10 Best Korean Serums in the Philippines 2026 | AXIS-Y, Laneige, and More
Korean serums have become a skincare essential for many Filipinas because they’re lightweight, potent, and designed for visible results without irritating the skin. Whether you're targeting dark spots, dullness, acne marks, or uneven skin tone, Korean serums offer some of the most effective and gentle formulas available on Lazada and Shopee.
These serums utilize signature K-beauty ingredients, including snail mucin, propolis, rice extract, ginseng, and fermented complexes combined with innovative textures such as ampoules and essence-serum hybrids. In this guide, we'll help you understand what to look for and choose the perfect Korean serum for your routine.
Quick List - Top Korean Serums
Laneige
Nourish and Protect Your Skin’s Moisture Barrier With Blue Hyaluronic Acid
Torriden
Lightweight Serum for Deep Hydration and Skin Soothing
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How to Choose Korean Serums – Buying Guide
Choose a Korean Serum That Targets Your Most Important Skin Concern
Every Korean serum is designed with a specific skin goal in mind, so identifying your top concern helps narrow down the best formula quickly. K-beauty serums are packed with targeted ingredients for clearer, brighter, calmer skin, making your selection more effective and intentional.
For “Glass Skin”: Hydrating Serums With Hyaluronic Acid, Rice Extract, or Ferments
If your goal is achieving plump, translucent “glass skin,” focus on serums that deliver deep, layered hydration. Korean formulations often use multi-weight hyaluronic acid to draw moisture into different layers of the skin, while rice extract (Oryza sativa) helps brighten and improve overall tone. Fermented ingredients like galactomyces or bifida ferment further refine texture and support a healthier skin barrier. Together, these actives create the smooth, luminous finish associated with classic K-beauty results.
For Fading Dark Spots: Glow-Boosting Serums With Propolis, Honey, or Niacinamide
To lighten acne marks and even out skin tone, look for serums formulated with niacinamide, propolis, honey extract, or gentle fruit-derived brighteners. These ingredients help fade pigmentation gradually by supporting skin renewal and reducing inflammation. Unlike stronger exfoliating acids, they work without causing stinging, irritation, or purging, making them suitable for sensitive or acne-prone skin.
For Calming Skin: Soothing Serums With Centella Asiatica, Mugwort, or Heartleaf
If your skin turns red easily or reacts to new products, choose calming serums containing mugwort (Artemisia), heartleaf (Houttuynia cordata), or Centella asiatica. These Korean botanical ingredients help reduce inflammation, soothe sensitivity, and strengthen a weakened skin barrier. They are often paired with lightweight, hydrating bases, making them ideal for reactive skin that needs gentle, consistent care.
Pick the Right Korean Serum Type Based on Your Routine
K-beauty offers various serum formats designed for different lifestyles, ranging from full, multi-step routines to simple, low-maintenance skincare. Choosing the right type ensures your serum works naturally with your existing skincare routine.
Ampoules — Highly concentrated formulas intended for short 2–4 week treatment cycles. They work well for targeting specific concerns like dullness, post-acne marks, or dehydration.
Boosters — Lightweight add-ons you can mix into your essences or serums to strengthen hydration or boost brightening effects. Ideal for customizing your routine without adding extra steps.
Essence-Serum Hybrids — Multi-functional formulas that offer both moisture and treatment benefits in one step, making them perfect for those who prefer a streamlined K-beauty routine.
Choosing the right serum type ensures your skincare remains comfortable, effective, and well-suited to your lifestyle—whether you enjoy layering multiple products or prefer a more minimalist approach.
Choose a Serum Texture That Works Best for Your Skin Type
Watery or Essence-Like Textures for Oily Skin in Hot, Humid Weather
Gel or Lightweight Gel-Cream Serums for Combination and Dehydrated Skin
Rich, Viscous Serums or Snail/Ginseng Textures for Nighttime Repair
Thicker, more viscous serums are most effective at night, when the skin repairs itself, helping to restore a damaged barrier, reduce pigmentation, and deeply nourish dry or stressed skin. Ingredients such as snail mucin and red ginseng are well-known in K-beauty for their ability to boost elasticity, improve texture, and aid in skin recovery from acne, irritation, and environmental stress. These richer formulas support long-term skin resilience and visible overnight repair.
Go for Opaque Bottles or Airless Pumps to Preserve Potency and Freshness
Korean serums often contain light-sensitive and air-sensitive ingredients like vitamin C, fermented extracts, antioxidants, and delicate botanicals, all of which can degrade when exposed to sunlight, heat, or air. Choosing serums packaged in opaque bottles, UV-coated or frosted glass, or airless pump containers helps preserve their stability and potency. This matters even more in the Philippines’ hot and humid climate, where higher temperatures and strong sunlight can cause unprotected formulas to break down more quickly and lose effectiveness.
