
Why this product
Dull, uneven texture. Fermented essence that brightens and smooths without irritation.
What it does: Galactomyces ferment serum. Brightens and softens texture through fermentation science.
Skin types: All, especially dull or uneven skin.
vs SK-II: $18 vs $185. SK-II Facial Treatment Essence is $185 for 160ml of galactomyces ferment filtrate. Numbuzin uses the same core ingredient at 83.2% concentration for $18/50ml. The per-ml cost difference is staggering.
Consistently rated Holy Grail across an estimated 3,800+ community discussions on r/AsianBeauty. Most common praise: this is the real SK-II dupe. After 4 weeks my skin was visibly brighter and smoother. At $18 it’s criminal.
Hydrate step
Step 3 in your routine. Sign in to add it.
Where in your routine
Why this step exists in K-beauty
Fermentation is the secret of K-beauty’s most iconic products. Galactomyces ferment filtrate (the same base as SK-II) is produced by yeast fermentation, creating a cocktail of amino acids, vitamins, and organic acids that brighten and refine skin texture over time.
How to use
Key ingredients
Details
Western equivalent
SK-II
Facial Treatment Essence
$185
SK-II Facial Treatment Essence is $185 for 160ml of galactomyces ferment filtrate. Numbuzin uses the same core ingredient at 83.2% concentration for $18/50ml. The per-ml cost difference is staggering.
The bottom line
Numbuzin No.3 Skin Softening Serum is a hydrate that costs $18 for 50ml. It has 3,800+ community discussions and Holy Grail status on r/AsianBeauty. The Western equivalent (SK-II) runs $185 — you save 90%. Best for all, especially dull or uneven skin skin.