The Difference Between Essence & Serum

If you are really into skin care, you have probably done some research about the 10 step Korean skin care regimen. Most probably, you also have stumbled upon products like essences & serums. But what exactly is the difference between essence and serum? And do we really need both? read more

If you are really into skin care, you have probably done some research about the 10 step Korean skin care regimen. Most probably, you also have stumbled upon products like essences & serums. But what exactly is the difference between essence and serum? And do we really need both?

Essence is the 4th step of your skin care regimen, followed by the application of serum. But, how are serums & essences different from each other? Even I, a skin care enthusiast, was once confused on the specific purpose of these products. Do we really need both of them? Or is it just beauty propaganda to add unnecessary products to our beauty routine? Let Niniko help you be enlightened between the difference of serums & essences.

Before applying essence & serum, we first cleanse our face, and then we apply toner to prep our skin & balance its pH level. Essence is the “heart of the Korean skin care routine”. It contains nourishing vitamins which helps smoothen your skin’s texture. It also preps your skin for your main treatment-the serum. Essence helps in the regeneration of your skin for a fresh & radiant look.

The serum, on the other hand, is a very concentrated product which targets your skin problems like large pores, wrinkles, acne & blemishes. The biggest difference between an essence & a serum is that serum contains more concentrated ingredients compared to essence.

Both essence & serum are lighter in texture than a moisturizer. They are absorbed easily & effectively into your skin. Essence comes in form of watery, thin, milky consistency; while serum is in the form of gel, liquid, oil, cream or lotion-like consistency.

Before buying your very own essence & serum, it is important to know your skin type & your most common skin problem in order to maximize their effects on your skin. Remember, each skin type is different & has different kinds of needs. After deciding what essence & serum you are going to use, be prepared to be amazed on the changes & wonderful results of these products on your skin!