# SK-II vs MAËLYS

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/compare/sk-ii-vs-maelys

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

SK-II and MAËLYS are distinct beauty lines, with the former recognized for luxurious moisturizers, potent [serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/ingredients/serum), clarifying toners, and restorative masks anchored by pitera, and the latter cherished for targeted serums and advanced formulas. While the Japanese skincare brand founded in 1980 suits dry and acne-prone skin best with formulations designed to address imbalances, the second brand suits all skin types best through thoughtful, specialized care. Through regular application, the first brand's key ingredients actively improve pore area, roughness, and redness, whereas both offer standout solutions like the Genoptics Ultraura Essence and TOO-FINE for acne-prone skin, alongside the Facial Treatment Essence and RE-LURE Tight & Tone Body Serum for skin with dark spots.

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/)

This page compares some of the most popular SK-II and MAËLYS 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=pgf06be71393).

### Popular SK-II vs MAËLYS products

#### SK-II

- [Facial Treatment Essence](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/sk-ii/facial-treatment-essence/for/dry-skin) — High fit — [£119.99 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08HZZFKVX?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Facial Treatment Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/sk-ii/facial-treatment-mask/for/dry-skin) — High fit — [£63.63 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00J2VUM6A?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Facial Treatment Clear Lotion](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/sk-ii/facial-treatment-clear-lotion/for/oily-skin) — High fit — [£104.99 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B072C3MCDH?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Skinpower Advanced Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/sk-ii/skinpower-advanced-cream/for/mature-skin) — High fit
- [Genoptics Ultraura Essence](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/sk-ii/genoptics-ultraura-essence/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — [£217.00 at Notino](https://www.notino.co.uk/sk-ii/genoptics-ultraura-essence-brightening-serum/p-16254642/)
- [Facial Treatment Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/sk-ii/facial-treatment-cleansing-oil/for/dry-skin) — High fit — [£65.50 at Notino](https://www.notino.co.uk/sk-ii/facial-treatment-cleansing-oil-cleansing-oil-for-all-skin-types/p-16324436/)
- [Genoptics Spot Essence](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/sk-ii/genoptics-spot-essence/for/dark-spots) — Average fit

#### MAËLYS

- [TOO-FINE](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/maelys/too-fine/for/sensitive-skin) — Low fit
- [RE-LURE Tight & Tone Body Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/maelys/re-lure-tight-and-tone-body-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Average fit

## Questions and answers

### SK-II or MAËLYS: which is better?

SK-II is the better choice because the products on this page achieve High and Superior fit levels across most skin types, whereas MAËLYS mostly reaches Low and Average fits. Furthermore, every SK-II product on this page lists no fragrance.

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

SK-II offers a wide range of products on this page with High to Superior Lovi fit levels for skin types like dry and acne-prone skin, whereas MAËLYS features products on this page that generally have Low to Average fit levels. Additionally, every SK-II product on this page lists no fragrance, while some MAËLYS products include fragrance.

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

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

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

SK-II helps cause fewer breakouts, as Lovi rates products like Genoptics Ultraura Essence as having a Superior fit for acne-prone skin, whereas MAËLYS products on this page have low or caution fit levels for acne-prone skin.

### Which brand was founded earlier, SK-II or MAËLYS?

SK-II was founded earlier, in 1980 in Japan, whereas MAËLYS was founded in 2017.

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

Every product from SK-II on this page lists no fragrance in its ingredients. For MAËLYS, 1 of 2 products on this page lists no fragrance, while RE-LURE Tight & Tone Body [Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/ingredients/serum) contains fragrance.

### What is the key active ingredient across SK-II products?

The key active ingredient across the products on this page for SK-II is Pitera.

## 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
- [Regulatory effects of Lactobacillus plantarum-GMNL6 on human skin health by improving skin microbiome](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33526970/) Lactobacillus · International Journal of Medical Sciences, 2021
- [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
- [Treatment of acne with a combination of propolis, tea tree oil, and Aloe vera compared to erythromycin cream: two double-blind investigations](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/) Aloe barbadensis leaf juice · Clinical Pharmacology, 2018
- [Efficacy of probiotic-derived lotion from Lactobacillus paracasei MSMC 39-1 in mild to moderate acne vulgaris, randomized controlled trial](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35384257/) Lactobacillus · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022
- [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
- [Botulinum toxin injection as a single or combined treatment with non-cross-linked high molecular weight and low molecular weight hyaluronic acid gel for neck rejuvenation: A randomized clinical trial](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35775872/) Hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid · Dermatologic Therapy, 2022
- [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
- [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
- [Efficacy and Tolerability of Stable Hybrid Cooperative Complexes of High- and Low-Molecular Weight Hyaluronic Acid in Asian Patients: An Open-Label Study](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40921777/) Hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid · Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, 2026
- [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
- [Evaluation of a retinol containing topical treatment to improve signs of neck aging](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37461826/) Glaucine · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023
- [Nanocomplex of quaternized cyclodextrin grafted chitosan and hyaluronic acid for a skin delivery](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36279763/) Hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid · Colloids and Surfaces. B, Biointerfaces, 2022
- [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
- [Clinical and histologic findings after use of a novel combined retinol, tripeptide, and glaucine containing cream in the treatment of photo-aged skin](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37584260/) Glaucine · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023
- [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

## The brands

- Japanese skincare: [SK-II](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/brands/sk-ii)
- Skincare: [MAËLYS](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/brands/maelys)

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- [SKIN1004 vs MAËLYS](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/compare/skin1004-vs-maelys)
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- [Anua vs MAËLYS](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/compare/anua-vs-maelys)
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- [The Ordinary vs SK-II](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/compare/the-ordinary-vs-sk-ii)
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- [COSRX vs SK-II](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/compare/cosrx-vs-sk-ii)
- [COSRX vs MAËLYS](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/compare/cosrx-vs-maelys)
- [CeraVe vs SK-II](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/compare/cerave-vs-sk-ii)
- [CeraVe vs MAËLYS](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/compare/cerave-vs-maelys)
- [La Roche-Posay vs SK-II](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/compare/la-roche-posay-vs-sk-ii)
- [La Roche-Posay vs MAËLYS](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/compare/la-roche-posay-vs-maelys)
- [Dr. Althea vs SK-II](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/compare/dr-althea-vs-sk-ii)
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- [Some By Mi vs SK-II](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/compare/some-by-mi-vs-sk-ii)
- [Some By Mi vs MAËLYS](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/compare/some-by-mi-vs-maelys)

## 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-maelys
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/compare/sk-ii-vs-maelys (this page)
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/compare/sk-ii-vs-maelys
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/compare/sk-ii-vs-maelys
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/compare/sk-ii-vs-maelys
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/compare/sk-ii-vs-maelys
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/compare/sk-ii-vs-maelys
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/compare/sk-ii-vs-maelys
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/compare/sk-ii-vs-maelys
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/compare/sk-ii-vs-maelys
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/compare/sk-ii-vs-maelys
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/compare/sk-ii-vs-maelys
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/compare/sk-ii-vs-maelys