picky logo
picky logo
Productscurationdiscussionpicky for creators

2023 Empties: Essences, Serums and Ampoules

Here are some essences, serums and ampoules that I used up in 2023. Most of these I actually received in Giveaways, I think I purchased 3 of these products.

Sharonspendstoomuch user profile picture
super picky user badge

Sharonspendstoomuch

Dry/Resilient

dot120 Views

1

First Care Activating Serum EX

This is very $$$, but I got it for less in Korea as part of a set. I usually don’t buy luxury skincare but have heard so many good things about this, so I bought it. It is actually meant to use right after cleansing and toning to help boost absorption of products following this treatment. I used this at night and my skin looked very healthy and glowing.

First Care Activating Serum EX product review
First Care Activating Serum EX product review
First Care Activating Serum EX product review
profile

PoshLife


Dry/Resilient

CLAIMS Sulwhasoo's iconic bestselling skin balancing serum has undergone a reformulation as the brand continues to maintain its footprint as a pioneer in high performance, luxurious formulas rooted in traditional Asian wisdom. Backed by 23 years of research and new datamining technology, this formula delivers the perfect combination of ingredients for optimized anti-aging and hydrating benefits. Results can be seen in just 4 weeks, addressing many visible skin concerns for a healthy glow. MY EXPERIENCE ❤️HOLY GRAIL! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ❤️Been using this for almost a decade. Sulwhasoo is the first k beauty I have ever tried and used before Kbeauty even became so big in the western market. ❤️Love the herbal and relaxing scent of this. Apply this as the first step of your skin care routine. Helps with absorption of the next products. ❤️So soothing and contains ginseng which is very beneficial for our skin. ❤️Think of this as like the “essence” in k beauty products now

First Care Activating Serum EX

Sulwhasoo
First Care Activating Serum EX

star rating

4.5

(67)

favorite

100

2

Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence

I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve purchased this. My skin loves it!

Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence product review
profile

Sharonspendstoomuch


Dry/Resilient

This is one of my favorite products. It helps calm redness and my face feels moisturized. It just takes one pump and it absorbs quickly into the skin. I use this day and night after cleanser and toner but before my serums. No fragrance and layers well with other products. I have repurchased multiple times and it lasts a long time

Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence

COSRX
Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence

star rating

4.6

(2930)

favorite

5966

3

Madagascar Centella Tone Brightening Capsule Ampoule

I liked this a lot as it doesn’t have any fragrance and brightens dull skin. It plumps skin and also helps with hyperpigmentation.

Madagascar Centella Tone Brightening Capsule Ampoule product review
Madagascar Centella Tone Brightening Capsule Ampoule product review
Madagascar Centella Tone Brightening Capsule Ampoule product review
Madagascar Centella Tone Brightening Capsule Ampoule product review
profile

Sharonspendstoomuch


Dry/Resilient

I received the Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Tone Brightening Capsule Ampoule for free from @go.picky & @skin1004official in exchange for my honest review. This ampoule retails for $24.50 on the @skin1004official global website. It is described as an intensive ampoule that brightens the skin, fades discoloration, calms skin and restores the skin barrier. Intended for all skin types, especially those who suffer from hyperpigmentation or uneven skin tone. Main Ingredients: ▪️77% Centella Asiatica Extract ▪️Glycerin ▪️Niacinamide ▪️Tranexamic Acid ▪️Madecassoside (Made White) ▪️Aquaxyl ▪️Panthenol ▪️3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid ▪️Lactobacillus Ferment Packaging and Texture: Comes in a heavy clear glass 100ml bottle with an angled glass dropper. Texture is a clear liquid with some viscosity, containing encapsulated Madecassoside. My Experience: I’ve been using this ampoule for about 2 ½ weeks, both AM & PM along with the brightening toner from the same brand. I was interested in trying the ampoule because of the tranexamic acid, which prevents & fades skin discoloration. I have some hyperpigmentation & thought this product would help to fade some dark spots. The ampoule is clear with little microbeads of Madecassoside that dissolve as it is massaged into the skin. Like the toner, it includes Niacinamide & 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid (a Vitamin C derivative) help to brighten the skin, plus Aquaxyl for boosting hydration. It also includes Lactobacillus ferment, which provides skin barrier care. I used about 3 drops per use, applying it into my hands, then gently pat it on my face & neck to help pop the micro capsules. I liked how it quickly absorbed, without any sticky feel. It has no added fragrance, & I found it very calming & soothing on my skin. I noticed a slight glow to my skin after using for just a few days. My skin looks more even toned & feels softer & smoother too! I haven’t used it long enough to see much reduction in my hyperpigmentation, but so far I am impressed with this ampoule, especially when used alongside the toner. It layers well with my other products, but I do need to follow-up with a moisturizer as it is not hydrating enough for me in the cold winter months for my dry/dehydrated skin. You only need to use a small amount and it has a PAO of 12 months, so it will last a while. I’ll continue to use to see the long-term benefits. I would recommend this for all skin types, although if you have any sensitivity to fermented products, you should definitely do a patch test first.

