How to use an essence in your skincare routine

Essences are generally applied as one of the earlier steps in your skincare routine — usually after cleansing and toning but before applying a serum. A good rule of thumb is remembering to go in order of consistency, from thinnest to thickest. Skin loves to drink up the hydration an essence provides, so there won’t be a lot of downtime waiting for them to sink in. Because they absorb so fast, it’s best to ditch your reusable cotton rounds for this step and opt for clean hands instead. Pour a few drops of the Smooth, Prep & Plump Essence onto the palms of your hands and then pat it all over your freshly cleansed and toned face and neck. Using a patting motion, as opposed to pressing or massaging, helps keep the watery formula from running down your face and aids absorption.

How to make your routine work harder with an essence

Originating in Korea, this skincare staple can seem a bit confusing at first, but believe us, it is well worth incorporating into your everyday skincare routine. The goal isn’t about using as many products as possible, but about tailoring a routine to your skin’s needs, with every product serving a distinct purpose. Just like double cleansing or toning, essences can be game changers when it comes to making your routine work harder.