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  4. 10 Best Korean Essences in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
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10 Best Korean Essences in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist

Korean essences, which are different from serums and ampoules, have been hailed as a wonder product by skincare buffs and beauty junkies alike. It's no secret that Koreans are ahead of the curve when it comes to skincare. More and more brands have developed innovative formulas that aim to give clear, smooth, glowing skin. One unique K-beauty product you can't miss is essences. 


So what exactly is an essence, and what are the best ones out there? We asked for some additional comments and tips from dermatologist Dr. Katrina Erika Habaluyas Luz to add to your skincare knowledge. If you're new to Korean beauty products or want to take your skincare regimen up a notch, we've also compiled a list of the best Korean essences you can buy online, so you can readily cop that K-pop glow!

Last updated 07/14/2023
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz
Expert
Dermatologist, Educator, and Digital Creator
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz

Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz is the face behind Ask Your Derma. She is a board-certified dermatologist in Metro Manila. She is also an educator and digital creator on all things skin, hair, and nails. She is a Diplomate of the Philippine Dermatological Society and offers online video consultations. You can also catch her on her Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube channel.

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Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.

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Table of Contents

What Is a Korean Essence and Why Should You Use One?

What Is a Korean Essence and Why Should You Use One?

Essences are highly concentrated formulas that nourish, hydrate, and soothe the skin after cleansing. Often described as the foundation of the Korean skincare routine, essences are packed with vitamins and nutrients that target specific skin concerns such as fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone. 


They also balance your skin's pH levels to better absorb the active ingredients in your skincare products. Essences vary in texture and consistency, but they all have the same goal of helping you achieve a smoother and more radiant complexion.

Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz
Dermatologist, Educator, and Digital Creator
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz

Essences are products incorporated with hydrating ingredients as well as active ingredients targeted to a specific concern (e.g., even out skin tone, combat signs of aging, etc.). It's generally lightweight and fast-absorbing, allowing it to prime the skin to allow other products to get absorbed more efficiently.

How to Choose a Korean Essence - Buying Guide

Here are some key points to consider:

  1. Choose an essence based on your skin type and skin needs.
  2. Check if the consistency and texture match your skin.

For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
1

Choose an Essence Based on Your Skin Type and Skin Needs

Like other skincare products, it's important to know which ingredients and formulas best fit your skin type before trying out a Korean essence. 

Oily Skin Types Should Look for Acne-Fighting Ingredients

Oily Skin Types Should Look for Acne-Fighting Ingredients

For those with oily and acne-prone skin, choose ingredients that target oil production, enlarged pores, and breakouts. Some of the best acne-fighting ingredients include witch hazel, green tea, and niacinamide. 


If you have inflamed or irritated skin, you can also look for ingredients with anti-inflammatory properties such as hyaluronic acid and aloe vera to help soothe your skin while keeping it moisturized and hydrated. 

Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz
Dermatologist, Educator, and Digital Creator
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz

Oily skin types may appreciate essences given their hydrating properties minus the greasiness and heaviness of oils and heavy creams. Generally, oily-skin types would benefit from water-based ingredients such as hyaluronic acid.

Typically, essences are incorporated with active ingredients, and oily-skin types can look for acne-fighting ingredients. Good choices include niacinamide as it is not only able to reduce sebum production (specifically the content of triglycerides, diglycerides, and fatty acids of surface sebum) but also acts as an anti-oxidant, strengthens the skin barrier, and brightens the skin too! If the skin is irritated, aloe vera may be a good option, given its anti-inflammatory properties.

Dry Skin Types Require More Hydration

Dry Skin Types Require More Hydration

Essences work wonders on dry skin. Since hydration is their primary job, those with dry and dull skin may notice immediate visible results once they include essences to their skincare routine. 


Go for formulas with powerful antioxidants such as glycolic acid or natural ingredients like jasmine water to up your skin's hydration level and leave it soft and supple. 

Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz
Dermatologist, Educator, and Digital Creator
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz

The difference between essences and serums is that essences primarily target hydration and can sometimes target specific skin concerns as well, while serums primarily target skin concerns. Thus, for dry skin types, essences would be a good add-on. 


In general, essences are considered the secret to the dewy, glass skin that Koreans are known for. Look for hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid or glycerin!

Sensitive Skin Types Can Benefit from Soothing Ingredients

Sensitive Skin Types Can Benefit from Soothing Ingredients

The best essences for sensitive skin are those with soothing ingredients such as aloe vera, chamomile, and oat extract. If your skin is prone to redness, swelling, and irritation, these ingredients can help repair and strengthen your skin's barrier functions. It's also best to avoid essences that contain potential irritants such as alcohol or fragrance.

Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz
Dermatologist, Educator, and Digital Creator
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz

When you have sensitive skin, it means that you have higher chances of reacting to a product and developing signs of inflammation - be it redness, flushing, stinging, acne-like eruptions.

