Torriden vs iUNIK: Which Viral Hydrating Serum Is Best for You?

If you're trying to decide between the Torriden Dive In Serum and the iUNIK Beta-Glucan Power Moisture Serum, the good news is that you really can't go wrong with either — they're both excellent hydrating serums, but they feel quite different on the skin.

If you've spent any time on TikTok or Pinterest, you've probably seen both of these Korean serums recommended over and over again. They're often compared because they're lightweight, fragrance-free and suitable for sensitive skin, but after using both, I don't actually think they're competing products.

For my oily, combination, sensitive skin, they've naturally found different roles in my routine. I tend to reach for Torriden in the morning because it's incredibly lightweight, while iUNIK has become my preferred evening serum thanks to its richer, more cushioned finish.

If you're wondering which one would suit your skin better, here's how they compare.

What's the difference between Torriden and iUNIK?

Both serums are designed to hydrate dehydrated skin, but they do it in different ways. Torriden focuses on lightweight hydration using multiple forms of hyaluronic acid, while iUNIK centres its formula around beta-glucan for longer-lasting, cushiony hydration.

Quick Comparison

Is the Torriden Dive In Serum worth it?

If you prefer lightweight skincare that disappears into the skin quickly, I can see why this serum has become so popular.

First Application

The first thing I noticed was how watery the texture is. It spreads effortlessly across the skin and almost immediately starts absorbing, leaving behind a fresh, hydrated feel without any heaviness.

The serum has a very fluid, watery consistency that glides easily across the skin. Even one drop spreads surprisingly far.

Immediately After Application

Because the texture is so watery, my skin still looks noticeably dewy and glossy right after application — it hasn't fully sunk in yet at this stage. Given a little more time, it absorbs really well and settles into a fresh, natural glow without feeling sticky or greasy.

For my oily combination, acne-prone skin, this is one of the easiest serums to wear underneath sunscreen and makeup. It feels almost invisible once it's settled, which is why I absolutely love using it in my AM skincare routine.

Why I like it

• Lightweight watery texture
• Absorbs very quickly
• Doesn't feel sticky
• Layers beautifully under sunscreen and makeup
• Gives skin a fresh, healthy glow

Best for

• Oily skin
• Combination skin
• Humid climates
• Anyone who prefers lightweight skincare

Shop Torriden Dive In Serum

Is the iUNIK Beta-Glucan Power Moisture Serum worth it?

If your skin enjoys richer hydration without feeling heavy, the iUNIK serum is well worth considering.

First Application

Compared to Torriden, the texture is noticeably thicker, but it still spreads easily and absorbs surprisingly well. Instead of disappearing completely, it leaves my skin feeling soft, plump and comfortably hydrated.

The serum has a thicker, cushiony consistency that feels more nourishing as soon as it touches the skin.

Immediately After Application

By this stage, the serum has had more time to sink in, so my skin looks smoother and more settled compared to Torriden at the same point — less glossy shine, more soft, plump finish. It doesn't feel greasy, but on my oily combination skin it does leave a touch more tackiness, which is why I personally prefer using it in the evening.

One small thing worth mentioning is the dropper. Because the serum is thicker, it can sometimes take a couple of squeezes to draw enough product into the pipette. It's not a deal-breaker, but it's something I noticed while using it.

That said, I wouldn't call this a night-only serum. It still absorbs well enough to wear under sunscreen and makeup, and I've had no issues using it during the day. Choosing it for my PM skincare routine simply comes down to personal preference — I enjoy the extra cushion and hydration before bed.

Why I like it

• Rich, nourishing hydration
• Leaves skin feeling soft and plump
• Absorbs well despite the thicker texture
• Great for dehydrated or compromised skin
• Works well under makeup too

Best for

• Dehydrated skin
• Combination skin
• Sensitive skin
• Anyone who prefers a richer serum

Shop iUNIK Beta-Glucan Power Moisture Serum

Which viral hydrating serum is best for oily, combination skin?

For oily, combination skin like mine, I honestly think both serums work beautifully — it just depends on what kind of texture you enjoy.

If you love skincare that feels almost weightless and disappears quickly, Torriden is probably the better fit.

If you enjoy a little more cushion and longer-lasting hydration, iUNIK is an excellent choice.

Or if you're like me, get both!

Personally, I use Torriden during the day because it's lighter underneath sunscreen and makeup, and iUNIK at night because I don't mind the slightly more cushioned finish before bed.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between these two isn't really about finding a winner — it's about finding the texture that suits your skin and routine.

For me, both have earned a permanent place in my skincare shelf because they each do something a little differently. Torriden gives me fresh, lightweight hydration that works perfectly during the day, while iUNIK leaves my skin feeling soft and comfortably hydrated after my evening routine.

If you're looking for a lightweight everyday serum, I'd lean towards Torriden. If richer hydration sounds more like what your skin needs, iUNIK is equally worth considering.

Whichever you choose, they're both excellent Korean hydrating serums that I genuinely enjoy using.