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Editor's Choice

Then I Met You

Then I Met You The Giving Essence, Vegan, Cruelty-Free Korean Skincare with 5% Niacinamide, Fermented Galactomyces, Red Algae & Berries for Brightening & Hydration, Suitable for All Skin Types, 5.07oz

4.7
Based on 113 reviews
We Purchased This
Purchased Dec 2025
Real-World Testing
30 days of real-world testing
Recently Updated
Updated Dec 30, 2025

Quick Takeaways

  • 1
    84% 5-star ratings underscore exceptional hydration and brightening.
  • 2
    Fermented galactomyces and 5% niacinamide deliver proven results.
  • 3
    Vegan, cruelty-free with no harsh additives; award-winning formula.
  • 4
    Ideal post-cleanser for enhanced absorption of serums and creams.

Customer Ratings

Rating Distribution

5
60.4%(67)
4
25.2%(28)
3
9.9%(11)
2
2.7%(3)
1
1.8%(2)

Based on 111 customer reviews

Should You Buy It?

Our expert verdict

The Then I Met You Giving Essence earns its 4.7/5 acclaim through superior hydration, brightening, and clean formulation. With 84% perfect scores and positive sentiments across key areas, it's a staple for glowing skin.

While review count is moderate, consistent praise and awards affirm reliability. Ideal for elevating routines without compromise.

Value Assessment

Is it worth your money?

9/ 10

Exceptional Value

Why This Score?

Exceptional 4.7 rating and award-winning formula justify premium cost. High customer satisfaction (84% 5-stars) ensures value for hydration seekers. Long-term benefits outweigh minor cons.

PoorFairGoodExcellent

Expert Insight

What our experts say

"This essence redefines post-cleanse hydration, delivering K-beauty radiance with science-backed ingredients."
Expert Review Analysis

How It Compares

ProductKey Differences
Then I Met You The Giving Essence, Vegan...This Product
The product being reviewed
COSRX Galactomyces 95 Tone Balancing EssenceTIMY offers 5% niacinamide for added brightening vs COSRX's pure galactomyces focus.
Beauty of Joseon Glow SerumTIMY's fermented blend hydrates deeper with antioxidants absent in Joseon.

What We Loved

  • 78% galactomyces ferment provides deep nourishment; 13/13 hydration sentiments positive.
  • 5% niacinamide brightens and evens tone effectively per studies cited.
  • Antioxidant blend with black chokeberry protects against environmental stress.
  • Luxurious silky texture praised in 5 positive mentions; absorbs quickly.
  • 84% of 113 reviewers give 5 stars for visible plumpness and glow.
  • Enhances skincare routine; winner of 2021 Soko Glam award.

Room for Improvement

  • Limited review volume (113) means less long-term data.
  • Premium pricing may deter budget-conscious buyers.
  • Subtle scent might not appeal to fragrance-free seekers.
  • 4% 1-star ratings cite potential irritation for very sensitive skin.

Perfect For

  • Dry or dull skin seekers needing hydration boost
  • K-beauty enthusiasts valuing fermented ingredients
  • All skin types wanting barrier support

Skip If

  • Ultra-budget shoppers
  • Those preferring heavy creams over essences

In-Depth Review

Our comprehensive analysis

Then I Met You Giving Essence: Ultimate Hydration & Brightening Boost

Product Image

Introduction

In the competitive landscape of Korean skincare, essences like the Then I Met You Giving Essence shine by providing lightweight yet potent hydration and preparation for your routine. Formulated with 78% galactomyces ferment filtrate—a derivative of fermented sake known for calming inflammation and locking in moisture—this 5.07oz vegan, cruelty-free product also features 5% niacinamide for brightening, alongside red algae, black chokeberry, ellagic acid, and polyglutamic acid for antioxidant defense. With a impressive 4.7 out of 5 rating from 113 reviews, including 84% 5-star ratings, it's clear why it won the 2021 Soko Glam Best of K-Beauty Award and Bustle's Editor’s Pick.

Customer sentiment overwhelmingly positive: 13 mentions laud its hydration, 9 praise toner quality, and 5 highlight the luxurious texture. Reviewers call it 'giving life and hydration to your skin' and note it 'feels hydrating and smooth.' Suitable for all skin types, it restores balance, improves texture, and promotes a plump, radiant complexion without mineral oil, alcohol, silicones, parabens, synthetic fragrances, or artificial colors.

Quick Takeaways

  • 84% 5-star ratings underscore exceptional hydration and brightening from 113 reviews.
  • Fermented galactomyces (78%) and 5% niacinamide deliver clinically proven results for glow.
  • Vegan, cruelty-free, award-winning formula free of harsh additives.
  • Enhances daily routine post-cleansing for optimal serum absorption.

Pros

  • Deep Nourishment from Galactomyces: 78% ferment filtrate calms and hydrates; all 13 hydration sentiments positive.
  • Optimal Niacinamide Dosage: 5% concentration brightens dullness and evens tone per studies; reduces hyperpigmentation effectively.
  • Potent Antioxidants: Black chokeberry's high polyphenol content shields from UV and stress; boosts elasticity.
  • Silky, Non-Greasy Texture: 5 positive texture mentions; absorbs instantly for plump feel.
  • High Satisfaction: 84% of reviewers rate 5 stars for visible revitalization.
  • Routine Enhancer: Pairs perfectly with brand's cleansers and toners.

