Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum: Propolis + Niacinamide, The Daily Glow Serum

Beauty of Joseon has built its reputation on traditional Korean Hanbang ingredients in modern, accessibly-priced formulations. The Glow Serum is one of the brand's anchor products, combining 60% propolis extract with 2% niacinamide in a lightweight serum targeting dullness, uneven tone, and general skin vitality. At $36.84 for 30ml, this is mid-range for Korean serums; the propolis concentration at 60% is unusually high and is the product's primary differentiator.

Propolis is the resinous substance bees create to seal and sterilize their hives. In skincare, propolis extract delivers antioxidant, antibacterial, and barrier-supporting benefits, with particular value for acne-adjacent and reactive skin. Niacinamide at 2% is a modest but functional concentration for barrier and sebum support. The combined serum targets a multi-cause "dullness" problem: poor skin vitality due to barrier compromise, low-grade inflammation, and oxidative stress.

What It Does

60% propolis extract delivers antioxidant and antibacterial action, supporting the skin barrier and reducing low-grade inflammation. 2% niacinamide contributes barrier support, sebum regulation, and mild pigmentation transfer blocking. The combined effect over 4 to 8 weeks: glowier, more even-toned skin with reduced reactivity and better overall vitality. Particularly effective for users whose skin looks chronically tired or dull despite adequate sleep and hydration, suggesting barrier or inflammation roots.

Who It's For

• Chronic dullness: Primary target; addresses multi-factor dullness.
• Acne-adjacent skin: Propolis antibacterial action supports clearer skin.
• Barrier-compromised skin: Propolis supports barrier repair.
• Sensitive skin wanting niacinamide: Lower concentration than 10%+ serums, easier tolerance.
• Budget-conscious premium routine: Accessible pricing for the concentration delivered.

Key Specs

• Volume: 30ml
• Price: $36.84
• Hero actives: 60% propolis extract, 2% niacinamide
• Texture: lightweight serum, slight honey-toned color
• Fragrance: subtle propolis (honey-adjacent)
• Bee-derived: yes, not vegan

How to Use

After cleansing and toner, dispense 2 to 3 drops and press into skin. Let absorb 30 to 60 seconds before layering additional serums or moisturizer. Use AM and PM daily. Pair with morning SPF to maximize antioxidant benefit against UV-induced oxidation.

For acne-adjacent skin: pair with a dedicated acne treatment (like Some By Mi Miracle Spot Treatment) on active pimples. Beauty of Joseon supports the overall skin environment; targeted spot treatment handles active breakouts.

FAQ

Is 60% propolis actually functional?

Yes, measurably. At 60% extract concentration, propolis is the bulk of the formulation and delivers meaningful antioxidant and antibacterial benefit. Many "propolis" products use low-percentage trace amounts for marketing; this is a genuine propolis-first formulation.

Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum vs Tonymoly Black Tea Serum?

Both are antioxidant-focused serums at similar price points. Beauty of Joseon uses propolis (bee-derived). Tonymoly uses fermented black tea (plant-based). For vegan: Tonymoly. For honey-forward, barrier-supporting: Beauty of Joseon. Different hero ingredients with similar daily-antioxidant role.

Is it sticky?

Minimal stickiness. The 60% propolis creates a slight tackiness immediately on application, but it absorbs within 60 seconds and layers cleanly under additional products. Oily-skin users may prefer lower-viscosity serums, but the stickiness here is manageable.

Can I use this with vitamin C?

Yes. Apply vitamin C first (lower pH, time-sensitive), let absorb 5 minutes, then Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum. The combination gives layered antioxidant coverage.

Is it safe for sensitive skin?

Generally yes, though honey/propolis allergies exist in a minority. Patch test on the jaw before full-face use. If you have known bee product allergies, skip this serum entirely.

Related Products

Pair with Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Cleansing Oil for brand-aligned cleansing, or Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Aqua-fresh as the matching daily SPF.

Browse the full Beauty of Joseon collection or related: Korean serums.