wellness
Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum Review Melbourne
Why Melbourne beauty lovers are obsessed with this $26 Korean serum. We review the propolis and niacinamide formula that's selling out.
Listen in English · 3 min
How we reported this
Few skincare products have made the jump from K-beauty insider tip to global sell-out quite like the Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum. It trends on social media, disappears from shelves, and earns a level of devotion usually reserved for serums that cost ten times as much. At $26 in Australia, it is worth asking what is really inside the bottle.
What is in it
The formula is built on two heroes. The first is propolis extract at 60 percent, a bee-derived ingredient rich in antioxidants that has long been used in skincare for its soothing and antibacterial properties. The second is niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3 that dermatologists rate for brightening, smoothing texture and supporting the skin barrier. Together they target dull, tired and uneven skin without the sting that pure vitamin C can cause on sensitive types.
What it actually does
Beauty of Joseon positions the serum as a one-step glow booster, promising a dewy finish from day one and brightening without the vitamin C sting. The light, layerable texture is a big part of the appeal, it sits comfortably under sunscreen and makeup, which suits the Australian climate where heavy creams are a hard sell for much of the year.
How it compares to luxury brightening serums
The natural comparison is with prestige radiance serums and fermented essences, many of which sell for well over $100, and some, like SK-II Facial Treatment Essence, from around $94 and up in Australia. Those products have loyal followings and elegant formulas. What the Beauty of Joseon serum offers is a remarkably similar promise, brighter and calmer skin, at a price that leaves room in the budget for a good sunscreen and moisturiser too.
Who it suits
- Dull or tired skin that needs a glow without irritation
- Sensitive or reactive types who find vitamin C too harsh
- Beginners who want one simple, affordable serum that layers easily
It is not a miracle worker, no single serum is, and very dry or deeply pigmented skin will want to pair it with targeted treatments. But as an everyday brightening step, it has earned its hype. You can find it, along with the rest of the Beauty of Joseon range, at Alina Beauty.
Featured products are available at Alina Beauty. Prices are correct at the time of writing and may change. Sources: Alina Beauty, Sephora Australia.