MISSHA Time Revolution The First Essence 5X Review
The Insider Score
Hydrating essencesA watery first layer for skin that wants more than cream alone.
We’d buy the 5X for its light texture and generous pour bottle. Press a little into clean skin before serum or cream when a richer extra layer would feel too heavy.
I liked the watery texture as the first layer after cleansing.
Insider Beauty tester- Hydration and feel
- 4.3/5
- Absorption and layering
- 4.5/5
- Value per ounce
- 4.3/5
How the score adds up
Our editors awarded 87 of 100 available points across these six criteria. Divide by 20 for the five-point rating.
- Hydration and feel
- 26 / 30 pts
- The water-light essence adds hydration before serum or cream without a second rich layer.
- Absorption and layering
- 18 / 20 pts
- Hands make the liquid easy to press in. A cotton pad is another option in MISSHA’s directions.
- Value per ounce
- 17 / 20 pts
- The $39 bottle holds 150 ml, or 26 cents per millilitre.
- Support for product claims
- 13 / 15 pts
- MISSHA identifies 97% Desert Cica Yeast Ferment and describes the fifth-generation formula.
- What sets it apart
- 8 / 10 pts
- The generous pour bottle suits a first splash immediately after cleansing.
- Formula disclosure
- 5 / 5 pts
- The 5X label identifies the generation, and the brand names niacinamide, glycerin and ceramide NP.
How MISSHA’s fifth-generation First Essence fits after cleansing, what the 97% ferment figure describes and how it compares with Benton.
- Rank
- Not ranked
- Current price
- $39.00
- Listed size
- 5.07 oz
- Updated
Reviewed byInsider BeautyEditorial team ·
Editor’s cut
At a glance
Apply just after cleansing.
Use cupped hands to avoid losing liquid.
Follow with cream where you want a richer finish.
An essence thin enough to pour straight into your palm
MISSHA Time Revolution The First Essence 5X is the bottle I’d choose for a little more hydration before the rest of a skincare routine. Its water-light texture is the attraction. You can press it into clean skin, put the cap back on, and still have room for a serum or a cream without feeling as though you’ve applied two moisturizers.
The 5X on the bottle identifies the fifth generation of The First Essence. MISSHA puts its Desert Cica Yeast Ferment at 97% of the formula and also lists niacinamide. For me, that information is most helpful when comparing two similar-looking essences. A high ferment percentage tells you something about this particular recipe. The texture and the way it fits alongside your other products tell you whether you’ll finish the bottle.
Hands or a cotton pad?
Both are in MISSHA’s directions. For a hydrating layer, I’d pour a little into a cupped palm, bring the hands together and press over the cheeks and forehead. Start small enough that the liquid doesn’t run down the wrist. If a part of the face still feels dry, you can press a little more there without soaking the whole face.
A cotton pad is convenient if you prefer to sweep something on straight after cleansing. It also drinks some of the essence. At $39 for 150 ml, I’d use my hands most days and save pads for the products where the wiping motion is part of the job. Follow with moisturizer when you want more cushion, particularly on areas that feel tight after washing.
Is the first step worth adding?
I’d choose MISSHA for someone who specifically likes the feel of a watery first layer. Benton Fermentation Essence comes in a pump and is a good comparison if you prefer dispensing a small dose rather than pouring. The INKEY List Hyaluronic Acid Serum is a cheaper option if all you want is a simple hydrating serum under cream.
The value of the 5X depends on that distinction. If your moisturizer already leaves your skin comfortable, there’s no particular need to fill a gap in the order of products. If you enjoy pressing in a light layer before cream, this is a generous bottle for precisely that part of the morning.
Useful details
Frequently asked questions
What does 5X mean on this bottle?
It identifies the fifth generation of MISSHA The First Essence.
Do I need a cotton pad?
No. MISSHA also gives directions for pouring the liquid into your palms and pressing it into the skin.