Essence – Effects & Application in Skin Care

What is an essence?

An essence, also called "essence," is a skincare product originating from Korean skincare—so-called K-Beauty. It is applied after cleansing and toning, but before serum or cream. Essences have a light, often liquid to gel-like texture and are rich in moisturizing and regenerating ingredients. They serve to optimally prepare the skin for the absorption of subsequent care products and strengthen the skin barrier ¹ .

Why are essences so popular?

The triumph of essences began with multi-step Korean skincare routines. Their advantage lies in the combination of a light consistency and highly concentrated active ingredients. They penetrate the skin quickly and deliver important nutrients without weighing it down. For many skin types, essences are the key to a plump, smooth complexion ("glass skin") ² .

Typical ingredients in essences

The wording varies, but the following are particularly common:

• Hyaluronic acid: binds moisture and ensures plump skin
• Niacinamide: improves skin tone, combats pigment spots and strengthens the skin barrier
• Ferments: such as Galactomyces or Bifida ferment lysate, which support the skin microflora
• Plant extracts: such as green tea, ginseng or lotus, which have antioxidant and calming effects
• Peptides: stimulate collagen synthesis and contribute to firmness
• Snail slime (mucin): traditionally used in K-Beauty, rich in glycols, proteins and hyaluronic acid ³ .

What are the benefits of using an essence?

Regular use of an essence can have the following benefits:

• Intensive hydration
• Strengthening the skin's protective barrier
• Improved elasticity and suppleness
• Brightening a tired or uneven complexion
• Better effectiveness of serums and creams

How do you use an essence correctly?

The essence is applied after cleansing and toning your face. Pour a small amount into your hands and gently pat into your skin—do not rub. It absorbs quickly and can be used both morning and evening. For very dry skin, layering is recommended: Apply several thin layers one after the other until the skin feels well moisturized ⁴ .

For which skin types is an essence suitable?

Essences are suitable for almost all skin types due to their light, water-based texture:

• Dry skin: benefits from intensive moisture
• Sensitive skin: benefits from soothing and barrier-strengthening ingredients
• Oily skin: is provided with light hydration without weighing it down
• Mature skin: receives additional care through peptides and antioxidants

Essence vs. serum – what’s the difference?

Although essences and serums are similar, there are differences: Essences are usually lighter, more watery, and intended for daily hydration. Serums are more concentrated, more viscous, and often target specific concerns such as dark spots or wrinkles. Both products can be ideally combined in a skincare routine.

Conclusion

Essences are an essential component of modern skincare—particularly inspired by Korean K-Beauty. They optimally prepare the skin for subsequent products, deeply hydrate, and strengthen the skin barrier. Using an essence not only makes your skincare routine more effective, but also more luxurious. Those interested in high-quality formulations will find luxurious skincare products at NATURFACTOR® that combine the latest active ingredients with natural elegance.

Sources

1. Harper's Bazaar – What is an essence in skincare? https://www.harpersbazaar.com/beauty/skin-care/a25874902/what-is-an-essence-skincare/
2. Healthline – Korean skin care routine https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/korean-skin-care-routine
3. PubMed – Effects of snail secretion filtrate in cosmetics https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31509780/
4. American Academy of Dermatology – Moisturizing basics https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/moisturizing