essence

Essence is a watery leave-on, often the first treatment after toner. It should spread in a thin layer. If it is already sticky, skip extra serum on top. It is not a cleanser and not an acid unless the label says so.

• Use: pat on damp skin, then serum or cream.
• Texture: a water essence disappears; a mucin essence can tack.
• Stack: you do not need toner plus essence plus three serums.

Open two listings, check texture and whether acids are listed, then pick an essence you can use after washing.