Madagascar Centella Tone Brightening Capsule Ampoule

SKIN1004
Madagascar Centella Tone Brightening Capsule Ampoule

star rating

4.5

(2314)

favorite

1215

4

Madagascar Centella Ampoule

I actually use up 2 of these. I had a large and small size. Excellent for soothing the skin and reducing redness. I use this one fairly regularly.

Madagascar Centella Ampoule product review
Madagascar Centella Ampoule product review
Madagascar Centella Ampoule product review
Madagascar Centella Ampoule product review
profile

Sharonspendstoomuch


Dry/Resilient

I won the Madagascar Centella Ampoule through a giveaway with Picky and Skin1004 Claims: ▪️ Suitable for all skin types, this ampoule repairs damaged skin while regulating its moisture and oil balance. ▪️ Infused with 100% Centella Asiatica extract from Madagascar to moisturize, soothe and strengthen skin barrier for healthier-looking skin ▪️ Penetrates deep within skin for a more moisturized complexion ▪️ Soothes blemishes, reduces dry patches, diminishes appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation and prevents signs of aging Key Ingredients: 100% Centella Asiatica Extract Packaging/Texture: 55ml clear glass bottle with L-shaped pipette. It has a lightweight water texture with fine micro-sized particles, and is unscented. My Review: I’ve been using this ampoule in conjunction with the Madagascar Centella Toning Toner, both AM and PM. I love using products with Centella Asiatica as an ingredient as it helps to calm and soothe my skin (I have a tendency for redness). Pros: ▪️ Calming and hydrating ▪️ Absorbs quickly without stickiness ▪️ Helps reduce redness ▪️ Lightweight and soothing ▪️ Easy to layer with other products Cons: ▪️ None I can think of Updated Experience: I’ve been using this on and off for several months, and was selected for another giveaway through StyleKorean. I was excited because I really do like this ampoule. The watery consistency allows it to absorb quickly into the skin without any stickiness. I use it both AM & PM, applying 3-4 drops into my hands, and lightly tapping it until it completely absorbs. It is great for helping to reduce redness and really does calm and soothe skin. I find that it leaves my skin feeling soft, supple and hydrated. My skin texture looks better and my skin glows. The ampoule works well with my other products in my routine and the large size will last for a long time, since you use so little. If I’m experiencing any irritation or sensitivity, I’ll sometimes apply multiple layers to take advantage of the calming and soothing effects of the Centella Asiatica extract. I highly recommend this ampoule for all skin types including sensitive.

Madagascar Centella Ampoule

SKIN1004
Madagascar Centella Ampoule

star rating

4.7

(3506)

favorite

2247

5

Snail Bee High Content Essence

Another great product! Contains Snail Secretion Filtrate, Niacinamide and Bee Venom, brightens my skin and makes it smooth and healthy. However I don’t recommend if you are allergic to bees.

