10 Best Korean Serums for Oily Skin in the Philippines 2026 | AXIS-Y, COSRX, and More
When it comes to achieving that coveted glass skin glow, the serum you choose can make all the difference. Korean serums have become a global skincare staple for a reason—they’re packed with powerful ingredients, lightweight in texture, and formulated to target specific concerns like dullness, acne, dryness, and aging.
Korean serums offer a wide range of options for concerns like dark spots and dullness, but with so many choices on Lazada and Shopee, it can be hard to know which ones are worth trying. Read on to learn more about the best serums to try, along with tips on what to look for depending on your skin type and concerns.
Quick List - Top Korean Serums for Oily Skin
Some By Mi
Exfoliate With AHA, BHA, and PHA to Clear Your Skin
Danice Narciso is a dedicated digital marketing enthusiast. With a strong background in tourism management and certifications in SEO, Google Digital Marketing, and AI, Danice is committed to helping consumers make informed choices. Passionate about staying updated on industry trends, she enjoys exploring the latest in marketing, travel, and technology.
Why You Can Trust Us
Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
What’s The Difference Between Korean Serums And Korean Essences?
When building a Korean skincare routine, it’s easy to confuse serums and essences, but each plays a unique role. Essences are lightweight and watery, designed to prep and hydrate the skin while boosting absorption of the next steps.
Serums, on the other hand, are more concentrated and focus on targeting specific concerns like wrinkles, acne, or dark spots. Knowing the difference helps you layer them effectively and get the most out of your routine.
How to Choose Korean Serum – Buying Guide
Prioritize Popular Korean Ingredients That Target Oil and Acne
To Control Sebum and Refine Pores: Niacinamide, Zinc PCA, and Green Tea
For Redness and Breakouts, Look For Centella Asiatica, Tea Tree Oil, and Aloe Vera
Choose Exfoliants and Ferments That Gently Clarify and Brighten
To Clear Clogged Pores: Look for BHA, LHA, and Mandelic Acid
To Brighten and Balance Skin: Choose Serums With Galactomyces or Bifidobacteria Ferments
Go for Fragrance-Free, Low-Irritant Formulas for Easily-Reactive Skin
Pick Watery, Layer-Friendly Textures Made for Multi-Step Routines
These breathable formulas help active ingredients penetrate effectively without clogging pores or leaving a greasy feel. Whether you follow a simple 5-step routine or a more elaborate one, a fast-absorbing serum keeps your skin fresh, hydrated, and comfortable all day.
Choose Serums That Layer Well and Don’t Pill Under Makeup
10 Best Korean Serums to Buy Online
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Texture | Benefits | Key Ingredients | Fragrance-Free | Net Weight | |||||
1 | AXIS-Y Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum | | Your Daily Fix for Dullness, Dark Spots, and Uneven Tone | Gel | Hydration、Reduces Pigmentation | Niacinamide、Squalane、Calendula Extract、Papaya Extract、Sea Buckthorn Extract、 Allantoin | 50 mL | ||
2 | COSRX AC Collection Blemish Spot Clearing Serum | | Ultimate Serum Reducing Traces of Acne | Oil-Based | Reduces Pigmentation、Soothing、Smoothes Texture、Blemish Care | Niacinamide、CentellAC-Rx Complex、NMF、EGF | 40mL | ||
3 | Some By Mi AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Days Miracle Serum Light | | Exfoliate With AHA, BHA, and PHA to Clear Your Skin | Water-Based | Hydration、Soothing、Smoothes Texture、Calming、Blemish Care | Salicylic Acid (BHA)、Centella Asiatica、Tea Tree Leaf Water、Lactobionic Acid (PHA and AHA)、Hyaluronic Acid | 50 mL | ||
