A luxury facial essence formulated with over 90% Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate (PITERA™) to boost radiance, refine texture, and mimic the skin’s natural moisturizing factors.
This formula is iconic for its high concentration of Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate (PITERA), which serves as the primary ingredient. This yeast ferment is rich in vitamins, amino acids, and minerals, proven to significantly improve skin texture, radiance, and moisture retention. The inclusion of humectants like Butylene Glycol and Pentylene Glycol aids in absorption and hydration without making the product heavy. It is a highly effective, minimalist formula designed to boost skin renewal.
The product relies on established preservatives like Sodium Benzoate, Sorbic Acid, and Methylparaben. While Methylparaben is deemed safe by major regulatory bodies (FDA, EU) for cosmetic use, it remains a controversial ingredient among ‘clean beauty’ advocates due to potential endocrine disruption concerns, though the risk in this context is scientifically considered negligible. Additionally, high concentrations of fermented ingredients can potentially trigger fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) in susceptible individuals.
This is a cult-classic luxury essence (likely SK-II) that defined the category of ferment-based skincare. Its efficacy is backed by decades of consumer testimonials regarding skin clarity and anti-aging. However, the formula utilizes older-school preservative systems (parabens) which may deter some modern consumers, and the ferment base is a ‘hit or miss’ for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin types. Overall, it is a top-tier product for barrier repair and brightening.
This essence is often hailed as “Miracle Water” within the luxury skincare market, commanding a cult following for decades. The formula is deceptively simple, relying almost entirely on a single powerhouse ingredient: Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate, proprietary named PITERA™. Comprising over 90% of the product, this yeast-derived filtrate was discovered after scientists observed the remarkably youthful hands of aged sake brewers in Japan. Biologically, the ferment is a cocktail of over 50 micro-nutrients, including vitamins, amino acids, minerals, and organic acids.
These components are structured to resemble the skin’s own Natural Moisturizing Factors (NMF), allowing for superior absorption and biocompatibility. The primary function of this essence is to support the skin’s natural renewal cycle. By gently exfoliating dead surface cells via organic acids and boosting moisture retention, it gradually reveals a brighter, smoother complexion. For those battling textural irregularities and dullness, this product is a heavyweight contender. It excels at refining the appearance of pores and balancing sebum production, making it particularly effective for combination and oily skin types that need hydration without the heaviness of thick creams.
The inclusion of Butylene Glycol and Pentylene Glycol further assists in delivering moisture, acting as lightweight humectants that prevent the water-like formula from evaporating too quickly. However, the formula is not without its polarizing elements. The preservative system relies on Methylparaben and Sodium Benzoate. While methylparaben is scientifically deemed safe for use in cosmetics and is often less sensitizing than many “natural” alternatives, it remains a point of contention for those adhering to strict “clean beauty” marketing lists. Additionally, the scent is strictly functional; lacking artificial fragrance, the product carries a distinct, sour, yeasty aroma that can catch new users off guard.
Finally, a critical caution is necessary regarding the yeast content. While ferments are fantastic for barrier repair in most people, they can be a trigger for Fungal Acne (Malassezia folliculitis). If your skin struggles with yeast overgrowth, this nutrient-dense broth might feed the problem. For everyone else, if the budget permits, this remains a benchmark product for achieving crystal-clear translucency and long-term anti-aging maintenance.
🧪 Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate (PITERA) / 半乳糖酵母样菌发酵产物滤液
Purpose: Skin conditioning, anti-aging, moisturizing, brightening
Concerns: Generally safe, but may trigger fungal acne in susceptible individuals.
Notes: A yeast fermentation byproduct rich in vitamins, amino acids, minerals, and organic acids. It represents the signature ingredient of this essence.
🧪 Water / 水
Purpose: Solvent
Concerns: None
Notes: The base carrier for the other ingredients.
🧪 Butylene Glycol / 丁二醇
Purpose: Solvent, humectant, texture enhancer
Concerns: Very low risk of irritation; generally considered safe.
Notes: Helps ingredients penetrate the skin and keeps the product from drying out.
🧪 Pentylene Glycol / 戊二醇
Purpose: Solvent, humectant, preservative booster
Concerns: Low risk of sensitization.
Notes: Has antimicrobial properties which can allow for a lower concentration of traditional preservatives.
🧪 Sodium Benzoate / 苯甲酸钠
Purpose: Preservative (antifungal)
Concerns: Can become sensitizing for some people; rare risk of benzene formation if combined with high concentrations of Vitamin C.
Notes: Food-grade preservative commonly used in acidic environments.
🧪 Methylparaben / 羟苯甲酯
Purpose: Preservative (antibacterial/antifungal)
Concerns: Parabens are controversial due to potential endocrine disruption claims, though Methylparaben is generally considered safe in cosmetic concentrations.
Notes: One of the most effective and widely researched preservatives.
🧪 Sorbic Acid / 山梨酸
Purpose: Preservative
Concerns: May cause stinging or irritation on very sensitive skin.
Notes: Often used in conjunction with other preservatives to provide broad-spectrum protection.