- “Add a hydrating essence, a very lightweight one like the one by SK-II”6:47–6:51
- Source: Products I Refuse to Use in Spring as a Dermatologist - Mar 14, 2026
SK-II
See reviews of these products
Facial Treatment Essence"Add a hydrating essence, a very lightweight one like the one by SK-II."$172.93
Genoptics Infinitaura Essence"It helps with what you told me on his skin dullness."$150
GenOptics Infinitaura Brightening Serum"I think this one is a reformulation and it was ranking in the midyear awards as well."$169.00Browse more
- “This is the time to test that one. It Pitera with SK-II is all about holding onto hydration and making the other products that you apply afterwards work stronger for you”15:52–15:59
- “It has fermented galactomyces yeast extract and it really does help to refine that superficial texture”16:05–16:10
- Source: Sephora Sale Faves for Every Concern from a Dermatologist - Apr 4, 2026
- “SK-II is a Japanese brand with a decades-long cult following and their hero product is this lightweight watery essence that you pat into your skin after you cleanse but before you apply your serums”4:19–4:28
- “People who have used it for years describe their skin becoming progressively more even, radiant, and resilient over time”4:31–4:36
- “I actually love recommending this for sensitive skin types who maybe can't tolerate vitamin C or exfoliating acids”4:40–4:46
- “It's also $190”
- Source: Science-backed skincare dupes saving patients thousands - May 29, 2026
- “It helps with what you told me on his skin dullness”14:05–14:07
- “It just looks brighter”15:08–15:08
- Source: Japan's best beauty products in 2025 - Dec 19, 2025
- “I actually do have it in my stash I just never like started using it”3:16–3:21
- “I feel like it's been around for a while but it's oh maybe it's like a renewed formula”3:22–3:29
- Source: 2025 @cosme Best of Beauty Awards Mid-Year Rankings - Sep 5, 2025
- “I think this one is a reformulation and it was ranking in the midyear awards as well”6:13–6:20
- Source: Best of Beauty Awards in Japan 2025 - Jan 9, 2026
Brand note
SK-II is the Japanese brand that built its reputation on one ingredient: Pitera, a fermented yeast extract that shows up across their line. The Facial Treatment Essence is the anchor — a watery, lightweight step meant to go on after cleansing and before serums. Creators (including board-certified derms) describe it as a long-game product that can help with texture, hydration, and resilience over time, and they specifically recommend it for sensitive skin that can't handle vitamin C or acids.
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