I first tried this serum last September in Seoul, when it felt like the summer heat wave was going to last forever. I loved how it immediately cooled my skin after a day in the sun and toned down the redness in my midface. Since then, I’ve kept a bottle in rotation for days when I need a soothing reset. The tiny green flecks in the bottle are capsules filled with Centella asiatica extract that melt into my skin for an extra-refreshing effect.
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9. Best Korean Serum for Glow: Round Lab Vita Niacinamide Dark Spot Serum
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Round Lab Vita Niacinamide Dark Spot Serum
For that signature glass-skin glow, pick up a bottle of Round Lab’s Vita Niacinamide Dark Spot Serum. This lightweight, glow-giving formula was Dr. Hwang’s top pick out of the Korean serums he tested. “It’s lightweight texture absorbs quickly without any residue, making it perfect for layering with other products without feeling too rich,” he says. “It stands out as an excellent choice for combating dark spots and dullness. Incorporating this serum into a daily skin care routine can lead to significant improvements in skin tone and texture, providing a radiant and youthful appearance.” The formula is packed with derm-approved ingredients for glow, including antioxidant-rich vitamin tree extract, stabilised vitamin C, niacinamide, tranexamic acid, and glutathione. Dr. Hwang particularly likes the form of vitamin C used because of “its small molecular structure, allowing it to retain its efficacy longer than traditional vitamin C and deliver visible benefits in reducing dark spots.”
Every Round Lab product I’ve tested has been both gentle and effective, and this serum was no exception. The first time I used it, I fell in love with the refreshing texture and instant glow boost it gave me. It’s also one of my most-used serums for dealing with dark spots or all-over dullness. In terms of finish, it’s a touch lighter than Numbuzin’s vitamin C serum, so if your skin is especially oily, give this formula a try.
FAQ’s
Are Korean serums better?
With Korean serums taking off on TikTok, one of the most-asked questions is whether these formulas are better than their competitors. And while we wouldn’t make that blanket claim, you’ll definitely find interesting ingredients and delivery systems in K-beauty that make them worth trialing in your Korean skin care routine.
“These serums stand out due to their unique, innovative formulations, the diversity of ingredients, and the focus on long-term skin health and hydration,” says Dr. Chang. “Common ingredients include Centella asiatica (cica), niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, peptides, ginseng, licorice root extract, green tea, panthenol, propolis, and honey.” Dr. Chang also loves that these formulas tend to be formulated for quick absorption and overall skin health.
“They typically focus on maintaining a healthy skin barrier, promoting better moisture retention, and tend to be gentle and well-suited for many skin types,” she says. They’re also usually designed with extensive routines in mind, resulting in lighter, gentler formulas made to pair with your most-loved Korean cleansers, toners, Korean sunscreens, Korean eye creams, Korean moisturisers, sleeping masks, and other trending K-beauty products.
Should you use separate Korean serums for day and night?
Depending on your skin type and needs, you can use most of these Korean serums both day and night, or mix and match. The one exception is retinol, which causes sun sensitivity and should only be used in your evening skin care routine.
“Those with a single skin concern or with more sensitive skin may use one serum both day and night,” says Dr. Chang. Otherwise, feel free to switch it up. “I recommend a day serum that protects the skin while offering lightweight hydration,” she says. “Some antioxidant ingredients I recommend for daytime use include vitamin C, niacinamide, licorice root extract, and green tea extract. Lightweight hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin are also great, especially if using a multi-step skin care routine.” Numbuzin’s No.5 Vitamin Concentrated Serum is a great pick for your daytime routine. At night, focus on formulas that “support repair and regeneration of the skin along with deeper hydration” like Iope’s Retinol Super Bounce Serum.
