I had never tried an essence until two months ago. I would cleanse my face and go straight to a serum, but I’ve been applying SK-II PITERA™ Essence since the beginning of March. And I have some thoughts.
At first try I thought, “is this just water?” How could something so thin really do that much for my skin? I did some further research and learned how Pitera Essence began. Scientists noticed that the older edlerly sake brewers in Japan had incredibly youthful skin on their hands, while wrinkles on their face.
Naturally, there was then a search for the ingredients that were causing these benefits. And that’s how Pitera Essence was born. The formula has been meticulously perfected and is very difficult to replicate, which is why it is such a coveted product. Fun fact – the formulation hasn’t changed in about 40 years and a bottle is sold in the world almost every two seconds.
And after using it for two months? I’ve had no blemishes, my skin is smooth and clear. I also feel less oily throughout the day (I’m a very oily t-zone person).
photos by Viva Lux Photography
SK-II Facial Treatment Essence| similar dress here and here | similar earrings | necklace | bracelet | stacked gold rings | pinky ring | bedroom details here
The application process is as you would expect. After cleansing your face (or after using a toner if you use one), simply pour 2-3 shakes in your palms, press together and pat pat on your face. It feels like a lightweight facial vitamin mist on your skin and dries quickly. Then proceed with your usual skincare regimen. At night this usually means a serum and in the morning I’ll just use the essence and skip the serum.
Have you ever tried an essence? I’d love to hear your experience. If not, check out some of the reviews here. I read about 20 before finally thinking, ok – I have to try this for myself. And if you are interested in trying it out for yourself, just a note that Sephora is currently having their Spring Saving Event!
Thank you for reading and sharing – XO –
brought to you by SK-II
Hi Kathleen,
I’ve always wondered about this product. I may have to give it a try. I’ve been using Eudermine essence from Shiseido for years. I love the difference it makes in my skin. I think it makes my other skincare products work better. I also love the long history of this product and that gorgeous bottle!!
Thanks for all the great recommendations! Stay safe and healthy!
Amelia
YAS I SWEAR BY ESSENCES!!! I’ve used Fresh’s essence for about two years now and I really like it. I know it seems like an investment (well, it is), but a little goes a long way!
Dana | The Champagne Edit
I got a sample of the essence with a sephora purchase last year and felt the same way as you, is this really doing anything? but once the bottle was empty i was so sad to see it gone! i haven’t been brave enough to bite the bullet and order the full size due to the price, but reading this is making me nostalgic for the way it made my skin look. i may have to now!
YES!! That is so funny – I would be willing to bet a lot of people have felt this way. Get in on that Sephora sale, sister!
I am so so SO glad this was posted today!!! I’ve been on going back and forth about ordering it during the Sephora sale and this was my confirmation that I should give it a try for myself!!
We are on the same brainwave – hope you love it!!
OMG I love a facial essence!! They’re amazing. If SK-II is a little too pricy for your budget, I’d recommend Tatcha, Fresh, or Caudalie. They’re three of my faves!!! (full disclosure: I am a sephora employee)
I absolutely love this essence. I’ve been using it since December and I will never go back!
I’m realizing this product has a MAJOR cult following!
Thanks for writing about this Kathleen! I have been wondering a lot about this product and if it is worth it. You mentioned your face can be oily, mine is the opposite- SO DRY. Of course I’m not assuming you know all the answers but any idea on how well it works for dry skin??
Stay safe and healthy!
I am not sure how it would work for dry skin but I would be willing to bet someone in the product reviews has dry skin and has reported! I read through dozens of those reviews – they really are so helpful!
I’m not a professional reviewer but can vouch for this with dry skin! I splurged to try out a handful of highly-rated skin products in the 8 months before my wedding, and this is the one favorite that stuck. I follow it with moisturizer and a face oil.