Aloe vera may be a good option for patients with sensitive skin as it has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. Centella Asiatica is another go-to for those who want both soothing and hydrating properties. Centella Asiatica not only increases skin hydration but also stimulates hyaluronic acid synthesis. Panthenol is another fascinating ingredient that moisturizes, assists in skin barrier repair, and even soothes skin as an anti-inflammatory.

Combination Skin Types Need to Regulate Their T-Zone

Combination Skin Types Need to Regulate Their T-Zone

If you have combination skin, the goal is to choose products that regulate oil production while hydrating the dry areas of your face. Stay away from essences that contain parabens, phthalates, and sulfates. Stick to oil-free products with deep moisturizing benefits to balance your skin and keep it healthy and shine-free.

Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz
Dermatologist, Educator, and Digital Creator
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz

Combination skin types tend to be a bit tricky since they have both normal to dry and oily areas. Combination skin types have oiliness only in the T-zone, but dryness in other parts of the face. Thus, it is important to choose a product that can deal with both types. I think this is where an essence may be beneficial as it is generally lightweight. 


Thus, it can hydrate the dry zones without worsening the excess sebum on the T-zone. Moisture-retaining humectants like hyaluronic acid and panthenol are good choices for combination skin. They are lightweight and can attract water from the surrounding air to keep dryness away. Squalene is another good option as it acts as an emollient but also possesses anti-bacterial properties. 

2

Check if the Consistency and Texture Match Your Skin

Check if the Consistency and Texture Match Your Skin

Essences come in a wide range of formulas. Some have a thin and watery consistency, while others come in gel, lotion, and even oil versions. 


If you have dry skin, opt for gel-like products that can moisturize and hydrate while giving a cooling sensation to your skin. For oily-skinned individuals, choose an essence with a lightweight, watery texture so it won't feel too heavy or greasy on your skin. You can also look for non-comedogenic products that won't clog the pores and cause breakouts.


In choosing an essence, the texture is also important. Gels are more concentrated formulas that need a bit of waiting time to fully penetrate your skin, making them a perfect addition to your nighttime regimen. On the other hand, watery essences absorb faster and don't leave any sticky residue, making them an excellent choice for those leading busy lifestyles.

Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz
Dermatologist, Educator, and Digital Creator
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz

Essences are generally lightweight and fast-absorbing, but they still come in a range of consistencies and textures - from a thin consistency to a much more viscous, serum-like texture. At the end of the day, it boils down to choosing one that is best for your skin type and one that feels good on your skin!

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10 Best Korean Essences to Buy Online

The products we introduce below were carefully curated by the mybest team, from the best-sellers of E-commerce sites like Lazada, and using the points mentioned in our detailed and thoroughly researched buying guide.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
1

COSRX

Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence

COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence 1

₱495

Low

Soothe, Heal, and Moisturize Your Skin With Snail Mucin

2

Innisfree

Jeju Orchid Enriched Essence

Innisfree Jeju Orchid Enriched Essence 1

₱1,890

High Mid

Stay Young with This Powerful Anti-Aging Essence

3

Missha

Time Revolution The First Treatment Essence RX

Missha Time Revolution The First Treatment Essence RX 1

₱1,620

High Mid

Double Fermented Essence for Double the Benefits

4

Laneige

Water Bank Moisture Essence

Laneige Water Bank Moisture Essence 1

₱1,040

Mid

Intense Hydration for Dewy, Luminous Skin

5

Banila Co.

Hi Bye Clean Up Sebum Control Essence

Banila Co. Hi Bye Clean Up Sebum Control Essence 1

₱995

Mid

Organic Ingredients to Keep Oil at Bay

6

Neogen

Real Ferment Micro Essence

Neogen Real Ferment Micro Essence 1

₱1,340

Mid

93% Naturally Fermented Ingredients for Healthy, Supple Skin

7

COSRX

Galactomyces 95 Tone Balancing Essence

COSRX Galactomyces 95 Tone Balancing Essence 1

₱1,000

Mid

Multi-Action Essence with Whitening Properties

8

Benton

Snail Bee High Content Essence

Benton Snail Bee High Content Essence 1

₱645

Low Mid

Packed with All-Natural Ingredients to Nourish the Skin

9

Huxley

Secret of Sahara Oil Essence

Huxley Secret of Sahara Oil Essence 1

₱1,434.5

Mid

Antioxidant-Rich Formula for Hydrated, Glowing Skin

10

Primera

Miracle Seed Essence

Primera Miracle Seed Essence 1

₱2,327.5

High

Brighten and Hydrate Your Skin with Amino Acid-Rich Lotus Seeds

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

COSRXAdvanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence

Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence 1
Source:cosrx.com
Reference price
₱495
Low
Reference price
₱495
Low

Soothe, Heal, and Moisturize Your Skin With Snail Mucin

This essence from the brand COSRX is a real cult favorite, and it's easy to see why! It is enriched with 96.3% snail secretion filtrate (mucin), known to do wonders when it comes to fading dark spots, repairing troubled skin, improving skin texture, and even fighting signs of premature skin aging.

