Essence, serum, ampoule - what is the difference?

Essences, skin ampoules, emulsions or serums. Do you know which ones are really suitable for you and how they are used?

There were times when we only needed to know two basic steps in skin care – skin cleansing and hydration. With new research, innovation and technology, these steps have expanded dramatically. We owe this to Korean cosmetics and manufacturers who bring new solutions for healthier and more beautiful skin. Thus,  the same question comes up frequently. Isn't this just another marketing move?
Is the essence identical with the serum?
The essence and serum are identical in terms of the active ingredients contained, but they differ in texture. The skin serum has a rather light emulsion consistency and the essence has rather denser consistency. In other words, European women are more familiar with serums and Asian women with essences. However, both terms correspond to the same product, which is used immediately after skin toning to supplement hydration, nutrition or skin regeneration.
The essence is considered the heart of the Korean skin care routine and is intended for use after thorough skin cleansing.
What are skin ampoules suitable for?
Skin ampoules are often referred to as skin serums. Although small in appearance, the ampoules are essentially serums with a higher concentration of active ingredients that you can use as additional care, or if you have a certain skin problem.
They propose a great way to focus on the specific requirements of our skin, such as combating pigment spots, wrinkles or even dry skin. The aim is therefore not only to accelerate the effect of the products that we can use after the ampoules, but first and foremost to guarantee their long-term effect.
Our tip: apply the ampoule after evening cleansing and toning and let it work during sleep, when the skin relaxes and absorbs the active ingredients much better.
Do not confuse the emulsion and face cream
Lighter than face cream and less concentrated than serum. In short, emulsions are lighter versions of creams. Unlike most denser face creams, emulsions are usually water-based, so they are much easier to spread and to be absorbed into skin. They are excellent especially for combination or oily skin type for all-day use as well as for normal skin in the summer months, when the skin sweats more.

As women's interest in new beauty gadgets does not subside, you can definitely look forward to more new and unique products. However, keep the following in mind when choosing between them:
•    First, find out what your skin really needs and choose products with ingredients that suit its condition and requirements. Don't get caught up in the marketing trap and focus primarily on the composition of the selected product.
•    After choosing the right ingredients, try different textures to see what suits your skin best.
•    Remember that skin care products only work with long-term and honest use. Wait at least a minute between each of the steps for the products to be properly absorbed into each layer of the skin.

The last piece of advice is: no matter how many products you use, it is a well-known rule that your skin must first be thoroughly cleansed, toned and just after that you can apply nourishing, moisturizing or regenerating products of your choice. “Your skin will tell you” whether it needs a serum or an essence, an emulsion or a cream.