Last updated: September 27, 2026
Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum: Propolis + Niacinamide is one of the brand’s best-known serums, usually priced around $15–20 for 30 ml. It promises a glowier, calmer, and more even-looking complexion, especially for oily and blemish-prone skin. The formula leans on two ingredients with decent supporting research. This review breaks down what each does, how the serum feels, who it suits, and how it fits into a routine alongside stronger actives.
Quick answer: Our top pick in 2026 is the Dull look — our #1 rated choice. See the full ranked comparison, alternatives and buying advice below.
What is inside
The serum contains a high share of propolis extract (around 60%) and 2% niacinamide, along with hydrating and soothing ingredients such as glycerin and a small amount of tea tree leaf oil. It has a honey-coloured, slightly viscous texture that spreads easily and dries down with a subtle glow.
Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum Propolis and Niacinamide Hydrating Facial Soothing Moisturizer for Uneven Skin Tone Korean Skin Care 30ml 1 fl.oz
Included for 'Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum Propolis Niacinamide Review: Does It Actually Work?' as a relevant option in this category; details come from the product listing.
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Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum Propolis and Niacinamide Hydrating Facial Soothing Moisturizer for Irritated Uneven Skin Tone, Korean Skin Care, 60ml, 2 Fl.Oz
Included for 'Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum Propolis Niacinamide Review: Does It Actually Work?' because the listing specifies Korean Skin Care and 60ml, details this guide uses to compare options.
View on AmazonPropolis
Propolis is a resin-like material bees produce from plant sources. In skincare, it is used for its antioxidant and soothing properties, and some research suggests it may have antimicrobial effects. For many users, it gives a calmer, dewier look, which is where the “glow” branding comes from.
Niacinamide
Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is one of the most studied cosmetic ingredients. At 2–5%, it can help support the barrier, reduce the look of redness, regulate the appearance of oiliness, and gradually even out tone. At 2% here, it is on the gentle side, which makes irritation less likely.
What results to expect
| Concern | Expected effect | Timeframe |
|---|---|---|
| Dull look | Healthier glow | Days to 2 weeks |
| Redness after breakouts | Calmer look | 2–6 weeks |
| Oiliness | Slightly more balanced appearance | 4–8 weeks |
| Uneven tone / marks | Mild improvement | 8–12 weeks with SPF |
| Active breakouts | Supportive only | Not a treatment |
Who it suits best
Oily, combination, and normal skin types tend to like it most. It hydrates without heaviness and pairs well with other active ingredients. People with blemish-prone skin often use it as a soothing layer between treatments. Dry skin can use it too, but it will need a moisturizer on top.
Who should be careful
Anyone allergic to bee products, including propolis, honey, or pollen, should avoid it or patch test very carefully. Propolis is a known contact allergen for a small portion of people. The tea tree oil content is small, but those sensitive to essential oils should check the label before buying.
How to use it
- After cleansing (and toner, if you use one), apply two or three drops to the face.
- Let it absorb for about a minute.
- Apply moisturizer. In the morning, follow with broad-spectrum SPF 30+.
- Use once or twice a day. It is gentle enough for daily use in both routines.
Layering with actives
It sits well with vitamin C, retinoids, azelaic acid, and exfoliating acids. On retinoid nights, apply it before the retinoid if your skin is dry, or after if you prefer the retinoid on bare skin. Because niacinamide is only 2%, stacking it with a separate 5–10% niacinamide serum is usually unnecessary.
Texture and practical notes
The serum is slightly sticky for the first minute. Using too much makes this worse. It can pill under some silicone-heavy sunscreens if applied too thickly, so give it time to absorb. The dropper bottle makes dosing easy, and a 30 ml bottle lasts about two to three months with daily use.
How it compares
Compared with a simple niacinamide serum at 5–10%, this is gentler and more soothing, with extra glow from the propolis. Compared with other propolis serums from K-beauty brands, it is similar in concept but typically cheaper and lighter. If your main goal is visible oil control or dark spot fading, a higher-strength niacinamide or a dedicated brightening serum may deliver more targeted results.
Is it worth it?
At under $20, it offers good value for a comfortable, multi-purpose serum. It is not a powerhouse treatment, but it makes skin look healthier and supports routines that include stronger products. For oily and combination skin that wants hydration and glow without heaviness, it is a sensible buy.
FAQ
Can I use it with a vitamin C serum?
Yes. Modern formulations make niacinamide and vitamin C compatible in most routines. If you notice flushing, use vitamin C in the morning and the propolis serum at night.
Is it suitable for acne-prone skin?
Many acne-prone users tolerate it well, and it can help calm the look of redness. It is not an acne treatment, so continue using proven actives such as salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or retinoids as needed.
Bottom line
Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum is a gentle, glow-boosting serum that suits oily, combination, and normal skin, especially as a soothing layer in routines with stronger actives. It will not replace targeted treatments, but it makes skin look calmer and healthier at a very reasonable price. Avoid it if you are allergic to bee products.
Ready to decide? Our #1 pick for 2026 is the Dull look.
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