Snail Bee High Content Essence product review
Snail Bee High Content Essence product review
Snail Bee High Content Essence product review
profile

Sharonspendstoomuch


Dry/Resilient

🐌🐝 Review: Benton Snail Bee High Content Essence 🐌🐝 I was gifted the Snail Bee High Content Essence from @bentoncosmetic @go.picky and @pickyrewards in exchange for my honest review. This essence is a multitasking all-in-one essence that helps to moisturize, balance sebum, and firm skin. It has a lightweight, watery texture and is especially great for treating acne-prone skin and uneven tone. The formula is free of parabens, pigment, artificial fragrance, mineral oil, alcohol and silicone. 🐌Benefits🐝: · A nourishing essence provides multi care to help take care of damaged skin and resolve skin concerns with its all-in-one functionality. · Applicable for all skin types including sensitive skin. · Contains potent combo of Snail Mucin and Bee Venom that deliver intense moisture to your skin. · Features Niacinamide and Adenosine that help brighten up the skin tone and enhance skin elasticity. Key Ingredients: 🐌 Snail Secretion Filtrate (13.05%): helps enhance skin elasticity & prevent skin damage Kawaii aloe vera. PNG - JPG and vector EPS (infinitely scalable).Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice: moisturizes and protects skin with rich nourishment, helps soothe sensitive skin 🐝 Bee Venom: contains anti-inflammatory properties that protects skin 🌟 Niacinamide (Vitamin B3 2%): functional ingredient that helps brighten skin tone 🧬Adenosine (0.4%) : A wrinkle care ingredient that helps enhance skin elasticity & refine skin texture 🍵 Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf: antioxidant that soothes skin, reduces sebum, & minimizes signs of aging 🐌Texture: Lightweight slightly viscous watery essence, spreads well like water, absorbs easily into skin, unscented 🐝Packaging: Dark brown opaque 60ml bottle with pump dispenser and cap 🐌My Thoughts: I was interested in trying the Benton Snail Bee High Content essence as I had seen several good reviews. I was very excited when I won the giveaway through Picky to try the Benton essence! I have been using this essence for about a month, using it AM and PM following the Benton Aloe BHA Toner as my serum step. I used 1 full pump, which is enough to apply to face and neck, applied with my fingers, patting into the skin until it absorbs completely. The texture is more like a gel, but it changes over to a more watery texture upon application. 🐝Pros: · Very cooling and soothing when applied to skin · Sinks into skin easily and layers well with other products · Super lightweight texture, not at all greasy or sticky like other mucin products · Skin feels soft, moisturized and hydrated after applying · Gentle and helps to calm redness · Observed some brightening and skin appears plump and more even toned 🐌Cons: · Lower percentage of snail secretion filtrate vs. other similar products (only 13.05%) · Niacinamide is also a pretty low percentage at only 2%, which may limit the brightening effects compared to other brands 🐝Final Thoughts and Rating: I liked using this essence quite a bit, as I really liked the texture and absorbability. I do wish it had a higher percentage of snail mucin as my skin reacts well and I like the skin protecting qualities. While I enjoyed using this essence, I didn’t really see any visible brightening effects either as it does only have 2% niacinamide and I’m used to a higher percentage. I did not experience any irritation, but it is always a good idea to patch test before trying a new product. If you have any sensitivity to bees, you probably to skip this product due to the bee venom ingredient. I think the Benton essence is a great beginner product for people to try snail mucin, especially if you are grossed out with the stickiness and slimy texture. You can get the Benton Snail Bee High Content Essence on sale for under $15.

Snail Bee High Content Essence

BENTON
Snail Bee High Content Essence

star rating

4.6

(1034)

favorite

1418

6

[Discontinued] Clean LHA Blemish Ampoule

I liked this one too. Sorry it was discontinued. I think I used it past the PAO date to finish it though 🤣I mostly used it as a spot treatment, but glutathione and LHAs are good for acne prone skin while gently exfoliating dead skin cells.

