Joybuy Insights

Choosing a face serum: a practical guide for every skin type

A face serum can be a useful addition to your daily skincare routine, but there is a lot of choice. Korean face serum, vitamin C serum, niacinamide serum, retinol serum and hydrating essence: each product has a different texture, formulation and instructions for use.

Many disappointing purchases happen not because a serum is inherently poor, but because it does not suit your skin type, routine or expectations. Use these checkpoints to make a more informed choice.

Three common pitfalls when choosing a face serum

1. Mistaking a higher percentage for a better choice

A higher percentage of vitamin C, retinol or azelaic acid may sound appealing, but it can also increase the risk of redness, dryness or tightness. Particularly if you have sensitive skin, building up gradually is more important than an impressive number on the packaging.

So do not look only at the concentration. Also consider:

  • the complete ingredients list;
  • the recommended frequency of use;
  • warnings about sunlight or combining it with other active ingredients;
  • the presence of hydrating and soothing ingredients.

2. Treating a marketing claim as a guaranteed result

Words such as “glow”, “lifting”, “repair” or “anti-ageing” often describe how a product is positioned. They do not guarantee that every user will see the same results. According to a brand’s own research, certain ingredients may support a particular effect, but individual skin reactions vary.

Instead, focus mainly on information you can verify, such as contents, ingredients, texture, usage advice and warnings.

3. Using too many active ingredients at once

A vitamin C serum, retinal serum, exfoliant and niacinamide serum may each have a place in a skincare routine. However, using them together can place unnecessary stress on your skin. Start with one goal, such as hydration or a more even-looking complexion, and only add a second active product later.

What should you look for when choosing?

Choose your main goal first

  • Dry skin or a serum for hydration: look for glycerine, hyaluronic acid, panthenol, beta-glucan and ceramides.
  • Sensitive skin: choose a short, straightforward ingredients list and test the product on a small area of skin first. Centella ampoules and gentle hydrating essences may be suitable options.
  • Dull-looking skin or pigmentation: vitamin C, niacinamide and alpha-arbutin are often found in serums designed to promote a more even-looking complexion. Always use sun protection during the day.
  • Uneven texture or mature skin: retinol, retinal, bakuchiol and peptides are commonly used ingredients. Introduce them gradually and follow the product warnings.
  • Blemishes: niacinamide and azelaic acid serum are popular ingredients. A cosmetic serum is not a substitute for treatment from a doctor or dermatologist.

Check the texture and amount

A watery serum usually absorbs quickly and works well under a day cream or sunscreen. A richer essence or oil-based formula may feel more comfortable on dry skin, but could feel heavier under make-up.

Also compare the amount. You will use a 15 ml bottle containing an intensive active ingredient differently from a 500 ml lotion that can be applied generously. The price per 10 ml gives you a fairer comparison than the selling price alone.

Consider usage, packaging and shelf life

Usually apply a face serum after cleansing and, if required, using a facial toner, but always check the label. Use a clean pipette and do not let the dropper touch your skin. Store vitamin C and retinal products according to the instructions, away from direct sunlight and, in some cases, in the fridge.

Retinal requires extra care. The product information for celimax states that it should only be used in the evening, introduced gradually and followed by sun protection the next morning. Stop using it if irritation persists and seek medical advice when necessary.

Recommended choices by usage profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
[PKY]Pyunkang Yul Pyunkang Yul's Essence Toner 200ml

[PKY]Pyunkang Yul Pyunkang Yul's Essence Toner 200ml

Why it suits this profile: This essence toner is a simple first step after cleansing and contains 200 ml. Its light yet, according to the product description, rich texture is designed to provide comfortable hydration for different skin types.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Here, you are not choosing a complicated combination of strong actives, but a straightforward toner with a short ingredients list as stated.

Key benefit & highlights

200 ml contents; includes glycerine-like moisturising ingredients and Astragalus membranaceus root extract, according to the product information.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule 100 ml

SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule - 100 ml

Why it suits this profile: This ampoule is intended for users looking for a soothing, hydrating step with a clear focus. The large bottle is well suited to daily use.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description highlights one central ingredient: Centella Asiatica extract. This makes its positioning clearer than that of a formula containing many competing actives.

Key benefit & highlights

100 ml contents; light ampoule texture; designed to provide hydration and a comfortable skin feel, according to the product information.

Suitable for: Targeted use & intensive users
celimax THE VITA-A RETINAL SHOT TIGHTENING BOOSTER 15 ml

celimax THE VITA-A RETINAL SHOT TIGHTENING BOOSTER 15 ml

Why it suits this profile: This product is intended for anyone who wants to consciously add retinal to their evening routine and is prepared to build up the frequency carefully.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The instructions advise using it every other evening for the first two weeks, applying a small amount and reducing use if irritation occurs.

Key benefit & highlights

15 ml contents; 0,1% retinal and 3% Matrixyl 3000 according to the product description; clear warning about sun protection.

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Embryolisse Hydra Serum 30 ml

Embryolisse Hydra Serum 30 ml

Why it suits this profile: This serum is designed for a daily hydrating routine without a long list of selected actives. The lotion-like formula can be used under a cream.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information states one clear main purpose: hydration. This means you do not need to choose a strong active ingredient if comfortable hydration is your primary need.

Key benefit & highlights

30 ml contents; contains glycerine and sodium hyaluronate; alcohol-free and dermatologically tested according to the product details.

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 gentle cleanser.
  2. If required, apply a facial toner or hydrating essence.
  3. Apply one to a few drops of serum to dry or slightly damp skin, depending on the label.
  4. Finish with a moisturiser to help lock in moisture.
  5. Use sun protection during the day, particularly when using vitamin C, retinal, retinol or azelaic acid.

Test a new product on a small area of skin first. Do not use several new serums at the same time; this makes it easier to identify which product has caused a reaction.

Frequently asked questions about face serum

When should you apply face serum?

Usually after cleansing and before applying a moisturiser. A facial toner or essence can be used beforehand. The exact order may vary depending on the product, so follow the instructions on the packaging.

How long does serum last?

Check the expiry date and the period after opening shown on the packaging. Opened vitamin C serums may have specific storage instructions according to their product information. Keep a serum closed, cool and away from direct sunlight whenever the label instructs you to do so.

Can you use several serums at the same time?

Sometimes, but it is not always practical. Ideally, start by combining a hydrating serum with one active product. Take extra care with retinol, retinal, concentrated vitamin C and exfoliating ingredients. Build up your routine gradually and stop using the products if irritation occurs.