When it comes to skincare, there is one brand that I keep coming back for, and that’s SK-II. Though I’ve never really tried all their products, I find that their basic lines like the SK-II Facial Treatment Essence, the Facial Treatment Clear Lotion, and the Facial Treatment Cleanser have really worked wonders on my skin. Some people may disagree on this, but there is just something really magical about this whole Pitera thing.

If you know the whole story of this cult-favorite Japanese skincare brand, then you’d be amazed. As per Wikipedia, “a group of Japanese scientists had observed the sake brewery workers to have smooth young-looking hands after years of submerging them in fermented yeasts even though their faces obviously showed their age.” After further research, the particular naturally-occurring yeast was isolated for use, thus the birth of Pitera.

Much has been said and disputed about Pitera. Some experts said it doesn’t really work or that it’s not worth it, or even that there’s not much proof of its benefit and effectiveness, while some also said that Pitera is rich in vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, which improves the skin’s renewal process, thus making it youthful and glowing. As for me, I do not know if it is a placebo or for real, but ever since I’ve been using these SK-II products, I know my skin started looking fantabulous, no kidding.

My skin is pretty resilient but it gets crazy whenever I subject it to stressful environments or situations, like going to another planet, I mean traveling. Also, it tends to breakout whenever life’s stresses happen. I have tried different products but none of them really sort of prevented my skin from getting confused. Enter SK-II and I could not be happier. I do not know when exactly I started noticing the difference, I think perhaps a month, and my face does not seem to act out as much, no matter the situation or the condition I am in, be it hormones, pollution or dryness. I may have small bumps from time to time but it does not go into full-blown cystic calamity anymore. It is like my skin is more resilient and better protected. Also, my face looks glowy and my skin’s texture looks smooth and even. 

If you have read my previous comment about SK-II before, (seen HERE), I mentioned that my best skin happens whenever I use SK-II. That is true even until now. Since trying them a few years ago, I have never really gone astray, I have been a loyal customer and had been using SK-II products as my daily skincare routine despite the steep price (I know, right?) The products you will see below are the ones I always use daily as my foolproof skincare go-tos regardless of any situation.

SK-II Facial Treatment Cleanser (3.6 oz: $75) – Has a nice rosy scent that is gentle and great for sensitive skin. It’s creamy, non-abrasive, foamy, and non-drying. It feels luxe and it comes in a decent hefty-size container that will last a long time. A great all around facial wash for any skin care type or if you have any skin care concerns. Oh, and great to use with Foreo too.

SK-II Facial Treatment Clear Lotion (5.4 oz: $76) – The toner of my life! What am I going to do without you? Yep, that is how much I love and adore this toner. I have repurchased this countless times and this has helped my skin a lot. This may smell and feel like nothing, but it does make a difference. I love that this seems mild but this is a hardworker by cleaning every remaining trace of makeup and calms the pores. The full size heavy frosted glass bottle usually lasts 2 months on me while using a cotton pad.

SK-II Facial Treatment Essence (Travel Size, 2.5 oz: $99, Standard Size, 5.4 oz: $179, Value sizes: 7.8 oz, $229 and 11 oz: $290) – This face essence, or what I would call and use as a serum, is SK-II’s bestselling product because this has more than 90% Pitera that is ready to get your skin glowing. This is basically the product to get if you want to experience your first dose of SK-II miracle and Pitera goodness. Its consistency is slightly thicker than the Facial Treatment Clear Lotion and its scent is somewhat stronger and could get funkier with time. Some may complain about the scent to be a little fishy, but it’s not so bad, really. I just use my hands to apply the product as I do not want to waste any. This thing is already expensive even for the travel size, but it usually lasts 5 months on me. So it is a great deal. It is even a greater deal if you could find the whole Pitera Essence Set, which comes with the SK-II Facial Treatment Essence Travel Size, plus a Facial Treatment Mask and a mini (1 oz) Facial Treatment Clear Lotion, which is great wherever you go.

Last but not the least, SK-II Facial Treatment Mask (1 Mask: $17, 6 Masks: $95, 10 Masks: $135) – This mask is super drenched with Pitera goodness, oozing with moisturization and hydration. This has no discerning scent and this feels cool, soothing, and nourishing. This makes my skin feel smooth and soft, although it is very pricey. But, totally worth the money and this is the most luxurious, most moist, and most non-greasy mask I have ever tried. So great to take with you during traveling or even on the plane.

Whether you are an SK-II fan or not, what matters is you are satisfied with your current skincare and that you take good care of your skin. We only have one face to take on the world. So, put your best face forward! 

The SK-II Facial Treatment Essence, Clear Lotion, Cleanser, and Mask is available in Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus, Sephora, Dermstore, QVC, Bloomingdales, Violet Grey, Revolve & Macy’s

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