Most customers notice a visible difference in dark spots and skin tone within 7–14 days of consistent daily use. For deeper pigmentation, melasma, or long-standing marks, allow 4–6 weeks. Twice-daily use, morning and night, consistently produces faster results than once daily. Consistency is everything with this formula. Skipping days slows progress noticeably.

Yes. The formula was dermatologist-tested and scored 0.0 on irritation testing. It contains no parabens, artificial fragrance, or harsh exfoliating acids. Arbutin is one of the gentlest brightening actives available, and the formula is reinforced with Ceramides, Squalane, and Hyaluronic Acid to actively support the skin barrier throughout use. For very reactive skin, a patch test on the inner arm before first use is always a sensible precaution.

Yes, and we recommend it. Morning use targets new spot formation throughout the day. Night use allows the actives to work during your skin's natural repair cycle. Always follow with SPF in the morning to protect your results and prevent UV-triggered pigmentation from undoing the progress.

Yes, that is exactly what this formula was built for. Arbutin at 70,000ppm blocks the melanin overproduction that causes uneven patches, while Tranexamic Acid at 40,000ppm intercepts the UV signals that keep triggering new pigmentation. Most customers see a visible difference in existing spots within 7–14 days of consistent use.

Yes. Apply after cleansing and toning, then follow with your moisturiser. It layers well under SPF in the morning. If you use strong acids (AHAs, BHAs) or high-strength retinoids, apply those separately in your PM routine after the cream has fully absorbed, or on alternating nights if your skin is sensitive.

Yes. Melasma is driven by UV-triggered melanin overproduction and hormonal signals, exactly what Tranexamic Acid at 40,000ppm is formulated to intercept. It does not cure melasma, but consistent daily use alongside SPF meaningfully reduces the appearance of patches over time and slows their return. Most customers with melasma see visible improvement within 4–6 weeks.

The formula is built around six active ingredients: Arbutin 7% (70,000ppm) to fade existing dark spots; Tranexamic Acid 4% (40,000ppm) to block new pigmentation; Niacinamide to smooth texture and amplify the brightening actives; Glutathione to boost radiance; Hyaluronic Acid to hydrate; and Ceramides and Squalane to support the skin barrier. Full ingredient list is available on the product page.

Yes. Korean Essence is cruelty-free. We do not test on animals at any stage of production. The formula is also free from parabens and artificial fragrance.

A small amount, roughly a pea-sized amount, is enough to cover the face and neck. Less is more with this formula. Using more product does not speed up results and will go through your supply faster than necessary. Press a little extra into any areas of concern, such as dark spots or uneven patches.

With twice-daily use, one jar typically lasts 4–6 weeks. If you are using it once daily, it will last 8–10 weeks. This is why we recommend the 2-jar or 3-jar bundle for a full treatment cycle, results compound over time, and running out mid-routine can slow progress.

Orders are processed within 1–2 business days. Standard shipping typically takes 3–7 business days depending on your location. During peak periods, delivery may take up to 10 business days. You will receive a tracking number by email once your order has shipped so you can follow its progress.

We ship internationally to most countries. Shipping costs and estimated delivery times are calculated at checkout based on your location. If your country is not available at checkout, feel free to contact us at support@koreanessence.com and we will do our best to help.

Once your order has shipped, you will receive a confirmation email with a tracking number and a link to follow your delivery. If you have not received your tracking email within 3 business days of placing your order, check your spam folder or contact us at support@koreanessence.com.

We process orders quickly, so cancellations or changes need to be requested the same day the order is placed, before our team has processed it. After that point, the order cannot be amended. If you miss the window, our 30-day return policy applies once you receive the product.

We accept all major credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express), Apple Pay, Google Pay, and PayPal. All transactions are processed securely through Shopify Payments.

We offer a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you are not satisfied with your results, contact us within 30 days of delivery for a full refund, no hoops, no hassle. Products must be returned in their original packaging. Contact us at support@koreanessence.com to start the process.

Email us at support@koreanessence.com. We respond to all enquiries within 24 hours on business days. Please include your order number in any messages related to a specific purchase so we can help you as quickly as possible.