An unusually high share of reviews explicitly mention this being their 2nd, 3rd, or even 5th-10th repurchase, indicating strong retention and repeat-buy potential.
Rhode Glazing Milk 'dupe' trend
Many buyers say they purchased after seeing it compared to Rhode's Glazing Milk on social media/TikTok, often noting it is 'even better' or more budget-friendly.
Ingredient reputation (fermented black rice, probiotics, ceramides)
Reviewers frequently cite the fermented/probiotic and ceramide/fatty-acid ingredient list as the reason for purchase, especially those seeking barrier repair.
Brand trust from the companion toner
Several customers who already loved the Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Toner bought the essence specifically to complement or compare it to that product.
Gift purchases
A number of reviewers bought it for family members (mothers, grandmothers, husbands) with dry or aging skin, suggesting gifting appeal.
How they use it
First step after cleansing or toner
Most commonly applied right after cleansing/toning and before serum or moisturizer, acting as a hydration-boosting layer.
Skin concerns raised — and how the product addressed them
Dryness42%
✓Reviewers consistently report the essence delivers deep, lasting hydration and relieves dry patches, especially in winter.
Damaged/compromised skin barrier28%
✓Many describe the product as repairing and strengthening a weakened barrier, calming skin after over-exfoliation or heavy actives use.
Sensitivity/irritation and redness20%
✓Most sensitive-skin users report reduced redness and no stinging, though a small subset experienced burning or breakouts, indicating variable tolerance.
Acne-prone/breakout risk12%
✓
Points to note
–Thick texture / slow absorption
–Too heavy for summer or oily skin
–Breakouts or purging in a minority of users
–Irritation/burning on compromised skin
–Peeling or pilling when over-applied or layered
30
non-irritating/gentle25
glow/glass skin22
retinol/tretinoin pairing15
Sentiment breakdown
Positive
87%
Neutral
9%
Negative
4%
Share of analyzed reviews by overall sentiment.
AM and PM use
Many use it twice daily, though a notable subset reserves it for nighttime only due to its thicker, richer feel.
Paired with actives like retinol/tretinoin
Frequently used to buffer or calm skin when layering retinoids, with reviewers noting it reduces irritation from actives.
Pre-makeup hydration/primer step
Applied before sunscreen and makeup for a dewy, glowing base that reportedly doesn't pill.
Seasonal adjustment
Widely favored in winter/dry climates for its rich moisture, while some users reduce frequency or skip it in summer or on oily skin due to heaviness.
✓Several acne-prone users say it hydrates without breaking them out, while a minority reported new breakouts or purging.
Dullness/lack of glow10%
✓Users report a visible glow and 'glass skin' brightening effect attributed to regular use.
Concerns and outcomes summarized from reviews; percentages are approximate.