K-Beauty Glossary
What is First Treatment Essence (FTE)?
퍼스트 트리트먼트 에센스
Fermented essence applied first
A First Treatment Essence is a ferment-rich essence applied as the very first step after cleansing (before toner). FTEs typically contain fermented yeast or galactomyces extracts that boost skin's radiance, improve texture, and enhance absorption of subsequent products. They're considered the secret weapon of Korean skincare — the step that makes everything else work better.