[Discontinued] Clean LHA Blemish Ampoule product review
[Discontinued] Clean LHA Blemish Ampoule product review
[Discontinued] Clean LHA Blemish Ampoule product review
profile

Sharonspendstoomuch


Dry/Resilient

I received the Rovectin Clean LHA Blemish Ampoule at a very discounted price through @0.8l in exchange for my honest review. Claims: ▪️Soothing complex of LHA & Glutathione helps combat breakouts & uneven skin tone by gently exfoliating dead skin cells ▪️85% Neroli flower water with anti inflammatory & soothing effects helps calm the skin Key Ingredients: ▪️Bitter Orange (neroli) flower water ▪️Glutathione ▪️Capryloyl Salicylic Acid (LHA) ▪️5 kinds of Hyaluronic acid Packaging and texture: 0.5 fl oz/15ml glass bottle with dropper($15) Viscous gel consistency, unscented I used this Ampoule all over, but it would definitely be great as a spot treatment too. I was able to use over a 2 week period, applying 2-3 drops for the whole face in the evening. I don’t have issues with acne or blemishes but I like this product for uneven skin tone and hyperpigmentation. It provides very gentle exfoliation and absorbs quickly. Although the bottle is small, a little goes a long way at least for my skin concerns. There is an option for a larger version too. I felt like my skin looks brighter and it reduces redness. I think it would be great for sensitive skin. I also love the stickers! Pros: ▪️Gentle exfoliation ▪️No scent, absorbs quickly ▪️Helps fade hyperpigmentation ▪️Calms skin & reduces redness ▪️No dryness or irritation ▪️Skin looks visibly brighter Cons: ▪️Small size ▪️A little expensive Thank you to Rovectin and 0.8l for the opportunity to try this Ampoule!

[Discontinued] Clean LHA Blemish Ampoule

Rovectin
[Discontinued] Clean LHA Blemish Ampoule

star rating

4.4

(175)

favorite

280

7

Centella Asiatica Serum

Contains 95% Centella Asiatica Extract, soothing and calms redness. I think all skin types could use this. Only negative is the bottle is glass and I was worried I’d break it.

Centella Asiatica Serum product review
Centella Asiatica Serum product review
Centella Asiatica Serum product review
profile

Sharonspendstoomuch


Dry/Resilient

This serum has 95% Centella Asiatica extract and Arginine to soothe sensitive skin caused by external factors and helps to maintain moisture. It is an antibacterial serum with 7 total ingredients. It claims to boost skin regeneration and enhance elasticity. It comes in a dark colored bottle with a pipette dropper and has a lightweight gel-like texture in a honey yellow color that spreads like water as it is applied to the skin. It absorbs quickly without any stickiness, and I like the very subtle fresh herbal scent. I love how it soothes my skin almost immediately, calming and reducing any redness. My skin feels so soft, hydrated, and glowing. I really like this serum and it will definitely continue using it both in the morning and evening. It is good for all skin types, especially sensitive skin since it is such a nice gentle serum. I would highly recommend this if you are prone to redness or have irritated skin.

Centella Asiatica Serum

Mary&May
Centella Asiatica Serum

star rating

4.5

(26)

favorite

19

8

Peat Miracle Revital Serum Concentrate

I got this at Marshall’s or TJMaxx as I think it retails for $60. It is supposed to help with fine lines and wrinkles, but I didn’t notice any changes other than some increased firmness and elasticity. It did make my skin look smooth and glowing, but I wouldn’t pay full price.

Peat Miracle Revital Serum Concentrate

belif
Peat Miracle Revital Serum Concentrate

star rating

0.0

(0)

favorite

3

9

Idebenone + Blackberry Complex Serum

This serum is full of antioxidants that can help reduce signs of aging. Unscented, it brightens and hydrates skin.

