Not Totally Sure What a Facial Essence Is? DW, I Gotchu

In a pared-down skincare routine, the right order to apply your products is pretty simple: First, you cleanse, then you moisturize, and then you finish with sunscreen. But once you start throwing serums, retinol, face oils, and whatever else into the mix, that's when things get v confusing. Add in the fact that some product categories aren't as self-explanatory as, say, face oils are, and you might be feeling totally lost when it comes to something like a skin essence.

If you have no idea what essences in skincare are, or how to use them, or if you even really need them, you're far from alone. So to help clear up some facts, we turned to cosmetic chemist Krupa Koestline, founder of KKT Consultants, who helped us answer the basic questions (hi, uh, what even is an essence?) to the...not-so-basic. Below, Koestline answers the question "What is essence?" and tons more.

What is skin essence?

In most Korean skincare routines, you'll see essence listed as the thing you apply after toner and before sheet masks, but exactly what an essence is can...differ. And I wish I could give you a solid answer here, but the truth is, it depends. As Koestline explains it, every brand defines "skin essence" differently, which means some essences are kinda like lightweight serums, while others function as toners or mists. The ingredients used in skin essence can also vary greatly, but Koestline notes that they typically contain fermented extracts, hydrating actives, and enzymes.

When do you use an essence?

Again, it totally depends on the formula (so check out the instructions on packaging for insight). But in general, since essence is mostly water-based and lighter than a serum, Koestline says most if not all skin types can use them morning and night—either on clean skin or after a toner—followed by a serum and moisture to lock the moisture in.

Is essence the same as toner?

In general, yes—essence can be thought of as a type of toner, but it really still depends on the brand. The texture of essence is thin and watery, like a toner, which is why you'll commonly find them in spray bottles as a facial mist or in a bottle with a tiny hole on top so you don't pour out too much at a time (you know, like the hot sauce bottle of skincare), but you can also find them in a pump dispenser like you would a serum. While you could use a cotton pad to apply the skin essence, all you really need is your hands (you'll waste less product that way, too). Pour a few drops in your clean hand, spread it between your palms, then press it into your skin.

What is essence used for?

Because the definition of a skin essence is a little all over the place, so is its ~intended use~. Depending on the ingredients in your specific product, a skin essence can be used to increase cell turnover, brighten, balance, prep, or hydrate the skin. Just like there are specific serums and toners for specific skin concerns, there are specific essences, too.

Is facial essence necessary?

I mean, no. If you're someone who hates spending more than five minutes getting ready, essence is an extra step that you don't really need. Outside of a cleanser, moisturizer, and SPF, nothing is necessary, per se, but if you're looking to address more than just the basics, adding an essence into your routine is a nice bonus for hydration and moisture. Not only that, but applying a skin essence just feels really, really nice, and if that's enough reason for you to add another step in your skincare routine, shop one of the nine formulas below. After you try it, you might just find that you can't live without it.

You love all the deets on skincare that actually works, right? So do we. Let's overanalyze them together. ✔️