WTF Is An Essence?
And is using one even necessary?
We know, we know, surely there isn’t another skincare product that has made its way into the market. So, allow us to introduce you to the essence. Before you get your knickers in a knot that there is now an added step (and cost) involved in your already thorough skincare routine, hear us out. Like everything in beauty, it is all about wanting not needing. We just want to ensure you’re as equipped as possible to make informed decisions about what to include (or not) into your routine.
Hitting the beauty scene about seven years ago (although they have been firm fixtures in Japanese and Korean beauty routines for decades), essences are finding traction in 2023 thanks to a newfound focus on ultra-hydrated, plump and youthful skin. Whether it’s your favourite TikTok influencer or your dermatologist, it’s likely someone in your skincare circle has asked the question: WTF is an essence and should we be using them?
That’s where we come in. Here, we breakdown what exactly an essence is and reveal the benefits so you can decide whether it’s a necessity in your routine.
Let’s Define It
Born out of Japanese and Korean beauty routines, it is easiest to define an essence by what it is not. It is not a toner, nor it is a serum and it certainly is not a moisturiser. Rather, it is an amalgamation of all three with the texture of water. Wild, we know. Packed full of skin-nourishing ingredients, an essence enters the routine at the first step (after cleansing) and is there to keep the skin damp for optimal product absorption. Of course, an added layer of skin-loving ingredients also doesn’t hurt.
What Are The Benefits?
Just like how a dry sponge absorbs close to nothing, a dry face is doing you a disservice when applying your favourite skincare products as the formulas are unable to deeply penetrate the bilayers of the complexion. Using an essence will ensure the skin is adequately primed to soak in any actives or moisturisers you apply next and will mean you’re getting all the benefits and more bang for your buck.
Essences also help to rehydrate the skin cells and protect the skin barrier while softening and smoothing the outer layers of the skin. They can also help rebalance the skin’s pH, keeping the complexion balanced and resilient. Who doesn’t want that?
Which Skin Types Need An Essence?
We have different serums for different skin types and needs and the same can be said for essences. In essence (lol), every skin type would benefit from introducing an essence into their routine. If your skin is on the dryer side, it would be worth looking at a formula that contains hyaluronic acid and niacinamide. If you’re on the oilier side, it might be worth investing in an exfoliating essence that is rich in AHAs and BHAs. The rule of thumb? Do your research and make sure you don’t double down on actives later in your routine if introducing them with an essence.
WTF Is An Essence?
And is using one even necessary?
We know, we know, surely there isn’t another skincare product that has made its way into the market. So, allow us to introduce you to the essence. Before you get your knickers in a knot that there is now an added step (and cost) involved in your already thorough skincare routine, hear us out. Like everything in beauty, it is all about wanting not needing. We just want to ensure you’re as equipped as possible to make informed decisions about what to include (or not) into your routine.
Hitting the beauty scene about seven years ago (although they have been firm fixtures in Japanese and Korean beauty routines for decades), essences are finding traction in 2023 thanks to a newfound focus on ultra-hydrated, plump and youthful skin. Whether it’s your favourite TikTok influencer or your dermatologist, it’s likely someone in your skincare circle has asked the question: WTF is an essence and should we be using them?
That’s where we come in. Here, we breakdown what exactly an essence is and reveal the benefits so you can decide whether it’s a necessity in your routine.
Let’s Define It
Born out of Japanese and Korean beauty routines, it is easiest to define an essence by what it is not. It is not a toner, nor it is a serum and it certainly is not a moisturiser. Rather, it is an amalgamation of all three with the texture of water. Wild, we know. Packed full of skin-nourishing ingredients, an essence enters the routine at the first step (after cleansing) and is there to keep the skin damp for optimal product absorption. Of course, an added layer of skin-loving ingredients also doesn’t hurt.
What Are The Benefits?
Just like how a dry sponge absorbs close to nothing, a dry face is doing you a disservice when applying your favourite skincare products as the formulas are unable to deeply penetrate the bilayers of the complexion. Using an essence will ensure the skin is adequately primed to soak in any actives or moisturisers you apply next and will mean you’re getting all the benefits and more bang for your buck.
Essences also help to rehydrate the skin cells and protect the skin barrier while softening and smoothing the outer layers of the skin. They can also help rebalance the skin’s pH, keeping the complexion balanced and resilient. Who doesn’t want that?
Which Skin Types Need An Essence?
We have different serums for different skin types and needs and the same can be said for essences. In essence (lol), every skin type would benefit from introducing an essence into their routine. If your skin is on the dryer side, it would be worth looking at a formula that contains hyaluronic acid and niacinamide. If you’re on the oilier side, it might be worth investing in an exfoliating essence that is rich in AHAs and BHAs. The rule of thumb? Do your research and make sure you don’t double down on actives later in your routine if introducing them with an essence.
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