Marie_Claire_Australia_November_2016

TONER 2.0

“Modern toners prepare the skin

for deeper penetration of serums

and moisturisers,” says Sydney-

based facialist Jocelyn Petroni.

Now, the stigma-free second

step is all about essences,

waters and mists.

Essences are not a new

phenomenon. The now iconic

SK-II Facial Treatment Essence,

$100, was brought to the market in

1980 – and for a long time was an

Asian beauty secret. The water-like

consistency was confusing to

those who believed thick creams

and tingly serums were

the signs of efficacy.

The evolution of its popularity

is one that Petroni attributes to the

popularity of serums. “Serums

evolved into the most important

step in your skincare routine,” she

explains. “Then the surge of

serums saw the reinvention of

toners and essences, which are

essentially light, textured serums.”

Which is precisely what

makes essences different to

toners. They aren’t there for a

“squeaky-clean” (read: stripped)

feel. Think of them as next-level

toners containing active

ingredients designed to target

and penetrate deep into the

skin’s layers. Most are designed

for brightening, clarity and cell

renewal, and will also help other

products work more effectively.

After cleansing, apply the

essence with your fingers

(cotton pads will soak up

too much product) and

use a patting motion all

over. Follow with a serum,

moisturiser, eye cream

and SPF. And that, in

essence, is all you need.

REFINING

BRIGHTENING

CALMING

HYDRATING

PURIFYING

ANTI-AGEING

STEP

TWO

IT

LET’S

SAVE

FACE

1

6

SEE DIRECTORY FOR STOCKIST DETAILS. PHOTOGRAPHED BY EDWARD URRUTIA. TEXT BY SARAH TARCA

Beauty