I have combination skin (oily t-zone, dry to normal cheeks) and the first signs of aging.
The Missha time revolution series is well known in the Korean beauty circles, so I decided to give it a try as well. I have already written about their repair ampoule, and now it’s the First Treatment Essence’s turn. The two products are meant to work together and produce the best results that way.
Most often, essence in Korean skincare is used after toner. However, some brands name products how they see fit, so it’s wise to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results. In this case, this First Treatment Essence is used right after cleanser. So, to me, it’s effectively a toner.
How to use:
Wash your face
Apply the First Treatment Essence with cotton balls or hands (I prefer hands - it’s more gentle)
Gently pat into the skin until absorption
Follow with the rest of the steps (for me, that would be Missha repair ampoule or a serum, then lotion and so on)
What it does:
Improves fine lines
Evens out skin tone
Improves elasticity
Creates a glowing complexion
Restores UV-related/sun damage
Firms the skin
The essence is made with 80% fermented yeast concentrate which is rich in naturally fortified vitamin B. Vitamin B stimulates cellular turnover (yay). I see fermented components in more and more of Korean skincare. The fermented particles are supposed to be smaller and penetrate the skin better than non-fermented ones, effectively restoring the skin “from within”. The product also contains niacinamide, which is another vitamin B (B3, to be exact) component which improves elasticity.
My impressions:
This is an excellent anti-aging toner especially if used in conjunction with the Missha Time Revolution ampoule. I can see that my skin is firmer and more evenly toned (I’m prone to freckles which are fine with me but I wouldn’t want them to merge into sun spots with age). The product has absolutely no smell at all, which is a huge plus. It’s definitely one of the iconic items in Korean skincare so it’s worth a try for yourself. I love that it absorbs so quickly and seems to make my skin soft to the touch immediately.
The essence also comes in a “moist” variety for those with dry skin. That’s not me, so I didn’t get that one, but it’s quite popular and typically well liked. I’d say you are fine trying the moist variety if you cannot find this one online - moist seems to be more popular and more readily available.
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Ingredients: Saccharomyces Ferment Filtrate, Bigida Ferment Lysate, Propanediol, Niacinamide, Polyquaternium-51, Ulmus Davidiana Root Extract, Betaine, Amaranthus Caudatus Seed Extract, Pirper Methysticum Leaf/Root/Stem Extract, Beta vulgaris (Beet) Root extract, Phellodendron Amurense Bark Extract, Cassia Alata Leaf Extract, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Pentylene Glycol, Water, Trehalose, Disodium EDTA, Hydrolyzed Corn Starch, Adenosine, Ethylhexylglycerin, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Raffinose, Tromethamine, Acetic Acid, Lactic Acid, 1, 2-Hexanediol, Caprytyl Glycol, Hexapeptide-9 Phenoxyethanol, Potassium Sorbate