Understanding Water-Based Skincare (Essences)

Water-based skincare products, often called essences or "miracle waters," are popular for their lightweight feel and quick absorption. They are typically thin, liquid formulations designed to deliver active ingredients.

How They Compare to Creams and Gels

The main difference lies in their texture and composition:

• Creams: These are emulsions, meaning they contain both oil and water phases mixed together using an emulsifier (like Cream Maker). They have a richer, more occlusive texture.
• Gels: These use gelling agents or thickeners (such as Pro Polymer) to create a viscous, jelly-like consistency. They are often water-based but are much thicker than essences.
• Essences: These are primarily water-based solutions with a very low viscosity. They are thinner than gels and do not contain a significant oil phase or require emulsifiers.

Absorption and Efficacy

While essences feel like they absorb quickly, this doesn't automatically mean better delivery of active ingredients compared to well-formulated creams or gels. The effectiveness of absorption depends on the specific ingredients and whether the formulation includes penetration enhancers (Penetration Enhancer) or other delivery systems. As noted in the previous staff reply, formulations without components like emulsifiers or certain delivery aids might have limitations in how deeply ingredients penetrate.

Do They Need Thickeners?

Essences are designed to be thin and watery. Therefore, they generally do not require significant amounts of thickeners (like Pro Polymer) that are used to create gels or increase the viscosity of creams. Some might use a very small amount for a slightly smoother feel, but the characteristic texture is low viscosity.