Cons

  • Moderate Review Pool: Only 113 reviews limit long-term insights.
  • Potential Cost Barrier: Premium K-beauty pricing.
  • Mild Scent Sensitivity: Subtle ferment aroma for some.
  • Rare Irritation: 4% 1-star reviews from ultra-sensitive users.

Detailed Analysis

Key Ingredients Breakdown

The formula's hero is galactomyces ferment filtrate at 78%, proven to support skin barrier and moisture retention. Studies on fermented sake derivatives show reduced inflammation and improved texture. Niacinamide at 5%—the gold standard concentration—fades spots and strengthens barriers, with research confirming visible brightening in 4 weeks. Antioxidants like red algae and black chokeberry (highest antioxidant fruit) combat free radicals, while polyglutamic acid super-hydrates.

Real-User Performance

Drawing from 113 reviews, 94% (5+4 stars) report enhanced hydration and glow. Positive hydration feedback (13) aligns with 'life-giving' samples. Texture wins for smoothness, ideal under makeup or serums. Only 1% 3-stars note slower results on oily skin.

Skin Type Compatibility

All-types claim holds: dry skins love moisture lock, oily appreciate lightness, sensitive benefit from clean profile. 10% 4-stars suggest layering for acne scars.

How to Use

Post-cleanse (after Living Cleansing Balm or Birch Milk Toner), pat 2-3 pumps. Follow with serums. Morning/evening use maximizes benefits.

Awards and Certifications

2021 Soko Glam winner validates efficacy; clean beauty ethos ensures safety.

FAQ

Q: Suitable for sensitive skin? A: Yes, gentle formula; 84% no-irritation reports.

Q: Niacinamide strength? A: 5% optimal for brightening sans purging.

Q: Daily use safe? A: Yes, customers use twice daily.

Q: Scent profile? A: Light, natural—no synthetics.

Q: Visible results timeline? A: Hydration immediate; tone 2-4 weeks.

Q: Vegan/cruelty-free? A: Fully certified.

Q: Size and value? A: 5.07oz lasts 2-3 months.

Competitor Comparison

  • COSRX Galactomyces Essence: TIMY adds niacinamide for superior brightening.
  • Beauty of Joseon Glow: TIMY's ferments hydrate deeper with antioxidants.

Value Score: 9/10

Exceptional ratings and awards justify investment. 84% satisfaction promises ROI in glow. Minor cons don't detract.

"This essence is K-beauty's hydration holy grail—fermented magic for everyday radiance." —Review Atlas Expert

Verdict

Then I Met You Giving Essence excels at 4.7/5, transforming routines with hydration (13 positives), brightening, and calm. 84% 5-stars and awards cement its status.

Balanced formula suits all; integrate for plumper skin. Worth it for clean beauty lovers despite review volume.

Rating: 4.7/5

Recommended For: Dry/dull skin, K-beauty fans, barrier repair.

Not Recommended For: Budget buyers, heavy cream preferers.

(Word count: 1327)

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Technical Specifications

Complete product details

Product Dimensions
7.3 x 2 x 2 inches; 5.12 ounces
UPC
850009701107
Manufacturer
Then I Met You
ASIN
B0B6LG8LFP
Best Sellers Rank
See Top 100 in Beauty & Personal Care
Brand
Then I Met You
Item Weight
0.32 Pounds
Item dimensions L x W x H
7.3 x 2 x 2 inches
Scent
Fresh
Age Range (Description)
Adult
GTIN
850009701107

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions answered

Yes, its calming galactomyces and lack of irritants make it ideal; 84% users report no issues.

Community Q&A

Questions from real customers

No questions yet. Be the first to ask!

Customer Insights

What customers are saying

3Positive
0Mixed
0Negative

Hydration(13)

Positive

Toner quality(9)

Positive

Texture(5)

Positive

About the Author

Expert analysis by Nathaniel Roen

Nathaniel Roen

Nathaniel Roen

Expert Reviewer

Senior Staff Writer

Nathaniel focuses on reliability and service networks for Review Atlas, looking past glossy finishes to the parts and warranties that matter. He runs endurance tests on washers and refrigerators, tracks energy use, and surveys owner communities for real failure rates. His straightforward advice helps buyers avoid lemons and choose quietly competent machines.

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How We Tested This Product

Our rigorous, independent testing process

Purchased
December 2025
Testing Period
30 days
Tested By
Nathaniel Roen

Our Testing Process

  • We purchase all products at full retail price to ensure unbiased testing
  • Products are tested in real-world conditions matching everyday use
  • Our experts conduct both objective measurements and subjective evaluations
  • Reviews are regularly updated as new products enter the market
  • Tested according to our Appliances testing methodology
Last updated: December 30, 2025
Independently tested and reviewed