Comparison
Secret Essence vs Secret Programming Essence
Su:m37° vs Su:m37° — side by side, no bias.
Our pick
Secret Essence
8.8/10 · Su:m37°
| Secret Essence | Secret Programming Essence | |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Su:m37° | Su:m37° |
| Category | essence | essence |
| Editor Rating | 8.8/10 ★ | 8.4/10 |
| Category | essence | essence |
| Texture | Clear watery essence | Watery first essence |
| Finish | Luminous absorbed | Fresh |
| Skin Types | ||
| Targets | ||
| Pros |
|
|
| Cons |
|
|
| Verdict | LG's answer to SK-II Pitera — a naturally fermented essence that takes 50+ days in controlled fermentation tanks. The glow is real, the texture is water-thin, and the ferment is genuinely different from galactomyces. If SK-II is the J-beauty first treatment essence, Su:m37° is the K-beauty equivalent. | Sum:37°'s daily 'first essence' — the post-cleanse, pre-serum prep step that K-beauty pioneered. Lactobacillus/Soybean Ferment Extract leads the INCI (the brand's naturally fermented Cytosis complex), with niacinamide + adenosine + HA layered on top. Light, watery, and pH-balanced for sensitive prep. The contemporary alternative to SK-II Pitera or Sulwhasoo First Care, at slightly more accessible pricing than either. |
Ingredient Breakdown
Shared Ingredients
Only in Secret Essence
Only in Secret Programming Essence
None — all ingredients are shared