Review: Tatcha The Essence

I have a multi-step skincare routine, or rather, programme, which I like to think makes me sound pretty officious. That said, I will be honest and say that I must be quite blind to the fact that I use a lot of products, because, reflexively, every time someone asks me what I use, like very recently when I had my makeup done at Mecca, and I was complimented on my skin, my reaction is always to go - not much! And that is frankly a laughable answer! 

 

The latest step that I've incorporated into my skincare routine is one that I didn't think I particularly needed, but I'm very pleased to have had the chance to try, and that is an essence. They are generally quite runny, and is the step that I would slot between my cleanser and serum. I have somehow managed to only try really luxe brands of essences so far, and it's no different this time, with the newest addition to my rotation - Tatcha The Essence.

 

Clocking in at $192 for 150ml of product, this top tier Japanese beauty essence is designed to firm, smooth, soften, plump and hydrate the skin. The hero ingredient in this is 100% Hadasei-3, which is their proprietory complex, harnesses the power of double fermentation to plump the skin, keeping it radiant. It contains essential amino acids and AHAs, such as lactic acid, to help firm the skin, while also keeping it smooth. There's also Akita Rice, which contains moisturising proteins to help keep the skin barrier function healthy, reducing moisture loss. 

 

The addition of Uji Green Tea, steeped in antioxidants, is meant to combat free radicals and oxidative stress, while Okinawa Algae, which is filled with polysaccharides, can help improve the skin's ability to retain moisture. This comes in a heavy, tall bottle with a screw cap, and there is a little spout that helps you figured out how to pour it out, and to use this, I pour a small amount of it into the palm of my hand, before tapping it into the skin. It's also said that you can use it to help amplify the benefits of a rinse-off mask (not a sheet mask) by applying it prior to putting on the mask. Once you've washed the mask off, you can reapply The Essence and continue with your skincare routine as per usual.  

 

It's always a surprise how much something that is this watery, and really does feel like water, can do for your skin. You'd hope so, with the accompanying price tag! This extra step has been helping my skin feel softer and looking a bit brighter, and it truly does seem to make my skin shine. The fact that I'm already halfway down the bottle is cause for concern, because it means I'm going to have to grab another one very soon! It does also come in a 75ml bottle for $114, if you're looking to try it for a little less. It's currently available at Mecca over here. Do you use an essence regularly in your routine? What would you recommend?