The Best Face Essences Are Foundational to Long-Lasting Hydration

Just a few years ago, facial serums were the unsung heroes of the Korean beauty world—a complementary step in your skincare routine, but not a necessity. Well, that’s no longer the case: No matter your concerns or skin type, finding the best facial serum is easier than ever, let alone the status quo. “In my practice, many more patients are using them now than they were a few years ago,” says Dr. Y. Claire Chang, a board-certified dermatologist in New York, NY. They are especially common in people with dry or damaged skin. Facial serums are part of a major shift in how people think about moisturizing: Today, “people understand that well-hydrated skin tolerates retinol better, looks brighter, and responds more predictably to active ingredients,” says Dr. Chang. “Serums are often the easiest way to create foundation without adding weight.”

FashionFavorite facial serum:

Best for combination skin

The Beauty of Korean Ginseng Essence Water

Jump to comments

These formulas also reflect this shift. While the earliest iterations focused on humectants like glycerin and hyaluronic acid, newer versions include barrier-friendly lipids, niacinamide, and antioxidants. “Some products even contain plant extracts that have anti-inflammatory properties,” says Rachel Westby, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York. Interested? Read on for serums that will lay the foundation for long-lasting hydration.

Best Overall: Mixed bean essence

• Why we love it: Mixsoon’s soy essence has become a symbol of Korean skincare, thanks in part to its novel ingredient lineup: fermented soybean extract, fermented barley (rich in beta-glucan), and fermented pomegranate (rich in alpha hydroxy acids). This allows it to simultaneously exfoliate and moisturize the skin, leaving it brighter and smoother. Fermentation is also key: it shrinks each ingredient to maximize absorption, allowing you to get the most from your recipe.
• Editor experience: “Mixsoon’s soy serum embodies the ‘gentle exfoliation’ ethos of K-beauty. The formula’s main ingredient, soy fermented extract, is an excellent skin rejuvenator that improves skin’s texture, tone, and radiance without any serious side effects. When paired with a small amount of other fermented extracts, glycerin, and propylene glycol, you get a deeply nourishing, viscous serum that your skin absorbs. I wouldn’t go a week without using it!” —Kiana Murden, beauty shopping editor
• Main ingredients: Fermented soybeans, barley, pomegranate and Korean pears
• Best for: People with dark spots, dullness, and dryness
• size: 50ml

Best for Dry Skin: Ilia basic facial milk