Toner, Emulsion, Moisturizer, Face cream…
There are various product categories in the basic skincare products we use.
In the past, when knowledge about cosmetics was not widespread, it was common in Korea to apply “toner -> emulsion (also called lotion) -> cream” in that order.
Recently, as various product lines have been released and consumers have gained more knowledge about products, many have replaced emulsion with essence products.
So, what do we mean by emulsion?
The photo below captures a product from Sulwhasoo that is categorized as an emulsion.
Sulwhasoo emulsion is selling with their toner and cream as a set, naturally guiding users to follow this order.
In the photo, the emulsion appears to be more concentrated than the toner but less thick than the cream.
In fact, the dictionary definition of emulsion refers to making two immiscible substances mix.
That is, when making basic skincare products, toners are made by only adding water-soluble substances without oil-soluble substances, so they are made without emulsifiers.
However, creams are made by adding oil-soluble substances to water-soluble substances to provide better moisturization, and since these two substances do not mix, emulsifiers are used.
From this dictionary definition alone, moisturizers and creams can also be classified as emulsions.
This is simply because they are emulsified products.
At some point, emulsion became a separate product category, and this perception has been fixed in the minds of consumers ever since.
So, should we use products called emulsion?
There is no correct answer.
Just as you know your skin best, the combination of products you use is important.
It is also generally believed that emulsion contains more purified water than cream, but this does not necessarily mean that it feels lighter to use.
(The feel of a product depends more on factors like the type of thickener used or whether waxes are added rather than the amount of purified water.)
If applying a specific essence, emulsion, and cream in that order gives you good moisturization, then that is what matters.
However, if you feel the same level of moisturization with or without using emulsion, there is no need to use it.
The same goes for moisturizers.
Moisturizers are usually released with a viscosity between emulsion and cream; think of them as light creams.
For reference, considering the winter climate and my dry skin, my skincare routine is just essence with water-soluble ingredients -> cream -> oil.
I wrote this article in hopes that consumers will no longer be misled by various product names and waste money.
Brands with the same principles as WITH.C KOREA or those looking to start a brand can contact WITH.C KOREA for better product consulting.