# Beauty of Joseon Glow Deep Serum: Rice + Alpha-Arbutin for combination skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for combination skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/beauty-of-joseon/glow-deep-serum-rice-alpha-arbutin/for/combination-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for the United Kingdom.

Brand: [Beauty of Joseon](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/brands/beauty-of-joseon)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with combination skin: an oily T-zone, enlarged pores, and dry cheeks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for combination skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- This serum offers moderate brightening and evening of skin tone for your combination skin, as alpha-arbutin and niacinamide work to inhibit melanin production, while niacinamide also helps with seboregulation.
- Glycerin and panthenol provide general hydration beneficial for oily shine, though the formula is not specifically targeted for significant improvement of this concern.
- The product is safe for your combination skin with no risks of irritation due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/beauty-of-joseon/glow-deep-serum-rice-alpha-arbutin/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/beauty-of-joseon/glow-deep-serum-rice-alpha-arbutin/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/beauty-of-joseon/glow-deep-serum-rice-alpha-arbutin/for/combination-skin): Average (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/beauty-of-joseon/glow-deep-serum-rice-alpha-arbutin/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/beauty-of-joseon/glow-deep-serum-rice-alpha-arbutin/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/beauty-of-joseon/glow-deep-serum-rice-alpha-arbutin/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/beauty-of-joseon/glow-deep-serum-rice-alpha-arbutin/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/beauty-of-joseon/glow-deep-serum-rice-alpha-arbutin/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/beauty-of-joseon/glow-deep-serum-rice-alpha-arbutin/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Rice Extract, Alpha-Arbutin, Niacinamide, Panthenol, Glycerin

## What the research says

- Niacinamide significantly decreased hyperpigmentation and increased skin lightness compared with vehicle alone after 4 weeks of use in women by inhibiting melanosome transfer. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12100180/))
- Encapsulation of alpha arbutin in an optimized ethosomal gel significantly improved skin melanin reduction, moisture content, and elasticity in human volunteers compared to conventional formulations. ([Heliyon, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37681127/))
- Topical dexpanthenol acts as a moisturizer, improves stratum corneum hydration, accelerates wound healing and epidermal regeneration, reduces erythema, and improves symptoms of skin irritation compared to vehicle or no pretreatment. ([American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/))
- A topical xanthan gum nanogel containing gamma-oryzanol-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers and nanosized TiO2 and MBBT filters demonstrated high photoprotection with an SPF of 34 and no skin irritation or sensitization in a rat model. ([Pharmaceuticals, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37242453/))
- Daily application of a cream containing niosomes loaded with purple glutinous rice extract in 20 human volunteers for 28 days resulted in a significant decrease in melanin index and skin roughness by -14.05% and -9.95%, and increases in skin hydration and elastic recovery by +48.73% and +35.98% compared to initial values. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32812663/))
- The iontophoretic delivery of hyaluronic acid nanogel-loaded Saccharomyces/Rice Ferment Filtrate significantly reduced advanced glycation end products and mitigated skin stiffening in an ex vivo skin tissue glycation model. ([International Journal of Nanomedicine, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40989892/))
- Red rice extract suppressed UVB-induced inflammation and skin aging in human skin fibroblasts by inhibiting the MAPK signaling pathway, leading to decreased NF-kappa B and AP-1 activation, reduced ECM degradation, and increased ECM synthesis compared to UVB-irradiated controls. ([Natural Product Communications, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30508356/))
- A non-hydroquinone topical formulation (SKNB19) improved hyperpigmentation by 28.5% in patient self-assessment and 27% in independent reviewer assessment compared with 4% hydroquinone in 18 adult subjects, while showing significantly less irritation and better tolerability. ([Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33022197/))
- Combining a home-based radiofrequency device and arbutin cream reduced mMASI scores by 25.6% and melanin index by 22.8% at 8 weeks compared to baseline in 38 participants. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39918262/))
- Polyvinyl pyrrolidone-K90/Eudragit RL100 dissolving microneedle patches loaded with alpha-arbutin and resveratrol enhanced intradermal delivery by approximately 2.6 times compared to cream and slightly decreased the melanin index in human participants without causing skin irritation. ([Biomaterials Science, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37183632/))
- Topical post-laser application of human adipocyte-derived mesenchymal stem cell media combined with niacinamide significantly improved wrinkle index, melanin index, patient satisfaction, and investigator esthetic improvement scores compared to vehicle cream in patients with aging skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33103316/))
- Topical nicotinamide prevented solar-simulated UV-induced immunosuppression in healthy volunteers, and men experienced immunosuppression at solar-simulated UV doses three times lower than those required for women. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17882270/))
- Topical 5% niacinamide applied twice daily for 12 weeks reduced fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmented spots, red blotchiness, and skin sallowness, and improved skin elasticity compared to vehicle control in 50 female white subjects with facial photoaging. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16029679/))
- Moisturizer containing 5% panthenol, madecassoside, and copper-zinc-manganese decreased adverse reactions and downtime after ablative fractional carbon dioxide laser resurfacing with comparable efficacy to 0.02% triamcinolone acetonide cream in 20 subjects. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30945430/))
- Topical dexpanthenol formulated in lipophilic vehicles improved stratum corneum hydration and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to vehicle control in humans. ([Arzneimittel-Forschung, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10965426/))
- Hyaluronic acid, hyaluronic acid plus dexpanthenol, and isotonic saline nasal sprays all significantly improved dry nose symptoms over four weeks in 240 patients, with hyaluronic acid plus dexpanthenol providing superior nasal moisturisation compared to the other two. ([Auris, Nasus, Larynx, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32067777/))
- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- The emollient V0034CR significantly reduced TEWL compared to vehicle and vehicle plus glycerol, and significantly increased corneometry scores compared to vehicle and vehicle plus petrolatum in healthy volunteers with dry skin, demonstrating combined barrier function improvement from petrolatum and hydration improvement from glycerol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31532576/))
- Ten days of treatment with a cream containing 20% glycerin significantly increased skin hydration measured by corneometer values in 17 healthy volunteers compared to a placebo cream, but showed no influence on transepidermal water loss or skin sensitivity to an irritating surfactant. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498456/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users consistently praise this serum for its lightweight, watery texture that absorbs immediately, making it ideal for layering and oily or combination skin types. While highly effective at hydrating and delivering a 'glass skin' finish, its ability to fade hyperpigmentation and dark spots is generally reported as a gradual process requiring consistent, long-term use.

