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The Signature Essence

The Signature Essence

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

A revolutionary double-fermented facial treatment essence packed with pre-, pro-, and postbiotic ingredients. This lightweight, fast-absorbing formula features Galactomyces, Red Ginseng, Centella Asiatica, Kombucha, and peptides to brighten skin, restore moisture barrier, and support healthy skin microbiome for a luminous, even-toned complexion.

Fragrance-Free Oil-Free Paraben-Free Silicone-Free Sulfate-Free Allergen-Free Alcohol-Free Pregnancy Safe Pre/Pro/Postbiotic Double Fermented
Pregnancy
Yes
Fungal Acne
No
Comedogenic
1/5
Size
120ml
pH Level
5.0–5.6
Type
Essence
When
AM & PM
Key Active
Galactomyces
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

Double Fermentation Technology

Two-step fermentation breaks down ingredients into smaller, more bioavailable molecules for deeper absorption and enhanced potency compared to single-fermented essences.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Watery-Light
Scent
Fragrance-Free
Absorption
Instant
Finish
Dewy

Double Fermentation Technology

Two-step fermentation breaks down ingredients into smaller, more bioavailable molecules for deeper absorption and enhanced potency compared to single-fermented essences.

Holistic Biotic Complex

Complete pre-, pro-, and postbiotic system that stabilises the skin microbiome, strengthens the moisture barrier, and supports natural skin defence.

7 Fermented Botanicals

Red Ginseng, Centella Asiatica, Rye Flour, Soy, Kombucha (Black Tea), Red Algae, and Reishi mushroom work in synergy for multi-dimensional skin renewal.

Multi-Discoloration Targeting

Addresses brownish, greyish, yellowish, reddish, and bluish discolorations with Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Glutathione, and Acetyl Glucosamine for comprehensive tone correction.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe

No retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Not Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Safe

Contains multiple fermented ingredients (Galactomyces, Saccharomyces, Lactobacillus ferments) and Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane that may feed malassezia yeast. Avoid if you are prone to fungal acne.

Low Comedogenic Risk (1/5)

Oil-free, silicone-free formula with no heavy pore-clogging ingredients. Very unlikely to cause breakouts for most skin types.

Sensitive Skin Friendly

Free from fragrances, harsh alcohols, parabens, allergens, and sulfates. pH 5.0–5.6 matches the skin's natural acid mantle. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin.

Retinol & Vitamin C Compatible

Can be safely layered with retinol, vitamin C serums, AHAs, and BHAs. Apply the essence first as a hydrating base before stronger actives.

Soy & Rye Ferment Note

Contains Lactobacillus/Soybean Extract Ferment Filtrate and Lactobacillus/Rye Flour Ferment. While fermentation typically breaks down allergenic proteins, those with severe soy or gluten allergies may want to patch test first.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Galactomyces Ferment FiltrateProven

The star ingredient and first in the INCI list. A yeast-derived ferment filtrate rich in over 50 micronutrients including amino acids, vitamins, and organic acids. The same family as SK-II's legendary Pitera, but enhanced through double fermentation for greater potency.

  • Mechanism: Boosts natural moisturizing factors (NMF) by promoting filaggrin production, strengthening the skin barrier against allergens and moisture loss
  • Studies: Research shows GFF improves skin hydration, regulates sebum production, and provides antioxidant protection against UV-induced inflammation
  • Brightening: Helps regulate melanin production and keratin turnover for a more even, luminous complexion
Listed first in the ingredient list, indicating it is the highest-concentration active in the formula.

Bifida Ferment LysateProven

A postbiotic powerhouse obtained from bifidobacterium fermentation. Widely studied for its ability to repair skin barrier damage, reduce sensitivity, and protect against environmental aggressors.

  • Barrier Repair: Strengthens the skin's natural defence by supporting lipid barrier function and increasing ceramide production
  • Anti-Aging: Clinical studies demonstrate improvement in fine lines, firmness, and overall skin radiance with regular use
  • Protection: Provides antioxidant defence and helps skin recover from UV damage and pollution stress

Saccharomyces/Panax Ginseng Root Ferment FiltratePromising

Red Ginseng fermented with Saccharomyces yeast. Double fermentation amplifies the concentration of ginsenosides — the key bioactive compounds in ginseng known for their anti-aging and revitalising properties.

  • Anti-Aging: Ginsenosides stimulate collagen synthesis and inhibit enzymes that break down collagen and elastin
  • Antioxidant: Potent free radical scavenger that helps combat oxidative stress from UV exposure and pollution
  • Cell Renewal: Promotes skin cell turnover for improved texture, firmness, and radiance

3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C)Proven

One of the most stable and effective vitamin C derivatives available. Oil- and water-soluble, it delivers the brightening and antioxidant benefits of pure vitamin C without the instability and irritation.

