The essence works fine, it moisturizes the skin around the nails, so I like to use it especially after polish removing. But it takes regular application to see results I guess. It takes a little time to soak up. I don´t really like the applicator. When you press it, a lot comes out, but you really need one little drop for 10 nails. I also like to massage the nails a bit for a better absorbtion, so I actually think the brush itself is not that practical.