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

A face serum can be a useful addition to your daily skincare routine. The texture is usually lightweight, and a serum often contains a higher concentration of certain ingredients than a standard cream. However, more expensive does not automatically mean more suitable. The right choice depends on your skin type, the ingredient list and how often you want to use the product.

Common pitfalls when buying serum

1. A high percentage does not tell you everything

A product with 10%, 15% or an even higher stated percentage may sound appealing, but the percentage does not tell you how your skin will respond to the full formula. The form of an ingredient, its combination with other substances and the directions for use are also important.

For example, a niacinamide serum may suit an uneven complexion or skin that becomes oily quickly, while a hyaluronic acid serum is generally chosen for a more hydrated skin feel. So do not focus solely on the most prominent number on the packaging.

2. Using too many active ingredients at once

Using a vitamin C serum, retinol product, exfoliant and a powerful brightening serum in the same routine may be too much for some users. Redness, tightness or a burning sensation are signs that you should simplify your routine. Test a new serum on a small area of skin first and always follow the warnings on the packaging.

3. Confusing marketing claims with guaranteed results

Words such as “lifting”, “repairing” or “collagen-boosting” often describe a brand’s positioning. A brand may refer to certain visible results based on its own research, but this is not a guarantee for every user. Therefore, assess the objectively stated ingredients, amount, texture and frequency of use.

Which features should you check?

1. Start by choosing your main skin concern

Decide on one main priority before you start comparing products:

  • Dry skin: look for a hydrating serum containing glycerine, panthenol, betaine or hyaluronic acid.
  • Dull or uneven skin: a brightening serum with niacinamide, tranexamic acid, vitamin C derivatives or alpha-arbutin may be worth considering.
  • Mature skin: an anti-ageing serum with peptides, adenosine or hydrating ingredients can complement a routine focused on a firmer-looking complexion.
  • Sensitive skin: choose a short ingredient list, avoid unnecessary fragrances and start with a low frequency of use.
  • Acne-prone skin: look for a lightweight texture and check whether ingredients such as salicylic acid fit with your existing routine.

Ingredients are not a medical treatment. If you experience persistent irritation, severe acne or changes in pigmentation, it is better to seek advice from a doctor or skincare professional.

2. Check both the concentration and the form

A peptide serum may contain several different types of peptides. Matrixyl, copper peptides and other peptide complexes are not the same. The same applies to vitamin C: pure ascorbic acid and more stable derivatives have different formulations and usage properties.

For dark spots, you may come across niacinamide, tranexamic acid, alpha-arbutin and vitamin C derivatives. A serum for dark spots does not make daytime sun protection unnecessary.

3. Consider texture, amount and shelf life

A watery serum often works well under a moisturiser and sunscreen. A gel texture can feel pleasant on combination or oilier skin, while a richer formula may be better suited to dry skin. Also check:

  • the amount, for example 20, 30, 50 or 100 ml;
  • the type of packaging, such as a pipette, pump bottle or dosing cap;
  • the expiry date and period after opening;
  • storage advice, particularly for vitamin C or retinol;
  • warnings relating to the eyes, damaged skin and sun sensitivity.

Recommended face serums for different user profiles

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

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

Why it suits this profile: The gel texture and combination of ginseng, 3% snail mucin, glycerine and hyaluronic acid are practical for anyone looking to build a simple routine with a focus on hydration.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information provides a clear ingredient list and recommends using 1 to 2 pumps. This means you do not need to combine several highly concentrated serums at once.

Key benefit & highlights

30 ml, pump bottle, gel texture and ingredients suited to hydration and a comfortable skin feel.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality
Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Serum

Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Serum Synchronized Multi-Recovery Complex 30ml

Why it suits this profile: According to the product details, this serum is suitable for all skin types and has a fragrance-free, oil-free formula. It is a good choice for users looking for one versatile serum for their evening routine.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The choice is based on stated features such as the 30 ml amount, fragrance-free formula and hyaluronic acid, rather than general anti-ageing claims alone.

Key benefit & highlights

Fragrance-free, oil-free, 30 ml and suitable for use in the morning and evening according to the product description.

Suitable for: Targeted use & intensive users
Medicube TXA Niacinamide 15 Serum

Medicube TXA NIACINAMIDE 15 SERUM 30ml

Why it suits this profile: According to the product description, this formula is aimed at users specifically looking for a serum for dark spots and an uneven complexion, containing 15% niacinamide and tranexamic acid.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The main purpose and named active ingredients are clearly described. Introduce it gradually if your skin is not yet used to a concentrated formula.

Key benefit & highlights

15% niacinamide, tranexamic acid and a lightweight formula according to the product information.

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.

How to use a face serum in your routine

  1. Cleanse your face with a product your skin tolerates well.
  2. Apply toner if desired.
  3. Apply a small amount of serum to dry or slightly damp skin, depending on the instructions.
  4. Finish with a moisturiser.
  5. During the day, use sunscreen with an appropriate SPF.

Do not introduce new active ingredients all at once. When using a serum containing retinol, vitamin C derivatives, acids or spicule technology, it is especially important to build up usage gradually. Avoid contact with the eyes and stop using the product if irritation persists.

Frequently asked questions about face serum

Which face serum is suitable for dry skin?

Choose a hydrating serum containing ingredients such as glycerine, panthenol, betaine or hyaluronic acid. Applying a moisturiser afterwards helps the hydrated feeling last longer. A gel or water-based texture may feel pleasant, but dry skin can also benefit from a formula containing more soothing ingredients.

Can I use a vitamin C serum every day?

This depends on the form and concentration of vitamin C, as well as your skin’s tolerance. Ideally, start by using it a few times a week, apply sunscreen during the day and check the brand’s warnings. A vitamin C derivative may feel gentler for some users than pure ascorbic acid, but this varies from one formula to another.

How long does a bottle of serum last?

A 30 ml bottle will usually last for less time with daily use than a 50 or 100 ml bottle. The actual usage period depends on the amount applied each time and how many times a day you use it. Use the recommended dosage and check the packaging for shelf-life information after opening.