Using both sides of the cotton pad for exfoliation and skin texture refinement in one go leaves your skin smooth and soft. When you press it into your skin using the warmth of your palms, it absorbs quickly and you can feel it penetrating deeply. On days when your skin feels particularly dry, saturate the pad with what might seem like a bit too much serum, then repeat the process of smoothing and pressing with warm hands two or three times. You'll notice your skin feeling softer and more hydrated the next day. While the serum alone might feel a bit rich, once you apply the emulsion, that richness disappears. I think the slightly tacky feeling actually helps to firm up the skin. In my opinion, this product satisfies both the need for hydration and firmness in the skin.
To be honest, it seems a bit pricey for the amount you get. I especially question why they insist on selling the cotton pads with the serum. I'd prefer if they removed the cotton pads and increased the amount of serum instead.
Apply the serum to the cotton pad, first use the rough side for exfoliation, then gently press your palms over your entire face. Use the soft side to refine skin texture, then press again to aid absorption. You can feel it penetrating quite deeply. If you have super sensitive skin, skip the rough side and only use the soft side for texture refinement.