  • Stability: Far more stable than L-ascorbic acid — does not oxidise or turn brown quickly, maintaining efficacy throughout the product's shelf life
  • Brightening: Studies confirm it inhibits melanin synthesis and fades dark spots visibly after 8 weeks of daily use
  • Collagen: Once absorbed, it converts to pure vitamin C in the skin and stimulates collagen synthesis for firmer skin

Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 (Argireline)Promising

Known as a "topical Botox alternative," this peptide relaxes micro-muscle movements to help soften expression lines. Complemented by Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12 and SH-Polypeptide-121 for a comprehensive peptide complex.

  • Mechanism: Reduces the release of neurotransmitters that trigger muscle contraction, helping to diminish the appearance of dynamic wrinkles
  • Collagen Support: May also promote collagen production and improve skin firmness and hydration over time
  • Clinical Data: Studies show visible reduction in wrinkle depth after 28 days of consistent use at effective concentrations
Results are more subtle than injectable treatments. Best used as a preventive measure and for mild expression lines.

Dual Hyaluronic Acid ComplexProven

Contains both Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate (ultra-low molecular weight) and Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate (super HA) for multi-layer hydration that penetrates deeper and lasts longer than standard HA.

  • Deep Hydration: Hydrolyzed HA's tiny molecular size allows penetration into deeper skin layers for plumping from within
  • Long-Lasting: Acetylated HA binds more firmly to skin than regular HA, providing sustained moisture retention even after washing
  • Barrier Support: Combined with Glycerin, Xylitol, Sorbitol, and Glucomannan for comprehensive, multi-mechanism hydration

GlutathionePromising

The body's master antioxidant, included here for its dual role in brightening and protecting. It inhibits tyrosinase (the enzyme responsible for melanin production) while neutralising free radicals at the cellular level.

  • Brightening: Helps shift melanin production from darker eumelanin to lighter pheomelanin, contributing to a more luminous skin tone
  • Antioxidant: Neutralises reactive oxygen species and regenerates other antioxidants like vitamins C and E

35 ingredients

Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate, Saccharomyces/Panax Ginseng Root Ferment Filtrate, Lactobacillus/Centella Asiatica Extract Ferment Filtrate, Water, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Bifida Ferment Lysate, Saccharomyces Lysate, Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate Filtrate, Lactobacillus/Rye Flour Ferment, Lactobacillus/Soybean Extract Ferment Filtrate, Lactobacillus/Ganoderma Lucidum Extract/Lentinus Edodes Extract Ferment Filtrate, Saccharomyces/Xylinum/Black Tea Ferment, Lactobacillus/Algae Extract Ferment, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Glucomannan, Sorbitol, Xylitol, Acetyl Glucosamine, Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract, Glutathione, Pseudoalteromonas Ferment Extract, SH-Polypeptide-121, Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Phenoxyethanol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Sodium Citrate, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Citric Acid, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Caprylyl Glycol, Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane.

FREE FROM: Fragrance, Parabens, Sulfates, Harsh Alcohols, Silicones, Mineral Oil, Essential Oils, Artificial Colorants, Allergens, Formaldehyde Releasers
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Cleanser
2
Toner
3
Essence
4
Serum
5
Moisturiser
6
Sunscreen

Use morning and evening after toner, before serums. Can be layered 2–3 times for extra hydration. Pairs well with Skinmade Niacinamide + Allantoin Serum and Antioxidants + Prebiotic Oats Barrier Repair Moisturiser.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Dispense

Pour a few drops of The Signature Essence into the palms of your hands and gently rub them together to warm the product.

2

Press & Pat

Gently press your palms onto both cheeks first, then forehead and chin. Pat the entire face until the essence is fully absorbed into the skin.

3

Extend to Neck (Optional)

Add a couple more drops and apply to your neck and chest area for additional benefits. Pat gently until absorbed.

4

Layer & Continue

For extra hydration, layer 2–3 applications. Once absorbed, follow with your serum, moisturiser, and sunscreen (AM).

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You want to brighten dull, uneven skin tone
  • You need a lightweight, layerable hydration step
  • You want to strengthen and support your skin barrier
  • You are interested in microbiome-friendly skincare
  • You love fermented essence formulas (like SK-II) but want a more affordable option
  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need safe brightening products
  • You want anti-aging benefits without harsh actives

Consider alternatives if:

  • You have diagnosed fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis) — fermented ingredients may aggravate it
  • You prefer thick, cream-textured products — this is very watery and lightweight
  • You have severe soy or gluten allergies (contains soy and rye ferments)
  • You need heavy-duty moisturisation as a standalone — this works best layered under a moisturiser
  • You are looking for a strong exfoliating product — this is gentle and non-exfoliating
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Excellent

Water-like consistency absorbs instantly without adding shine or greasiness. Oil-free formula helps balance sebum production through Galactomyces ferment.

