Serums I Tried
Rating - Description
5 - definitely buy again
4 - can buy again but find a better one
3 - buy again if there’s no other choice
2 - never buy again
1 - don’t even look at this anymore
Skin type: oily, acne-prone, occasionally sensitive
Climate: mostly hot and humid
Usual skin concerns: active acne, acne scars, oily, dehydrated, damaged skin barrier
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% The Ordinary
(1/5). Long-term use made my skin sensitive and easily irritated. Too much niacinamide concentration.
Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Serum The Ordinary
(3/5). Sticky. There are better products out there with a similar function.
Marine Hyaluronics The Ordinary
(3/5). Runnier watery version of TO hyaluronic acid. Very hydrating.
Madagascar Centella Tone Brightening Capsule Ampoule SKIN1004
(2/5). I didn’t see any difference at all.
Madagascar Centella Ampoule SKIN1004
(2/5). There are better products for soothing the skin.
C-Niacin Toning Ampoule Isntree
(3/5). I didn’t see any significant difference in my acne scars. Stings when skin is irritated. Good for when skin is feeling dull and needs antioxidants.
Triple Hyaluronic Moisture Ampoule COSRX
(5/5). Hydrating. Kept oiliness at bay.
Balanceful Cica Serum Torriden
(4/5). Helped acne healing process.
Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA The Ordinary
(3/5). Didn’t notice any significant difference in overall brightening. I think this would be better as a spot treatment.
Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment Differin
(3/5). Didn’t irritate my skin when used alternately three times a week. Kept acne at bay but not by much. Made my skin sensitive after years of use
