When it comes to Japanese skincare routine, you will see “serum” and “essence” in the beauty steps. As you may know Japanese beauty focuses on layers of hydration. If you would like to know more about Japanese skincare routine to achieve healthy mochi skin, please read our previous blog.
What is Japanese essence?
In Japanese essence is called 美容液 (Biyoueki) or エッセンス (Essensu). Essence also known as “beauty liquid/water or “magic water” has a watery texture and contains a high level of active ingredients that targets specific skin concerns like wrinkles or dull skin.
You will also see the word essence used in different products like facial sheet masks or sunscreens. Things like “soak in essence” or “watery UV essence”, what does is it even mean? It’s so confusing...
Well, most of Japanese sheet masks comes in bulk packaging, Japanese people loves masking, you don’t have to worry that those masks will dry out soon because they are soaked in that magic water! And when it says soak in essence, they kid you not!! It contains so many watery liquids inside that you can even storage it in a jar for later use or use it for your entire body.
Japanese essence works to build up cell regeneration and if you use it regularly you should see brighter, clearer skin. It is also to prep your skin to better absorb the products you’ll be using next. There are many different essences out there, one for every skin concerns.
Most of you are familiar with the Japanese essence like SK-II Treatment Essence, Melano CC Vitamin C Essence and Hada Labo Gokujyun Hydrating Essence.
What is serum?
In Japanese serum is also called 美容液 (Biyoueki). Like the essence it’s highly concentrated and a great product to target skin concerns.
The difference between Japanese essence and serum is that a serum has thicker texture and because it’s higher concentrated it’s more expensive than an essence. And no, you don’t need a lot. Even though it has a thick consistency, it spreads easily.
So, do you need both products daily? Well maybe not but using at least one of them on a daily basis isn’t a bad idea! In fact, it will make your skin look healthier. And especially if you want to target a specific concern, essence/serum is your best friend.
