Do I Need to Use a Face Essence?

Face essences are much more prevalent in recent years, and this all comes from the rise of Korean skincare, which has now become international. However, are face essences really needed? We actually believe that it is a product that we do not need to incorporate into our face routine, as other products offer the same benefits. At Nakin we believe in a more simple routine, with key products that offer targeted benefits for the face and neck. This is why we have a capsule collection of natural anti-ageing face products that cover everything that our skin needs when it comes to cleansing, treating and moisturising.

A face essence is a key product in many Korean beauty regimens and comes after cleansing and toning, but before using an ampoule, sheet mask, eye cream and moisturiser. It is a lightweight, hydrating liquid which is designed to have a primary purpose that is to prepare the skin to better absorb subsequent skincare products, essentially enhancing their effectiveness. Face essences are typically packed with active ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and botanical extracts which penetrate deeply into the skin, delivering hydration and nourishment. This can lead to improved skin texture, greater hydration, and a youthful glow, making face essences beneficial for skin, but not actually needed, as other products do a better job and keep our routines simpler and more affordable.

We feel that an essence is not required in a good face care routine as the other key products should already be offering all the benefits that an essence can. This is why we do not have an essence in our range, but instead would recommend our Advanced Cleansing Milk for a first step cleanse, followed by our Purifying Face Toner for a second step cleanse, and then the Active Dew Face Cream for a moisturiser, which is for dry, normal, combination and sensitive skin. It is filled with skin hydrators, nourishers and protectors like hyaluronic acid, cassia, argan, jojoba and baobab oil. It is also for both day and night use as it does do not contain SPF, which is usually not enough protection when in a face cream, plus is filled with actives and extracts that benefit skin in both the day and night. We also have our Matt Formula Face Cream for oilier skin types.

Then there is our Exfoliating Radiance Tonic, Revitalising Face Oil, and/or Performance Face Serum, plus Eye Cream Complex, as treatment steps after cleansing and before moisturising. Then we have our Lip Treatment Balm to hydrate and heal the lip area.

All of the products can be found here.

In recent years, skincare routines have become increasingly elaborate, often including a myriad of products such as face essences. However, incorporating a face essence into your routine may not be necessary. Firstly, many face essences claim to hydrate and prepare the skin to better absorb subsequent products, yet similar results can be achieved with a good moisturiser or serum. Secondly, the additional step can complicate your routine, making it harder to commit to consistently, particularly for those with busy lifestyles. Lastly, essences mostly contain similar ingredients to other products you are already using, leading to redundancy rather than added benefit. Therefore, by focusing on a simpler routine with high-quality core products, you can achieve effective skincare without the need for a face essence.

There are many factors to consider when creating a skincare routine, such as your skin type, concerns, and budget. It is important to understand the purpose and function of each product in your routine, rather than blindly following trends or adding unnecessary steps. This not only saves time and money, but also reduces the risk of irritation or overloading the skin with too many products.