# SK-II vs DHC

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/compare/sk-ii-vs-dhc

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Germany.

SK-II and DHC are Japanese skincare brands founded in 1980 that offer distinct approaches to complexion care. SK-II is cherished for luxurious moisturizers, potent [serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/ingredients/serum), clarifying toners, and restorative masks anchored by pitera, while the second brand is beloved for effective makeup removers and nourishing formulas. The former suits dry skin and acne-prone skin best, whereas both suit normal and oily skin depending on the specific formulation. They differ primarily in their standout solutions, with the first utilizing key ingredients to improve pore area, roughness, and redness, while the latter continues to offer reliable daily care for a balanced complexion.

SK-II is a Japanese skincare brand founded in 1980 and owned by The Procter & Gamble Company since 1991.

[en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SK-II) [discoversk-ii.wixsite.com](https://discoversk-ii.wixsite.com/home/brand-history) [glossy.co](https://www.glossy.co/beauty/despite-strong-results-in-beauty-in-the-first-quarter-pg-will-eliminate-thousands-of-jobs/)

DHC is a Japanese skincare brand founded in 1980 and owned by ORIX Corporation since 2023.

[dhc-corporate.co.jp](https://dhc-corporate.co.jp/en/company/message/) [en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DHC_Corporation)

This page compares some of the most popular SK-II and DHC products; for every product of both brands, with a fit score for your own skin, [use the Lovi app](https://app.pora.ai/vqqJ/j1xj2b6o?af_sub2=compare&af_sub3=selection_note&af_sub4=pg84f1909723).

### Popular SK-II vs DHC products

#### DHC

- [Deep Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/dhc/deep-cleansing-oil/for/dry-skin) — High fit — [€51.49 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.de/dp/B0D1Z46P7R?tag=lovi-care-web-product05-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Pore Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/dhc/pore-cleansing-oil/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — [€42.76 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.de/dp/B084JNPDJX?tag=lovi-care-web-product05-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)

#### SK-II

- [Facial Treatment Essence](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/sk-ii/facial-treatment-essence/for/dry-skin) — High fit — [€235.61 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.de/dp/B003RTY1OM?tag=lovi-care-web-product05-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Facial Treatment Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/sk-ii/facial-treatment-mask/for/dry-skin) — High fit — [€89.99 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.de/dp/B000ZFTAOM?tag=lovi-care-web-product05-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Facial Treatment Clear Lotion](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/sk-ii/facial-treatment-clear-lotion/for/oily-skin) — High fit
- [Skinpower Advanced Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/sk-ii/skinpower-advanced-cream/for/mature-skin) — High fit
- [Genoptics Ultraura Essence](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/sk-ii/genoptics-ultraura-essence/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit
- [Facial Treatment Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/sk-ii/facial-treatment-cleansing-oil/for/dry-skin) — High fit — [€138.08 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.de/dp/B084M1R6RH?tag=lovi-care-web-product05-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Genoptics Spot Essence](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/sk-ii/genoptics-spot-essence/for/dark-spots) — Average fit

## Questions and answers

### SK-II or DHC: which is better?

SK-II has a much wider range of products on this page and fits dry skin, acne-prone skin, and oily skin best, while DHC focuses mainly on cleansers. Lovi rates several SK-II items as High or Superior for specific skin needs.

### What is the difference between SK-II and DHC?

SK-II and DHC are both Japanese skincare brands founded in 1980, but SK-II features a wider selection of products on this page with key ingredient Pitera, whereas DHC is represented here solely by its cleansing oils. Lovi rates SK-II as a High fit for dry, acne-prone, and oily skin types, while DHC fits a broader range of skin types exceptionally well, including a Superior fit for sensitive skin with its Pore Cleansing Oil.

### Which is more affordable, SK-II or DHC?

This page does not provide pricing or affordability information for either SK-II or DHC.

### Which causes fewer breakouts, SK-II or DHC?

Both SK-II and DHC offer products on this page that help manage breakouts, with SK-II achieving a Superior Lovi fit level for acne-prone skin in its Genoptics Ultraura Essence [serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/ingredients/serum). Every product across both brands lists no fragrance in its ingredients.

### Who owns SK-II and DHC, and when were they founded?

SK-II was founded in Japan in 1980 and is owned by The Procter & Gamble Company. DHC was also founded in Japan in 1980 and is owned by ORIX Corporation.

### Do any products from SK-II or DHC contain fragrance?

Every product on this page from both SK-II and DHC lists no fragrance in its ingredients.

### Which SK-II product achieves a Superior Lovi fit level for acne-prone skin?

Genoptics Ultraura Essence achieves a Superior Lovi fit level for acne-prone skin among the products on this page.