In addition, Sodium Hyaluronate is also present in this product; it aids in plumping, soothing, and hydrating the skin. What's even more remarkable about it is that its formula is lightweight and easily absorbed by the skin. Some users with sensitive skin have also reported that this essence did not cause breakouts.
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No.2

InnisfreeJeju Orchid Enriched Essence

Reference price
₱1,890
High Mid

Stay Young with This Powerful Anti-Aging Essence

Wondering how all your favorite K-drama celebrities and K-pop idols manage to look youthful despite their age? Top Korean beauty brand Innisfree offers an answer with its Jeju orchid skincare line! This enriched essence promises to nourish and strengthen your skin to combat fine lines, wrinkles, and other early signs of aging.


Combining the strengths of Orchidelixir 2.0™, oat extract, hyaluronic acid, and other antioxidants, this liquid gel provides a world of benefits in one compact bottle. With regular use, expect to revitalize tired skin to reveal a healthier, younger-looking glow. Indeed, it's never too early to incorporate anti-aging ingredients into your daily regimen. 

No.3

MisshaTime Revolution The First Treatment Essence RX

Time Revolution The First Treatment Essence RX 1
Source:misshaus.com
Reference price
₱1,620
High Mid
Reference price
₱1,620
High Mid

Double Fermented Essence for Double the Benefits

As they say, time is of the essence. That's why it's important to invest in good skincare products no matter your age. This upgraded boosting essence from Missha delivers twice the benefits with 95% cica enzyme fermentation to effectively repair damage and firm up skin in just a few weeks.


Best for sensitive skin types, this runny essence delivers moisture deep into the skin's layers to heal heavily dehydrated skin. The double-fermentation process also allows for longer moisture retention and better skin elasticity. With added pearl reef and rice extracts, you'll certainly notice a more even skin tone and a fresher, brighter complexion.

No.4

LaneigeWater Bank Moisture Essence

Reference price
₱1,040
Mid

Intense Hydration for Dewy, Luminous Skin

Quench thirsty skin with this ultra-hydrating essence from Laneige, one of Korea's top-selling luxury skincare brands! This essence harnesses the combined power of garden cress extract plus green mineral water derived from vegetables to strengthen your skin's barriers and lock in moisture.


Its watery cream consistency easily blends into the skin without leaving behind a sticky or greasy feeling. Another bonus is the hypoallergenic properties, so you can rest assured it's made from only safe ingredients. If you have dry skin, then you've found your new holy grail! This lightweight concentrate offers long-lasting moisture to keep your skin soft and supple all day long.

No.5

Banila Co.Hi Bye Clean Up Sebum Control Essence

Reference price
₱995
Mid

Organic Ingredients to Keep Oil at Bay

Struggling to manage your oily skin? Take out the stress, and try Banila Co.'s Hi Bye Clean Up essence! This gel-type essence contains a unique blend of organic ingredients such as green tea, beraclay, peppermint, and witch hazel to control sebum production and balance your skin's moisture levels.


It also uses the brand's exclusive Pore Vacuum System and Clean Balance Complex to effectively remove dirt and other impurities. This essence does more than just moisturize and keep oil under control. It can also be applied and worn under make-up to help you achieve a smoother, more radiant complexion! A skincare product and make-up base in one? What's not to love?

No.6

NeogenReal Ferment Micro Essence

Reference price
₱1,340
Mid

93% Naturally Fermented Ingredients for Healthy, Supple Skin

Formulated with more than 93% naturally fermented ingredients, Neogen's Real Ferment Micro Essence delivers intense moisturization to plump, hydrate, and renew aging skin. Its primary ingredient, Bifida Ferment Lysate, is a probiotic ingredient that protects against sun damage and speeds up DNA repair.


Another plus point is the 17% birch juice that helps brighten the skin from within. This liquid essence is stored in a solid bottle for easy dispensing and absorbs quickly into the skin without any shine or stickiness. Free from any fragrances, Neogen's deeply hydrating and brightening essence helps ward off irritation for even the most sensitive skin types.

No.7

COSRXGalactomyces 95 Tone Balancing Essence

Reference price
₱1,000
Mid

Multi-Action Essence with Whitening Properties

Galactomyces is a sought-after ingredient in the Korean skincare industry, and it's easy to see why. Also known as pitera, galactomyces is the fermented byproduct of yeast and contains a wealth of vitamins, minerals and amino acids to protect and nourish the skin. When it comes to this potent ingredient, COSRX is once again at the forefront with their tone balancing essence.


