With colder months approaching, the skin barrier becomes more fragile, while dehydration and pigmentation spots are more visible. We selected 5 proven serums from the world of Korean skincare that work together for hydration, brightening, and barrier strengthening during autumn.
What changes in autumn and how to adapt your routine
- Drier air: increase humectants (hyaluronic acid, glycerin) and add barrier-supporting ingredients (panthenol, niacinamide, peptides).
- Pigmentation & dullness: include gentle brighteners such as vitamin C and alpha-arbutin.
- Sensitivity: look for soothing extracts (Centella, green tea, propolis).
Our 5 favorites for 2025 🍂
Beauty of Joseon Glow Deep Serum — Rice Water + Alpha-Arbutin
Light, hydrating serum with rice water and alpha-arbutin, targeting uneven tone and post-inflammatory pigmentation. A perfect choice after summer.
- Key ingredients: rice water ~68.6%, alpha-arbutin ~2%, niacinamide, panthenol.
- Effect: brightens, hydrates, evens out skin tone without irritation.
- Skin type: all, including sensitive.
- Use: morning/evening, 2–3 drops after toner, before cream.
Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum — Propolis + Niacinamide
Balancing serum with 60% propolis and 2% niacinamide, strengthening the skin barrier and giving a “honey glow”.
- Key ingredients: propolis 60%, niacinamide 2% + hydrating agents.
- Effect: soothes, reduces redness, tightens pores, adds glow.
- Skin type: normal to oily; also suitable for acne-prone skin.
- Use: evening or morning under SPF; 2–3 drops are enough.
COSRX The Vitamin C 13 Serum — 13% Vitamin C
Gentle, watery serum with 13% vitamin C, designed for daily use, even for sensitive skin.
- Effect: brightens, protects against free radicals, evens out tone.
- Skin type: all; great as a first vitamin C serum.
- Use: morning under SPF or at night; pair with moisturizer.
COSRX The 6 Peptide Skin Booster Serum
“First” serum with 6 peptides, improving pores, sebum, fine lines, and uneven texture.
- Effect: supports barrier, smoothness, and elasticity.
- Skin type: all; especially oily/tired skin.
- Use: first step after toner; can be layered with other actives.
Beauty of Joseon Light On Serum — Centella + Vita C
Smartly formulated vitamin C serum with Centella Asiatica for extra soothing and comfort.
- Effect: brightens, evens tone, supports barrier.
- Skin type: sensitive-prone; suitable for all.
- Use: morning under SPF or evening 3–4 times per week; layer with hydrating serum.
How to combine the serums in an autumn routine
- Cleansing → toner/essence.
- First serum: COSRX 6 Peptide.
- Targeted serum: morning brightening (BOJ Light On or COSRX C13); evening hydrating/soothing (BOJ Glow/Glow Deep).
- Cream depending on skin type.
- SPF in the morning every day.
Tip: If using two active serums, apply the lighter one first and wait 60–90 seconds between layers.
Common mistakes in autumn (and how to avoid them)
- Skipping SPF: UV index drops but pigmentation worsens without protection.
- Over-exfoliation: limit to 1–2 times weekly and compensate with hydration.
- Inconsistency: visible brightening results need 4–8 weeks of consistent use.