4 | Dear, Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop | | An Award-Winning Serum That Rejuvenates the Skin | Water-Based | Reduces Pigmentation、Soothing、Pore Tightening、Brightening | Centella Asiatica、Grapefruit Extract、Yuzu Extract、Peony Root Extract、Skullcap Root Extract、Hyaluronic Acid | 35 mL | ||
5 | Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum: Propolis + Niacinamide | | Propolis and Niacinamide Serum for Smoother, Balanced, Hydrated Skin | Water-Based | Hydration、Soothing、Oil Control | Niacinamide、Propolis Extract、Tea Tree Leaf Water、Turmeric Extract、Centella Asiatica | 30 mL | ||
6 | iUNIK Tea Tree Relief Serum | | Provides Gentle Relief With Tea Tree, Cica and Hydrating Sprout Extracts | Water-Based | Soothing、Smoothes Texture、Calming、Blemish Care | Centella Asiatica、Tea Tree Leaf Water、Wheat Sprout Extract | 50 mL | ||
7 | Innisfree Green Tea Seed Serum | | Hydrating Serum With Green Tea Biome for Barrier Support | Gel-Type Essence | Hydration、Oil Control | Niacinamide、Green Tea Seed Extract、Hyaluronic Acid | 30 mL | ||
8 | Cos De BAHA Tranexamic Acid Niacinamide Serum | | Targets Dark Spots With Tranexamic Acid and Niacinamide Combo | Water-Based | Hydration、Soothing、Brightening、Reduces Pigmentation | Tranexamic Acid、Niacinamide | 60 mL | ||
9 | SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Poremizing Fresh Ampoule | | Cleans and Tightens Pores With Himalayan Salt and Centella | Water-Based | Pore Tightening、Hydration | Centella Asiatica、Himalayan Salt、9-Peptide Complex | 100 mL | ||
10 | Torriden Dive-In Low Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Serum | | Lightweight Serum for Deep Hydration and Skin Soothing | Water-Based | Hydration、Soothing、Skin Fortification | Panthenol、 Allantoin、Madecassoside、Malachite Extract | unknown | 50 mL | |
Your Daily Fix for Dullness, Dark Spots, and Uneven Tone
- Fades dark spots and evens out skin tone with 5% niacinamide
- Hydrates and soothes skin with plant extracts
- Lightweight, gel-like texture absorbs quickly
- Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin
Reviews mention:
Users love how effectively this serum brightens their complexion and reduces dark spots without irritation. Many highlight its lightweight texture and how well it layers under moisturizers. Several reviewers with sensitive skin appreciate its gentle formula that doesn’t cause redness or dryness when used consistently.
| Texture | Gel |
|---|---|
| Benefits | Hydration、Reduces Pigmentation |
| Key Ingredients | Niacinamide、Squalane、Calendula Extract、Papaya Extract、Sea Buckthorn Extract、 Allantoin |
| Fragrance-Free | |
| Net Weight | 50 mL |
COSRXAC Collection Blemish Spot Clearing Serum
Ultimate Serum Reducing Traces of Acne
- Helps restore uneven skin texture
- Refines dullness and minimizes hyperpigmentation
- Calms active breakouts and reduces redness
- Hydrates and revitalizes tired-looking skin
- Gentle enough for sensitive and acne-prone skin
Reviews mention:
Many users report a visible reduction in redness, inflammation, and blemish size. The serum also receives praise for its gradual brightening effect on dark spots and acne marks. However, some note that consistent, long-term use is needed to see more significant results.
| Texture | Oil-Based |
|---|---|
| Benefits | Reduces Pigmentation、Soothing、Smoothes Texture、Blemish Care |
| Key Ingredients | Niacinamide、CentellAC-Rx Complex、NMF、EGF |
| Fragrance-Free | |
| Net Weight | 40mL |
Exfoliate With AHA, BHA, and PHA to Clear Your Skin
- Calming power from Tea Tree, Centella, and 4 types of Cica Extract
- Has AHA, BHA, and PHA for gentle daily exfoliation
- Non-comedogenic and fast-absorbing
Reviews mention:
Users often share that they apply it daily and find it absorbs without leaving much residue. They frequently report seeing their skin's texture appear more even and some blemishes becoming less noticeable over time. For those trying to manage their skin's appearance, this serum is a popular choice!
