What Are Essences?

Of all the different skin care products you include in your best #shelfies, there’s one product you may be missing: a skin essence! This must-have product may not have been on your radar until now, but it’s actually a skin care essential for those who have dry skin. What does essence mean? We’re here to fill you in on everything you need to know about essence skin care—from what essences are to how to use them in your skin care routine.

WHAT ARE ESSENCES?

You know how you use a makeup primer prior to applying your makeup and a hair primer or heat protectant before styling your locks? An essence is basically the primer of your skin care routine. Thicker than a toner but thinner than a serum, applying a skin essence primes your skin, boosting its ability to absorb the serums and creams you apply afterward. And as you can likely guess, greater penetration leads to better results!

WHO SHOULD USE ESSENCES?

We believe anyone and everyone can benefit from adding an essence to their skin care routine. That being said, as we mentioned, those with dry skin in particular can benefit most, as an essence will give your skin the opportunity to really reap the rewards of the serums and creams you apply afterward. If you’re interested in giving Korean skin care trends a try, essences are also a staple in the oh-so-popular 10-step Korean skin care routine.

HOW TO ADD AN ESSENCE TO YOUR SKIN CARE ROUTINE

Ready to add an essence to your daily regimen? Follow the steps below to learn how to do just that!

STEP #1: CLEANSE YOUR FACE

As with any skin care routine, we’re sure it’s no surprise that you should start by applying a facial cleanser. Pick one that matches your skin’s needs. The L’Oréal Paris Pure-Clay line contains two clay cleansers formulated to transform from a clay to a mouse, removing impurities from the surface of your skin without over-drying it. Choose from the below.

L’Oréal Paris Pure-Clay Detox & Brighten Cleanser: This cleanser, formulated with charcoal, goes beyond daily cleansing to clarify and detoxify for skin that can breathe better. Immediately skin is purified of dirt, oil, and pollution, and is left with a clean, clear healthy look. Skin looks revitalized with a fresh glow.

L’Oréal Paris Pure-Clay Exfoliate & Refine Cleanser: Formulated with red algae, this cleanser goes beyond daily cleansing to exfoliate, unclog, and minimize pores. After using this exfoliating facial cleanser, skin feels smoother and looks healthier with refined texture.

This clay cleanser, which is formulated with eucalyptus, goes beyond daily cleansing to deep clean and remove excess oil for skin that feels refreshed. Immediately after using, skin feels purer with a matte finish.

STEP #2: APPLY A TONER

Next up: Toner! Saturate a cotton pad with the L’Oréal Paris HydraFresh Toner and glide it over your face and neck to reveal a smoother, brighter complexion.

STEP #3: REACH FOR AN ESSENCE

It’s time to grab your skin essence! Reach for another cotton pad and saturate it with your essence of choice, then smooth it over your face and neck.

STEP #4: SMOOTH ON A SERUM

Put that essence to good use by applying a serum! For a boost in hydration, apply two to three drops of the L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives 1.5% Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum onto your face and neck. This hyaluronic acid serum enhances your skin’s moisture retention barrier for a replenished, plumped complexion.

STEP #5: APPLY AN EYE CREAM

You can’t forget about your eyes! Dab an eye cream, like the L’Oréal Paris Triple Power Eye Treatment, around your eye to reduce wrinkles and brighten dark circles.

STEP #6: GRAB FOR YOUR MOISTURIZER

Last but not least, seal in the hydration by applying a moisturizer as the last layer in your skin care routine. Take your pick from the L’Oréal Paris Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care - Normal/Oily Skin, L’Oréal Paris Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care - Normal/Dry Skin, or L’Oréal Paris Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care - Extra Dry Skin, choosing based on your skin type.

Next up: Essential Oils for Acne: Do They Work?