10 Best Korean Serums to Buy Online
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Benefits | Key Ingredients | Type | Texture | Packaging | Opaque Bottle | Net Weight | |||||
1 | AXIS-Y Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum | | Your Daily Fix for Dullness, Dark Spots, and Uneven Tone | Brightening、Hydration、Soothing | Niacinamide、Squalane、Sea Buckthorn Extract | Essence-Serum | Gel | Pump | 50 mL | ||
2 | Laneige Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Serum | | Nourish and Protect Your Skin’s Moisture Barrier With Blue Hyaluronic Acid | Barrier Repair、Hydration | Blue Hyaluronic Acid | Essence-Serum | Gel | Pump | 50 mL | ||
3 | Innisfree Green Tea Seed Serum | | Hydrating Serum With Green Tea Biome for Barrier Support | Hydration、Barrier Support | Niacinamide、Green Tea Seed Extract、Hyaluronic Acid | Essence-Serum | Gel-Type Essence | Pump | 30 mL | ||
4 | Torriden Dive-In Low Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Serum | | Lightweight Serum for Deep Hydration and Skin Soothing | Barrier Support、Hydration、Soothing | Panthenol、Allantoin、Madecassoside、Malachite Extract | Serum | Watery Gel | Dropper | 50 mL | ||
5 | Goodal Green Tangerine Vitamin C Dark Spot Serum | | A Sustainable Vitamin C Serum Derived From Green Tangerine | Brightening | Niacinamide、Green Tangerine Extract (70%)、Ascorbyl Glucoside、Centella Asiatica Extract | Essence-Serum | Watery Gel | Pump | 40 mL | ||
6 | SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule | | A Great Serum for Sensitive Skin | Soothing、Barrier Repair | Madegascar Centella Asiatica Extract | Ampoule | Water-Based | Dropper | 100 mL | ||
7 | Dear, Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop | | An Award-Winning Serum That Rejuvenates the Skin | Brightening | Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)、Centella Asiatica Extract | Serum | Water-Based | Dropper | 35 mL | ||
8 | Beauty of Joseon Revive Repair Serum | Ginseng + Snail Mucin | | Ginseng and Snail Mucin Blend for a Vibrant Repaired Glow | Elasticity、Soothing | Snail Secretion Filtrate、Panax Ginseng Root Water、Centella Asiatica Extract | Serum | Water-Based | Dropper | 30 mL | ||
9 | COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence | | Soothe, Heal, and Moisturize Your Skin With Snail Mucin | Barrier Repair、Hydration、Soothing | Hyaluronic Acid、Snail Secretion Filtrate、Panthenol | Essence-Serum | Gel-Type Essence | Pump | 100 mL | ||
10 | Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Probiotics Barrier Essence | | Milky Essence With Probiotics and Black Rice That Restores Skin Barrier Health | Elasticity、Soothing、Barrier Support | Bifida Ferment Filtrate、Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate、Black Rice Extract | Essence | Milky Essence | Toner Bottle | 120 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.
| Benefits | Brightening、Hydration、Soothing |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Niacinamide、Squalane、Sea Buckthorn Extract |
| Type | Essence-Serum |
| Texture | Gel |
| Packaging | Pump |
| Opaque Bottle | |
| Net Weight | 50 mL |
Nourish and Protect Your Skin’s Moisture Barrier With Blue Hyaluronic Acid
- Features low-molecular Blue hyaluronic acid for effective absorption
- Absorbs quickly for a dewy, non-greasy finish
- Nourishes sensitive skin and helps restore the moisture barrier
- Preserves product integrity with hygienic pump packaging
Reviews mention:
Plenty of customers dealing with skin barrier issues have found this to be a crucial step in their routine. Many say they see a visible difference, with their face feeling instantly more moisturized and looking revitalized. Users also note that it sits perfectly underneath their makeup for an all-day glow.
| Benefits | Barrier Repair、Hydration |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Blue Hyaluronic Acid |
| Type | Essence-Serum |
| Texture | Gel |
| Packaging | Pump |
| Opaque Bottle | |
| 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.
| Benefits | Hydration、Barrier Support |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Niacinamide、Green Tea Seed Extract、Hyaluronic Acid |
| Type | Essence-Serum |
| Texture | Gel-Type Essence |
| Packaging | Pump |
| Opaque Bottle | |
| Net Weight | 30 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.
| Benefits | Barrier Support、Hydration、Soothing |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Panthenol、Allantoin、Madecassoside、Malachite Extract |
| Type | Serum |
| Texture | Watery Gel |
| Packaging | Dropper |
| Opaque Bottle | |
| Net Weight | 50 mL |
Goodal Green Tangerine Vitamin C Dark Spot Serum
A Sustainable Vitamin C Serum Derived From Green Tangerine
- Gentle vitamin C serum brightens spots and blemishes for an even tone
- Features 70% fresh green tangerine extract for gentle brightening
- Uses eco-friendly "Air Bubble Brewing" and sustainable packaging
- Fragrance-free and paraben-free
Reviews mention:
This serum is a favorite for those seeking a gentle and effective way to brighten their skin. Users describe its lightweight, watery texture and refreshing citrus scent, noting how quickly it absorbs without any sticky residue. They frequently mention an improvement in skin radiance and a reduction in dark spots, leaving their skin feeling soft, supple, and overall much fresher.
