Korean Beauty: The Difference Between Serums, Emulsions, and Essence

SERUMS

In most skin care routines, serum is the step after cleansing, but before moisturizing. And, while these lightweight, concentrated formulas have consistency in common, the benefits vary. From antioxidant-packed formulated serums to layer under your sunscreen during the day to anti-aging serums to press into your skin before bedtime, serums may have a lightweight texture, but when it comes to skin care benefits they pack a major punch. Think of a serum as a lightweight, sheer film that covers your face while it’s concentrated formula works to target your skin care concerns. If you haven’t tried a serum before, we recommend starting with an antioxidant-rich vitamin C formulated serum, like SkinCeuticals’ C E Ferulic. When layered under sunscreen, it can help to protect the skin from environmental aggressors, premature signs of aging, pollution, and more. A beauty editor’s favorite, the highly concentrated C E Ferulic is formulated with vitamins C and E and ferulic acid, which all work together to keep your skin looking healthy and youthful.

For more on SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic ($163), see our full review, here.

EMULSIONS

Lighter than a cream or lotion and thicker—and less concentrated—than a serum, an emulsion is like a watered down, lightweight facial lotion. If you have oily or combination skin, emulsions might be the perfect product for you, as their formulas can hydrate and moisturize the complexion and allow the skin to breathe at the same time. We recommend trying Shu Uemura’s Depsea Hydrability Moisturizing Emulsion, as it is formulated to lock in moisture and replenish the skin.

Shu Uemura’s Depsea Hydrability Moisturizing Emulsion, $66

ESSENCE 

It used to be that essence was the lighter, less concentrated version of serum but, the roles have since reversed. Just like serums are changing and becoming lighter and more watery in texture, essences are changing and being made into creamy or gel-like formulas. Essence is considered to be the heart of the Korean skin care routine and is meant to be used after cleansing the skin and applying a hydration prepping toner. If you’re new to the K-Beauty scene and haven’t tried essence yet, we recommend starting with Kiehl’s Iris Extract Activating Essence Treatment. A throwback to the once liquid-based essences, this essence is formulated with lipo hydroxy acid (LHA) and sodium hyaluronate and cansmooth and hydrate the skin, promoting a brighter, more youthful-looking complexion.

Kiehl’s Iris Extract Activating Essence Treatment, $45