Idebenone + Blackberry Complex Serum product review
Idebenone + Blackberry Complex Serum product review
Idebenone + Blackberry Complex Serum product review
Idebenone + Blackberry Complex Serum product review
profile

Sharonspendstoomuch


Dry/Resilient

I received this product for free from @yesstyle in exchange for my honest review. MARY & MAY is a clean beauty brand from Korea and is a new brand to me, so I was excited to try this serum. Details: 🔷 Packed with Idebenone (1000ppm) that contains more powerful antioxidant effect that is 4x that of Vitamin C and 10 x that of Coenzyme Q10 🔷 Idebenone helps protect skin against free radicals, improves appearance of fine lines & wrinkles, reduces dryness & smooths skin texture 🔷 Contains 20% Blackberry Extract complex, a rich source of Anthocyanin that helps rejuvenate skin cells and reduce signs of aging 🔷 Also contains Acai extract & blueberry extract which are both rich in polyphenols and along with the blackberry extract provide anti-aging benefits Packaging and Texture: 🔷 1oz/30ml dark amber colored glass bottle with pipette dropper, comes in an eco-friendly box 🔷 Has a gel-like consistency, looks thick but melts as applied to skin 🔷 Dark yellow color is the color of Idebenone raw materials 🔷 Fragrance-free My experience: I received this serum only about 9 days ago which is way too early to see any of the anti-aging effects. I’ve been using it 2x per day, taking a moderate amount, applying to my hands, and gently massaging into my skin. It sinks into the skin easily and absorbs quickly with no stickiness or greasiness. This serum is full of good ingredients, and after a week of use, my skin felt hydrated and looked a little brighter. Overall my skin looked healthier and I found it super easy to incorporate it into my routine. During the day I used it in place of my Vitamin C, as it works well as a layering serum with other products with no pilling. There is also no noticeable scent, which I like and did not irritate my skin. I will continue using it to see the anti-aging benefits and I think it is a good high potency antioxidant serum at an affordable price (currently $18.41 on YesStyle). I want to try the cream version next! Pros: 🔷 Lightweight, absorbs quickly 🔷 Great antioxidant properties 🔷 Hydrating and brightens skin 🔷 Layers well with other products 🔷 Good ingredients to fight against environmental damage and aging 🔷 Suitable for all skin types, and fragrance-free

Idebenone + Blackberry Complex Serum

Mary&May
Idebenone + Blackberry Complex Serum

star rating

4.5

(139)

favorite

83

10

Waterfull Hyaluronic Acid Serum

Nice if you have dehydrated skin, it also contains Ceramide NP and Tocopherol in addition to the Hyaluronic Complex. You do need to apply on damp skin or it will feel a little sticky. Hydrating and makes skin look plumped and supple.

Waterfull Hyaluronic Acid Serum product review
Waterfull Hyaluronic Acid Serum product review
Waterfull Hyaluronic Acid Serum product review
Waterfull Hyaluronic Acid Serum product review
profile

Sharonspendstoomuch


Dry/Resilient

💦JUMISOxStyleKorean Try me Review me💦 Review: Waterfull Hyaluronic Acid Serum I received this serum along with 3 other products through a @stylekorean_global TMRM promo in exchange for my honest review. This serum is described as a moisture booster for dry skin that helps skin appear more hydrated & smoother. It is made with a patented method called Cerapresso, allowing Hyaluronic Acid, Panthenol & Ceramides to be absorbed into the skin quickly & completely. Key Ingredients: 💦 Glycerin 💦 3 Hyaluronic Acid Complex (5600ppm) 💦 Panthenol (5000ppm) 💦 Ceramide NP 💦 Tocopherol Packaging/Texture: 50ml/1.75oz blue tinted clear glass bottle with pipette, serum has a clear watery texture, slightly viscous with no fragrance. My Experience: This serum is the newest product in the Waterfull line. I was excited to try this, since I really enjoyed using the moisturizer & sunscreen. I used this both AM/PM for about 2 weeks. I like how lightweight this serum is, and that it is unscented. I use it after toning on slightly damp skin & before moisturizer & sunscreen. It absorbs quickly into the skin without stickiness, & layers well with other products. I do recommend applying to damp skin, as it feels slightly tacky on the skin until it absorbs if you apply it on dry skin. My skin looks & feels smooth, moisturized & calm after applying. It really helps keep my skin from getting dehydrated- my skin looks more plump & supple! If you have dry or dehydrated skin, this is a great serum to try.