Dry Skin
Good

Provides solid hydration through dual HA complex, Glycerin, Xylitol, and Sorbitol. Layer multiple times for extra moisture, but will still need a richer moisturiser on top.

Combination Skin
Excellent

Lightweight enough for oily zones while delivering enough hydration for dry patches. Balances well across different face zones without heaviness.

Sensitive Skin
Good

Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, allergen-free with a skin-matched pH of 5.0–5.6. Centella Asiatica and Bifida Ferment Lysate help soothe. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin.

Acne-Prone Skin
Moderate

Non-comedogenic and oil-free, which is great. However, if your acne is fungal (malassezia), avoid this product. For bacterial acne, the fermented ingredients and low comedogenic profile make it suitable.

08

Results timeline

WEEK 5–8
After 1st Application

Immediate Softness & Glow

Skin feels noticeably softer and more hydrated. A healthy, dewy glow appears right away as the lightweight essence plumps and smooths the skin surface.

83% agree skin is softer
Week 1–2

Enhanced Hydration & Comfort

Skin feels consistently hydrated and less tight throughout the day. The moisture barrier begins to strengthen, and skin appears healthier and more resilient.

75% agree hydration is long-lasting
Week 3–4

Texture & Tone Improvement

Visible improvements in skin texture as cell renewal accelerates. Complexion looks more even and less dull. Fine lines begin to appear softer.

87% agree skin texture has improved
Week 5–8

Radiance & Firmness

Significant brightness and radiance improvement. Skin looks firmer and more youthful. Discolorations and dark spots appear lighter with consistent use.

82% agree brightness & radiance improved
09

Ratings by platform

800+ REVIEWS
Brand Website (myskinmade.com)
4.8
Rating
Bestseller
Status
Main complaint: Limited international availability — primarily sold in Malaysia and Southeast Asia
TikTok Shop Malaysia
4.9
Rating
500+
Reviews
Main complaint: Watery texture feels too light for some users who prefer thicker essences
Shopee Malaysia
4.8
Rating
300+
Reviews
Main complaint: Subtle results may take several weeks to become noticeable for some users
Picky (gopicky.com)
19/19
Low Risk Ingredients
0
High Risk Ingredients
Main note: Classified as pregnancy-friendly, oil-free, and free from all major irritants
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Exceptionally lightweight and fast-absorbing — feels like water on the skin
  • Visible glow and hydration improvement from first use
  • Impressive clean formula: free from fragrance, parabens, alcohol, oils, and silicones
  • Double fermentation delivers more potent bioactives than standard essences
  • Complete pre/pro/postbiotic complex for microbiome health
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
  • Generous 120ml size at an affordable price point compared to SK-II
  • Can be layered multiple times without pilling or heaviness
  • Contains 3 peptides, vitamin C, glutathione, and dual HA

Criticized

  • Not fungal acne safe due to heavy fermented ingredient content
  • May feel too light for very dry skin types when used alone
  • Limited global availability — mainly sold in Southeast Asian markets
  • Results take 4–8 weeks to become significant for brightening
  • Contains Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane (a synthetic silicone derivative)
  • Lacks niacinamide which many competing essences include
  • Soy and rye ferments may concern those with related allergies
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
65% Match
Galactomyces 95 Tone Balancing Essence
$21.00
Budget Pick

Contains 95% Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate with Niacinamide and Panthenol. Simpler formula without the multi-botanical ferment complex, peptides, or vitamin C. Similar brightening effect but lacks the microbiome-focused approach. Slightly thicker gel texture vs. Skinmade's watery feel.

60% Match
Time Revolution The First Essence 5X
$27.00
Budget Pick

Uses Yeast Ferment Extract and Bifida Ferment Lysate similar to Skinmade. Includes Niacinamide and Ceramide NP for barrier support. Does not have the double-fermented botanical complex, peptides, or vitamin C. Available in 150ml size. Popular K-beauty alternative.

