Versus

Sk-II Facial Treatment Essence (Pitera Essence) - Original Versus Paula's Choice Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner - US

Essence
Toner
Japanese Brand
American Brand

Updated on November 20, 2023

Overview

Suited For

They're both likely to be good for anti aging, dry skin and sensitive skin

Free From

They both do not contain any harsh alcohols, common allergens, silicones or sulfates

We independently verify ingredients, and our claims are backed by peer-reviewed research. Spot a product that needs an update? Let us know.

Ingredient Info

Click any item below to learn more and see relevant ingredients

What's inside (and what isn't)

What's inside (and what isn't)

At a glance

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Benefits

Concerns

Key Ingredients

Benefits

Ingredients Side-by-side

found in both products

Ingredients Explained

These ingredients are found in both products.

Ingredients higher up in an ingredient list are typically present in a larger amount.

Humectant, Masking, Skin Conditioning

Butylene Glycol (or BG) is used within cosmetic products for a few different reasons:

Overall, Butylene Glycol is a safe and well-rounded ingredient that works well with other ingredients.

Though this ingredient works well with most skin types, some people with sensitive skin may experience a reaction such as allergic rashes, closed comedones, or itchiness.

Learn more about Butylene Glycol
Skin Conditioning, Solvent

Water. It's the most common cosmetic ingredient of all. You'll usually see it at the top of ingredient lists, meaning that it makes up the largest part of the product.

So why is it so popular? Water most often acts as a solvent - this means that it helps dissolve other ingredients into the formulation.

You'll also recognize water as that liquid we all need to stay alive. If you see this, drink a glass of water. Stay hydrated!

Learn more about Water

When to use

680 Routines
51% use in am
49% use in pm
98% use every day
When to use See routines that use it ->
585 Routines
51% use in am
49% use in pm
97% use every day
When to use See routines that use it ->

Reviews

Here's what our community thinks

4.10
Overall rating
5
4
3
2
1
What people say
Hydrating 57% Works Well 43% Expensive 43%
5.00
Overall rating
5
4
3
2
1
What people say
Absorbs Well 100% Great Value 100% Hydrating 100%