## Research behind their key ingredients

- [The effect of niacinamide on reducing cutaneous pigmentation and suppression of melanosome transfer](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12100180/) Nicotinamide w, Niacinamide · The British Journal of Dermatology, 2002
- [Mechanistic Basis and Clinical Evidence for the Applications of Nicotinamide (Niacinamide) to Control Skin Aging and Pigmentation](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34439563/) Niacinamide · Antioxidants, 2021
- [Topical use of dexpanthenol in skin disorders](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/) Panthenol, D-pantothenyl alcohol · American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002
- [Anti-aging and brightening effects of a topical treatment containing vitamin C, vitamin E, and raspberry leaf cell culture extract: A split-face, randomized controlled trial](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/) Tocopherol · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020
- [Effects of ascorbic acid on gingival melanin pigmentation in vitro and in vivo](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19186973/) L-ascorbic acid 2-glucoside, Ascorbyl glucoside · Journal of Periodontology, 2009
- [The 24-hour skin hydration and barrier function effects of a hyaluronic 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract moisturizing fluid: an intra-subject, randomized, assessor-blinded study](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/) Glycerin · Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017
- [Randomized controlled study for the anti-aging effect of human adipocyte-derived mesenchymal stem cell media combined with niacinamide after laser therapy](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33103316/) Niacinamide · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021
- [A Double-Blinded, Randomized, Vehicle-Controlled Study of the Efficacy of Moisturizer Containing Licochalcone A, Decanediol, L-Carnitine, and Salicylic Acid for Prevention of Acne Relapse in Asian Population](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/) Salicylic acid · BioMed Research International, 2020
- [A new topical panthenol-containing emollient: Results from two randomized controlled studies assessing its skin moisturization and barrier restoration potential, and the effect on skin microflora](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/) Panthenol, D-pantothenyl alcohol · The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017
- [Senomorphic activity of a combination of niacinamide and hyaluronic acid: correlation with clinical improvement of skin aging](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39009698/) Niacinamide · Scientific Reports, 2024
- [Efficacy of a topical gel containing chitosan, chlorhexidine, allantoin and dexpanthenol for pain and inflammation control after third molar surgery: A randomized and placebo-controlled clinical trial](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32683390/) D-pantothenyl alcohol · Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2020
- [Daily Fluctuation of Facial Pore Area, Roughness and Redness among Young Japanese Women; Beneficial Effects of Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate Containing Antioxidative Skin Care Formula](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34198790/) Galactomyces ferment filtrate, Pitera essence, Galactomyces ferment filtrate pitera ferment filtrate, Pitera ferment filtrate galactomyces ferment filtrate, Pitera ferment filtrate, Sk-ii pitera concentrate, Pitera · Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2021
- [Efficacy of a multitargeted, salicylic acid-based dermocosmetic cream compared to benzoyl peroxide 5% in Acne vulgaris: Results from a randomized study](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/) Salicylic acid · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024
- [A Salicylic Acid-Based Dermocosmetic is Effective as an Adjunct to Benzoyl Peroxide for Mild to Moderate Acne and as Monotherapy in Maintenance Post Benzoyl Peroxide](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/) Salicylic acid · Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023
- [Efficacy and Tolerability of Topical Nicotinamide Plus Antibacterial Adhesive Agents and Zinc-Pyrrolidone Carboxylic Acid Versus Placebo as an Adjuvant Treatment for Moderate Acne Vulgaris in Indonesia: A Multicenter, Double-blind, Randomized, Controlled Trial](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32983333/) Zinc pca · The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2020
- [Reduction in the appearance of facial hyperpigmentation by topical N-undecyl-10-enoyl-L-phenylalanine and its combination with niacinamide](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19958429/) Undecylenoyl phenylalanine · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2009
- [Inhibitory effects of shell of Camellia oleifera Abel extract on mushroom tyrosinase and human skin melanin](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31033161/) Butylene glycol · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019
- [A randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled study of a preparation containing undecylenoyl phenylalanine 2% in the treatment of solar lentigines](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19874316/) Undecylenoyl phenylalanine · Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 2010
- [Formulation strategies to modulate the topical delivery of anti-inflammatory compounds](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24139433/) Stearyl glycyrrhetinate · Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2013
- [Clinical Development and Evaluation of a Multi-Component Dissolving Microneedle Patch for Skin Pigmentation Disorders](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37571190/) 3-o-ethyl ascorbic acid · Polymers, 2023
- [Influence of vitamin E acetate on stratum corneum hydration](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9706379/) Tocopheryl acetate · Arzneimittel-Forschung, 1998
- [Enhanced Fluctuations in Facial Pore Size, Redness, and TEWL Caused by Mask Usage Are Normalized by the Application of a Moisturizer](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35456214/) Galactomyces ferment filtrate, Pitera essence, Galactomyces ferment filtrate pitera ferment filtrate, Pitera ferment filtrate galactomyces ferment filtrate, Pitera ferment filtrate, Sk-ii pitera concentrate, Pitera · Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2022
- [Three clinical studies showing the anti-aging benefits of sodium salicylate in human skin](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20883290/) Sodium salicylate · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2010
- [Evaluation of the Efficacy and Safety of a Panthenol-Enriched Mask for Skin Barrier Recovery After Facial Laser Treatment: Results of a Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Study](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40613435/) Panthenol, D-pantothenyl alcohol · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025
- [Glycerol crosslinked vitamin E loaded xanthan gum and gellan gum nanoemulgels for topical management of dry skin](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41224059/) Xanthan gum · International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2025
- [A Double-Blind, 12-Week Study to Evaluate the Antiaging Efficacy of a Cream Containing the NFκB Inhibitor 4-Hexyl-1, 3-Phenylenediol and Ascorbic Acid-2 Glucoside in Adult Females](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27272084/) L-ascorbic acid 2-glucoside, Ascorbyl glucoside · Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2016
- [Effect of an Emollient Emulsion Containing 15.0% of Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride on the Urocanic Acid of the Stratum Corneum](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37109405/) Caprylic capric triglyceride · Life, 2023
- [Significant Reversal of Facial Wrinkle, Pigmented Spot and Roughness by Daily Application of Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate-Containing Skin Products for 12 Months-An 11-Year Longitudinal Skin Aging Rejuvenation Study](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36769815/) Galactomyces ferment filtrate, Pitera essence, Pitera ferment filtrate galactomyces ferment filtrate, Galactomyces ferment filtrate pitera ferment filtrate, Pitera ferment filtrate, Pitera · Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2023
- [Treatment with Ascorbyl Glucoside-Arginine Complex Ameliorates Solar Lentigos](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39769217/) L-ascorbic acid 2-glucoside, Ascorbyl glucoside · International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2024
- [The Effectiveness of Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate, Dexpanthenol, and Centella Asiatica Combination Serum in the Treatment of Post-Acne Hyperpigmentation in Subjects with Skin of Color](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33938432/) Galactomyces ferment filtrate, Sk-ii pitera concentrate, Galactomyces ferment filtrate pitera ferment filtrate · Skinmed, 2021
- [Clinical Efficacy of Topical Ascorbic Acid 2-Glucoside in Enhancing Outcomes of Laser Gingival Depigmentation: A Randomized Controlled Trial](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42147661/) Ascorbyl glucoside · Cureus, 2026
- [Efficacy of a Topical Formulation on Skin Hydration and Barrier Function in Individuals With Xerosis: A 28-Day Randomized, Split-Leg, Untreated-Controlled Trial](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42108609/) Dipotassium glycyrrhizate · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2026

