Searching for the best serums for skin brightening? You're in the right place.
We're doing a round up of the best brightening serums on the market for every skin type.
WHAT IS BRIGHTENING?
The term skin ‘brightening’ cops a fair bit of flack online. That's because a lot of people think it refers to bleaching or whitening the skin.
However, the word "whitening" is really just a bit of a failed translation from Korean. In reality, Korean skin care does not use bleaching ingredients like hydroquinone. What it should refer to is products that have specific ingredients (like niacinamide and Vitamin C) to help brighten the skin. Brightening products are excellent for people that have things like hyperpigmentation, melasma, acne scars, dark spots, or freckles.
If you're still confused, tune into this episode of the Korean Beauty Show podcast to find out more:
WHO SHOULD USE BRIGHTENING SERUMS?
Firstly, brightening products are ideal for anyone who lives in a place with a lot of sun or harsh UV (think Australia, South East Asia and sub-tropical parts of the US).
If you are starting to notice unwanted sunspots, or have dark spots and scars left over from previous bouts of acne then this is for you.
Adding a brightening serum into your routine can be a great option.
What Are The Best Serums for Skin Brightening?
We’ve compiled a list of our favourite brightening serums for all skin types;
This serum is great for those with oily skin because it contains 12 types of vitamins which relieve stressed skin.
The formulation absorbs easily and leaves no traces of sticky residue. It is made with 82% Yuja extract (a fruit that's naturally high in Vitamin C) and 5% Niacinamide.
As a result, it revitalises and brightens dull skin. Panthenol and Avocado Fruit Extract also make this a great serum for anti-ageing benefits.
Glutathione is one of K-Beauty’s hottest trending ingredients and this serum has it!
Famed for its brightening properties, Glutathione is a powerhouse ingredient for targeting dull spots, dull skin, and uneven skin tone.
This APLB serum also contains Witch Hazel and Tea Tree Leaf Extract which work together to reduce the appearance of pores and acne. Balanced at a beautiful pH of 5.5 this serum works for all skin types, including sensitive skin, and will leave you feeling refreshed and glowing.

One of the most popular brightening serums is APLB's Bee Pollen Propolis Ampoule. That's because it not only brightens thanks to the inclusion of Vitamin C but will also get you the famed honey skin look!
Packed with 43% Bee Pollen Extract and Royal Jelly Extract this serum delivers a hit of natural proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Together, they help to balance and soothe problematic skin while also visibly reducing the signs of anti-ageing.
For best results, team it with Jelly Ko's Bubble Tea Steam Cream.
This serum is the winner of STYLE STORY’s Best of K-Beauty Awards
This cruelty free serum is perfectly balanced with a pH of 5.5 making it ideal for those with sensitive skin.
This serum is formulated with powerhouse ingredients including pure L-Ascorbic Acid. However, it contains an amount that won't irritate sensitive skin types.
In addition, it contains Niacinamide, Sea Buckthorn, and Adenosine. Vitamin C acts is an antioxidant that assists to create healthier, more vibrant skin with an even tone.
Innisfree Truecare Vitamin C 20 Ampoule is perfect for those looking to create a more vibrant complexion with less uneven skin tone. It is also ideal for anyone suffering from the red marks left over from acne. This serum is formulated with 20% pure Vitamin C which works to brighten and smooth the skin. It also doesn’t leave stickiness or oiliness on the skin unlike other Vitamin C formulas on the market. Other ingredients include Ascorbic Acid, Panthenol, Glycerin, Glutathione and Adenosine.
This nourishing ampoule is ideal for mature skin because it provides nutrients and hydration while also working to brighten the complexion.
Not only that, it is also formulated with luxurious ingredients including Italian White Truffle and Caviar. It is a decadent treatment for targeting the appearance of fine lines and other signs of aging.
Still Confused About Brightening Serums?
If you have any questions about skin brightening, serums or skincare in general, please reach out to one of our team members at STYLE STORY. We are always here to help you on your skincare journey.
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