Do I need to add an Essence to my skincare routine?

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Do I need to add an Essence to my skincare routine? This is a question I get asked quite often and the answer is… different for everyone and every skin type to be honest. For my Mature, dehydrated skin i love an essence and use one practically everyday. For you, if your serum is doing a great job you may not need one, but if your skin feels its missing something, or is a bit topsy turvy…. read on.

Facial Essences are very similar to serums, except they are  “usually” a lot thinner with  a smaller molecular weight meaning they can really penetrate deep down into the skins layers. If you are someone that is really happy with the hydration, protection and skincare benefits  that your serum is delivering, chances are you may not need this extra step. However, if you love your serum but find your skin becomes dry or dehydrated midday, doesn’t have that glow you want or your breakouts are persisting, you could be missing this skincare product.

For me, as a self confessed skincare addict, more is definitely more and my skin thrives on this extra addition, I apply an Essence after my cleansing routine, then whilst my skin is still damp from the Essence I apply my Hyaluronic acid. Adding this whilst my skin is still wet from the Essence helps pull in and hold more moisture, which my mature skin desperately needs. A light layer of a Humectant Rich essence really adds hydration, gives my skin that dewy, soft, youthful glow that I adore and can give my skin extra ingredients that my serum doesn’t, without overloading my face in heavy product.

Originating from Korean Beauty, Essences have been around for years but have become increasingly popular lately thanks to Tik Tok trends. Whilst you do not need to go the whole hog with a 10 step skincare routine, if you can afford it, and think your skin needs it, I personally highly recommend an Essence.

Below are some of my personal favourites.

Elemis Pro-Collagen marine Moisture Essence 

One of my favourite Essences is this one from Elemis, I use this one most days to be honest and have gone through three bottles since its 2021 launch. Infused with the all important Padina Pavonica Marine Algae and Sea Spring water, this combination which is rich in Magnesium, Copper and Zinc not only adds incredible hydration to the skin, but also a wonderful glow. Using a trio of Hyaluronic Acid including  Next Generation Flash Filler Hyaluronic, this Essence encourages skin’s optimum vitality and plumps out those fine lines and wrinkles, doubles your skins moisture content and leaves it feeling soft and hydrated for 24 hours. Now, who wouldn’t want that? This adds hydration to the skin without feeling sticky or greasy and gives a sense of deep and long lasting hydration leaving  the skin looking and feeling noticeably plumper, smoother and softer and preps the skin beautifully for the rest of your skincare application.

Available HERE use discount code: ELEMIS20Y3N1 at checkout for 20% off

Gatineau Collagene Expert Hydra Essence

If you want to add hydration but also focus on a more smooth, supple and toned skin, this could be a great choice for you. I reach for this pretty pink Essence from Gatineau when my skin is looking a bit saggy, lacklustre and tired. I find using this for a few weeks as at time really give my skin its resilience and bounce back. It feels lovely and cooling and whilst it does have a slight tackiness too it – this sinks in quickly and leaves my skin looking rested and relaxed.