Waterfull Hyaluronic Acid Serum

Jumiso
Waterfull Hyaluronic Acid Serum

star rating

4.7

(91)

favorite

50

11

Vita B3 Source

This has 10% Niacinamide and 2% Arbutin, good for hyperpigmentation. This improved my skin texture. I’m not sure if it was reformulated or if only the packaging has changed.

Vita B3 Source product review
Vita B3 Source product review
Vita B3 Source product review
Vita B3 Source product review
Vita B3 Source product review
profile

Sharonspendstoomuch


Dry/Resilient

I received this serum thanks to @go.picky and @tiam_global in a giveaway in exchange for my honest review Claims: ✅ This high-performance brightening serum, formulated with 10% Niacinamide and 2% Arbutin minimizes the appearance of dark spots and discoloration for a brighter, more even skin tone and radiant-looking complexion ✅ Recommended for following skin concerns: Dark Spots, Acne Marks, Blemishes, Sun or Age Spots, Uneven skin tone or oiliness Key Ingredients: ✅ Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) ✅ Arbutin ✅ Allantoin ✅ Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate (Licorice) ✅ Japanese cornelian cherry ✅ Sodium Hyaluronate Texture: ✅ A clear solution slightly more viscous than water, no scent Packaging: ✅ Dark amber glass 40ml/1.35fl oz bottle with dropper to dispense product My Review: ✅ I usually do not purchase a separate niacinamide product as I already use other products containing this ingredient, although not with a 10% concentration. ✅ However, I was very interested in trying it because of the inclusion of Arbutin, as I want to reduce some slight hyperpigmentation on the side of my face. ✅ I have been using this serum now for about 2 ½ weeks. I did not do a patch test as recommended due to the high percentage of niacinamide, but only because I used another serum with similar ingredients last month and had no irritation. ✅ I did still just start out using it 2x the first week in the evening, but quickly changed to using it 2x every other day with no issues. ✅ After cleansing and toning, I apply 2-3 drops of the serum into my hands and pat it onto the skin until it absorbs. As it is a little watery, this was enough to cover my entire face and neck. ✅ I thought that the serum absorbed fairly quickly, although there is an initial tacky feeling that dries down after a few minutes. ✅ The directions indicate there is an option to reapply more as a spot treatment but I dIdn’t use the serum that way. ✅ When using it in the AM, I followed up with my moisturizer and sunscreen with no pilling. I put it on after toner but before my serum and moisturizer in PM. ✅ My skin seems to really like the Tiam Vita B3 serum, and I have already seen some results in the short time I’ve used it. Skin texture has improved and hyperpigmentation is fading slowly. It leaves my skin looking brighter, more hydrated with no oiliness and no irritation. ✅ This serum is suitable for all skin types, except sensitive ones which may not be suitable due to the high percentage of niacinamide. ✅ I would recommend as it has a decent amount of product and is priced at around $20 (or less on sale). ✅ I definitely plan to repurchase once I finish provided I continue to see improvement. My rating: 5 out of 5

Vita B3 Source

TIAM
Vita B3 Source

star rating

4.6

(1216)

favorite

1374

12

Niacinamide + Chaenomeles Sinensis Serum

This contains Chinese Quince, 2% Niacinamide & Arginine. This was pretty gentle, and it did brighten & even out my skin tone.

Niacinamide + Chaenomeles Sinensis Serum product review
Niacinamide + Chaenomeles Sinensis Serum product review
Niacinamide + Chaenomeles Sinensis Serum product review
Niacinamide + Chaenomeles Sinensis Serum product review
profile

