There are plenty of straightforward skincare steps.
Serums can target problem areas, moisturizers lock in hydration, and sunscreen protects against sun damage. Knowing the intention behind these steps makes my skincare routine feel intentional. However, I struggle to understand the purpose behind using an essence. It’s the only step in my skincare routine that I skip because I don’t see the point.
Do Essences Actually Work? What I Wish More Beauty Brands Explained
The idea of using it seems relaxing at times. How beauty gurus gently place essence on their skin looks like a relaxing experience. Still, no one ever explains what it truly does. Even most essence products typically don’t define their purpose. They usually highlight a key ingredient to draw consumers, like me, to purchase the product. This has often tempted me, but I couldn't point out its purpose.
These are the moments I wish essence products were more transparent than the item itself.
Why I Chose The Ordinary's Multi-Active Delivery Essence
The Ordinary has always been on my radar to try. Their products are affordable, and if I’m being honest, someone on my For You page is always raving about them. When they came out with an essence, I knew it was perfect timing. I received the item to find its purpose, and the number one detail I’ve always looked for.
Labeled at the front of the bottle, Multi-Active Delivery Essence states that it is a hydrating essence that helps prime the skin for better skincare penetration. It’s a small detail that allowed me to understand its intention and put it to the test fully.
How To Use The Ordinary’s Hydrating Essence For Glowing Skin
I applied the essence before skincare, as recommended. According to their website, the hydrating essence is supposed to provide intense moisture. They compare it to their Niacinamide 10% Zinc 1% product. This sets the foundation for hydration to last longer on the skin and for skincare products to penetrate deeply, allowing the skin to have a brighter, luminous appearance.
My Skin After: A Natural Glow and Long-Lasting Hydration
Once I applied the essence to my skin, I began using my skincare. I figured mixing my serums with the product would be an excellent way for them to penetrate deeper, as promised in the descriptions. Once my serums had settled in, I followed up with a moisturizer to lock everything in and SPF to add some protection. I noticed my skin lay more smoothly. It was clear that incorporating the essence and letting things settle helped to create a natural glow.
Throughout the day, I monitored how my skin would react. As someone with dry skin, I sometimes have to reapply sunscreen or moisturizer to keep the hydration flowing. I didn’t feel the need to reapply since I had used the essence earlier that day. My skin maintained hydration, creating a luminous glow throughout the day.
This was a perfect situation for me, since long-lasting hydration can sometimes be a challenge for me.
Final Thoughts: Is This Essence Worth It for Dry Skin Types?
This product works perfectly for dry to standard skin types. However, I’m unsure if the experience will be as pleasurable for those with oily skin. The level of hydration that increases over time can become overwhelming for oily skin and might even lead to a breakout or two.
If you want to try it, I say go for it! The gift of beauty is that there is no limit to what you can play with.
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Featured image by Delmaine Donson/Getty Images
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On The Pre-Game, which launched earlier this year, she has positioned herself as listeners “homegirl.” “There’s definitely a delicate dance between being genuine and oversharing, and I’ve had to learn that the hard way. Now I share from a place of reflection, not reaction,” she says. “If it can help someone feel seen or less alone, I’ll talk about it within reason. But I’ve certainly learned to protect parts of my life that I cherish most. I share what serves connection but doesn’t cost me peace.
"I refuse to let the internet consume me. It’s supposed to be a resource and tool for connection, so if it becomes anything beyond that I will log out."
Credit: Malcolm Roberson
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Tap into the full It Girl 100 Class of 2025 and meet all the women changing game this year and beyond. See the full list here.
Featured image by Malcolm Roberson