## The brands

- Japanese skincare: [SK-II](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/brands/sk-ii)
- Japanese skincare: [DHC](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/brands/dhc)

## More comparisons

- [SKIN1004 vs SK-II](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/compare/skin1004-vs-sk-ii)
- [SKIN1004 vs DHC](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/compare/skin1004-vs-dhc)
- [Anua vs SK-II](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/compare/anua-vs-sk-ii)
- [Anua vs DHC](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/compare/anua-vs-dhc)
- [Medicube vs SK-II](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/compare/medicube-vs-sk-ii)
- [Medicube vs DHC](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/compare/medicube-vs-dhc)
- [The Ordinary vs SK-II](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/compare/the-ordinary-vs-sk-ii)
- [The Ordinary vs DHC](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/compare/the-ordinary-vs-dhc)
- [Beauty of Joseon vs SK-II](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/compare/beauty-of-joseon-vs-sk-ii)
- [Beauty of Joseon vs DHC](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/compare/beauty-of-joseon-vs-dhc)
- [COSRX vs SK-II](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/compare/cosrx-vs-sk-ii)
- [COSRX vs DHC](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/compare/cosrx-vs-dhc)
- [CeraVe vs SK-II](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/compare/cerave-vs-sk-ii)
- [CeraVe vs DHC](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/compare/cerave-vs-dhc)
- [La Roche-Posay vs SK-II](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/compare/la-roche-posay-vs-sk-ii)
- [La Roche-Posay vs DHC](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/compare/la-roche-posay-vs-dhc)
- [Dr. Althea vs SK-II](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/compare/dr-althea-vs-sk-ii)
- [Dr. Althea vs DHC](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/compare/dr-althea-vs-dhc)
- [Some By Mi vs SK-II](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/compare/some-by-mi-vs-sk-ii)
- [Some By Mi vs DHC](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/compare/some-by-mi-vs-dhc)

## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi compares products by their fit scores, calculated from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this comparison: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/compare/sk-ii-vs-dhc
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/compare/sk-ii-vs-dhc
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/compare/sk-ii-vs-dhc
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/compare/sk-ii-vs-dhc (this page)
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- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/compare/sk-ii-vs-dhc
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