50% Match
Starting Treatment Essence - Rose Edition
$14.00
Budget Pick

Contains 94% Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate with Niacinamide, Glycerin, and Adenosine. Very affordable entry-level fermented essence. Lacks the multi-ferment botanical complex, peptides, vitamin C, and biotic ingredients that make Skinmade's formula more advanced.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
Facial Treatment Essence (Pitera Essence)
Key Ingredient Pitera (Galactomyces) 90%+
Size 160ml
Price per ml $1.12/ml
Vitamin C No
Peptides No
Biotic Complex Postbiotic Only
Fragrance-Free Yes
Fungal Acne Safe No
Galactomyces 95 Tone Balancing Essence
Key Ingredient Galactomyces 95%
Size 100ml
Price per ml $0.21/ml
Vitamin C No
Peptides No
Biotic Complex No
Fragrance-Free Yes
Fungal Acne Safe No
Time Revolution The First Essence 5X
Key Ingredient Yeast Ferment Extract
Size 150ml
Price per ml $0.18/ml
Vitamin C No
Peptides No
Biotic Complex Bifida + Ceramide NP
Fragrance-Free Yes
Fungal Acne Safe No
13

Storage & shelf life

24 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

24 months after opening

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required, but refrigerating can enhance the cooling sensation during application.

Packaging

Frosted glass bottle with a screw cap — protects the formula from light degradation and maintains ingredient potency.

Travel Friendly

No — 120ml exceeds the 100ml carry-on limit. A 30ml travel size is available separately.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Yes. The Signature Essence does not contain any ingredients flagged as unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding — no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, benzoyl peroxide, or chemical sunscreen filters. It is rated as pregnancy-friendly by ingredient analysis platforms like Picky. However, as with any skincare product, consult your doctor if you have specific concerns.

No. This essence contains multiple fermented ingredients (Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate, Saccharomyces Lysate, Bifida Ferment Lysate, Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate, and others) that can potentially feed the malassezia yeast responsible for fungal acne. It also contains Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane. If you have diagnosed fungal acne or are prone to it, this product is not recommended.

Yes. The Signature Essence has a gentle, hydrating formula that works well alongside other active ingredients. Apply it first as a hydrating base, then layer your retinol, vitamin C serum, AHA, or BHA on top. It already contains 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid (a stable vitamin C), so it can complement additional vitamin C products without conflict. If using retinol, apply the essence first to buffer and hydrate the skin.

The Signature Essence works best for oily, combination, and normal skin types due to its ultra-lightweight, watery texture that absorbs instantly without residue. It is also suitable for dry and sensitive skin but may need to be layered multiple times or paired with a richer moisturiser. The brand recommends it for all skin types and it is formulated for both AM and PM use.

Based on consumer tests conducted by the brand: 83% of users noticed softer, glowing skin after the first application. After 28 days of daily use, 87% reported improved skin texture and 83% saw a more even complexion. After 56 days, 82% experienced improved brightness and radiance, and 81% reported firmer, more youthful-looking skin. Individual results may vary depending on skin condition and consistency of use.

Apply The Signature Essence as Step 3 in your routine: after cleansing and toning, but before serums, moisturisers, and sunscreen. This positions it to prep and hydrate the skin, enhancing the absorption and effectiveness of subsequent products. It can be used both morning and evening.

The Signature Essence has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, meaning it has a very low risk of clogging pores. It is oil-free, silicone-free (except for Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane at the very end of the ingredient list), and contains no heavy emollients or waxes. The lightweight, watery texture is very unlikely to cause breakouts. However, as with all skincare, individual reactions can vary.

The Signature Essence has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 24 months. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain potency. The frosted glass bottle helps protect the formula from light degradation. At typical usage of twice daily, the 120ml bottle should last approximately 2–3 months.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.3 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: The Skinmade Signature Essence is an impressively formulated double-fermented essence that delivers far more actives than its price point suggests. With 7 fermented botanicals, a complete pre/pro/postbiotic complex, 3 peptides, stable vitamin C, glutathione, and dual hyaluronic acid — all in a clean, fragrance-free, oil-free formula — it offers serious competition to luxury essences at a fraction of the cost. The lightweight, watery texture makes it effortless to layer and suitable for most skin types. Its main limitation is that it is not fungal acne safe, which rules it out for a significant segment of acne-prone users. If your skin tolerates fermented ingredients well, this essence is an outstanding value for brightening, hydrating, and supporting overall skin health.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb What are Quick Product Notes?

Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?

Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.

We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.

Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 4 ingredient(s):
Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 Citric Acid
brightening Brightening from 4 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Acetyl Glucosamine Glutathione Citric Acid
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate Citric Acid
question
lightbulb What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?

Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.

We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.

One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
2
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
1
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
question
lightbulb What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?

Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
48% 2% 48%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 35 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
0 Unknown
Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate
Humectant
anti-aging Anti-Aging
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
0 Unknown
Lactobacillus/Centella Asiatica Extract Ferment Filtrate
Skin Conditioning
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
2 A
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
brightening Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
1 A
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
Hydrating
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS