10 Best Korean Serums For Oily Skin, As Per An Esthetician – 2024
Tackle clogged pores, breakouts, and dark spots with these amazing Korean serums.
Anna is a licensed esthetician and the founder and owner of Beauty and Cutie® hair, skin and nails vitamins from New York. Her interest in nutrition analysis and beauty propelled her to obtain a certification in Nutrition Science from the Stanford Center for Health Education and then develop and successfully market her product to improve hair, skin, and nails.
Read full bio of Anna Misztela
Experience: 3 yearsKirtana has a postgraduate degree in mass communication and journalism from St. Joseph’s College, Bengaluru, and 3 years of professional experience. She developed a deep passion for writing after reading the brilliant works of Enid Blyton and Roald Dahl and has chosen a career that is driven by creativity.
Read full bio of Kirtana Divakar
Experience: 5 yearsMedha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.
Read full bio of Medha Deb
Experience: 4 yearsMonomita has a graduate degree in mass communication and video production from St. Anthony's College, Shillong, and a master’s degree in journalism and mass communication from the Royal Global University, Guwahati. She is also a certified skincare coach with a keen interest in skin, hair, tattoos, nail art, and lifestyle trends.
Read full bio of Monomita Chakraborty
Image: Shutterstock
Korean skin care has gained a lot of attention, and once you try a Korean serum for oily skin, you won’t want to go back to your old products. The best Korean brands use premium ingredients to provide effective outcomes while keeping prices low. Korean serums for oily skin can help control most of your oily skin issues. Excess oil production and clogged pores characterize oily skin, which may lead to acne and zits if left untreated. Niacinamide, ferulic acid, glycolic acid, vitamin C, salicylic acid, and hyaluronic acid are just a few ingredients that can help regulate excess sebum production and prevent acne. The best serum can nourish and hydrate your skin while fighting acne, hyperpigmentation, dark spots, wrinkles, and other oily skin issues.
Once you narrow down the exact skin issues you have, you can go ahead and pick one of the best Korean serums to address them. Don’t worry if you are not sure how to choose one. With our list of the top 10 Korean serums designed specifically for oily skin, picking your perfect product is going to be a breeze. Continue reading to find the ideal match.
In This Article
10 Best Korean Serums For Oily Skin With Reviews And Buying Guide
1. Best For Mature Skin:Seoul Ceuticals Day Glow Serum
Wake up to radiant skin every day with this Korean serum for oily skin. It is enriched with vitamin C and ferulic acid, known for their antimicrobial and skin-calming properties. Together, they soothe inflammation, minimize and refine pores, prevent acne, and lighten acne spots to give you healthy skin. It also contains vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, jojoba extracts, and aloe vera to maintain the skin’s health, provide moisture, and lend you a clear complexion, with glowing skin. Suitable for all skin types, we are sure your skin will fall in love with it! This Korean skincare product has positive reviews on Amazon, making it the top product on our list. Check out this reviewer’s experience video to learn everything about the Seoul Ceuticals Day Glow Serum.
Pros
- Fights skin aging
- Pore minimizing effect
- Suitable for all skin types
- Enriched with vitamin C and E
- Made with 98% natural ingredients
Cons
- The citrus scent may be overpowering for some.
Pro Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product is so liked by shoppers that it has gained over 17,000 great reviews on Amazon.
2. Best Hypoallergenic:Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop
This one tops our list for being the best Korean vitamin C serum for oily skin. Vitamin C not only clears dead skin cells and improves dull skin tone but also shrinks enlarged pores. The lavender oil, grapefruit, and broccoli extracts provide the skin with moisture and nourishment, leaving you with healthy, glowing skin. Suitable for all skin textures and types, the formula also contains ascorbic acid to reduce fine lines and treat hyperpigmentation. Go through this review video to learn more about the Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop.
Pros
- Skin tone correction
- Hypoallergenic
- Fragrance-free
- Oil-free formula
- Ideal for all skin types
- Effectively lightens dark spots
Cons
- Some might find the texture a bit thick and clumpy
3. Best For Combination Skin:SKINMISO Pore Corset Serum
We understand the trouble people with oily skin go through when dealing with enlarged pores and excess sebum production, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Use this tried-and-tested Korean serum for oily, dehydrated skin to tighten and minimize pores while locking in moisture. It is formulated with witch hazel, algae, and green tea tree oil to regulate excess sebum, provide hydration, and reduce pores. With anti-aging ingredients like castor oil, it reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. A must-have product in your skin care routine, as it keeps your skin hydrated and helps you achieve silky, smooth skin in no time! Check out this video to find out more about the SKINMISO Pore Corset Serum,
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Suitable for oily and combination skin
- Hydrates and nourishes skin
- Tightens and minimizes pores
Cons
- May not yield immediate results
| Seoul Ceuticals Day Glow Serum Best For Mature Skin | Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop Best Hypoallergenic | SKINMISO Pore Corset Serum Best For Combination Skin | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | Oily, Combination, Dry, Normal | All | Oily |
| Dimensions | 1.5 x 1.5 x 3 inches | 19.69 x 19.69 x 11.02 inches | 1.57 x 1.97 x 3.5 inches |
| Weight | 2.5 Ounces | 0.01 Ounces | 3.88 Ounces |
| Weight | - | - | 0.11 Kilograms |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 17,000 | 1,389 | 1,024 |
| Price | $17.0 | $18.68 | $18.0 |
4. Best Lightweight:COSRX Galactomyces 95 Tone Balancing Essence
Try this Korean face serum for oily skin to achieve beautiful, glowing skin. The hyaluronic acid and panthenol in this formula restore moisture, while galactomyces battle aging and revive dull, tired-looking skin. Acne and inflamed skin will be a thing of the past! It is powered with niacinamide to soothe skin and fight acne-causing bacteria. This skin balancing serum is suitable for all skin types. Moreover, its lightweight texture lends you hydrated skin, maintains skin pH balance, and lends skin clarity without adding a greasy residue.
Pros
- Lightweight serum
- Hypoallergenic
- Anti-aging benefits
- Suitable for all skin types
- Brightens and smooths dull skin
Cons
- In rare cases, it may cause skin irritation and redness.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 1,573 Amazon users have vouched for this amazing product.
5. Best For Sun Damage:SKIN & LAB Dr. Color Effect Red Serum
Your one true solution for brighter, more radiant-looking skin is here! This serum makes it to our list as one of the best anti-aging serums for oily skin as it contains niacinamide and adenosine, which minimize pores and improve skin texture. It is formulated with Red Phyto Complex, which has the nourishing properties of 6 different berries, including goji berry, acai berry, and raspberry. Together, they help with skin revitalization and soothe the skin while stimulating collagen production. This soothing serum is packed with antioxidants; you cannot miss out on this serum that fights free radicals and protects skin against sun damage.
Pros
- Minimizes the appearance of pores
- Pleasant fragrance
- Brightens and soothes skin
- Includes fruit-derived antioxidants
Cons
- Some might find the texture a bit thick
6. Best Hydrating:Innisfree Green Tea Seed Serum
We’re well aware about the numerous benefits of using a Korean hydrating serum for oily skin that contains green tea. Rich in amino acids, it strengthens the skin’s moisture barrier to retain moisture while quenching parched, dehydrated skin. The lightweight formula also contains hyaluronic acid, sunflower seed oil, carrot and raspberry extracts to deliver smooth, nourished skin, so you can attain gorgeous, dewy skin you’ve always longed for.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Hydrates skin
- Lightweight formula
- Free of harsh chemicals
- Paraben-free
- Mineral oil-free
Cons
- The scent may be overpowering for some.
7. Best Anti-Aging:PURITO Centella Green Level Buffet Serum
If you want to steer away from harmful chemicals and opt for a natural serum, you should give this one a try. Enriched with gotu kola extract and hyaluronic acid, it is packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties to speed up wound healing, stimulate collagen production, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Do you want to moisturize your oily skin without being worried about breakouts? If yes, this formula with niacinamide, panthenol, peptides, and jojoba oil is perfect for you! It adds long-lasting hydration and prevents acne-causing bacteria without greasiness, owing to its antibacterial properties.
Pros
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Fragrance-free
- Suitable for everyday use
- Increases collagen production
Cons
- It may leave the skin slightly greasy.
8. Best For All Skin Types:Meebak Cica Serum
This Korean whitening serum for oily skin is enriched with cica or tiger grass to repair and soothe wounded skin. It also contains other nourishing ingredients like retinol and niacinamide to brighten skin while reducing fine lines and wrinkles. To add to this, its lightweight formula penetrates deeply into the skin, promoting skin firmness and provides a radiant glow. Free of parabens, sulfates, and phthalates, it is suitable for all skin types.
Pros
- Brightens skin
- Reduces wrinkles and fine lines
- Suitable for all skin types
- Free of parabens, sulfates, and phthalates
Cons
- Some might find the aroma of this serum unpleasant.
9. Best For Acne:Cos De BAHA Vitamin C Serum
Here’s another Korean vitamin C serum for oily skin! With vitamin C as its key ingredient, it fades hyperpigmentation and protects the skin from the sun’s damage. Its effective formula also contains ascorbic acid, aloe vera, thyme, and rosemary extracts to alleviate skin inflammation, reduce acne-causing bacteria, and soothe skin. For best results, use this serum twice every day.
Pros
- Prevents acne
- Prevents sun damage
- Fades hyperpigmentation
- Can be used in the morning and night
- Does not contain paraben, gluten, formaldehyde, fragrance, sulfates or artificial colors.
Cons
- May not be suitable for sensitive skin
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 1,101 reviews claiming its efficacy.
10. Best For Skin Softening:Saranghae Deep Radiance Essence + Serum
Last on our list is this Korean hydrating serum for oily skin. Regular use of this serum will leave your skin feeling soft and firm. It is formulated using hyaluronic acid and Sang Hwang mushroom extracts to ensure that skin is hydrated while reducing the appearance of lines and wrinkles. Also included in the powerful list of natural ingredients are soybean ferment extract and hyaluronic acid. Together they are packed with essential vitamins, amino acids, moisturizing properties, and antioxidants, which prevent premature signs of aging and protect the skin cells from oxidative stress.
Pros
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Botanical ingredients
- Contains vitamin B
- Free of sulfates, parabens, and phthalates
- Recommended for all skin types
Cons
- The texture may feel a bit drying for some
Pro TipThat was it for our list of the top 10 must-have Korean serums for oily skin in 2024. Now let’s look at some things to keep in mind while choosing one that is perfect for your skin.
How To Choose The Best Korean Serum For Oily Skin
- Active ingredients
Those with oily skin often struggle with excess sebum production and clogged pores. Serums that reduce or help maintain oil balance, support exfoliation, and shrink pores can be of great help. Look for serums that include ingredients such as niacinamide, vitamin C, tea tree extracts, salicylic acid, and hyaluronic acids to help regulate sebum production and unclog pores of impurities, helping with skin purification. Both Seoul Ceuticals Day Glow Serum and SKIN & LAB Dr. Color Effect Red Serum are great options for oily skin.
- Formula
Oily skin is prone to pore-clogging, which may lead to acne and zits. Hence, we recommend you choose tested serums that are lightweight, non-comedogenic, and hypoallergenic. Also, try choosing the ones that are dermatologist-recommended or expert-recommended for effective results. Choosing the right serum for acne-prone skin is also crucial, as it may otherwise cause flareups.
- Address your skin issues
There are many Korean serums for oily skin in the market, but you need to pick one that specifically addresses your skin issues. If you struggle with oily, acne-prone or irritated skin, choose Korean serums that unclog pores while fighting acne-causing bacteria. These include serums with ingredients like retinol and salicylic acid. If your skin is dull with uneven skin tone or sagging, opt for a serum with anti-aging properties and ingredients like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid. They nourish the skin and effectively reduce fine lines, skin elasticity, wrinkles, and age spots among others. If you wish to give your oily skin a radiant glow with a brighter complexion, ensure to add a serum with vitamin C in your skin care routine. However, always remember to do a patch test before including any serums in your routine to avoid adverse reactions.
In addition to this, look for the ones with a good number of reviews and positive tester experiences.
The Bottom Line
Korean serums are a game-changer in your skincare routine. They are made for oily skin contain premium ingredients like vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and salicylic acid. They contain skin-calming and anti-bacterial properties that regulate sebum production, prevent clogging of pores, acne, and lighten acne spots. Niacinamide smoothens the skin and fights acne-causing bacteria. These serums nourish and hydrate your skin and prevent wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and pimples. They are usually cruelty-free, lightweight, and suitable for all skin textures and types. The products on our list come in different textures and dispensers to suit different needs. The different formulas address different skin concerns. If you want a serum to minimize pores and reduce fine lines, use the Seoul Ceuticals Day Glow Serum, and try the Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop to lighten dark spots and shrink pores. You can also use the SKINMISO Pore Corset Serum to regulate sebum production and get smooth skin. So, do read the reviews thoroughly before making a purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Korean skin care good for oily skin?
Absolutely! Korean products with ingredients such as niacinamide, vitamin C, and salicylic acid ensure the regulation of oil production while effectively clearing the pores of any impurities.
How soon can I see the results after serum?
On an average, a serum takes 4-6 weeks to show visible results.
Is snail serum good for oily skin?
Snail serum is effective for both oily and dry skin. It helps heal acne scars, hyperpigmentation, and inflamed skin.
Is a Korean skin care serum good for acne?
Yes. Korean serums that contain green tea, salicylic acid, and retinol help with excess oil control and prevent acne-causing bacteria.
How do Koreans treat oily skin?
• Cleanse the oily skin with an oil-based cleanser in the evening that works only on the skin’s surface to drain out the excess oil. They do not clog the pores.
• Rinse the face with a foaming cleanser in the morning and pat it dry with a clean towel.
• Scoop out a dime size amount of exfoliator on the palms and gently apply it to your face. Do not scrub aggressively. Exfoliate two to three times a week.
• Pour a few drops of a pH-balanced toner onto a cotton pad and apply it to your face.
• Pat a few drops of a hydrating serum on your skin.
• Put a sheet mask on your skin and keep it on for 10 to 20 minutes. Do not wash off the skin after discarding the mask.
• Apply an oil-controlling, hydrating serum to your face.
• Apply a small amount of nourishing eye cream to the skin under your eyes.
• Apply a thin layer of a lightweight, oil-controlling moisturizer.
• Finish with a lightweight sunblock with a minimum of SPF 50.
Which Korean serum is the best for combination skin?
The SKINMISO Pore Corset Serum is the best for combination skin. It is formulated with witch hazel and green tree tea oil that control the production of excess oil. In addition, the serum also nourishes the moisture barrier of the skin and rejuvenates the dry patches.
Which Korean serum is the best for glowing skin?
The COSRX Galactomyces 95 Tone Balancing Essence is the best Korean serum for achieving glowing skin. The hyaluronic acid in the formula restores moisture in the skin and the galactomyces prevent dull skin.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Kirtana Divakar, is passionate about all things beauty and loves staying on top of the latest skin care developments, which is why she swears by this Korean beauty secret. She shares tips for choosing the best Korean serums in her buying guide and explains how to consider ingredients and product formulation parameters for a better experience. After conducting extensive research and reviewing numerous online reviews, she compiled this list with the best products. Serums can hydrate and nourish your skin while tackling aging signs and other concerns.
Read full bio of Anna Misztela
Read full bio of Kirtana Divakar
Read full bio of Medha Deb
Read full bio of Monomita Chakraborty
Community Experiences
Join the conversation and become a part of our empowering community! Share your stories, experiences, and insights to connect with other beauty, lifestyle, and health enthusiasts.