Equilibrium Restoring Essence vs Moisture Source Brightening and Hydrating Essence with Hyaluronic Acid — Ingredient Comparison

HOURGLASS

Equilibrium Restoring Essence

Essence · 17 ingredients

HOURGLASS Equilibrium Restoring Essence is a radiance-enhancing essence that conditions, protects and restores balance to skin as it increases the effectiveness of skincare that follows.

Sarah Creal

Moisture Source Brightening and Hydrating Essence with Hyaluronic Acid

Essence · 25 ingredients

A hydrating essence that works to visibly brighten and plump the skin while supporting its moisture barrier. Peptides help strengthen and firm skin while improving texture, niacinamide targets uneven tone and the appearance of dark spots and fine lines, and hyaluronic acid paired with squalane deliver lasting hydration and a smooth, supple finish. Fragrance-free and vegan, it's particularly suited to those dealing with dryness.

Fragrance-freeVegan

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How these two interact

No conflicts — safe to layer

Both are Essence products.

At a glance

Fragrance-free

—

Vegan

—

Price

$52

$35

$17 less

Key ingredients

Ectoin

A microbe-derived “extremolyte” that shields the skin barrier from environmental stress — pollution, UV, dryness — while locking in moisture.

Glycerin

The workhorse humectant — simple, effective, and exceptionally well-tolerated.

AHA

Gluconolactone (PHA)

A gentle, large-molecule exfoliant that smooths and hydrates — ideal for sensitive skin.

Peptides

Amino-acid messengers that signal collagen production for firmer, smoother skin.

Niacinamide

Strengthens the barrier, controls oil, and fades dark spots — gentle and plays well with almost everything.

Squalane

A lightweight, biomimetic oil that softens without clogging pores — pairs perfectly with strong actives to offset dryness.

Glycerin

The workhorse humectant — simple, effective, and exceptionally well-tolerated.

Gluconolactone (PHA)

A gentle, large-molecule exfoliant that smooths and hydrates — ideal for sensitive skin.

Sodium PCA

A humectant that pulls water into the skin for plumper, more hydrated skin.

Hyaluronic Acid

Holds water in the skin for instant plumping and hydration.

AHA

What it targets

Hydration

Barrier

Texture

Soothing

Hydration

Barrier

Brightening

Anti-aging

Firmness

Texture

Pores

Oil control

Healing