What’s the Difference Between a Serum, Essence, and Toner?
All Your Questions About Serums, Essences, and Toners — Answered
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If your skin type is dry (or you live somewhere that experiences cold winters), the Glowoasis Milkdew Toner ($34) has a creamier texture than most essences and can help boost moisture in your skin. Because of the calming ingredients in the formula, you can use it morning and night.
Cocokind Rosewater Toner
In addition to balancing the skin's pH, the Cocokind Rosewater Toner ($17) helps soothe and hydrate skin so you don't experience that tight feeling that sometimes occurs after cleansing. It's formulated with one single ingredient: organic rose water. As a bonus, you can also apply it over makeup for an instant refresh.
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution ($9) offers mild exfoliation, but because of the powerful hero ingredient in the toner, it's best to only use it at night. Swipe it on your skin after you wash your face to address uneven texture and clogged pores.
Glowoasis Milkdew Toner
If your skin type is dry (or you live somewhere that experiences cold winters), the Glowoasis Milkdew Toner ($34) has a creamier texture than most essences and can help boost moisture in your skin. Because of the calming ingredients in the formula, you can use it morning and night.
Bliss Clear Genius Clarifying Toner + Serum
The Bliss Clear Genius Clarifying Toner + Serum ($18) is a hybrid product meant to replace two steps in your skin-care routine with one. Salicylic acid in the formula keeps pores clear while witch hazel tones and niacinamide helps control oil production and improves texture.
Then I Met You The Giving Essence
The Then I Met You The Giving Essence ($50) does it all: hydrates, gently exfoliates, provides antioxidants to the skin. If you're looking for a product that can play well with other active ingredients in your skin-care routine, try this.
Neogen Dermalogy Real Ferment Micro Essence
Sensitive skin types can benefit from incorporating the Neogen Dermalogy Real Ferment Micro Essence ($38) into their routine. It doesn't have any exfoliating benefits but it makes up for it by leaving your skin deeply hydrated and strengthen the skin's barrier.
SK-II Facial Treatment Essence
You probably recognize the SK-II Facial Treatment Essence ($185) from your favorite celebrity's Instagram. This liquid leaves skin looking radiant thanks to a blend of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids in it.
Ceramide Micro Capsule Skin Replenishing Essence
The Ceramide Micro Capsule Skin Replenishing Essence ($85) has a slightly thicker, liquid-gel-like formula but don't worry, it still absorbs just as quickly. Immediately after using it, your skin will feel nourished and have a glass-like glow to it.
Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hyaluronic Glow Serum
The Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hyaluronic Glow Serum ($68) will give you a dewy glow that rivals that post-facial radiance we all love. Use it alone or before an exfoliating serum to boosts moisture in the skin.
L'Oréal Revitalift Derm Intensives 10% Pure Glycolic Acid Serum
As far as exfoliating serums go the L'Oréal Revitalift Derm Intensives 10% Pure Glycolic Acid Serum ($30) is one of the best. It's powerful enough to address uneven texture, fine lines, and dark spots but gentle enough that it shouldn't irritate the skin. Just be sure to start by using it only two or three nights a week and build up to using it with more frequency.
Tula Brightening Treatment Drops Triple Vitamin C Serum
The key to radiant, glowing skin: vitamin C. Not only does it help brighten dark spots but it also helps protect against environmental aggressors. The Tula Brightening Treatment Drops Triple Vitamin C Serum ($48) contains three types of vitamin C and doesn't feel sticky when applied.
Pacifica Vegan Collagen Complex Serum
The Pacifica Vegan Collagen Complex Serum ($22) supports a supple, nourished complexion with collagen derived from plant fermentation. Additional ingredients in the serum include hyaluronic acid and plant oils for moisture.
