Mise En Scene Curling Essence 2X Volume Curl Review

At a Glance

• Made by Mise En Scene (Amore Pacific Group)
• Packaging Dimension: 19.7cm x 6.2cm x 4.5cm
• 150ml / 5.07 fl oz.
• Fruity floral scent

Packaging & Design

The Mise En Scene Curling Essence arrives as a standalone 150mL tube in a muted, queen blue shade with lavender undertones. Standing 20cm tall, 6.2cm wide, and about 4.5cm in diameter, it is slightly more compact than the Amos Professional Curling Essence. 

The flip-top cap is user-friendly and dispenses a nickel-sized amount with ease. While the tube is sturdy, the material picks up fingerprints and sticky residue quickly, so it requires occasional wiping to maintain a clean appearance.

Texture & Consistency

This white, creamy essence resembles a 30:70 blend of serum and thick cream. It spreads effortlessly through both wet and dry hair, leaving a dry, slightly tacky feel on the palms.

Unlike traditional curl creams, it behaves more like a leave-in treatment, softening the hair rather than stiffening it. While it does add some weight, the finish remains relatively clean compared to most curl creams.

The scent profile is balanced between sweet and tart notes, but the overall profile feels distinctly industrial. It opens with a blackcurrant-rose fruity floral accord, then settles into a bubblegum-like sweetness with a subtle chemical sharpness.

The fragrance is notably dense with strong longevity; it may not be suitable for fragrance-sensitive individuals, as the scent remains pronounced throughout the day.

Ingredients

The formula features a blend of Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil and Apricot Kernel Oil, which supply essential fatty acids that contribute to surface-level shine. This is supported by a mix of 16 amino acids (including Glycine, Serine, and Arginine) alongside multiple molecular weights of Hyaluronic Acid. While these components are effective for moisture retention, their placement later in the ingredient list suggests a primarily supportive role rather than targeted treatment.

Mise En Scene claims thermal protection up to 200°C. Although the formula incorporates VP/VA Copolymers and other film-forming polymers to create a protective layer, there is a structural contradiction within the formulation. The high concentrations of Dipropylene Glycol and Alcohol (listed second and sixth, respectively) may induce a “flash-drying” effect. Under heat, these solvents evaporate rapidly, potentially drawing out internal moisture before the protective polymers have fully set.

The most significant concern for this product is its comedogenic potential. The formula relies on a heavy base of Cetearyl Alcohol, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, and Cyclopentasiloxane (Silicone), which, when combined with film-formers, creates an occlusive barrier. While this helps hold the curl, it also traps sweat, sebum, and bacteria against the skin. For individuals whose hair frequently contacts the neck, shoulders, or forehead, this environment is a primary driver for pomade acne.

The formula contains a high volume of aromatic sensitizers, including Linalool, Limonene, Geraniol, Citronellol, and Benzyl Salicylate. Though these provide the signature scent, they are recognized allergens. Users with a history of contact dermatitis or sensitive scalps should perform a patch test, as the sheer number of fragrance compounds increases the cumulative risk of skin reactivity.

Performance

The product largely delivers on its “Curling Essence” positioning, optimizing the hair for natural wave styling. The formula distributes evenly without clumping at the ends, and its light, refreshing finish produces soft, voluminous results that feel natural rather than artificial.

However, the product’s overall holding power is minimal. Across multiple styling methods, results consistently trended toward loose, uniform wave patterns. Users seeking highly defined or dynamic curls may find this aspect underwhelming.

Style longevity is also limited. Waves begin to relax noticeably within three to four hours of application, occurring even sooner with frequent hair touching as elasticity diminishes. This combination of low initial definition and gradual structural loss results in an ultimately limp silhouette.

Interestingly, some curl formation was observed when using only a hairdryer, without a curling iron. This appears to stem from the formula’s lightweight, non-stiffening nature, which allows the hair to remain flexible during drying. Heat from the dryer temporarily reshapes the hair’s structure, creating a soft, natural wave.

Despite its dense, essence-like texture, which suggests shine and moisture, the product performs poorly in frizz control. Flyaways were not effectively managed on either wet or dry hair, and blow-drying after application appeared to increase static and the scattering of fine strands.

The most significant concern we encountered was the potential for skin irritation. Several testers experienced inflammation and pomade acne along the neck and hairline. While individual reactions will vary, our testing suggests that skin sensitivity is a real risk factor with this product.

Value for Money

While the low price point and generous volume make this an attractive budget option, the overall value is below average. Its fundamental lack of curling power means it fails as a dedicated styling tool. When factoring in the risk of skin breakouts and the need for frequent reapplication, the cost savings are negated by the lack of performance. Many superior alternatives exist for only a few dollars more.

Who Is It For?

We recommend thinking carefully before making a purchase, but if you identify with any of the following, you might find this product helpful:

• Budget-conscious users looking for a lightweight, “no-hold” natural look.
• Low-porosity hair that prefers a thinner, essence-like consistency over heavy styling creams.
• Daily washers who can ensure that product and bacteria buildup are thoroughly removed from the hairline every night.

Mise En Scene Curling Essence 2X Volume Curl: Verdict

The Mise En Scene Curling Essence 2X Volume offers an accessible entry point for those seeking a soft, non-stiff finish, yet it ultimately fails to deliver on its primary promises.

The weightless feel and soft texture are a welcome change for anyone who hates the “crunch” of traditional gels, however, these perks don’t make up for the lack of definition. It fails to provide the structural hold needed to sustain curls or effectively manage frizz.

Ultimately, this essence functions more as a basic grooming cream than a reliable styling tool. For users who prioritize hair health and consistent results, investing in a higher-performance alternative is the more cost-effective choice in the long run.