the smell, colour or texture changes significantly, check the packaging first before using it again.

Is a more expensive serum automatically more suitable?

No. The price alone doesn’t tell you whether a serum is right for your skin. Compare the volume, ingredients, texture, warnings and dosage. A simple hydrating serum can be more practical than a complex product with lots of active ingredients if you’re mainly looking for daily hydration.