Adding an essence to your skincare routine may feel like an optional step, but it’s one that can make a noticeable difference. Lightweight yet potent, essences sit between cleansing and serums, helping to prep the skin, boost absorption, and deliver concentrated benefits directly where they’re needed most. From hydration and radiance to firmness and resilience, this year’s launches prove just how transformative a single layer can be.
Here are the latest essences making their debut in 2025—and why each one deserves a place in your line-up.
La Prairie Pure Gold Revitalising Essence
La Prairie expands its Pure Gold Collection with the new Revitalising Essence, created to counter the visible effects of hormonal changes. Infused with the brand’s Advanced Pure Gold Diffusion System, it restores density, supports collagen production, and strengthens the skin barrier. On application, the golden fluid provides instant hydration and comfort, while over time it improves elasticity, plumpness and radiance—making it a luxurious option for those experiencing shifts in their skin.
Shop the La Prairie Pure Gold Revitalising Essence here!
Fresh Crème Ancienne Essence
Fresh unveils an indulgent oil-to-water essence powered by white truffle from Alba, Italy—an ingredient celebrated for its rarity and antioxidant strength. Using a patented extraction process to capture the truffle’s full potency, the formula helps smooth lines, refine contours, and deliver a firmer, more revitalised look.
Shop the Fresh Crème Ancienne Essence here!
K Booster Daily Derma Repair Essence
This daily essence is enriched with 17 amino acids, peptides, and beta glucan to deliver hydration while repairing and strengthening the skin barrier. It absorbs quickly and has been dermatologically tested for sensitive skin, helping to calm irritation while also working on elasticity and radiance.
Shop the K Booster Daily Derma Repair Essence here!
Albion Infinesse Brightening Concentrate Lotion
Albion’s Infinesse Brightening Concentrate Lotion combines high-performance hyaluronic acid with advanced hydration to fully replenish the epidermis and dermis. This ensures the skin remains supple while preventing the appearance of dark spots and fine lines. The result is clarity, smoothness, and firmness in one step, making it an excellent choice for those looking for all-round brightening and wrinkle care.
Shop the Albion Infinesse Brightening Concentrate Lotion here!
SK-II GenOptics InfinitAura Essence
The latest evolution of SK-II’s cult brightening essence harnesses the Infinite Aura Complex alongside PITERA™, niacinamide, and lotus extract. Designed to restore “Aura skin”, it targets uneven tone, dullness, and early signs of ageing brought on by stress and lifestyle factors. Results can be seen almost immediately, with long-term improvements to translucency, spots, and firmness.
Shop the SK-II GenOptics InfinitAura Essence here!
Alisha Azuddin
The Beauty Director at Harper’s BAZAAR Malaysia, Alisha first set her sights on a career in sports journalism before pivoting to beauty during her university years—and she’s stayed in that lane ever since. While her love for sports remains strong (these days, purely from the stands), she’s found her true calling in the beauty and wellness space. Equal parts storyteller and trend spotter, she believes that a good lip combo and a great skincare routine can change more than just your mood.