Essences, popular in Korean beauty, are liquids that offer additional hydration to the skin. Ideally used after cleansing and before active treatments, they work by moisturizing the skin and increasing the effectiveness of other hydrating products.
According to Dendy Engelman, MD, FACMS, FAAD, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Shafer Clinic in New York City, “Essences are great for daily use in your skincare routine because they can penetrate the skin, lock in hydration, and help treat the skin as well as enhance the absorption of subsequent products in your skincare regimen.”
One such essence, perfect for the winter season, is the Glow Recipe Cloudberry Bright Essence Toner ($38).
All about Glow Recipe’s Cloudberry Bright Essence Toner
The star ingredient of Glow Recipe’s Cloudberry Bright Essence Toner is cloudberries, sourced from the mountains of Scandinavia. These berries are rich in vitamins C and E, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, and essential nutrients that help moisturize and brighten the skin, strengthen the skin barrier, and defend the skin against environmental stressors.
In addition, the essence is formulated with CoQ10, fermented rice water, oat and collagen amino acids, and glycerin, offering a comprehensive solution to skin hydration and health.
Our review of Glow Recipe Cloudberry Essence Toner
The dermatologist-tested formula is safe for all skin types, with particularly beneficial effects on super-dry skin. It provides instant brightness, deep hydration, and a plump, dewy finish. Well+Good’s Zoë Weiner confirms the efficacy of the essence, stating, “I love that it makes my face look instantly brighter after I put it on, and that it sucks all of my serums and moisturizers deep down into my skin to keep it hydrated throughout the day.”
An essence may not be a “must-have” in your skin-care routine, but during the colder months, it’s a “very, very nice to have,” indeed.
Our editors independently select these products. Making a purchase through our links may earn Well+Good a commission.
