SK-II Facial Treatment Essence is the premium essence beauty fans around the world call "miracle water". At about ₩180,000 (roughly $130) for 160ml, it is far from cheap. Even so, it has stayed popular for years thanks to one ingredient: Pitera. This report looks at what that ingredient really is, and whether you can get a similar effect for much less.
"Over 90% Pitera (galactomyces ferment filtrate). A same-family alternative can save you up to ₩160,000, about $115."
| Field | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | SK-II |
| Product | Facial Treatment Essence |
| Size / Price | 160ml · about ₩180,000 (≈ $130) |
| Category | Essence / toner |
| Best for | Texture, clarity, hydration |
Because the formula leans on Pitera alone, it shines at hydration and soothing. It has fewer dedicated firming ingredients, so it suits texture and clarity more than anti-aging.
This is a galactomyces ferment filtrate made with SK-II's own fermentation process, and it makes up more than 90% of the formula. The amino acids, vitamins, minerals and organic acids produced during fermentation work together to normalize surface cell turnover and even out skin texture.
It is said to have been discovered after researchers noticed how smooth the hands of sake brewers were, and it has been refined over decades of study.
A vitamin B3 ingredient that helps even out tone and refine the look of pores. Working alongside Pitera, it lifts overall clarity.
It boosts the skin's ability to hold water and calms irritated skin. As a vitamin B5 derivative it is very gentle.
There is fragrance in the formula, so patch test first if your skin is sensitive. The alcohol content is on the low side.
It contains 95% galactomyces ferment filtrate, so its core ingredient is the same family as SK-II's Pitera. The formula is fragrance-free, and the ingredient match comes to 91%.
This one adds vitamin C to galactomyces. You can expect clarity and brightening together, and the large size makes it strong value.
| Field | SK-II Pitera | COSRX Galactomyces 95 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | ₩180,000 (160ml) | ₩18,000 (100ml) |
| Core ingredient | Pitera (galactomyces) 90%+ | Galactomyces 95% |
| Hydration score | 83 | 82 |
| Safety | 75 (fragrance) | 88 (fragrance-free) |
| Ingredient match | — | 91% |
| Price per ml | about ₩1,125 | about ₩180 |
This analysis is AI-estimated and for general information. Check the product packaging for the actual ingredient list. USD figures are approximate.
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