Joybuy Insights

Choosing a face serum: how to find a serum that suits your skin

A face serum can be a practical addition to your daily routine, but the wide choice can make selecting one difficult. A vitamin C serum, hydrating serum, niacinamide serum or peptide serum each has a different purpose. Terms such as “intensive”, “glow” and “anti-ageing” may sound appealing, but they do not automatically tell you whether a product is right for your skin.

As a Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, I therefore start by looking at verifiable information: the ingredients list, volume, texture, directions for use and warnings. This helps you avoid paying for a formula you barely use or that does not suit your skin type.

Three common pitfalls when choosing a face serum

1. Assuming a higher percentage means a better choice

A higher percentage of vitamin C or niacinamide is not necessarily more practical for everyone. Skin can react to active ingredients, particularly when you use several products at the same time. So do not look only at the percentage. Consider the full formula, recommended frequency of use and warnings as well.

A serum for pigmentation or dark spots does not replace daily sun protection. According to the product information for several vitamin C serums, wearing sunscreen during the day is recommended.

2. Relying solely on marketing claims

Claims such as “repairs”, “boosts collagen” or “reduces wrinkles” do not guarantee a particular personal result. When a brand refers to an effect, you should read it as a claim from the product description. For example, according to the brand’s own information, the six types of peptides are intended to support multiple skin needs. This does not mean that every user is guaranteed the same result.

Also pay attention to the difference between a cosmetic goal and medical treatment. A serum is intended for external skincare and does not treat a skin condition.

3. Ignoring texture and shelf life

A rich serum can feel comfortable on dry skin, but less comfortable on oily or combination skin. A watery formula may absorb quickly, but you may then need to apply a moisturiser.

Also check the volume. A 7 ml bottle is suitable for trying out a formula, while 30, 50, 100 or 150 ml may be more appealing for daily use. The period after opening varies by product, so always follow the packaging instructions.

Which specifications should you check?

Ingredients that match your goal

Use your skincare goal as the first filter:

  • Hydration: look for glycerine, panthenol, sodium hyaluronate or other forms of hyaluronic acid. A hyaluronic acid serum can enhance your skincare routine, particularly with moisture-binding ingredients.
  • Dull-looking skin: a vitamin C serum, niacinamide serum or formula containing alpha-arbutin may suit a routine designed to create a more even-looking complexion. According to the brand’s own information, Beauty of Joseon Glow Deep Serum contains 2% alpha-arbutin.
  • Sensitive skin: preferably choose a short, easy-to-understand ingredients list and avoid ingredients you have reacted sensitively to in the past. According to the product description, Dr. Althea Gentle Vitamin C Serum is made without fragrance or colourants.
  • Blemishes: look for niacinamide, zinc PCA or salicylic acid. Salicylic acid, for example, is found in Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum Propolis Niacinamide. Use this product according to the warnings on the packaging.
  • Mature skin: an anti-ageing serum may contain ingredients such as peptides, adenosine or hyaluronic acid. Treat the claim as cosmetic positioning, not as a guaranteed result.

Centella serum is a popular choice if you are looking for a lightweight, caring formula. Centella Asiatica extract is central to the product information for SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule. The 55 ml variant is worth considering if you are looking for a medium-sized bottle to start with; the 100 ml variant is practical if you use the product regularly.

Concentration, order of application and combining products

An active ingredient is generally listed higher up in the INCI list when it is present in a relatively higher amount, but the list does not always reveal the exact percentage. So do not buy a face serum solely based on the order of the ingredients.

Start with one new serum at a time. Apply it after cleansing and, if desired, toner, followed by a moisturiser. Wear sun protection during the day when recommended in the product information, particularly with formulas containing vitamin C, retinol or exfoliating ingredients. A patch test on a small area of skin can help you identify a possible reaction sooner.

Packaging and ease of use

A pump bottle limits contact with the contents and can be convenient for daily use. A pipette gives you more control over the number of drops, but preferably avoid touching your skin with it. Check that the packaging closes securely and store the serum in a cool place away from direct sunlight, as indicated on the product packaging.

Our recommendations by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Beauty of Joseon Revive Serum: Ginseng+Snail Mucin 30 ml

Beauty of Joseon Revive Serum: Ginseng+Snail Mucin 30 ml

Why it suits this profile: An easy-to-understand choice for anyone looking for a first face serum with a gel texture and a combination of hydrating ingredients.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product page clearly states the 30 ml volume, pump bottle and specific directions to use one to two pumps. This makes it easy to keep track of how much you use and how to apply it.

Key benefit & advantages

Contains glycerine, niacinamide, Centella Asiatica, sodium hyaluronate and several forms of hyaluronic acid, among other ingredients.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
Cosrx The 6 Peptide Skin Booster Serum 150 Ml

The 6 Peptide Skin Booster Serum 150 Ml

Why it suits this profile: Ideal for users who want to add a larger volume and a formula with several peptide ingredients to their routine.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The 150 ml volume is clearly stated. This makes it easier to compare the price based on quantity, rather than just the bottle or brand name.

Key benefit & advantages

The ingredients list names six peptide ingredients, niacinamide, glycerine and sodium hyaluronate. According to the product description, the formula is suitable for all skin types.

Suitable for: Specific use & intensive users
Dr. Althea Vitamin C Boosting Serum 30 ml

Dr. Althea Vitamin C Boosting Serum 30 ml

Why it suits this profile: Suitable for anyone looking for a Korean skincare serum formula focused on a more even-looking complexion and a lightweight, non-sticky finish.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information states the 30 ml volume, lightweight texture and warnings relating to vitamin C and sun exposure. This makes the directions and key considerations clear in advance.

Key benefit & advantages

Contains niacinamide, tranexamic acid, 3-O-ethyl ascorbic acid, panthenol, ceramide NP and several forms of hyaluronic acid.

Suitable for: Sensitive skin and simple routines
Dr. Althea Gentle Vitamin C Serum 30ml

Dr. Althea Gentle Vitamin C Serum 30ml

Why it suits this profile: An option for anyone looking for a serum for sensitive skin containing vitamin C and niacinamide, with a watery texture.

How this product avoids the pitfall

According to the product description, the formula contains no fragrance or colourants. Nevertheless, carry out a patch test and stop using it if irritation occurs, as stated in the safety information.

Key benefit & advantages

The listed ingredients include vitamin C, niacinamide, allantoin and sea buckthorn extract. The texture is described as watery and non-sticky.

Looking for more options?

We have put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about face serums

How do you use a face serum?

First, cleanse your face. Then apply a few drops or one to two pumps, depending on the product instructions. Gently spread the serum over your skin and finish with a moisturiser. During the day, use sun protection when this is recommended for the formula.

How long does a bottle of face serum last?

This depends on the volume and dosage. With daily use, 30 ml may last for several weeks to several months. A 150 ml product will generally last longer, but always check the recommended amount. Do not use the serum after its expiry date or beyond the stated period after opening.

Can you combine several serums?

You can, but do not introduce several potent active ingredients at the same time. Start with one serum and observe how your skin responds. For example, first combine a hydrating serum with a simple moisturiser. When using vitamin C, retinol, acids or salicylic acid, it is advisable to follow the warnings and directions on the packaging.