I won’t go into too much detail about polydeoxyribonucleotides (PDRN), which are derived from salmon DNA and are known to help regenerate tissue for firmer, smoother skin. While this topical version doesn’t have the same powerful rejuvenating effects or literally goes deep into the skin as the injectables, the Rejuran Turnover Ampoule is a great, more affordable option for those who don’t like needles.
“I’m a little late to this K-beauty innovation, but better late than never, right? allure has been reporting on PDRN since 2019, and I finally have my hands on the most touted at-home PDRN formula. My face often looks puffy in the morning, but the more I use Rejuran Turnover Ampoule, the more my skin looks lifted. It’s a win, even if it’s subtle. ” —Sarah Han, Commerce Editor
- Main ingredients: C-PDRN (0.5%), adenosine, licorice root extract, blackberry leaf extract
- Unscented: yes
Perfect for dry skin: CosRx 6 Peptide Skin Booster Serum
Why we like it: When CosRx 6 Peptide Skin Booster Serum first hit Ulta, it sold out in just nine days and earned its place in the K-Beauty Hall of Fame. This silky, lightweight serum delivers the powerful effects of six peptides (including acetyl hexapeptide-8 and copper tripeptide-1) that work together to “support collagen production and elasticity,” says Dr. Chan. Niacinamide, adenosine and sodium hyaluronate add shine and hydration, while betaine and allantoin calm and balance. “I love that this serum hydrates and smooths my skin’s texture. The finish is not greasy, but moisturized and plump,” adds Dr. Chan. This glow booster is perfect for those with early signs of aging or dry, dull skin.
“I’m all about texture. I use this as a toner, the first step after cleansing, and I like that it’s not watery. It feels more like a lightweight gel serum. I pump the booster into my palm and gently glide it in without losing any of the precious product. In the morning, I use an antioxidant serum to cleanse my skin. I apply a lotion and then apply sunscreen right away, because the formulas I love are hydrating in nature, and this toner keeps my skin looking so hydrated that I don’t need a moisturizer at night, and I like to pair it with a retinol serum to prevent fine lines from deepening. ” —Sarah Han, Commerce Editor
- Main ingredients: 6 peptides (including SH-polypeptide-121, copper tripeptide-1, oligopeptide-68, acetyl hexapeptide-8), niacinamide, sodium PCA
- Unscented: yes
Best for redness: Dr.Jart+ Cicapair Intensive Soothing Repair Serum
Why we like it: The name Dr. Jart+ is derived from a portmanteau of “Dr. Jung joins Art” and represents the brand’s overall philosophy of combining authentic dermatology with creative sensibilities. Cicapair Sensitive Skin Serum embodies that combination: lightweight, soothing, and incredibly powerful. Special feature Centella asiatica (also known as tiger grass) and its calming friends asiaticoside, madecassic acid, and asiatic acid, plus palmitoyl tripeptide-8 to soothe visible redness, strengthen the barrier, and moisturize skin with glycerin and allantoin. Over time, the skin becomes calmer, smoother and significantly less reactive. “I recommend this to patients with extremely sensitive skin who experience redness after laser treatment. They love the calming and calming effects of this Dr. Jart+ Cicapair serum,” says Dr. Hee Jin Kim.
Tester feedback from Dall’Asen
“I have rosacea on my cheeks, so a serum that only moisturizes and hydrates is not enough. My delicate angelic face also needs soothing and restorative properties. Whether I have particularly severe inflammation or I’m trying to avoid seasonal dryness, I almost always use Dr. Jart’s Cicapair I rely on the serum because of the magical ingredient in its name, which has been used as a wound healer in ancient Chinese medicine for centuries. It calms my skin, removes dry spots, and to my eyes, my whole face feels a little plumper. It’s more than just a solution to rehydrating dry skin, it’s more like a long-term strategy to prevent it from drying out in the first place.” —Nicola Dallasen, Senior News Editor
- Main ingredients: Centella asiaticaniacinamide, allantoin, glycerin, betaine, palmitoyl tripeptide-8
- Unscented: yes
See more Korean beauty serums we love
Perfect for dry skin: Knorr Balancing 5xHA + Gromwell Root Bubble Burst Serum
Why we like it: One of the great things about K-beauty is that it makes skincare fun. Knours Balancing 5xHA + Gromwell Root Bubble Burst Serum is a prime example, with each pump releasing tiny microbubbles that burst on contact, filling your skin with a wave of hydration from five molecular weights of hyaluronic acid. “It has a refreshing feel, absorbs quickly, and gives skin elasticity immediately after application.” Charlotte ChoCo-Founder of K-Beauty Retailer soco glambased in New York City. The addition of Gromwell Root Extract soothes and balances, making it ideal for dry, dehydrated, or irritated skin.
