Esse · Moisturiser

Hydrator/Moisturiser 7.4 / 10

Name: Hydrator/Moisturiser
Brand: Esse

Reviewed by Michael C.

A prebiotic-forward hydrator that suits normal-to-dry skin across most SA climates.

Efficacy7.0

Value for money6.5

Texture8.0

SA climate fit8.0

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No hype, just evidence — this review is independently researched from publicly available information, ingredient analysis and editorial testing.

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Estimated routine costR1665

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The full breakdown

A prebiotic-forward hydrator that suits normal-to-dry skin across most SA climates.

Ingredient breakdown

Prebiotics
Limited evidence
Commonly used to help support a balanced skin microbiome. A review of microbiome-modulatory treatments for acne found some evidence supporting probiotics/prebiotics/synbiotics, while honestly noting most existing studies are small, in vitro, or animal-model based rather than robust human clinical trials; a separate 12-week clinical trial found oral probiotic and prebiotic supplementation improved psoriasis disease activity measures alongside standard topical therapy.
Ceramides
Moderate evidence
Commonly used in barrier-repair moisturizers to help restore skin hydration, reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and support skin recovery after barrier disruption; randomized trials of ceramide-containing lipid-complex formulations show measurable improvements in hydration, TEWL and post-procedure skin recovery.

Best suited to

Normal, Dry

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