| Texture | Water-Based |
|---|---|
| Benefits | Hydration、Soothing、Smoothes Texture、Calming、Blemish Care |
| Key Ingredients | Salicylic Acid (BHA)、Centella Asiatica、Tea Tree Leaf Water、Lactobionic Acid (PHA and AHA)、Hyaluronic Acid |
| Fragrance-Free | |
| Net Weight | 50 mL |
An Award-Winning Serum That Rejuvenates the Skin
- Globally acclaimed by Soko Glam, iHerb, Rakuten, and Chicor
- Soothes irritation with Centella Asiatica extract
- Targets fading spots, preventing hyperpigmentation, and tightening pores
- Lightweight, non-sticky formula for sensitive and oily skin
Reviews mention:
Many users have been loyal to this serum for years, finding it consistently effective in maintaining clear and healthy skin. They often mention a noticeable improvement in skin texture, with reduced acne and minimized pores. The fact that it absorbs quickly without any greasy residue is a big plus, leaving their skin brighter and feeling smoother.
| Texture | Water-Based |
|---|---|
| Benefits | Reduces Pigmentation、Soothing、Pore Tightening、Brightening |
| Key Ingredients | Centella Asiatica、Grapefruit Extract、Yuzu Extract、Peony Root Extract、Skullcap Root Extract、Hyaluronic Acid |
| Fragrance-Free | |
| Net Weight | 35 mL |
Propolis and Niacinamide Serum for Smoother, Balanced, Hydrated Skin
- Contains 60% propolis extract to soothe skin and ease inflammation
- Includes 2% niacinamide to balance oil and brighten skin tone
- Lightweight, gentle formula ideal for daily use, even on sensitive skin
- Hydrates while strengthening the moisture barrier and minimizing pores
Reviews mention:
Many notice brighter, smoother skin with consistent use. The fragrance-free formula is a plus, especially for those prone to irritation, and several highlight how it helps repair their skin barrier. Some say patience and regular application are key to seeing full results.
| Texture | Water-Based |
|---|---|
| Benefits | Hydration、Soothing、Oil Control |
| Key Ingredients | Niacinamide、Propolis Extract、Tea Tree Leaf Water、Turmeric Extract、Centella Asiatica |
| Fragrance-Free | |
| Net Weight | 30 mL |
Provides Gentle Relief With Tea Tree, Cica and Hydrating Sprout Extracts
- Has a potent tea tree and Cica blend for soothing relief
- Calms and hydrates skin without stickiness
- Enriched with 6 protective sprout extracts
Reviews mention:
People who have tried iUNIK Tea Tree Relief Serum often comment on how gentle it feels on sensitive or acne-prone skin. Users like that it’s not greasy and doesn’t clog pores. Several reviewers mention that their skin looks calmer after consistent use, and they like the fresh, minimal scent.
| Texture | Water-Based |
|---|---|
| Benefits | Soothing、Smoothes Texture、Calming、Blemish Care |
| Key Ingredients | Centella Asiatica、Tea Tree Leaf Water、Wheat Sprout Extract |
| Fragrance-Free | |
| Net Weight | 50 mL |
Hydrating Serum With Green Tea Biome for Barrier Support
- Formulated with Green Tea Biome to strengthen the skin's moisture barrier
- Balances oil and hydrates with Jeju green tea
- Great for damaged barrier and acne-prone skin
Reviews mention:
Many users consistently find this serum to be a real game-changer for their skin! People often comment on how wonderfully lightweight it feels and how quickly it soaks right in, making it perfect to wear under their makeup. After trying it, they frequently notice their skin feeling much more hydrated with less flakiness, and some even observe a nice glow without any greasiness.
