Multi-Active Delivery Essence
Multi-Active Delivery Essence
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, water-based essence that delivers instant and long-lasting hydration while enhancing the penetration of your skincare products. Clinically proven to double the absorption of niacinamide within one hour, this innovative formula preps skin for optimal ingredient delivery.
2x Ingredient Penetration
Clinically proven to double the absorption of niacinamide within 1 hour when used together.
Texture & feel
SENSORY2x Ingredient Penetration
Clinically proven to double the absorption of niacinamide within 1 hour when used together.
All-Day Hydration
Provides instant and long-lasting hydration that keeps skin nourished throughout the day.
Barrier Strengthening
Strengthens the skin barrier with just a single application for healthier, more resilient skin.
Luminous Finish
Leaves skin looking more radiant, soft, and perfectly prepped for subsequent treatments.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe during pregnancy.
Free from ferments, fatty acids, esters, and polysorbates that can feed malassezia yeast.
Minimal ingredient list with no harsh alcohols, fragrances, or common irritants. Low irritation potential.
Do not use in the same routine as AHAs, BHAs, or other direct acids. Increasing acid penetration may cause irritation.
Do not use in the same routine as retinol or retinoids. Enhanced penetration may increase sensitivity.
As with any new product, perform a patch test before full application, especially for very reactive skin types.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycerin 10%Proven
A powerful humectant naturally found in skin that attracts and retains moisture. At 10% concentration, it provides significant hydrating benefits while improving skin elasticity and barrier function.
- Function: Draws moisture from the environment and deeper skin layers to the surface
- Efficacy: Studies show glycerin is more effective than hyaluronic acid as a humectant
- Safety: Comedogenic rating of 0 - does not clog pores
Propanediol 5%Proven
A corn sugar-derived penetration enhancer that increases the delivery of key ingredients. Also provides additional hydration by supporting water content and retention in the skin.
- Function: Enhances absorption of subsequent skincare products
- Source: Plant-derived from corn sugar, Ecocert approved
- Benefits: Supports skin barrier and water retention
Sodium Caproyl Prolinate ActivePromising
An amino acid derivative that hydrates skin while enhancing the delivery of other active ingredients like niacinamide and amino acids.
- Function: Improves ingredient penetration through hydration
- Origin: Derived from proline amino acid
- Benefit: Helps subsequent products absorb more effectively
Glycogen ActivePromising
A polysaccharide that energizes skin cells while supporting hydration and essential barrier lipids. Helps maintain the skin's natural ceramide levels.
- Function: Energizes skin and supports barrier lipids
- Hydration: Helps maintain optimal moisture levels
- Radiance: Contributes to a more luminous appearance
11 ingredients
Aqua/Water/Eau, Glycerin, Propanediol, Sodium Caproyl Prolinate, Glycogen, Gellan Gum, Citric Acid, Sodium Chloride, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply immediately after cleansing for best results. If using Milky Toner, apply essence after toner. Pairs especially well with Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with freshly cleansed skin. Pat dry gently with a clean towel - skin can be slightly damp.
Dispense 3-4 Drops
Pour a small amount into your clean palms. Fingertips are preferred over cotton pads to maximize product absorption.
Pat & Press Into Skin
Gently pat and massage the essence across your face and neck until fully absorbed. Avoid the eye contour.
Follow With Serums
Continue with your serums (like Niacinamide) and moisturizer. The essence will help boost their absorption.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want to maximize the effectiveness of your serums
- Your skin needs an extra hydration boost
- You use niacinamide in your routine
- You're building a "glass skin" routine
- You have dehydrated or dull-looking skin
- You want a simple, no-fuss prep step
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need safe options
Consider alternatives if:
- You use retinoids or direct acids in your routine (conflicts)
- You prefer minimal skincare steps
- You want a product with immediate visible results
- Your skin is already well-hydrated and doesn't need extra prep
- You prefer thicker, more nourishing essences
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight, water-based formula absorbs instantly without adding shine or greasiness. Won't contribute to excess oil production.
Provides excellent hydration boost. Best followed with a rich moisturizer to seal in moisture for very dry skin types.
Balances hydration across different zones without making oily areas more oily or leaving dry areas parched.
Fragrance-free, minimal ingredient list with no common irritants. Some with very reactive skin report occasional tingling.
Non-comedogenic formula with 0/5 pore-clogging rating. Fungal acne safe and won't trigger breakouts.
Results timeline
4+ WEEKSInstant Hydration & Softness
Skin feels immediately hydrated, softer, and smoother to the touch. Noticeable plumping effect and improved texture right after application.
100% noticed instant hydration*Enhanced Product Absorption
Niacinamide penetration doubles within one hour. Serums applied after essence absorb more effectively with reduced pilling.
2x niacinamide penetration*Improved Skin Texture
Consistent use leads to visibly smoother skin texture. Skin appears more luminous and elastic with better overall tone.
