Facial essence may be a fairly recent addition in the Western skincare market, but it has been popular among Asians for ages. Like the rich variety of cleansers and moisturizers on the market today, there is a facial essence for practically every skin type.
But, first things first: what is a facial essence?
This is a water-like, hydrating lotion designed to help prepare your skin for a moisturizer, right after cleansing. This lightweight liquid can deeply moisturize your skin and leave it looking fresh and feeling supple and smooth. It is the hydrating layer that effectively primes the skin to absorb your cream or serum best.
So, how should you use it best?
How best to use a facial depends on your skin type. Often you’ll apply the essence to brighten, hydrate or firm your facial skin.
If you have dull skin, it needs something to make it more radiant. So, look for a facial essence that has brightening botanicals and pearl pigments to bring some radiance to your skin.
For dry skin, however, use an essence with moisturizing properties. A facial essence loaded with hyaluronic acid will do great on any dry or dehydrated skin.
Facial essences are an easy addition to your day to day beauty routine as it won’t take much of your time to apply. All you need to do is place a few drops of the essence into your palms and press it into your face until it is fully absorbed. The gentle pressure, coupled with the heat from your palms, should make the product penetrate your skin and leave it feeling supple and hydrated.
You’ll notice that there is no mention of a cotton pad as far as applying an essence is concerned—you simply don’t need one. Unlike with your toner, cotton would only waste the facial essence.
Wrap up
With the abundant amount of active ingredients in facial essences that penetrate deeper into the skin, the product can tremendously improve your facial skin—a worthy investment.
Written by: Winnie Kotieno
