

💧 Unlock radiant, hydrated skin with every drop — your glow-up starts here!
SECRET KEY Starting Treatment Essence is a 155ml antioxidant-rich skincare step featuring Galactomyces and enzymes that deeply hydrate, nourish, and provide anti-aging benefits. Designed as the first step after cleansing, it enhances absorption of subsequent products while soothing sensitive and reactive skin. Praised for its lightweight texture, long-lasting bottle, and exceptional value, it’s a cult favorite alternative to high-end essences.







| ASIN | B073P7CC78 |
| ASIN | B073P7CC78 |
| Best Sellers Rank | #115,141 in Beauty ( See Top 100 in Beauty ) #1,985 in Facial Moisturizers |
| Customer reviews | 4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars (1,244) |
| Date First Available | 19 July 2017 |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Item model number | SKC-START-155ML |
| Item model number | SKC-START-155ML |
| Manufacturer | SecretKey |
| Manufacturer | SecretKey |
| Product Dimensions | 7.62 x 5.08 x 0.51 cm; 380 g |
| Product Dimensions | 7.62 x 5.08 x 0.51 cm; 380 g |
L**.
A Youtuber named Stephanie Nicole recommended this as an alternative to the Sk-ii essence. I actually preferred the ingredients list on the Secret Key essence and the price was a out 1/10th of the other. I have mature, dry, sensitive, reactive skin prone to dermatitis and eczema. I dispense 3 shots onto the palm of my hand, and pat it all over my face, including eyes and chin. It absorbs fairly quickly, and then I dispense 2 shots and do the same. I use this immediately after cleansing at night, and as a first step in the morning. This soothes my skin, is very hydrating, locks in the water from cleansing, prevents transepidermal water loss and allows for the rest of my skin care to penetrate more deeply. It's made a huge difference on my skin. My texture is fading, my redness has faded dramatically and it's gentle enough to use even when I have a flare up of eczema. I also made a rescue toner using the items in my photo (except for the witch hazel). I received mine Dec 4 and just ran out today, so it will last AT LEAST 4 months using a double dose twice daily. I was going to try to use up my sk-ii sample, but can't imagine being without this, so I reordered. There's nothing in this that will irritate your skin, and I highly recommend it. UPDATE April 2019: I received my 2nd bottle in perfect condition. It's a beautiful glass bottle and I love the dispenser. I've since tried a sample of the Sk-ll essence for 10 days, and I prefer Secret Key. It's just more hydrating and something I could never do without. I dispensed some into my first empty bottle and added some Matcha green tea powder for an extra boost!
A**Y
Finished My First Bottle After 3 Months—Already Repurchasing ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I’m 45 with normal-to-dry, sensitive skin, and this essence has been a standout in my routine. ✨ Hydrating – keeps skin plump, calm, and glowing—no noticeable scent ✨ Lightweight – layers well with other products, never sticky and doesn’t pill or interact with any other products ✨ Gentle – no irritation or issues whatsoever ✨ Long-lasting – one bottle lasted me close to 3 months ✨ Great value – high quality for the price I just finished my first bottle and I’m already repurchasing. This will stay in my routine.
B**N
It's a great product
M**G
Leaves my skin feeling soft and supple. It's helped cleared the dark spots on my face from pimples.
T**E
Love this essence. Skin drinks it up, and it leaves the skin softer and brighter. People say this is a dupe for SKII. The formulation is top notch, and the price point is great. Try it and see a difference in your skin.
Trustpilot
2 months ago
1 week ago