Boasting a whopping 95% galactomyces ferment filtrate, this refreshing liquid gel works to clear away impurities, smoothen skin texture, and slow down aging. It also includes niacinamide as one of its primary ingredients, so those looking to lighten and brighten their skin can reach for this without having to resort to harsh whitening products.

No.8

BentonSnail Bee High Content Essence

Reference price
₱645
Low Mid

Packed with All-Natural Ingredients to Nourish the Skin

Infused with a strong combination of snail secretion filtrate and bee venom, this high content essence from vegan, cruelty-free brand Benton can instantly hydrate dull and tired skin and protect it from the harmful effects of UV damage and free radicals. Say goodbye to dark spots, fine lines, and wrinkles!


This liquid gel moisturizes, heals, and protects your skin using only high-quality natural ingredients. It helps reduce pigmentation, minimize signs of aging, and boost your overall complexion with potent collagen properties. With zero parabens, fragrances, alcohol, and silicone, Benton's best-selling essence is suitable for all skin types and safe even for acne-prone skin.

No.9

HuxleySecret of Sahara Oil Essence

Reference price
₱1,434.5
Mid

Antioxidant-Rich Formula for Hydrated, Glowing Skin

This Huxley favourite comes in a dual formulation that combines both the benefits of a hydrating essence and a nourishing facial oil. But don't let the term oil scare you away! This antioxidant-enriched concentrate is easily absorbed into the skin without any traces of greasiness or heaviness-perfect for all skin types!


Coming in an easy dropper bottle along with unique ingredients such as 61% Sahara cactus seed oil, acai berry, and quinoa, this oil essence leaves your skin hydrated, smooth, and luminous without the effort. And with a light and refreshing scent, this essence is undoubtedly best for those who want to perk up their mood and give their skin a refreshing boost.

No.10

PrimeraMiracle Seed Essence

Reference price
₱2,327.5
High

Brighten and Hydrate Your Skin with Amino Acid-Rich Lotus Seeds

The secret ingredient of this highly popular and number-one Primera product? Lotus seeds. Loaded with amino acids and antioxidants, lotus seeds are proven to yield effective results and protect your skin from sun damage, pollution, and other environmental stressors. No more dull, damaged, and lackluster skin!


This lightweight, watery essence effectively preps your skin to better absorb your serums, toners, and other skincare products. It even comes with a free facial cotton so you can easily kick start your new skincare regimen! Free from artificial fragrances and synthetic colorants, you won't have to look far to find an essence that's true to their claim of being a miracle in a bottle.

Frequently Asked Questions Answered By Dr. Katrina Luz

Adding a new product to your skincare routine is difficult, especially if you have many unanswered questions on your mind. We asked Dr. Katrina some of the most asked questions online, and here are her answers!

Are Essence and Serum the Same?

The truth is there are actually no standard definitions for these terms. The majority of the time, their functions may even overlap. In general, though, the main idea between essences and serums is that essences primarily target hydration and can sometimes target specific skin concerns, too, while serums primarily target skin concerns.

At the end of the day, regardless of the name, the best is to identify your skin concern and see if the product has what you are looking for and if it translates to results for your skin.

How Often Should You Use a Korean Essence?

This is definitely up to you! This will boil down to your skin concern and overall preference. In general, it would be good to start slow, especially if you already have an existing skincare routine. You'd also want to double-check with your dermatologist if any of the ingredients in your current skincare routine can be mixed with the ones in your essence - just to minimize chances of developing an irritation.

More Tips From Dr. Katrina Luz

  1. Personally, essences are an add-on but not a replacement for your moisturizer!
  2. Always patch test before adding a new player to your skincare regimen. If you don't develop any reaction or signs of irritation, then good, but always start slow.
  3. Consider the other skincare products you already use. Some products may cause your skin to be more sensitive or peel, so exfoliating while using these products may worsen dry skin or even cause acne breakouts.
  4. Listen to your skin! Just because it is the latest fad or everyone is doing it doesn't mean you have to.

Get Your Best Skin Yet With These Popular Picks

Now that you know everything you need to know about Korean essences, why not go all the way and complete the renowned 10-step skincare routine? We've listed down the best products, both from Korean and non-Korean brands, so you can begin your journey into getting your best skin ever!


Author: Marion Angeli Flores

How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations

Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.

Top 5 Korean Essences

No. 1: COSRXAdvanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence

No. 2: InnisfreeJeju Orchid Enriched Essence

No. 3: MisshaTime Revolution The First Treatment Essence RX

No. 4: LaneigeWater Bank Moisture Essence

No. 5: Banila Co.Hi Bye Clean Up Sebum Control Essence

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The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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