#122 BOH’s Bio Heal Vitamin B12 Toning All-in-One Essence

Emulsion is my new go to moisturiser texture

As the heat ramps up and humidity spikes, my heavy, gooey creams felt like little saunas on my face. Thick emollients promised moisture but left me sticky, while gel creams seems like an obvious alternative, they somehow made my skin feel even thirstier—Clinique’s Moisture Surge being the only exception that lived up to its name. I found myself craving that sweet spot between rich cream and water-light gel, and that’s when BOH’s Bio Heal Vitamin B12 Toning All-in-One Essence stepped into the spotlight.

Japanese-style emulsions and lotions have a reputation for striking the ideal balance: they hydrate without suffocating, nourish without greasiness. Unlike a traditional essence—meant to layer under serum and moisturizer—BOH’s “toning essence” packs enough oomph to serve as my go-to hydrator. In this climate, I ditch my favourite creams in favor of one smooth milky application that leaves my skin plump, bouncy, and ready for anything.

I noticed that BOH has a very huge shelf space in Olive Young when I visited South Korea last year, which I suspect this is the kbeauty the locals actually use. The Bio Heal line takes that same lab-driven approach and applies it to barrier repair and overall skin health.

Under the label sits BOH’s Vita-Ion Liposome System—BOH’s proprietary technology designed to enhance the delivery and absorption of active ingredients in skincare products, a fancy name for lipid bubbles that encapsulate eleven vitamins (including C, B3, B5, B6, B9, B12, E and more), ferrying them deep into your skin where they can work their magic. Niacinamide tackles uneven tone and dullness, while sodium hyaluronate plump fine lines with temporary hydration. Panthenol and bifida ferment lysate together calm irritation and strengthen your barrier, so your skin feels less reactive to daily stressors.

From first use, my skin looked dewy and felt comfortable, never weighed down or parched, and the nourishment last me through the day. While I still rely on actives like retinoids, acids, and vitamin C for targeted concerns, this essence isn’t trying to be your miracle worker—it’s the reliable sidekick that keeps everything else performing its best. Oh and did I mention, it smells of geranium and citrus—the best combination for mood lifting, but in a more grounded sense.