A good facial serum can truly make a difference in your skincare routine. That’s because serums are packed with active ingredients that target specific skin concerns like hydration, fine lines or pigmentation. Thanks to their lightweight texture, they’re absorbed quickly and deeply—often giving you faster results than a cream.

But when should you actually use a serum? The best moment depends on the ingredients in your serum, your skin type, and your personal skin goals.

In this blog, we explain which serums work best at which time of day. You’ll discover which ingredients are perfect for morning use, which are better suited for the evening, and what to consider when choosing the right serum for your skin. Plus: product tips and answers to frequently asked questions.

Serum FAQ

Which serums should I use in the morning?

Light, hydrating serums like vitamin C, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid. These ingredients protect your skin from daily environmental stressors and give a fresh, radiant look.

Can I mix serum with my day cream?

Better not. Apply the serum to clean skin, let it absorb, and follow up with your moisturizer. This allows the serum to do its job effectively without interfering with absorption.

Can I use serum in the evening?

Absolutely! Evening is the perfect time for active ingredients like retinol or exfoliating acids. Your skin naturally goes into repair mode overnight, making serums extra effective.

Extra tip: double cleansing

No matter how you structure your routine, proper cleansing is always the foundation. In the evening, double cleansing is a must: first an oil or balm cleanser to remove makeup and SPF, followed by a water-based cleanser to wash away sweat, dirt, and excess sebum. This ensures your serum can truly do its job.

Morning serums: light, fresh & hydrating

In the morning, go for serums that feel lightweight, absorb quickly, and pair well with your moisturizer and SPF. Think ingredients like vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide or caffeine. These help protect your skin, reduce redness, and give you that fresh-skin look. Explore our vitamin C products.

Note: Some ingredients are less ideal for daytime use—like retinol and exfoliating acids (AHA/BHA). These increase sun sensitivity, so it's better to use them in the evening.

Evening serums: repair & renewal

At night, your skin focuses on recovery. This is the perfect time to use serums with active ingredients. Think retinol, peptides, nourishing oils or exfoliants like glycolic acid or salicylic acid. These support skin renewal, reduce fine lines and improve texture.

For beginners, a low percentage of retinol is a smart start. Or try gentler alternatives like retinal or bakuchiol. Check out our retinol products or read more about what retinol does for your skin.

 

Our morning picks

Beauty of Joseon Propolis Glow Serum 

1. Beauty of Joseon - Propolis Glow Serum

A brightening serum with propolis and niacinamide that soothes the skin and reduces redness. Perfect for morning use thanks to its lightweight texture and radiant finish.

Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule 

2. SKIN1004 - Madagascar Centella Ampoule

This ampoule contains 100% Centella Asiatica extract and provides powerful calming effects. Perfect for irritated or sensitive skin that needs extra care.

I'm From Vitamin Tree Water-Gel 

3. I'm From - Vitamin Tree Water-Gel

A refreshing gel that hydrates without feeling sticky and helps calm the skin. Great for oily or combination skin in need of lightweight care.

Our evening picks

Some By Mi Retinol Intense Reactivating Serum 

1. Some By Mi - Retinol Intense Reactivating Serum

A powerful night serum with retinol and peptides that targets fine lines and skin texture. Great for advanced users who want visible results.

Anua Nano Retinol 0.3% Niacin Renewing Serum 

2. Anua - Nano Retinol 0.3% + Niacin Renewing Serum

Combines retinol and niacinamide for a more even skin tone and stronger barrier. A great option if you’re new to retinol but want effective results.

Mixsoon Bean Essence 

3. Mixsoon - Bean Essence

A multifunctional essence packed with fermented ingredients to nourish, gently exfoliate and restore the skin. A soft yet effective addition to your evening routine.

 

Need personalized advice?

Not sure which serum is best for your skin type or routine? Start a chat with one of our skincare experts. We’re happy to help you find the perfect match with tailored product recommendations!

 

With love for skincare,

Little Wonderland