My Skin Care Routine | Essence

Since an essence provides an extra layer of hydration, those with dry skin can obviously benefit. If aging is a major concern, this added boost of moisture can also help to alleviate fine lines and prevent wrinkles

The Africology Nature’s Stem Cell, which is said to provide natural cell stimulation, boosting the synthesis of collagen by up to 239%, and elastin by up to 251%. As a powerful preventative anti-ageing treatment that regenerates the skin on a cellular level.

Citrus stem cells obtained from oranges contain amino acids such as proline and betaines, as well as organic acids, sugars, peptides and proteins. They protect skin cells against temperature fluctuations, as well as from environmental and oxidative stress.  This is particularly valuable to balance the skin after exposure, sun damage or balance skin integrity after  sun or blue light exposure. 

Application: 

I find this application a little tricky because you are meant to spray the essence directly onto your face, but the spray nozzle gives a very harsh, intense spray. If it was more like a mist then it would be okay, but it’s not enjoyable. I rather spray into the palms of  my hands and then pat into skin
R410 from Africology.co.za

I also have the Africology Anti-Aging SOS spray which I apply in the same way. I love the smell of it and probably use this more than the stem cell one because of that… 

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I use the COSRX BHA liquid as an essence as well. It is lighter than a serum and seems to word best applied prior to serums. 

• Formulated with 4% BHA (Betaine Salicylate) and willow bark extract, it will clean all the gunk out your pores with regular use – you can say a not-so-fond farewell to your blackheads and clogged pores for good
• Due to BHA’s ability to sink deep into pores and get to work eliminating dead skin cells and excess sebum, this product will also help prevent acne
• The inclusion of brightening powerhouse Niacinamide will help to shrink the appearance of pores, as well as go to work on any uneven skin tone or hyper-pigmentation issues
• The result will be brighter, more even toned skin and minimised pores
• Can be applied to the entire face (avoiding eye area and lips) or used to spot treat problematic areas such as nose and chin Source

Application: 
It is recommended to apply this with a cotton round, but I apply some to my fingers and pat it into the skin. 
It is also recommended that for best results you wait 10min before applying other products, which I really don’t do, but must try! 
I apply it to my nose and jaw line mainly – as those are my problem areas. I have also started wiping the excess on my shoulder as I tend to get blackhead build up on my back.
R315 from Glow Theory website

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Lastly I have the Snail Bee High Content Essence by Benton. 

The moisturising and reparative solution is rich in protein and vitamins, thanks to Snail Filtrate that helps to smooth and improve skin texture.Combined with 2% Bee Venom, EGF (a Nobel prize-winning ingredient) and a host of botanical-based natural ingredients, the Benton Snail Bee Essence delivers skin-lifting and age-fighting benefits; it melts into skin to hydrate, repair and relieve rough, damaged patches whilst diminishing the appearance of wrinkles and reinforcing the skin’s natural barrier. Cooling and moisturising, the all-in-one formula ensures your skin has a brighter, smoother look. 

Application: 
On days when I do apply this essence I really do enjoy how it leaves my skin feeling, but I don’t use it often enough. I do like to pop a little around my eyes before bed from time to time. It is light in texture, with little to no smell. 

R315 from Glow Theory website