To maintain hydration without getting any heaviness I recently started using multiple layers (at least 3) of a hydrating essence or toner at different stages of my routine.

I first saw this tip being shared by aesthetician Nay (@labeautyologist) and was reminded of it again by skincare scientist Hannah English (@ms_hannah_e).

My skin tends to be oily so I have a dislike for products that leave me feeling greasy, especially during the daytime.

Doing this means I can maintain hydration and plumpness in my skin whilst avoiding the feeling of heavy or greasy products on my face.

How to Apply

The key to aiding absorption is to gently press your subsequent layers into the skin with your hands instead of rubbing them around.

This tip has saved my skin this winter but I will be hydrating this way all year round because I have noticed such a positive change in the health of my skin.

Try it twice a day for a week and you'll never go back.

Keep in mind that exfoliating toners are not recommended for use in this way- What you want to look for are hydrating and calming products.

Here are my Picks for Light Layers of Hydration

1. Fenty Skin Fat Water Hydrating Milky Toner Essence

“A toner-essence combo with a thick milky texture that’s packed with ingredients to help plump skin with hydration and strengthen skin’s moisture barrier.”

2. Fenty Skin Fat Water Pore-Refining Toner Serum

“A two-in-one toner serum that tightens the look of pores and helps visibly fade dark spots, brightens, smooths, and fights shine—all without stripping skin.”

3. I'm From Mugwort Essence

“Rich in vitamins, minerals and tannins, mugwort is known for its detoxifying effect and is used like tea tree oil in Korea.

This essence calms, refines and purifies skin with 100% Korean mugwort extract. It also carries a unique, refreshing scent.

The mask contains single extract of fermented Gangwha mugwort that has calming ingredients and purification activities through Slow Release Extraction.”

4. Laneige Cream Skin Cerapeptide Toner & Moisturiser

“A hydrating toner and moisturiser all in one.”

5. KLAIRS Supple Preparation Unscented Toner

“This Klairs toner contains hyaluronic acid to deeply hydrate and nourish the skin, and centella asiatica - an ingredient known to aid with soothing sensitive skin concerns and promoting cellular renewal.”

6. BEAUTY OF JOSEON - Ginseng Essence Water

“A fresh, nourishing toner enriched with Hanbang (traditional Korean herbal medicine) ingredients for smoother and revitalised skin.”

7.Kylie Skin Vanilla Milk Toner

“A gentle, soothing toner that helps remove impurities and refresh the skin, leaving it soft and smooth.”

8. Parkie Super Collagen Moisture Dew

“A hydrating toner designed to boost moisture levels and improve skin elasticity with its collagen-enriched formula.”

9. Aprilskin Artemisia Rice Toner

“A toner that combines the calming effects of artemisia with the brightening benefits of rice water for balanced, radiant skin.”

10. Kaine Kombu Balancing Ampoule Toner

“A balancing toner enriched with kombu extract to regulate oil production and maintain a healthy skin barrier.”

11. Hada Labo Lotion No.1 Super Hydrator

“A deeply hydrating lotion that boosts moisture levels and improves skin texture with its unique blend of hyaluronic acids.”

In Conclusion

No matter the time of year, level of humidity or how my skin is behaving, toners and essences remain my lifeline.

I love that I can layer as many or as few layers as I want depending on what my skin needs without it feeling heavy or ‘too much’ at any point.

Plus, depending on the toner or essence; you can get a myriad of extra benefits depending on the other ingredients in the product.

This post was originally written for the all who wonder blog by Praise and has been shared with permission. Post links may contain commission codes which go towards fair pay for writers.