Many of us tend to overlook the need for emulsions and jump straight to applying a moisturiser. That’s because, most of the time, relying on emulsions alone are not enough to hydrate our skin as compared to using a rich cream.
However, it is important to understand that conventional wisdom that oilier skin means a well-hydrated complexion is not necessarily true. In fact, our skin may be dehydrated and require more moisture – and here is where emulsions play an integral role.
Emulsions lock in moisture and should be applied in between your serum and moisturiser to help you achieve a healthy glow. Since they come in lightweight formulae, you won’t have to worry too much about it feeling sticky or greasy post-application. Plus, they are great for those with sensitive and acne-prone skin thanks to their soothing properties.
Here, we suss out some of the best emulsions to consider.
This comes in a lightweight, sorbet-like texture that is powered by mauve extract. These proteins, which are also naturally present in the skin, act as channels to enable water to circulate fluidly from one cell to another, allowing our skin to better retain moisture for a plumper complexion. It is also ideal for those with oilier skin types as it contains a cellulose powder to absorb excess sebum while maintaining hydration levels. Extracts of roucou seeds aid in reducing the appearance of shine and treats enlarged pores.
Saturated with magnolia tree extracts, this helps to soothe irritable complexions, neutralise redness and plump up the look of lines. A blend of Japanese honeysuckle, Siberian cocklebur fruit and purple nutsedge power up complexions with its antioxidant properties to improve and strengthen the skin’s barrier, calms and deliver long-lasting hydration.
Suitable for those looking to treat dull, uneven and tired-looking skin, this is equipped with seven different multivitamins to instantly do just that while maintaining luminous skin for up to a reported 24 hours. It is also great for those with oily and combination skin types as it features a weightless gel texture that absorbs quickly into the skin.
Upon application, the skin feels instantly suppler and softer thanks to a slew of superior hydrators such as mango seed butter and liquorice root extract. These then work with mountain peony extract to refine the skin texture while yai jiu hua extract helps improve skin clarity.
Said to hydrate skin for up to 72 hours, this is enriched with snow mushroom ferment to deeply hydrate and nourish while strengthening the skin barrier to retain moisture and resist irritation. It also restores the skin’s lipid barrier for it to better defend itself against external aggressors and skin sensitivities.
Formulated with the brand’s ReNeura Technology and Kurenai-TruLift Complex, these are meant to reawaken skin cells for improved self-regeneration to boost resilience and elasticity for a firmer, plumper, and healthier-looking complexion. Plus, it also hydrates and plumps up visible lines and wrinkles.
This two-in-one treatment comprises a lightweight emulsion and the brand’s Blue Orchid Face Treatment Oil. Blue orchid extract and patchouli essential oil work hand in hand to restore radiance and vitality. A combination of hazelnut, sweet almond, macadamia and grape seed plant oils (which are all rich in essential fatty acids) help soften and nourish the skin.
As its name suggests, this is suitable for those who wish to treat dullness and uneven complexions. Carnosine, which is made up of amino acids, is infused to reduce yellowness while centella asiatica extracts prevent redness. To prevent skin darkening caused by excessive melanin production, vitamin Cg and a resorcinol derivative is used. Glycerin is then added to the formula to intensely hydrate and plump up skin.