85% reported smoother textureStronger Skin Barrier
Long-term hydration support strengthens the skin barrier. Reduced sensitivity and improved resilience against environmental stressors.
90% noticed improved barrierRatings by platform
300+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Affordable price point ($12 for 100ml)
- Lightweight, water-like texture
- Absorbs instantly without stickiness
- Clinically proven to enhance niacinamide absorption
- Minimal, clean ingredient list (11 ingredients)
- Fragrance-free and gentle formula
- Safe for pregnancy and fungal acne
- Helps subsequent products absorb better
- No pilling when layered
Criticized
- Results are subtle and hard to measure alone
- Cannot be used with acids or retinoids
- Some find the texture too thin/watery
- May cause tingling in very sensitive skin
- Adds an extra step to skincare routine
- Benefits best seen when paired with other products
- Not available in travel size
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESDifferent active ingredient (snail mucin) but similar hydrating and prep benefits. Thicker texture, provides more visible hydration. Also great for sensitive and acne-prone skin.
Hydrating toner with hyaluronic acid, centella, and beta-glucan. Slightly thicker consistency, designed for sensitive skin. More soothing but doesn't specifically enhance penetration.
Simple, clean formula with astragalus root extract. More hydrating toner than essence. Great for sensitive skin but focused on soothing rather than penetration enhancement.
From the same brand with hydration focus using multi-weight hyaluronic acid. Different mechanism but similar goal. Slightly more viscous texture and also preps skin for serums.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required.
Plastic bottle with flip-top cap. Simple, functional dispensing design.
Yes, 100ml is the maximum liquid allowed in carry-on luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this essence is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. The simple formula includes only gentle humectants and hydrating ingredients like glycerin and propanediol. However, DECIEM notes their products haven't been specifically tested on pregnant individuals, so consulting with your healthcare provider is always recommended.
Yes, this product is fungal acne safe. It does not contain ferments, fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, or oils that can feed the malassezia yeast responsible for fungal acne. The formula is free from common triggers and has been verified as FA-safe by ingredient analysis platforms like SkinSort and INCIdecoder.
No, The Ordinary specifically advises against using this essence in the same routine as direct acids (AHAs, BHAs, Vitamin C) or retinoids/retinol. The essence is designed to enhance penetration, and increasing the absorption of potent actives like acids and retinoids could lead to irritation, sensitivity, or over-exfoliation. Use these products in separate routines (e.g., essence in the morning, retinol at night).
This essence is suitable for all skin types including sensitive, oily, dry, combination, and acne-prone skin. Its lightweight, water-based formula absorbs instantly without leaving residue or greasiness. Oily skin types appreciate that it doesn't add shine, while dry skin types benefit from the hydration boost. It's particularly excellent for those with sensitive or reactive skin due to its minimal, fragrance-free formula.
Immediate results include instant hydration and softer skin texture upon application. The enhanced penetration benefit (2x niacinamide absorption) occurs within 1 hour. Visible improvements in overall skin texture and luminosity typically appear within 1-2 weeks of consistent use. Long-term barrier strengthening benefits are noticed after 4+ weeks of regular application.
Apply this essence immediately after cleansing as the first treatment step. If you use a toner (like the Milky Toner), the essence can go either before or after - The Ordinary says either works based on personal preference. Follow with serums (especially Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%), then moisturizer, and sunscreen in the morning. Use both AM and PM.
No, this essence has a comedogenic rating of 0/5, meaning it will not clog pores. Glycerin, the main active ingredient at 10%, has a comedogenic rating of 0 and is actually beneficial for all skin types. The formula is oil-free, silicone-free, and contains no known pore-clogging ingredients, making it safe for acne-prone skin.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. This means you should use the product within 12 months of first opening it. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain efficacy. The 100ml bottle size typically lasts 2-3 months with twice-daily use, so you'll likely finish it well before the PAO expires.
Verdict: The Ordinary Multi-Active Delivery Essence is an innovative, affordable addition to hydration-focused skincare routines. Its clinically proven ability to double niacinamide absorption makes it particularly valuable for those already using The Ordinary's bestselling Niacinamide serum. While the results are subtle when used alone, the lightweight, fungal-acne-safe formula excels as a prep step that genuinely enhances your overall routine. At just $12 for 100ml, it offers excellent value for anyone looking to maximize their skincare investment. Best suited for hydration seekers who want their serums to work harder, though those using acids or retinoids will need to plan separate routines.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 0 |
Sodium Caproyl Prolinate
Humectant, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Glycogen
Skin Conditioning, Humectant
|
|
|
| 1 |
Gellan Gum
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Film Forming
|
|
|
| 2 |
Citric Acid
Masking, Fragrance, Chelating Agent, Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Texture
Pores
|






