A skincare routine consists of many steps: cleansing, toning, exfoliating, moisturizing, and much more. To address different skin concerns, we rely on a variety of products. If you are a fan of Korean skincare products, then you may know about the popularity of essence, the K-beauty product behind the radiant, glass-looking skin. But what is essence? Is it just like another toner or serum? Is it necessary to add it to our skincare routine?
Read on to learn more about essence and how it can elevate your entire skincare
routine.
WHAT IS ESSENCE?
Essence is a water-based skincare product containing active ingredients. The primary goal of essence is to provide your skin with optimal hydration. And the best part is that a layer of essence feels lightweight, thus making it suitable for all skin types. Those with acne-prone skin will not have to worry about an added layer of heavy moisturization when using an essence.
When do we apply essence during our skincare routine?
Essence has a thin, watery consistency like a toner but contains active ingredients like a serum. Thus, naturally, essence application comes in between the two.
During a skincare routine, essence comes in third after cleansing and toning, but before serum application. Remember the consistency rule when applying skincare products; thin products go on first, followed by thick products. Another advantage of applying essence is that you can use it during your morning skincare routine, night, or both!
How do we apply essence?
Essence is highly absorbable. Using a cotton ball or pad to apply essence on the face means that more products will go to waste, and less will be on your face. Therefore, the best way to apply essence would be to pour a few drops into your palm and pat (not rub!) it on your face and neck. Another quick method is to spritz it on your face using a spray bottle.
WHY IS ESSENCE IMPORTANT FOR SKINCARE ROUTINE?
Is essence really the secret to glow, radiant skin that we need to add to our skincare routine? Absolutely! Because essence has a lower molecular weight than a serum, it will penetrate deep into the skin, hydrating and plumping it. Essence application also increases the absorption of other skincare products, like serums and moisturizers. And when the skin is sufficiently hydrated, oil production will be under control, thus preventing acne. Don't know where to start with essence?
Check out our two favorite skin essences
The Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence by Cosrx contains 96% of snail
secretions that heal damaged skin. Snail mucin has regenerative properties that
intensely heal wounds and acne scars. This essence also contains sodium hyaluronate, which prevents water loss, resulting in long-lasting hydration.
Another essence that packs a punch is the Beauty Factory Simply Glowing Essence by La Verne. It contains a high concentration of Korean Red Ginseng extract, niacinamide, allantoin, hyaluronic acid, and adenosine.
The Korean Red Ginseng extract contains antioxidants, which prevent premature aging, and ginsenosides, which boost collagen production. Allantoin and hyaluronic acid soothe irritated skin and maintain skin hydration. Adenosine reduces the appearance of fine lines and improves skin texture. And niacinamide evens skin tone. Overall, the Simply Glow Essence serves more than hydration but also prevents skin aging and brightens the skin for a flawless, radiant glow.
DON'T SKIP OUT ON ESSENCE!
Essence is an essential part of a skincare routine. It provides an extra layer of hydration without the heavy sensation of piling on multiple skincare products on your face. So, if you want that K-beauty skin glow, try out an essence and see the results for yourself.