9 Facial Essences That Will Change Your Skin-Care Routine For the Better

If you're looking for something to fade dark spots or pigmentation, consider the Caudalie VinoPerfect Concentrated Brightening Essence ($54) the best first step before your serum. It helps prep the skin for the active ingredients, kind of like a peel helps your moisturizer work more effectively. (Don't worry, this doesn't peel your skin.) It includes glycolic acid, and white peony extract to help even out the complexion, plus the brand's signature grape water to soothe and moisturize.