I’ve just read a brilliant piece on skin care in the Guardian that basically eradicates all unneccessary oils and potions and cuts to the chase, dermatologically speaking, of what skin really needs. Any kind of essence lotion is not ‘neccessary’ and you won’t find a dermatologist in the land that says it is, but essences are becoming more common in the UK thanks to the influence of Asian skin care. And, I love an essence.
An essence is used after cleansing and before moisturising – it’s not a toner – and gives a concentrated but light layer of hydration before any serums or creams. It’s the equivalent, in bedding terms, of a sheet under your duvet. Not at all essential, but some people like it. I like essences for the ritual aspect – and they do seem to be skin softening, on the whole, so essence taps in very nicely to the routine of a proper skin pamper. I could not ever say, though, that an essence has ever radically changed my skin.
So, it kind of makes sense to not put a whole lot of budget against a product that might or might not make a difference – but to me, it makes perfect sense to add to the pleasure of pamper. I use essence by soaking a cotton wool pad and pressing it all over my skin – you don’t need to swipe; just gently press. The Guardian feature (HERE) does indeed cut to the chase in a very sensible way, but forgot about all of the beauty pleasures and frivolities and the importance of taking time for yourself. Sometimes it’s really not about need.
Anyway, this is a very long winded way of saying that if you want to try adding an essence into your routine, the B Essence Lotion at £6.99, is an affordable way to do so. It’s HERE.
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