In the search for the perfect skincare routine, it’s likely that you’ve heard of the term layering. This K-Beauty technique has taken the world by storm and consists of applying your skincare in layers to increase hydration and ingredient efficacy.
When you dive deeper into layering, you will uncover an array of products like cleansers, toners, essences, serums, ampoules, moisturizers, and masks. While most of us are familiar with the cleansing and moisturizing step, some of us may be wondering about the benefits of the lesser-known products. In the comparison of essence vs. serum, what are the main differences & do we need both?
What is an Essence?
Essences have become popularized by Korean skincare routines and have one major purpose: replenishing the skin with hydration. These light, watery formulas may also contain antioxidants and amino acids to help strengthen skin. An essence is applied after cleansing and toning to prep skin for active ingredients.
Hydration is the most important step in your skincare routine as it prevents premature signs of aging and skin dullness. It also protects and repairs the delicate skin barrier. The incorrect use of actives and acids can damage your barrier, resulting in skin irritation and uneven complexion.
What is a Serum?
Serums are the powerhouse of your routine; they deliver high concentrations of active ingredients to your skin and are often used to treat concerns like fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, acne, texture, and dullness.
Serums are typically lighter in texture than your moisturizing cream and tend to be water or gel-based so they can penetrate deeper into the skin. They are formulated for daily use and are applied after cleansing, toning, and using your essence.
Bonus: Ampoules
Ampoules are serums intensified. While they also contain active ingredients, the concentration in an ampoule will be even higher than in serum and they are intended for use 2-3 times per week maximum. Essentially, when you are looking for targeted results in a high-functioning formula, an ampoule is a great product to add to your routine.
Essence vs. Serum: Do We Need Both?
In the debate of essence vs. serum, the truth is that they each have unique purposes in your skincare routine. While serums deliver concentrated skincare actives, essences help to prep skin with dense hydration.
Essences may also contain active ingredients like hyaluronic acid to help retain moisture in the skin, but they are primarily used as a gentle step to ensure that skin feels nourished, plumped, and protected for the rest of your routine. Press your essence into your skin directly from your fingertips and don’t forget your neck and chest.
Your serum is going to deliver targeted actives to your routine and can contain powerful ingredients like vitamin c, niacinamide, and many other plant acids and enzymes which can refine skin texture and increase glow.
Do you need both? It depends on your skin goals. However, we would be inclined to say yes as they will each deliver unique benefits to your skin health.
Here is your customized guide to Essences, Serums, & Ampoules for your individual skin type:
- Normal/Dry Skin: Keeping your skin hydrated in the short term is key for prevention of fine lines and wrinkles in the long term. Essences and Serums containing Lotus, Fig, and Beta Glucan (polysaccharide) all have benefits for moisture, skin elasticity and firmness. Tap here for details
- Combination/Oily Skin: The goal is always to have enough hydration to maintain optimal balance. The formulation needs to be light enough for the t-zone and hydrating enough for dehydrated areas. Ingredients such as propolis, snail mucin, and galactomyces are excellent for this skin type. Tap here for details
- Acne Prone Skin: Hydrated ingredients that will help with reducing inflammation and and heal acne breakouts while hydrating the skin will be key. Ingredients such as Mugwort, Centella Asiatica, and snail mucin will help to do both. Tap here for details
- Sensitive Skin: Skin irritability, redness, eczema or rosacea prone skin types need soothing ingredients that are both hydrating and skin barrier protecting. Centella Asiatica, mugwort, ceramide (amino acids) and honey are very helpful to soothe irritated skin. Tap here for details
For all serums and ampoules: Link here
For all essences: Link here