I was kindly sent a bundle of beauty goodies in the post this week which included SK-II products. I recognised the SK-II skincare brand from magazines but had never tried anything from their range.
The story behind SK-II is a fascinating one. It began at a sake brewery in Japan in 1980, where scientists noticed the elderly workers had wrinkled faces, but soft and youthful-looking hands. These hands were in constant contact with the sake fermentation process. It took years of research for scientists to isolate the miracle ingredient Pitera, a naturally-derived liquid from the yeast fermentation process.
Thirty four years on, the liquid’s nutrient-rich formula has not changed since its inception, containing a 90 per cent concentration of SK-II’s magic ingredient Pitera, which powers the skin’s cellular renewal process leading to a clearer, softer complexion.
SK-II Limited Edition Facial Treatment Essence
The facial treatment essence has become a special secret shared by celebrities such as Cate Blanchett, transforming skin along the five dimensions of texture, radiance, firmness, spot control and wrinkle resilience critical to crystal clarity.
This essence has been beautifully transformed into a limited edition boasting a distinctive floral design. Each design from the limited edition collection represents a different facet of beauty – passion, elegance, compassion and wisdom.
I was given the Purple Hydrangea version, which represents compassion. The design stamped onto the bottle is beautiful. The soft budding petals coupled with slight variations of colour are both captivating and eye-catching. If it was on a dressing table of products, it would be the first thing I pick up as it’s so pretty!
As for the product itself, it feels like nothing I have ever used before. It is a clear liquid that you simply pat onto your face and neck after cleansing. Skin absorbs the benefits almost on contact for improved suppleness, smoothness and radiance. It also clarifies and moisturises. Basically, everything your skin needs in one bottle!
The result? My skin looked more balanced and healthy. The liquid absorbed easily into my skin without leaving a greasy residue behind. My skin feels softer, smoother and renewed. I’ve only been using it for a few days but I will continue to use it daily and look forward to the results.
SK-II MEN Facial Treatment Essence
Conventionally, men spend less time and effort caring for their skin than women do. I can understand that, as Phil is more of a wash and go man whereas I have a more extensive process of double cleansing, toning, moisturising, exfoliating, using eye cream and sometimes a serum. It’s a bit exhausting but the thought of being closer to 30 than 20 has spurred me to take care of my skin.
I can’t say Phil’s thought process is the same. His idea of a skincare regime is putting on moisturiser occasionally when his face feels dry. I can’t blame him, I wouldn’t like to be with a man who spends more time grooming than I do. But at the same time, I don’t think that there is anything wrong with taking care of your skin whether you’re male or female. So I introduced him to SK-II MEN Facial Treatment Essence.
Featuring over 90 per cent Pitera, plus a refreshing ingredient, to cool, calm and soothe, the unique power of SK-II MEN Facial Treatment Essence lies in its ability to help transform skin across five dimensions: texture, radiance, firmness, discoloration and wrinkle resilience.
Pitera is naturally fermented and contains over 50 precious micro-ingredients, which work to help maintain a healthy skin barrier function in cold and dry weather, ensuring skin remains hydrated and feels firm.
The stylish black and silver packaging appealed to Phil as it looked masculine and modern. The bottle is sleek and looks cool on his shelf.
After a few applications, Phil noticed that he had brighter and more even toned skin. His face felt moisturised with no flaky or dry patches.
“I don’t have the time or the patience to fuss around with different products so I like the fact that the facial essence does everything in one go. I will continue to use it!” he commented.
SK-II Limited Edition Facial Treatment Essence, 215 ml, £120
SK-II MEN Facial Treatment Essence, 215 ml, £120
The Facial Treatment Essence Collection is available at Harrods and Harrods.com.
