This has been my first time trying an emulsion, being so dry I thought this extra step could be very beneficial. This is really nice, super gentle and I’ve found I can use it even when my skin is very irritated. I think this is a nice extra step to have but probably not essential. If you don’t like heavier moisturisers you could actually use this instead as a more lightweight option. For me, I definitely still need more moisturiser on top.