Why every skincare routine needs a brightening essence
October 10, 2025
3 min read
From boosting hydration to restoring radiance, essences come packed with a whole host of benefits. It’s easy to see why these blends have become a skincare staple for many: essences can help enhance luminosity, reduce the appearance of dark spots and improve skin texture, all while preparing your complexion for the next steps in your routine.
But what makes a pi-phase essence different? Unlike traditional ‘single-phase’ essences, this formula has two distinct layers that combine when shaken, delivering water and oil-based ingredients for hydration and nourishment in one step. So, if you’re looking for a way to illuminate skin whilst leaving it feeling smooth and plump , here’s why our bi-phase essence is a must-have.
What is an essence in skincare?
A skincare essence is an expertly developed formula, created to deliver multiple benefits – for example, helping increase moisture, promote a natural-looking glow, or prepare the skin for serums and moisturisers.
However, essences often get confused with similar products like toners and serums, and with such a wide range available, knowing how to differentiate between them is key. • Toner: typically used after cleansing to refresh and remove residual impurities • Essence: designed to deeply hydrate and prep the skin • Serum: targeted treatments with active ingredients to address specific skin concerns
Unlike toners, which primarily refresh the skin, essences deliver added moisture and nutrients, making them an essential step for a dewy, fresh-faced complexion.
For more on the differences – and tips on how to incorporate them into your routine – take a look at our in-depth guide to toners and essences
What can a brightening essence do for your skin?
A brightening essence can help:
- Refresh dull-looking skin
- Hydrate skin to improve the feel of elasticity and suppleness
- Smooth the look of fine lines for a firmer feeling, more youthful appearance
- Help reduce the appearance of dark spots over time
Key ingredients in essences
The secret to an essence’s success lies in the ingredients. For those looking to achieve brighter, plumper, more youthful-looking skin, keep an eye out for the following:
- Acacia tree extract – A plant-based alternative to collagen that mimics the moisturisation benefits of collagen on the skin, helping it feel firmer and plumper.
Found in our Superskin Advanced range , including the Superskin Advanced Bi-Phase essence whose formula blends acacia tree extract with other potent botanicals to deliver plumper feeling skin in just 14 days*
- Pomegranate extract – Rich in antioxidants, pomegranate extract is renowned for helping to even the appearance of skin tone
- Cranberry seed oil – This vibrant oil is packed with essential fatty acids and vitamin E, which help to nourish the skin
Want to know more? Our Ingredients Glossary breaks down the science behind some of nature’s potent botanicals – and how we harness these plant-based powerhouses to enhance the look & feel of your skin.
How bi-phase essences work
You’ll notice our Superskin Advanced Brightening Essence has two distinct layers: a water-based layer for hydration, and an oil-based layer for nourishment and protection. As such, skin feels replenished, while natural oils work to seal in this moisture for a smooth complexion.
- Water phase – Hydrating and brightening, helping to revitalise skin from the outside in
- Oil phase – Supports moisture retention while nourishing skin with essential nutrients
How to use a bi-phase formula
- 1. Shake the bottle to mix the two phases and activate the formula
- 2. Post-cleanse, saturate a reusable cotton pad and gently sweep over face and neck
- 3. Follow with your favourite serum and moisturiser
TRY: Upgrade your skincare routine with our Superskin Advanced Firming Serum-in-Moisturiser . As the name suggests, this luxurious blend fuses a serum with a moisturiser for a boost of instant moisture. The result? Skin feels more resilient, firmer and rejuvenated, with a reduction in the appearance of deep lines and wrinkles after just two weeks.*
When to use essence in your skincare routine
Understanding the order in which to apply your skincare products is crucial for maintaining radiant and healthy-looking skin.
The general rule is to apply products in the order of their consistency, from the thinnest formula to the thickest. This allows each product to be absorbed into the surface of the skin effectively and ensures they aren’t blocked by heavier formulations. A bi-phase essence, therefore, fits in perfectly post-cleanse and before serum, moisturiser and SPF application. So:
- 1. Cleanse
- 2. Essence
- 3. Serum
- 4. Moisturiser 5. SPF
FAQ section
What is the difference between an essence and a toner?
While toners are used immediately after cleansing to refresh and remove remaining impurities, essences provide hydration and nourishment, both prepare the skin for serums and moisturisers.
Can I use an essence every day?
Yes! Our bi-phase essence can be used morning and evening to maintain hydration and radiance, but always check your specific product for recommended frequency of use.
What skin types can benefit from a brightening essence?
All skin types can benefit from incorporating essences into a regular skincare routine. Whether you have dry, oily, combination, or mature skin, a bi-phase essence can help to enhance glow.Should a brightening essence replace serum or moisturiser?
No, but it can work alongside these products . Apply your bi-phase essence first to boost hydration, followed by serum and moisturiser for added nourishment.
How long does it take to see results from a bi-phase essence?
Results will vary, but many people notice some results within a few days. Other benefits such as reduced appearance of uneven skin tone or fine lines and wrinkles become more visible over time. By incorporating a bi-phase essence into your routine, you can enjoy a radiant, hydrated complexion with minimal effort, making it a simple yet effective addition to your daily skincare ritual. *Consumer study of 110 women.
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