Refinery29: The Missing Step in Your Skincare Routine
We’re loving Refinery29’s recent article: The Missing Step in your Skincare Regimen
With a recent slew of articles on essences, ampoules and serums – how and when exactly does one
use all of these treatments? We break it down for you below (3 of these products were also editor-tested and recommended by Refinery29’s Joyce Kong!)
WHO: LJH VITA PROPOLIS AMPOULE
WHAT: A concentrated anti-aging ampoule with 50% propolis extract that helps with lines, texture and brightness.
HOW: Ampoules are extremely versatile. You can use them instead of a serum, before your serum and even a few drops in your foundation for an extra dewy look. Check out our post on 5 Ways to Use an Ampoule.
REFINERY29 VERDICT: “This little bottle packs a strong punch of radiance”
WHO: LJH TEA TREE 90 ESSENCE
WHAT: A soothing, brightening and hydrating treatment with 90% tea tree essence.
HOW: Think of essences as a light-weight version of a serum – but it’s still packed with actives. Use them in place of your serum. Do you still need a serum? Not necessarily – but some Korean women do layer an essence before their serum for an extra dose of skin-beneficial ingredients. Check out our post on Essences vs. Serums.
REFINERY29 VERDICT: “The formula is famously gentle and seems to have harnessed all the acne-banishing powers of tea tree oil without the harshness or tea tree scent (the essence is completely odorless).”
WHO: SHARA SHARA HONEY BOMB ALL-IN-ONE AMPOULE
WHAT: A hydrating, brightening, honey-infused treatment that works as a toner-serum-moisturizer in one.
HOW: The Honey Bomb is unique multi-tasker that actually helps reduce the number of skincare steps. Use as a one-stop-shop after cleansing, or if you are feeling extra industrious, use a toner & serum before, then layer on honey bomb as your moisturizer.
REFINERY29 VERDICT: “This is also a true multitasker (read: lazy girl’s best friend). It’s effective enough to roll all those finicky skin-care steps into one jar. ”
WHO: WHAMISA ORGANIC FLOWERS ESSENCE TONER
WHAT: A bouncy, hydrating bouquet of botanical goodness in a liquid treatment.
HOW: Essence toners are another key word in beauty – and not to be confused with serum type essences. Essence toners are more liquid – think of them as your toner ‘plus’, loaded with anti-aging and hydrating benefits. Use after cleansing, then use a serum or essence to get your active ingredients. Check out our post on Essences vs. Toners vs. Skins.
Need help putting together a regimen that works for you? Email us at love glowrecipe
Get your glow on,
The Glow Recipe Team