I don’t know about you guys, but my skin's been freaking out lately. Stress, weather changes, late-night snacking (oops) — the usual culprits. So I’ve been hunting for something super gentle that could help calm everything down without breaking me out. That’s when I stumbled across this brand called Ongredients, and their Moisture Calming Essence has seriously become one of my ride-or-dies.

First Impressions : Minimalist but Mighty

Okay, let’s talk packaging first (because aesthetics matter, right?) The bottle is sleek and simple, nothing over-the-top, and I kinda love that. It gives me that “I’m a clean girl who actually knows her ingredients” vibe. It’s also fragrance-free, dye-free, and just generally not trying too hard. Big yes.

The texture? Like a watery gel, lightweight, absorbs fast, and doesn’t leave any weird sticky residue. If you hate thick, goopy essences, this one’s for you. I have combo skin that flips between dry and oily depending on the day, and this essence doesn’t overwhelm it at all.

How I Use It in My Routine (AM + PM)

So here’s how I’ve been using it in both my morning and night routines.

Morning Routine

Cleanser – I start with Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Cleanser, which is super gentle and hydrating.

Toner – Right now I’m into I'm From Rice Toner for extra moisture.

Essence – 2-3 pumps of the Ongredients Moisture Calming Essence patted into damp skin.

Moisturizer – Either Ongredients Calming Lotion (if I want to keep it in the fam) or Etude House SoonJung 2x Barrier Intensive Cream.

SPF – My go-to is Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun (seriously, it’s elite).

Night Routine

Cleanser – Same Round Lab cleanser or Heimish All Clean Balm if I’m wearing makeup.

Toner – Torriden Dive-In Toner

Essence – Ongredients Moisture Calming Essence

Serum – Usually a hydrating one like Isntree HA Serum or something calming like Skin1004 Centella Ampoule.

Moisturizer – Lately I’ve been sealing it in with Dr. Althea 345 Relief Cream

Pro Tips After 3 Weeks of Use

Layer it : If your skin’s extra parched, try sandwiching it between toner layers or even applying it twice. It layers beautifully and never pills.

Use it with actives : I love using this under actives like AHA or retinol. It really helps buffer the irritation.

DIY sheet mask : Soak cotton pads with the essence and use them as a quick calming mask on irritated areas. So good after sun exposure!

Final Verdict : Who Should Try This?

If your skin ever gets angry — like red, hot, tight, itchy angry — this is worth checking out. It’s also amazing if you :

Are new to skincare and want something safe and reliable

Use actives regularly and need something to soothe your skin barrier

Are sensitive to fragrance or overloaded formulas

Just love minimal, functional skincare that actually works

That said, if you’re looking for a “glow-up overnight” kind of product, this isn’t it. This is your quiet bestie who keeps your skin calm and happy day after day. Not flashy, just effective

Overall Rating

9.5/10 — I’d repurchase in a heartbeat. The only thing keeping it from a perfect 10 is I wish it came in a jumbo bottle. 😅