Cosrx Niacinamide vs Beauty of Joseon: Which Niacinamide Serum is Best for You?

When it comes to COSRX Niacinamide vs Beauty of Joseon, both these serums are loved by skincare enthusiasts. Niacinamide is one of those skincare ingredients that truly works wonders for the skin. It helps regulate oil production, reduces the appearance of hyperpigmentation and acne scars, and even strengthens the skin barrier. But when it comes to concentration, there’s always been some debate. Dermatologists generally recommend using niacinamide in a concentration of 2-5% because that’s where it delivers the best results without irritating the skin. Anything higher, and there’s a risk of redness, sensitivity, and even breakouts for some people.

That brings us to two popular niacinamide serums, COSRX The Niacinamide 15 Serum with a high-strength 15% concentration and Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum with a much gentler 2% concentration. Both are formulated to target different skin concerns and work best for specific needs, but which one is the better choice for your skin? In this article, we’ll compare them side by side so you can find out which niacinamide serum is your perfect match. Let’s dive in!

Cosrx Niacinamide 15%

Concentration of niacinamide in Cosrx is too much with 15% of potency, but that’s not without reason. It is formulated for those who have excessive sebum production, uneven skin texture, hyperpigmentation, and orange peel skin. Niacinamide is a well rounder known to regulate sebum production, shrink large pores and fade acne scars. A formula such as this, with potent 15 % concentration of niacinamide is something that most of you should consider if you got all those problems.

Of course with the regular use of Cosrx niacinamide, it will help get rid of the acne scars. Acne scars are stubborn and they take forever to go away. So you need something stronger to come back at it. I personally use niacinamide with azelaic acid, and this duo is hands down the best in getting rid of the acne scars and gives me a brighter complexion.

It can be used daily once, in the morning or evening, totally depends on your preference and skin care routine. If you are wondering whether Cosrx niacinamide in a concentration of 15% might be too strong because you have extremely sensitive skin, I would advise you to start slow and build tolerance. You can also add the serum with a few drops of hydrator and neutralize it prior to applying. That is a trick that will work.

NAG (Acetyl glucosamine) in the formula inhibits melanin production and brightens the skin and since it is a precursor of hyaluronic acid, it is also good for skin hydration.

Zinc PCA has anti-inflammatory and mild antibacterial properties so yes if you apply Cosrx niacinamide to active breakouts, this serum has your back, apply it directly and let the serum work its magic. Niacinamide and zinc PCA will help control the oil and will keep the flare-ups at bay.

If your skin problems are excessive oil production, acne, hyperpigmentation, orange peel texture, or uneven skin tone and you want something strong for that, this serum is something that you must give a try. Always do a patch test before application and that goes for any skin product.

Suitable for: Oily, acne-prone skin, combination skin
Best for: Oily, acne-prone skin
Texture: Lightweight, non-sticky
What it does: Reduces acne scars, evens skin texture, brightens dull complexion
Conscious Beauty: Fragrance and paraben free

Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum

This serum from Beauty of Joseon has niacinamide in mild concentration of 2%, along with it’s another core ingredient which is 60% propolis extract.

Propolis is collected from honeybees and is a versatile ingredient with multiple benefits such as it calms irritated skin, provides antioxidant defense and skin repair. When you apply this serum it gives you a luminous glow, thanks to the propolis in it. This formula also contains BHA (Betaine Salicylate) which is an exfoliant, a gentle alternative to salicylic acid.

BHA helps unclog the pores, while niacinamide does the job of shrinking the pores. The serum is formulated so it is gentle on the skin making it suitable for all skin types. It can used once or twice daily.

Tip: Glow serum when added with snail mucin will give you an extra dose of hydration and glazed donut look in the morning.

Suitable for: All skin types
Best for: Oily, acne-prone skin
Texture: Lightweight, dewy like
What it does: Oil control, hydration, glow
Conscious Beauty: Clean, gentle ingredients, cruelty-free

Final Verdict

The choice between Cosrx niacinamide and Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum depends on your skin concerns. Cosrx niacinamide 15% is more like a targeted treatment. While 15% is a strong formula, it is mainly because it tackles more advanced concerns, such as fading acne scars, controlling excessive oil production, preventing future breakouts, and helping to even out skin texture.

Higher concentrations of niacinamide can be a game-changer for targeting acne scars and hyperpigmentation, but for those with extremely sensitive skin, they also come with a higher risk of irritation. That’s why it’s crucial to introduce it into your routine gradually instead of diving in headfirst. A good way to start is by using it just once a week at first, then slowly increasing the frequency as your skin builds tolerance.

If your skin reacts well, a 15% concentration can deliver impressive results in fading stubborn dark spots and balancing oil production. But if you start noticing redness, tingling, or breakouts, that’s a sign to take it slow. Starting with a lower frequency helps you gauge how your skin responds before fully committing. For some people, this serum has been a game-changer in clearing up acne scars, while for others, easing into it has been the key to avoiding irritation. So if you’re trying out a high-strength niacinamide serum, patience is the way to go.

Beauty of Joseon on the other hand, with it’s 2% niacinamide concentration makes it fall on the milder end of the strength spectrum, suitable even for those with sensitive or beginner skin. BOJ is just about the right product for those who want to go gentle and minimize any kind of irritation if they are prone to sensitivity. With consistent use, Beauty of Joseon Glow serum gives a mild brightening effect, regulates oil production and gives glowy look.