Su:m37, Secret Essence
Secret Essence
Naturally fermented first essence, cult favorite for radiance.
Pros
- Glowy finish
- Suits sensitive skin
Cons
- Pricey
Opens an external retailer in a new tab. We do not sell directly.
Su:m37 Secret Essence is a standout in the fermented skincare arena, frequently described as Korea's richer answer to classic Japanese first essences. Formulated with LG's proprietary Cytosis botanical ferment blend, it bridges the gap between a watery treatment essence and a hydrating serum. Users with dry, normal, or dull skin will appreciate its ability to impart a refined, glassy smoothness and plump surface hydration. Those with severe botanical allergies or strict budgets may hesitate, but for luxury skincare enthusiasts seeking an elevated brightening ritual, it remains an enduring benchmark.
What's good and what's not
Reviewers praise Su:m37 Secret Essence for refining texture and imparting an unmistakable dewy glow through its complex fermented botanical blend. Compared to ultra watery first essences like SK-II, it provides a slightly viscous, plush cushion of hydration that absorbs without heaviness. The primary drawbacks cited are its premium luxury pricing and the potential for sensitivity given the dozens of fermented plant extracts.
The good
Radiance and plumping
Users consistently report a visible boost in translucency and bounce, making tired or dull complexions look refreshed.
"My skin looks brighter and more plump... plumps everything up nicely"
Refines rough skin texture
Fermented lysates and mild natural organic acids help promote gentle cellular turnover, significantly softening rough texture.
"skin has become dewier, clearer, and smoother with less blackheads and whiteheads problems"
Cushioning hydration
Unlike runny, water thin first essences, it possesses a slippery, viscous texture that delivers deeper immediate moisture to parched skin.
"SU:m's SPE's consistency is WAY thicker... it's a hydration bomb"
Pleasant sensory experience
Reviewers appreciate the subtle, natural citrus and herbal aroma derived from its fermented extracts rather than harsh synthetic perfumes.
"I notice a bit of a scent but it doesn't linger... The smell is amazing"
The trade-offs
Expensive investment
At luxury tier pricing, many users note that despite the refined formula, it is difficult to justify as an ongoing staple compared to mid range alternatives.
"The price point is a major turndown for normal consumer like me."
Potential tackiness on oily skin
Because it is slightly thicker than pure watery ferments, it can leave a minor tackiness if applied generously on oily skin types.
"Oily and combination skin might find it a bit tacky since it is quite nourishing."
Risk of botanical sensitivities
The proprietary Cytosis ferment incorporates dozens of botanical species, which can cause contact sensitivity or breakouts in reactive skin.
"Having so many plant extracts and oils also comes with an increased risk of a reaction"
Reach for it if
Dry, dull, and combination skin types seeking a plumping, radiant fermented treatment.
Skip it if
Those with extreme sensitivity to complex botanical plant extracts or essential oil aromatics.
What to expect
- Improved skin smoothness and refined texture
- Immediate layer of cushioning hydration
- A natural, dewy post application glow
- Subtle plumping of fine lines with consistent use
Don't expect
- Rapid eradication of deep stubborn hyperpigmentation
- Immediate disappearance of deep expression wrinkles
- Strong pore shrinkage
Deep facts
- Texture
- Viscous watery essence
- Finish
- dewy
- Scent
- Subtle herbal citrus aroma from natural fermentation extracts
- Packaging
- Heavy frosted glass bottle with a drop dispenser opening; feels luxurious and substantial on a vanity.
- Value
- Priced as a premium luxury prestige product, it delivers exceptional formulation depth and sensory appeal, though budget-minded shoppers may find similar barrier support in mid-range alternatives.
- Lasts
- ~10 weeks
- Time to results
- Instant dewy hydration, with improved clarity and texture visible in 2 to 4 weeks.
- Usage frequency
- AM and PM daily
- Routine position
- First essence step, immediately after cleansing or balancing toner
- Repurchase signal
- Moderate, while users adore the radiant finish, high pricing causes some to pause before repurchasing.
Layering tips
Apply directly to cleansed skin or immediately after a watery balancing toner, gently pressing into the face before heavier serums and creams.
Flagged ingredients
Fragrance (Fragrance)
Present in earlier versions, newer iterations rely on natural extracts and citrus/herbal fermentation byproducts.
Often compared to
Full INCI list
This ingredient list was auto-compiled and may be incomplete or outdated. For allergens, pregnancy or sensitivity checks, verify on the brand's official page.
Saccharomyces/Xylinum/Black Tea Ferment, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Sorbeth-30 Tetraoleate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Bifida Ferment Lysate, Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate, Saccharomyces Ferment Filtrate, Pichia Ferment Lysate Filtrate, Pseudoalteromonas Ferment Extract, Lactobacillus/Soybean Ferment Extract, Betula Alba Juice, Saccharomyces/Barley Seed Ferment Filtrate, Lactobacillus/Rye Flour Ferment, Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Water, Water, Panthenol, Ceramide NP, Squalane, Cholesterol, Glycosphingolipids, Adenosine, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Hydrogenated Lecithin, PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Carbomer, Tromethamine, Trisodium EDTA, Fragrance
How to use
Press into skin after cleansing.
Questions people ask about Secret Essence
What is Secret Essence and what does it do?
What is Secret Essence and what does it do?
Reviewers praise Su:m37 Secret Essence for refining texture and imparting an unmistakable dewy glow through its complex fermented botanical blend. Compared to ultra watery first essences like SK-II, it provides a slightly viscous, plush cushion of hydration that absorbs without heaviness. The primary drawbacks cited are its premium luxury pricing and the potential for sensitivity given the dozens of fermented plant extracts.
Is Secret Essence good for normal, dry and combination skin?
Is Secret Essence good for normal, dry and combination skin?
Yes, it tends to suit normal, dry and combination skin. Dry, dull, and combination skin types seeking a plumping, radiant fermented treatment.
Who should avoid Secret Essence?
Who should avoid Secret Essence?
Those with extreme sensitivity to complex botanical plant extracts or essential oil aromatics.
How often should I use Secret Essence?
How often should I use Secret Essence?
AM and PM daily
How long until Secret Essence shows results?
How long until Secret Essence shows results?
Instant dewy hydration, with improved clarity and texture visible in 2 to 4 weeks.
What can I layer Secret Essence with?
What can I layer Secret Essence with?
Apply directly to cleansed skin or immediately after a watery balancing toner, gently pressing into the face before heavier serums and creams.
Is Secret Essence worth the price?
Is Secret Essence worth the price?
Priced as a premium luxury prestige product, it delivers exceptional formulation depth and sensory appeal, though budget-minded shoppers may find similar barrier support in mid-range alternatives.
Is Secret Essence suitable for sensitive skin?
Is Secret Essence suitable for sensitive skin?
Secret Essence is alcohol-free, which makes it a safer pick for reactive or barrier-impaired skin. Always patch test before using it on the full face.
Opens an external retailer in a new tab. We do not sell directly.
Compare with similar essences
Side by side: ingredients, price, skin type fit, and which one to pick.
Read next
Guides that pair well with this product.
Opens an external retailer in a new tab. We do not sell directly.
Sign in to write a review.