When stepping into the world of skincare, the number of products and routines can feel overwhelming. From serums and moisturisers to toners and oils, it’s hard to know where to start. One product, however, that deserves special attention—especially for those new to skincare—is the face essence. Often considered the heart of Korean skincare, essence is a powerful yet lightweight formula that can transform the way your skin looks and feels.
Essence is not a toner, nor is it a serum. It’s something in between, designed to hydrate the skin and prepare it to absorb the next steps in your routine more effectively. If you’re curious about incorporating this product into your regimen, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about essence and how it fits into a complete skincare routine.
What is Essence and Why is it Important?
Essence is a watery, nutrient-rich solution that delivers active ingredients deep into your skin. Unlike heavy creams or serums, essences are designed for quick absorption and provide an extra layer of hydration. They are usually applied after toner and before serums or moisturisers.
The role of essence is to balance and prep your skin while enhancing the effectiveness of other skincare products. For beginners, this step can seem optional, but it plays a key role in creating a smooth and radiant complexion. If you have dry, dull or tired-looking skin, using an essence can provide the hydration boost your skin needs.
How to Use a Face Essence Correctly
Applying a face essence is easy and effective. After cleansing and toning your skin, dispense a small amount into your palm or onto a cotton pad. Using your fingertips, gently pat the essence into your face and neck—avoid rubbing to prevent irritation. Once the essence is fully absorbed, continue with your preferred serum or moisturiser.
Incorporating essence into your daily routine doesn’t mean adding more time. Most essences absorb quickly and do not leave any sticky residue. The results are subtle at first but become more noticeable over time, especially with consistent use.
Recommended Pick for Beginners: Mixsoon Bean Essence
If you’re new to essence, the Mixsoon Bean Essence is an excellent place to start. This cult-favourite from Korea is known for its minimalist ingredient list and deep nourishing properties. It features fermented soybean extract, which helps to smooth the skin’s texture and improve elasticity.
What makes this product stand out is its versatility—it suits various skin types and can be layered or used on its own depending on your skin’s needs. The texture is light yet effective, making it ideal for those trying out an essence for the first time. For beginners seeking a gentle introduction to essences, mixsoon bean essence strikes the right balance between performance and simplicity.
Final Thoughts
Understanding your skin’s needs and the role of each product is the first step to building a successful routine. The face essence, though often underestimated, acts as a silent hero in many skincare routines. It bridges the gap between hydration and treatment, helping the skin stay plump, healthy and more receptive to other skincare products.
Whether you’re starting out or looking to upgrade your regimen, consider giving essence a try. Start with a product like the Mixsoon Bean Essence to experience the real benefits of this unique skincare step. With patience and consistency, you’ll notice your skin becoming more radiant and balanced—one drop at a time.