How should I finish after applying essence?

When doing my skincare routine, is applying just essence multiple times sufficient for hydration? I am wondering if I absolutely have to finish with a cream to prevent moisture from evaporating. My skin tends to be quite dry, so I want to know if layering multiple essences is okay, or if I need to finish with an oil-based product like a cream to really combat dryness.

When I use only the essence, it seems to absorb well, but after a while, my skin feels tight again. In this case, I'm wondering if it's better to keep reapplying the essence, or if I should make sure to apply even a small amount of cream to create a moisturizing barrier.

I am curious if the method varies depending on skin type, and I would also like to know what order or combination is most effective for resolving inner dryness.

Please recommend some good products as well. An essence or cream that is good for inner dryness would be great, too!