IAU Essence Compared | How to Choose Sleek, Moist or Forti and How Much to Use

LebeL "IAU"'s leave-in treatment "IAU Essence" comes in 3 types: Sleek, Moist and Forti. The names alone don't tell you much, but they differ in form (oil, milk, cream jelly) and in the hair the maker recommends them for.

Quick reference for the 3 types

All 3 have a natural herb rose scent and are ¥2,200 for 100ml at our store.

Sleek (oil)

For people who want a cohesive surface. Its form suits concerns such as ends flipping outward or hair puffing up with humidity.

Moist (milk)

Intended for hair that tends to get dry and for wave styles. For when you want to control dry ends without flattening permed curls.

Forti (cream jelly)

Of the 3, this type is intended for hair that needs volume. It suits people with fine hair that gets heavy with oil.

Amount and order

The maker's directions are the same for all 3.

1. After towel-drying, take an appropriate amount in your palm (the guide is 2 pumps for medium hair)
2. Work it in mainly at the ends, then dry
3. For more shine or manageability, add about 1 pump after drying

The maker's directions all focus on the ends. Applying to the roots tends to reduce volume, so spread it in your palms first, then apply to the ends and the rest to the mid-lengths in that order to avoid using too much.

How it differs from Mother Essence

"Mother Essence," also from IAU, is a 25mL product the maker calls a 100% plant-derived hair serum, intended for people concerned about age-related changes in their hair. The split is: IAU Essence for everyday manageability, and Mother Essence when you want to add aging care.

FAQ

Can I mix Sleek and Moist?

The maker's directions do not mention mixing. If you have 2 concerns, choosing 1 based on which to prioritize makes it easier to judge the finish.

Can I use it for morning styling too?

The maker's directions are after towel-drying, plus adding more after drying. Since adding it to dry hair is described, a small amount can also be used to finish the ends in the morning.

Do I need to pair it with an IAU shampoo?

It's not necessary, but IAU shampoos can be chosen from 3 types by scalp type. The differences are covered in the related article.

IAU shampoos are compared in How to Choose a LebeL IAU Shampoo, and leave-in treatments for frizzy hair in general in How to Choose a Leave-In Treatment for Frizzy Hair. For the list of IAU products, see IAU.

Sources (LebeL official site): IAU Essence Sleek, IAU Essence Moist, IAU Essence Forti, IAU Mother Essence

*Results vary from person to person. If a product does not agree with your scalp or skin, stop using it and consult a dermatologist. Prices include tax and are as of the time of posting.