Sharonspendstoomuch


Dry/Resilient

I received this serum for free as part of a Try Me Review Me promotion through Stylekorean. This product is described as a targeted brightening serum for reducing skin pigmentation. Key Ingredients: ✨ 93% Chaenomeles Sinensis (Chinese Quince) ✨ 2% Niacinamide ✨ Arginine Packaging and Texture: 30ml/1.01oz dark colored glass bottle with pipette dropper. The serum has kind of a light gel texture and is peachy in color. My Experience: I used this serum in the PM only after toning for about 2 weeks. It claims to clear skin, balance sebum and brighten skin tone. I like how there are only 8 total ingredients in this serum. Chinese quince is rich in flavonoids with Vitamin C and antioxidant effects. Since this serum only has 2% Niacinamide, it is nice and gentle so good for sensitive skin. The product is a little hard to get out of the pipette dropper since it has kind of a gloopy texture, but I take 2 drops to apply all over my face and neck. It absorbs quickly and isn’t heavy or sticky. My skin feels soft and looks smooth after applying and it layers well with other products.. After using nightly for 2 weeks, I think my skin looks less dull, with a slightly brighter more even skin tone. It is still too early to tell if it will reduce dark spots or hyperpigmentation, but I think it is a nice serum with antioxidant benefits at a decent price.

Niacinamide + Chaenomeles Sinensis Serum

Mary&May
Niacinamide + Chaenomeles Sinensis Serum

star rating

4.4

(102)

favorite

61

13

The Niacinamide 15 Serum

I tried lots of Niacinamide products in 2023! This has 15% Niacinamide which is supposed to help with acne control. It was okay as it didn’t irritate my skin, but I probably wouldn’t purchase it in the future.

The Niacinamide 15 Serum product review
The Niacinamide 15 Serum product review
The Niacinamide 15 Serum product review
The Niacinamide 15 Serum product review
The Niacinamide 15 Serum product review
profile

Sharonspendstoomuch


Dry/Resilient

I received this serum plus 2 others in a Try Me Review Me beauty box, in exchange for my honest review. This serum is described as a “total care” serum, containing the maximum 15% niacinamide active ingredient that provides both brightening benefit as well as controlling acne, excessive sebum & large pores. I don’t have issues with acne, but I do like products with niacinamide to reduce hyperpigmentation & brighten skin. This serum is recommended for oily or acne prone skin, but also works for dry skin. Benefits: ▪️Provides total acne care ▪️Exfoliates & smooths rough skin ▪️Controls Sebum & Oil Key Ingredients: ▪️Niacinamide ▪️N-Acetyl Glucosamine (NAG) ▪️Zinc PCA ▪️Allantoin Packaging: 20ml dark brown bottle with glass pipette Texture: Clear watery texture My Experience: I’ve now been using this serum for a few weeks (AM only) in combination with the other 2 serums (HA, Niacinamide, then Vit C). It has a watery texture with no scent. Although it spreads easily, it is slightly tacky on my skin until it absorbs completely. The packaging reminds me of The Ordinary. This serum features 15% niacinamide as the active ingredient, which is the highest concentration I have seen in a product. Most products I’ve tried are at around 5%. The sub-ingredients include NAG, a mild AHA substitute that moisturizes & removes dead skin cells. When combined with Niacinamide, NAG helps improves hyperpigmentation. Zinc PCA reduces excess sebum & Allantoin soothes & protects skin. I did not experience any irritation, & this serum seems to help calm redness. I notice an instant brightening effect & combined with the VitC serum from this line looks more even toned. PAO is 12 months & a little bit goes a long way. I like this serum so far, but I’m more interested in anti-aging & hyperpigmentation correction vs. the acne control for this serum.

The Niacinamide 15 Serum

COSRX
The Niacinamide 15 Serum

star rating

4.6

(68)

favorite

98

14

Glow Deep Serum Rice + Arbutin

I liked this serum - it layered well with other products and calmed my redness. Arbutin is good for brightening too, plus it provides anti-aging benefits. I would repurchase.