- Main ingredients: 5 types of hyaluronic acid, Gromwell root oil, niacinamide
- Unscented: yes
Best uneven tone: I’m from Rice Serum
Why we like it: Rice may be a grain grown on a humble farm, but in the hands of I’m From, it’s almost the secret to glowing skin. Sourced from the Yeoju region of South Korea, known for its high-quality rice, this serum leverages fermented rice germ extract, a powerful source of amino acids and antioxidants, to nourish and brighten your skin from within. “This serum is a glow booster in a bottle. Rice extract evens tone, brightens dullness, and smooths skin texture over time. I love its silky, lightweight texture and the way it leaves skin looking bright and balanced,” says Cho.
- Main ingredients: Rice extract, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid
- Unscented: yes
Perfect for sensitive skin: Purito Soul Wonder Relief Centella Serum Unscented
Puritsoul
Wonder Relief Centella Centella Serum Unscented
Why we like it: Centella asiatica It may basically stand for K-beauty at this point, but just putting it in a formula doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a panacea for sensitive skin. Purito Wonder Relief Centella Serum Unscented is formulated with a balanced 4-function Cica Active Complex. Centella asiaticaFour key compounds for consistent, science-backed sedation. If you’re already a fan of the serum and have been using it for a minute, the formula was recently upgraded to include even more features. Centella asiatica Extract for faster, more potent (yet calming) effects. It’s also rich in panthenol, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides to keep sensitive and reactive skin comfortable. “This serum is my go-to when my skin is sensitive or reactive. It’s fragrance-free and instantly soothes redness,” Cho says.
- Main ingredients: Centella asiatica, sodium hyaluronate, panthenol, allantoin
- Unscented: yes
FAQ
What is the difference between serum and ampoule?
Ampules are typically more concentrated and “will give you results slightly faster than serum,” says Dr. David Kim. Lately, however, many Korean ampoules have started being labeled as serums to make them more approachable and accessible to American K-beauty enthusiasts.
How should I incorporate Korean serums into my daily skin care routine?
Like any other serum, it should be used after toner. Once layered, you can reach for your favorite eye cream or moisturizer. “Serums contain more active ingredients in higher concentrations and are formulated to brighten, moisturize, and soothe skin,” Dr. David Kim previously explained. “Then apply a moisturizer on top to lock in moisture and repair the skin barrier.”
meet an expert
- Y. Claire ChanMD, board-certified cosmetic dermatologist at UnionDerm based in New York City
- Charlotte ChoCo-Founder of K-Beauty Retailer soco glam and founder then i met youbased in New York City
- david kimM.D. is a board-certified dermatologist in the United States. Idris Dermatology and founder lightsaber based in new york city
- Kim Hee JinMD, board-certified internal medicine physician and medical director of Pureen MD, based in Fort Lee, New Jersey.
- Shari MarchbeinM.D. is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City.
How to test and review products
when allure Once we test a product, our editors look at it from all angles to ensure we can best serve you. We check ingredients, scrutinize brand claims and, when appropriate, research peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing every product included in each review, we rely on experts in fields such as dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine to help vet ingredients and formulations.
For our list of the best Korean serums and ampoules, we considered each product’s performance across five main categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product experience. All products have been judged outstanding in each category by our editorial team of in-house writers, editors, and contributors, in addition to special consideration by dermatologists. For more information about our reporting and testing process, please visit our complete review process and methodology page.
Our staff and testers
Beautiful items are purchased individually. You might be looking for a face cream to combat stubborn dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine. You may simply be looking around for the latest products to hit the hair market. No matter what you are looking for or your personal needs and concerns, allure We want you to love whatever we recommend in our stories. To achieve that goal, we believe it is essential to have a diverse team of writers and editors, as well as a wide range of external testers and industry experts that we engage on a regular basis.
After all, can you? Really Can you say that a skin care product is “best” for people over 50 if the testers only asked for opinions from people who haven’t yet reached 30? Can you honestly think that a high-end diffuser that has never been tested on curls is worth your hard-earned money? We are proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin colors, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds. That means you can get a fair review of every beauty product in your beauty closet.
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Source: Allure – www.allure.com
