The Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum (Propolis + Niacinamide) is one of the brand’s most talked-about serums, and for good reason: it targets two of the most common skin complaints at once — dullness and breakouts — without the sting many people get from stronger actives. In this Glow Serum review, we look at what the formula is built around, who it suits, how to use it in a routine, and when another serum might be a better pick.
What is the Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum?
The Glow Serum is a lightweight, slightly honey-coloured serum built around two hero ingredients: propolis extract and niacinamide. It sits in the brand’s line-up alongside the Calming, Revive and Light On serums, and it is positioned as the “glow and clarity” option.
Like most of the brand’s products, it draws on hanbang, the Korean tradition of using herbal and natural ingredients. If you want a refresher on the brand’s signature ingredients, our guide to hanbang ingredients like rice, ginseng and propolis explains each one.
The key ingredients
Propolis
Propolis is a resin-like substance bees produce to protect their hive. In skincare, it is valued for its soothing feel and its ability to support a healthy-looking, glowing complexion. It is a favourite in K-beauty for people with skin that is both oily and easily irritated.
Niacinamide
Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is one of the most studied and well-tolerated skincare ingredients. It is popular for helping with the look of enlarged pores, uneven tone and excess oil, and for supporting the skin barrier. It is a good “all-rounder” active for beginners.
Who is the Glow Serum best for?
Based on its formula and texture, the Glow Serum tends to suit:
- Oily and combination skin looking for glow without heaviness.
- Acne-prone skin that wants a gentle, non-harsh serum to sit beside a treatment.
- Dull or tired-looking skin that needs a brightening boost.
- Beginners who want a first serum that is easy to work into a routine.
If you have very dry or reactive skin, you may prefer a more hydrating, calming formula. Our comparison of the Calming Serum vs Revive Serum covers those options.
A note on bee allergies
Because propolis comes from bees, anyone with a known allergy to bee products, honey or pollen should be cautious and speak with a doctor or pharmacist first. Everyone else should still start with a patch test — see our step-by-step guide on how to patch test skincare products.
How to use the Glow Serum
The Glow Serum is simple to use morning and night:
- Cleanse with a gentle cleanser.
- Tone or essence (optional), applied to slightly damp skin.
- Glow Serum: 2–3 drops, pressed into the face and neck.
- Moisturizer to lock everything in.
- Sunscreen in the morning, every day.
Let each layer absorb for a minute before the next one. Thin, watery textures go first, thicker creams last.
What to pair it with (and what to be careful with)
| Pairing | Verdict |
|---|---|
| Hydrating toner or essence | Great match, adds moisture under the serum |
| Vitamin C serum | Usually fine; many people use vitamin C in the morning and Glow Serum at night |
| Retinoids | Possible, but introduce slowly and use on alternate nights at first |
| Strong exfoliating acids | Avoid stacking on the same night if your skin gets irritated |
| Relief Sun sunscreen | Natural morning partner |
For the full layering logic, read our guide on how to layer Beauty of Joseon serums in the right order. If you are wondering about niacinamide with vitamin C specifically, we cover that in our niacinamide and vitamin C layering guide.
Glow Serum vs Glow Deep Serum
The names are close, but the formulas are different. The Glow Serum is built around propolis and niacinamide, with a focus on clarity and glow. The Glow Deep Serum is built around rice and alpha-arbutin, with a stronger focus on uneven tone and dark marks. If spots and post-acne marks are your main concern, the Glow Deep Serum may be the better fit; if breakouts and dullness are, start with the Glow Serum.
Pros and cons
- Pros: lightweight texture, gentle actives, easy to layer, suits oily and acne-prone skin, works morning and night.
- Cons: not ideal for people with bee-product allergies, may feel too light for very dry skin in winter, results build gradually rather than overnight.
Our verdict
The Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum is an easy, affordable first serum for anyone dealing with dullness, oiliness or occasional breakouts. It will not replace a medical treatment for persistent acne, but as a daily glow-and-balance step it is one of the most versatile products in the line. For more K-beauty picks across brands, browse our sister site’s Korean skincare guides and product catalogue.
FAQ
Can I use the Glow Serum every day?
Yes. Most people use it once or twice a day. Start once a day if your skin is sensitive.
Is the Glow Serum good for acne-prone skin?
It is popular with acne-prone skin thanks to its light texture and gentle ingredients, but persistent acne should be checked by a professional.
Should I use it in the morning or at night?
Both work. In the morning, always follow with sunscreen.
Can I use it with a retinol?
Usually yes, but introduce one new product at a time and use them on alternate nights at first. Our retinol pairing guide explains how.