| Texture | Gel-Type Essence |
|---|---|
| Benefits | Hydration、Oil Control |
| Key Ingredients | Niacinamide、Green Tea Seed Extract、Hyaluronic Acid |
| Fragrance-Free | |
| Net Weight | 30 mL |
Targets Dark Spots With Tranexamic Acid and Niacinamide Combo
- Combines 5% Tranexamic Acid and 5% Niacinamide to target dark spots
- Aloe-based for enhanced soothing hydration
- Reduces UV sensitivity
- Prevents post-blemish marks
- Clean, vegan, cruelty-free formula
Reviews mention:
Users love this for its non-irritating feel and how nicely it blends into any routine. Many report seeing a noticeable improvement in their skin's clarity and a gradual fading of dark spots. Some have also shared that they found this to be effective on their fungal acne!
| Texture | Water-Based |
|---|---|
| Benefits | Hydration、Soothing、Brightening、Reduces Pigmentation |
| Key Ingredients | Tranexamic Acid、Niacinamide |
| Fragrance-Free | |
| Net Weight | 60 mL |
Cleans and Tightens Pores With Himalayan Salt and Centella
- Enriched with Pink Himalayan Salt for pore cleansing
- Features 50.47% Centella Asiatica Extract to minimize pores
- Boosts skin elasticity with Peptide 9 Complex
Reviews mention:
Users often comment on its spreadable texture and how rapidly it absorbs into the skin. People also note that it doesn't leave a tacky sensation, making it comfortable to wear under makeup, and they've seen their skin appear less shiny throughout the day.
| Texture | Water-Based |
|---|---|
| Benefits | Pore Tightening、Hydration |
| Key Ingredients | Centella Asiatica、Himalayan Salt、9-Peptide Complex |
| Fragrance-Free | |
| Net Weight | 100 mL |
Lightweight Serum for Deep Hydration and Skin Soothing
- Formulated with 5D-complex low molecular weight hyaluronic acid for multi-layer hydration and plump skin
- Includes panthenol, allantoin, and madecassoside to calm irritation and soothe sensitive skin
- Absorbs quickly with a non-sticky, refreshing finish, suitable for daily use and all skin types
- Contains naturally derived malachite extract for added skin fortification and a gentle blue tint
Reviews mention:
Users highlight its excellent moisturizing effect without greasiness or irritation, noting smoother, plumper, and more balanced skin after consistent use. Many appreciate its lightweight texture that absorbs rapidly and leaves no sticky residue. Some report reduced redness and faster healing of dry or flaky areas, making it ideal for sensitive or combination skin. The serum is frequently praised for its gentle formula and visible improvements in skin hydration and texture.
| Texture | Water-Based |
|---|---|
| Benefits | Hydration、Soothing、Skin Fortification |
| Key Ingredients | Panthenol、 Allantoin、Madecassoside、Malachite Extract |
| Fragrance-Free | unknown |
| Net Weight | 50 mL |
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the Shelf Life of a Korean Serum?
Can I Use a Korean Serum With Retinol if I Have Oily Skin?
Should I Skip Moisturizer if I Use a Korean Serum for Oily Skin?
Even if your skin is oily, skipping moisturizer can actually make things worse by causing your skin to overproduce oil. The key is choosing a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer that helps lock in the benefits of your serum. Think gel-type or water-based creams that hydrate without feeling heavy.
How Many Serums Can I Use at Once in a K-Beauty Routine?
For example, you might use a hydrating serum with hyaluronic acid, followed by a brightening serum with niacinamide, and then a spot treatment serum for acne. If you’re new to layering, introduce one product at a time so your skin doesn’t get overwhelmed.
Explore More Skincare Tips Tailored for Oily Skin
How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
Top 5 Korean Serums for Oily Skin
No. 1: AXIS-Y｜Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum
No. 2: COSRX｜AC Collection Blemish Spot Clearing Serum
No. 3: Some By Mi｜AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Days Miracle Serum Light
No. 4: Dear, Klairs｜Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop
No. 5: Beauty of Joseon｜Glow Serum: Propolis + Niacinamide
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.