I received this product for free from Haruharu Wonder and Picky
I’ve been using the Haruharu WONDER Black Rice Probiotics Barrier Essence consistently for just over two weeks now, and I’ve gone through almost half of the bottle—so I feel like I can finally give a proper, no-fluff review.
The packaging is sleek and minimal, with a slight ombré fade from black to clear. It looks aesthetic on a vanity, but it’s also travel-friendly (plastic, not glass). The pump dispenses just the right amount, which I appreciate because a little goes a long way.
This essence has a unique texture—it’s somewhere between a gel and a lightweight lotion. It’s not super watery like some essences; it’s slightly viscous but still spreads effortlessly over the skin. It absorbs quickly without leaving any tackiness or greasy residue. On my skin, it leaves a hydrated, dewy (not oily) finish that feels like a comforting hug.
There’s a very faint scent—natural, slightly herbal, and a bit nutty. It’s not overpowering, and it disappears quickly after application. If you’re scent-sensitive, it shouldn’t be an issue.
This essence is all about barrier support, hydration, and calming the skin—and it delivers. Within the first week, I noticed less redness around my nose and cheeks, and my skin felt a lot less reactive overall. Over time, I found that my skin looked more plump and even-toned. It layers beautifully under moisturizer and doesn’t pill under sunscreen or makeup.
The product claims to strengthen the skin barrier, hydrate, and support the microbiome with fermented black rice and probiotics. I was skeptical at first, but it really does help balance the skin—especially if you’re someone who over-exfoliates or uses actives like retinol or acids.
What Surprised Me:
I didn’t expect it to actually help with post-acne redness—but it did. My skin looks brighter and more even without being stripped or over-treated. Also, my skin used to get tight and dry in the afternoons, but this helped me maintain moisture all day.
Hidden Details You Don’t Realize Until You Buy:
• It plays surprisingly well with other actives—no weird interactions, no pilling.
• It’s ideal post-shaving or after exfoliation days; it calms irritation almost instantly.
• Works as a nice prepping step before makeup if you want that hydrated, healthy-skin glow without piling on heavy moisturizers.
If you’re looking for a gentle, skin-strengthening essence that supports hydration, barrier health, and overall glow without being too flashy or aggressive, Haruharu WONDER’s Black Rice Probiotics Barrier Essence is a quiet overachiever. It’s become one of those “can’t-skip” steps in my routine.
Would I repurchase? Absolutely! I already have a backup on the way!
What I Disliked:
The only small downside is that it’s not the most dramatic product—if you love quick, overnight transformations, this is more of a “slow and steady wins the race” kind of formula. Also, if your skin is very oily, you might find it a tad too moisturizing on its own.
