Essences & Serums

Serums and ampoules are both concentrated skincare products, but they serve slightly different purposes. 

Serums are formulated for daily use and target specific skin concerns like dehydration, dullness, or signs of aging. Ampoules, meanwhile, are like supercharged serums with an even higher concentration of active ingredients. 

Because they are so potent, it’s best to use ampoules as a short-term treatment or when your skin needs an extra boost, like during seasonal changes or breakouts. 

Yes, you absolutely can use both an essence and a serum together! In fact, layering these products is a common practice in Korean skincare routines. 

Start by applying your chosen essence after cleansing and toning, gently patting it onto your skin. After it is fully absorbed, apply two to three drops of your Korean face serum. 

Always finish with a moisturizer to seal in the benefits. 

Essences and serums should be applied after cleansing and toning. Using a good Korean toner beforehand balances your skin’s pH level, creating an optimal environment for your essence and serum to be most effective. 

Remember, the essence comes first! 

That depends on the ingredients and what your skin needs. 

Essences are usually lightweight and hydrating, so you can use them daily—both morning and night. Some people even like to layer multiple Korean face essences for added benefits. However, limit the use of essences with harsh ingredients like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs). 

The same goes for serums. You can use gentle and hydrating serums daily. However, it’s best to limit the frequency of serums with active ingredients like retinol or vitamin C to avoid irritation. 

Always consider your skin type and concerns when shopping for a serum or essence. 

For example, prioritize hydration with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or squalane if you have dry skin. For oily or acne-prone skin, choose lightweight, balancing serums with niacinamide or salicylic acid. And for mature skin, look for ingredients like peptides, retinol, and vitamin C to address signs of aging. 

Absolutely! Many Korean serums and essences contain gentle, soothing ingredients like centella asiatica, green tea, and panthenol, making them perfect for skin sensitivity. 

However, always do a patch test before incorporating any new product into your routine to make sure it works well with your skin.