- Liked: Lightweight, absorbs fast (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Fades dark spots (often mentioned)
- Liked: Hydrating, glowing finish (often mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle, non-irritating (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Slow results (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Ineffective for some (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Too watery (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your serum as part of your PM routine. Start using it 3 times a week and move to daily use if your skin likes it.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toner, and right before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and wait a minute ⏳for it to soak in.
- Apply the serum on clean and dry skin since your skin is not sensitive.
- Always do a patch test before using the serum for the first time, and avoid the eye area .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Glow Deep Serum work for combination skin?

Beauty of Joseon Glow Deep Serum works reasonably well for combination skin by offering moderate brightening and light hydration, though other products fit this skin type better. A product of this type needs ingredients like niacinamide, propolis, or zinc PCA that regulate oiliness, enhance radiance, and provide balanced hydration without causing excess oiliness or dryness.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12100180/)

### Which ingredients make this serum a good fit for combination skin?

This serum fits combination skin with niacinamide and alpha-arbutin to brighten skin tone, alongside glycerin and panthenol for gentle hydration. To work best for this skin type, a product of this type needs ingredients like niacinamide and propolis or zinc PCA that regulate oiliness and enhance radiance without causing excess oiliness or dryness.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12100180/)

### What does Rice Extract do for combination skin?

Rice extract helps keep combination skin hydrated, smooth, and balanced while reducing excess oil and dark spots. It is unlikely to cause irritation and offers gentle antioxidant protection that supports a clear and even complexion.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32812663/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35587098/)

### What does Alpha-Arbutin do for combination skin?

Alpha-arbutin helps fade dark spots and even out skin tone for combination skin. It works safely to brighten areas with extra pigment while helping to keep the face looking smooth and clear.
Sources: [Heliyon, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37681127/)

### Where does this serum go in a skincare routine for combination skin?

This serum goes in the evening routine, as treatments are placed there for simplicity and extra safety around sun exposure. Because this is an average fit for combination skin, a product of this type for this skin needs ingredients like niacinamide and alpha-arbutin for brightening and oil control, along with glycerin and panthenol for hydration.

### Can I use this serum with retinol, and in what order?

You can use this serum with retinol by applying the serum first and following with your retinol once it absorbs. This helps keep your routine gentle, as the formula is safe and unlikely to cause irritation on combination skin.

### How often should I use this serum?

You can use this serum in the evening as part of your routine. A product of this type needs extra brightening ingredients and oil-balancing care to better fit combination skin.

### Can this serum clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for combination skin?

This serum is unlikely to cause breakouts or clog pores on combination skin, as it has a safe profile with no harsh or heavy ingredients. To better manage oily shine and balance combination skin, a product of this type needs lighter hydrating ingredients and targeted oil-controlling components.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/)

### Is this serum fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — £36.96 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Niacinamide 15% Firming Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-niacinamide-15-firming-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — £24.20 at Amazon
- [Augustinus Bader The Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/augustinus-bader/the-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — £248.00 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — £14.99 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — £30.37 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — £14.80 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.co.uk: £20.93 (https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0H126XLHG?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Lookfantastic: £12.00 (https://www.lookfantastic.com/p/beauty-of-joseon-glow-deep-serum-rice-arbutin-30ml/14866966/)
- Notino: £12.80 (https://www.notino.co.uk/beauty-of-joseon/glow-deep-serum-rice-arbutin-brightening-serum-for-even-skintone/p-16116937/)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Rice Bran Water, Water, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Dipropylene Glycol, Alpha-Arbutin, Niacinamide, Methyl Gluceth-20, Panthenol, Polyglycerin-3, Trehalose, Glyceryl Glucoside, Hydrolyzed Jojoba Esters, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Ethylhexylglycerin, Hydroxyethyl Cellulose, Xanthan Gum, Arginine, Acrylates C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Disodium Edta, Coptis Japonica Root Extract, Sorbitan Isostearate, Glucose, Coix Lacryma-Jobi Ma-Yuen Seed Extract, Glycine Soja Seed Extract Soybean Seed Extract, Hordeum Distichon Extract Hordeum Vulgare Extract, Rice Extract, Sesamum Indicum Seed Extract, Wheat Seed Extract, Vigna Radiata Seed Extract, Zea Mays Kernel Extract
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/beauty-of-joseon/glow-deep-serum-rice-alpha-arbutin/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/beauty-of-joseon/glow-deep-serum-rice-alpha-arbutin/for/combination-skin (this page)
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