| Benefits | Brightening |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Niacinamide、Green Tangerine Extract (70%)、Ascorbyl Glucoside、Centella Asiatica Extract |
| Type | Essence-Serum |
| Texture | Watery Gel |
| Packaging | Pump |
| Opaque Bottle | |
| Net Weight | 40 mL |
A Great Serum for Sensitive Skin
Made with 100% Madagascar centella asiatica for ultimate soothing
Specifically targets sensitive, irritated, or stressed-out skin
Lightweight formula — perfect for layering with the rest of your skincare
Reviews mention:
If your oily skin tends to act up, this might be your new go-to! A lot of people say it’s super calming and sinks in fast without causing any irritation. Many have noticed their skin looking more glowy and feeling extra soft after using it. Some even love it so much they’ve been using it for weeks—and are already planning to recommend it to friends!
| Benefits | Soothing、Barrier Repair |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Madegascar Centella Asiatica Extract |
| Type | Ampoule |
| Texture | Water-Based |
| Packaging | Dropper |
| Opaque Bottle | |
| Net Weight | 100 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.
| Benefits | Brightening |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)、Centella Asiatica Extract |
| Type | Serum |
| Texture | Water-Based |
| Packaging | Dropper |
| Opaque Bottle | |
| Net Weight | 35 mL |
Beauty of JoseonRevive Repair Serum | Ginseng + Snail Mucin
Ginseng and Snail Mucin Blend for a Vibrant Repaired Glow
- Features a unique blend of traditional Korean Hanbang and modern skincare ingredients
- Revives dullness and repairs skin barrier issues like redness
- Moisturizes sensitive skin for a supple, vibrant glow
- Layers seamlessly into morning or evening routines
Reviews mention:
Customers frequently say they notice their face becoming more glowing and vibrant each day after they start using this serum. Plenty of reviews mention that after just a week or two, they started seeing a positive difference in their skin’s overall look and glow. While there’s a slight tackiness when you first apply it, reviewers are happy that it goes away once they layer on their follow-up products.
| Benefits | Elasticity、Soothing |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Snail Secretion Filtrate、Panax Ginseng Root Water、Centella Asiatica Extract |
| Type | Serum |
| Texture | Water-Based |
| Packaging | Dropper |
| Opaque Bottle | |
| Net Weight | 30 mL |
Soothe, Heal, and Moisturize Your Skin With Snail Mucin
- Hydrates and nourishes skin with 96.3% snail secretion filtrate
- Repairs damaged skin and improves texture
- Lightweight and fast-absorbing for all skin types
- Minimizes fine lines and boosts elasticity
Reviews mention:
Users rave about the visible improvement in skin hydration and glow after regular use. Many note that the essence helps calm redness, heal post-acne marks, and leaves skin feeling soft and supple. Several reviewers appreciate its non-sticky texture and how well it layers under other skincare products. Those with sensitive or breakout-prone skin often highlight its soothing, non-irritating formula.
| Benefits | Barrier Repair、Hydration、Soothing |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Hyaluronic Acid、Snail Secretion Filtrate、Panthenol |
| Type | Essence-Serum |
| Texture | Gel-Type Essence |
| Packaging | Pump |
| Opaque Bottle | |
| Net Weight | 100 mL |
Haruharu WonderBlack Rice Probiotics Barrier Essence
Milky Essence With Probiotics and Black Rice That Restores Skin Barrier Health
- Heals inflamed or compromised skin barriers effectively
- Refines skin texture and tone with probiotics and black rice extract
- Has a lightweight, milky texture that absorbs instantly
Reviews mention:
Reviewers mention that this essence definitely helped their compromised barrier get back to normal again. Those with sensitive, tired, or dry skin say it has made a real difference in how soft and smooth their face feels. Even people dealing with redness and very dry skin have found it to be incredibly gentle and soothing.
| Benefits | Elasticity、Soothing、Barrier Support |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Bifida Ferment Filtrate、Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate、Black Rice Extract |
| Type | Essence |
| Texture | Milky Essence |
| Packaging | Toner Bottle |
| Opaque Bottle | |
| Net Weight | 120 mL |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Makes Korean Serums Different From Western Serums?
Korean serums are designed for lightweight layering, using gentle, synergistic ingredients like fermented actives and botanical extracts to deliver gradual, irritation-free results.
In contrast, western serums often rely on a single high-strength ingredient, such as potent vitamin C or retinoids, which can work faster but may cause dryness or sensitivity, especially for beginners or those with reactive skin.
Where Do Korean Serums Fit in a Skincare Routine?
How Many Korean Serums Can I Use at Once?
Can Korean Serums Work for Sensitive Skin?
How Soon Do Korean Serums Show Results?
Explore More Korean Skincare Guides
How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
Top 5 Korean Serums
No. 1: AXIS-Y｜Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum
No. 2: Laneige｜Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Serum
No. 3: Innisfree｜Green Tea Seed Serum
No. 4: Torriden｜Dive-In Low Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Serum
No. 5: Goodal ｜Green Tangerine Vitamin C Dark Spot Serum
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.