The Hydrating Post-Cleanse Step Your Skin Needs

Derek Zoolander once said, “Moisture is the essence of wetness, and wetness is the essence of beauty.” Surprisingly, he was on to something. Koreans will be the first to agree, as essences happen to be the heart of their multi-step skincare routines. See, moisture tends to dissipate within 10 seconds after cleansing, so if your skin still feels taut and dry even after layering on a toner, serum, and moisturiser, you could be overlooking those 10 seconds.

Our skin loses 1% of moisture every 2 hours, but after cleansing, we lose 5% in just 10 seconds. Alarming, no? Missing this window of opportunity would result in parched skin despite our subsequent efforts, which is why we need a highly-concentrated essence to nourish the skin post-cleanse and prep it for the rest of our regime.

 

 

One we’ve grown to love is Belif’s Numero 10 Essence. If you aren’t already familiar with Belif, it’s an all-natural Korean skincare line based on herbal recipes developed by a Scottish botanist back in the 19th century. With names such as “Water Bomb”, “Moisture Attack”, and “Deep Moist” written on their packaging, it’s clear they’re absolutely serious about hydration, making the Numero 10 Essence a great introduction to the brand.

 

 

The key ingredient here is Rose of Jericho, a resurrection herb that has the ability to revive itself with just a small amount of rainwater even when it’s withered. It plays a part in restoring and strengthening the skin barrier, giving the essence a boost of hydration as it forms a protective layer on the skin, locking in every bit of moisture. In fact, it increases hydration levels by 57% and enhances radiance by 15% upon application. It’s got a rather clean formula too if you’re one to scrutinise the ingredient list. It doesn’t contain mineral oil, synthetic fragrances, synthetic colours, synthetic preservatives, or animal-derived ingredients — a huge relief to those with reactive skin.

 

 

Here’s how we like to use it: Right after cleansing, dispense 2-3 pumps of product and apply the watery serum-like formula all over the face while it’s still damp. Then, pat the skin gently and allow the product to absorb completely before following up with the rest of your skincare routine. It contains lime and mandarin extracts, which gives it a refreshing citrus scent — something we look forward to daily.

L—R: belif Numero 10 Essence (75ml), $49; belif Numero 10 Essence (125ml), $59

It’s also unique because it’s peddled as a ‘bathroom essence’. Beauty products should be stored in a cool, dry environment, which is why the high humidity and fluctuating temperatures in our bathroom aren’t ideal since these factors could alter the consistency of the formula, potentially damaging it. The Numero 10 Essence, however, is able to withstand such oscillating conditions, so you can reach for it immediately after you’ve cleansed. It now comes in a limited-edition jumbo size (125ml) at $59, so you get to save $21 on it too.

Suitable for all skin types, the Numero 10 works best when paired with members of belif’s The True Cream family. Find your match below!

 

For normal to combination skin:
Numero 10 Essence + The true cream – aqua bomb

 

For dry skin:
Numero 10 Essence + The true cream – moisturizing bomb

 

For oily skin:
Numero 10 Essence + The true cream – water bomb

 

For all skin types:
Numero 10 Essence + The true cream – anti aging soft bomb

 

And here’s a special treat for our NYLON readers!

 

Receive a free Numero 10 Essence (10ml) with any belif purchase!
Quote “NYLON” at any THEFACESHOP-Nature Collection stores
or TANGS VivoCity

 

*Till 30th June 2018 or while stocks last. Limited to 1 redemption per customer.

 

 


Belif Numero 10 Essence, $36 for 50ml, $49 for 75ml, $59 for 125ml.
Available now at all THEFACESHOP-Nature Collection stores and TANGS VivoCity.