Glow Deep Serum Rice + Arbutin product review
Glow Deep Serum Rice + Arbutin product review
Glow Deep Serum Rice + Arbutin product review
Glow Deep Serum Rice + Arbutin product review
profile

Sharonspendstoomuch


Dry/Resilient

The Deep Glow Serum is a lightweight hydrating serum enriched with Hanbang (traditional Korean herbal medicine) ingredients for skin brightening & anti-pigmentation. Benefits: ▪️Brightens & evens skin tone ▪️Helps fade dark spots & hyperpigmentation ▪️Combats sun damage Key Ingredients: ▪️68.6% Rice Bran Water ▪️2% Arbutin ▪️Grain Complex containing 5% glycerin, 0.5% panthenol, black soybean, barley, black sesame, rice bran & mung bean ▪️Trehalose ▪️Japanese Goldthread ▪️Job’s Tear ▪️Arginine Packaging/Texture: ▪️30ml/1.01oz clear plastic bottle with pipette ▪️Clear, watery texture with no scent ▪️Cruelty free and vegan ▪️Retails for $17 My Review: I was interested in trying BOJ due to the Rice bran ingredients as it is effective for moisturizing & calming skin. Rice bran water contains nutrients that nourishes skin like Vitamin B as well as minerals to brighten skin tone & strengthen the skin barrier. Arbutin is plant based (extracted from lingonberry or blueberry plants) & helps brighten skin, fade dark spots, plus provides anti-aging benefits. I’ve been using this serum every other day for a little over 2 weeks. I’ll take 2-3 drops of serum & gently massage it into my skin. The watery texture allows the serum to absorb quickly, & it feels almost weightless on the skin. There is no scent & there is no sticky/tacky feel, & it layers well with other products. My skin feels very soft & hydrated after using. I apply it before moisturizer & Sunscreen (if I use during the day) I have noticed that it calms the redness in my skin, & my face looks slightly brighter with a subtle improvement to skin tone & texture. I think that it would work great for all skin types, especially since it is fragrance free & contains no essential oils. While Arbutin is mild & gentle on skin, it could cause irritation to those who are really sensitive. Since this serum has a concentration of 2%, it shouldn’t cause irritation, but I recommend using every other day to ensure your skin doesn’t react. Always use a sunscreen if you use products with Arbutin! I have not seen the full benefits after only 2 weeks of use, but will definitely continue to use it to see if it improves my skin tone further by fading dark spots/hyperpigmentation.

Glow Deep Serum Rice + Arbutin

BEAUTY OF JOSEON
Glow Deep Serum Rice + Arbutin

star rating

4.3

(137)

favorite

334

15

Revive Serum Ginseng + Snail Mucin

I haven’t reviewed this one apparently, but it contains 63% ginseng root water and 3% snail secretion filtrate. This is very hydrating and good for aging skin.

Revive Serum Ginseng + Snail Mucin product review
profile

BrigitteLord


Oily/Sensitive

🌰 About this serum ❄ Contains 63% of ginseng root water, 3% snail mucin, niacinamide and lots of other natural and nonreactive ingrediënts. (EWG approved✔) ❄ Claims to repare damaged skin, restore the elasticity and improve the appearance of wrinkles. ❄ fungal acné safe (😍), eczema safe, cruelty free, and free of alcohol, paraben, silicone, sulfate, fragrance and oils. 🌰 My thoughts When i got this and saw the ingrediënts i was happy right away, and had no doubt this would work for my skin! This serum contains a high number of ingrediënts matching my skintype😍 The serum is super lightweighted and aborbs quickly. I tried out a few different ways of applying and found out it was best to press the serum into your skin instead of tapping, then it felt less sticky 😊 After almost 3 weeks of using this serum i notice my skintone is brighter and my skin is glowing! The best off all is that my skin is still acné free, for almost a month! I can tell this products contribute alot in my journey of keeping my face clear🎉.

Revive Serum Ginseng + Snail Mucin

BEAUTY OF JOSEON
Revive Serum Ginseng + Snail Mucin

star rating

4.5

(288)

favorite

1283

upvote

2

comment

5

5 Comments

frederique0622 user profile picture
picky squad user badge

frederique0622

Dry/Resilient

Interesting! There are some in there I might need to try in 2024🤩
upvote

1

comment

0

cookii user profile picture

cookii

Dry/Resilient

❤️❤️
upvote

0

comment

0

cookii user profile picture

cookii

Dry/Resilient

Thanks for sharing
upvote

0

comment

0

Jolivares1717 user profile picture
picky squad user badge

Jolivares1717

Dry/Resilient

Great list! 💙
upvote

0

comment

0