Last updated: September 24, 2026
Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum (Propolis + Niacinamide) and The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% both put niacinamide front and center, both cost under about $20, and both are staples on “best budget serum” lists. Yet they are built on very different philosophies. One is a gentle, glow-focused K-beauty serum with a low dose of niacinamide; the other is a high-strength, single-purpose active. Choosing between them comes down to your skin type and what you want the serum to do.
Quick comparison
| Feature | Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum | The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% |
|---|---|---|
| Niacinamide | About 2% | 10% |
| Other key ingredients | Propolis extract (high share of formula), humectants | Zinc PCA 1% |
| Texture | Slightly honey-like, glossy, hydrating | Thin, slightly tacky serum |
| Main goal | Glow, hydration, calmer look | Oil balance, visible pores, uneven tone |
| Typical price (30 ml) | ~$15–20 | ~$6–12 |
| Irritation risk | Low for most; propolis allergy is the main caveat | Low to moderate; higher for reactive skin |
Ingredient science
Niacinamide at 2% vs 10%
Much of the published research on niacinamide uses 2–5%, where it shows benefits for the look of redness, oiliness, uneven tone and barrier function. The Ordinary’s 10% can feel more “active” on oily skin but is also more likely to cause flushing or stinging in sensitive users. Beauty of Joseon’s lower dose is gentler and still within the range studies support.
Propolis vs zinc
Propolis is a resin-like substance bees make; in skincare it is used for its soothing and antioxidant properties and gives a hydrating, glossy finish. Zinc PCA is used for oil control. So one serum leans toward comfort and radiance, the other toward mattifying and balancing.
Which is better for your skin type?
| Skin type or goal | Better pick | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Oily, shiny by midday | The Ordinary | Higher niacinamide plus zinc for oil balance |
| Dry or dehydrated | Beauty of Joseon | Hydrating, cushiony texture |
| Dull, tired-looking | Beauty of Joseon | Immediate glow from the propolis base |
| Sensitive or redness-prone | Beauty of Joseon (patch test) | Lower niacinamide dose |
| Visible pores, combination | The Ordinary | More targeted for T-zone concerns |
| Acne-prone | Either; test carefully | Both can suit; neither treats acne |
Texture and layering
The Ordinary serum can pill if you use too much or layer silicone-heavy sunscreen too quickly. Two to three drops is plenty. Beauty of Joseon feels thicker but absorbs into a smooth, glossy layer and usually sits well under moisturizer. Both go after cleansing and toner, before moisturizer and sunscreen.
Can you use both?
Yes, but not usually at the same time. A sensible split is Beauty of Joseon in the morning for glow under sunscreen and The Ordinary at night on the T-zone. Stacking both over a niacinamide moisturizer can push you past what your skin enjoys, so check your other labels.
Pairing with other actives
- Retinoids: both pair well; niacinamide may help reduce retinoid dryness.
- Vitamin C: compatible; if you feel tingling, separate them morning and night.
- Exfoliating acids: fine on most skin, but skip The Ordinary on nights you use a strong acid.
Value
The Ordinary is cheaper per ml and lasts a long time at 2–3 drops. Beauty of Joseon uses a bit more product per application but delivers hydration and glow, which may let you skip a separate hydrating serum. Measured by what each replaces in your routine, the value gap narrows.
Who should avoid each
Skip Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum if you are allergic to bee products, pollen or propolis; propolis can trigger contact allergy in some people. Skip or dilute The Ordinary Niacinamide if you have rosacea, very reactive skin or niacinamide sensitivity; start with alternate-day use. Anyone with active dermatitis should hold off on new serums until skin settles, and see a professional if irritation persists.
FAQ
Is the Beauty of Joseon serum strong enough for dark spots?
It may help the look of uneven tone gradually, but it is not a targeted pigment treatment. For stubborn marks, pair it with sunscreen and consider ingredients such as azelaic acid, tranexamic acid or a retinoid.
Does The Ordinary Niacinamide give a glow?
Not in the immediate way Beauty of Joseon does. Its effects are more about balance and gradual evenness over weeks, with a matte rather than glossy finish.
Bottom line
Pick Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum for gentle hydration, instant radiance and a sensitive-friendly niacinamide dose, as long as you tolerate propolis. Pick The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% if your priority is oil control and a more visible-pore-focused treatment on resilient skin. Oily-combination skin with dry patches can happily use both at different times of day.
