Founded in Japan in 1980, skin care powerhouse SK-II enjoys unparalleled status within the beauty industry due to its groundbreaking, galactomytes-rich SK-II Pitera essence, the “secret key” infused into a wide range of SK-II products (SK is short for “secret key”). The brand’s birth is inseparable from the skin-saving properties of fermented yeast, which was discovered when scientists were seeking to understand why aged sake brewers have wrinkled faces but surprisingly soft, smooth and youthful-looking hands. Through a painstaking research process, a single yeast strain was isolated as the key to crystal-clear complexions, and named Pitera. Today, the brand’s uniquely Japanese approach to beauty has made it a byword for high-end skin care, with the all-purpose SK-II Facial Treatment Essence – known throughout Asia as the SK-II “miracle water” – the brightening SK-II Genoptics Spot Essence Serum and the anti-aging SK-II R.N.A. Power Eye Cream amongst firm customer favorites.
The globally recognized SK-II essence, the bestselling Facial Treatment Essence, is a pioneer amongst FTEs (first treatment essences – essences involving ferments) and an instant remedy for a range of skin concerns, from dullness, dryness, dark spots and fine lines to excess sebum. SK-II’s Pitera-rich formula, which contains 90% galactomytes, is charged with over 50 micro ingredients such as peptides, amino acids, proteins, vitamins, minerals and organic acids, all of which work together to restore radiance to a range of skin types. With a formulation so close to the skin’s natural moisturizing factors (NMF) that it is recognized as the skin’s own, this lightweight but powerful essence allows swift penetration and total absorption of ingredients, with visible results after as little as 14 days of continued usage. To get the most out of its hydrating and anti-aging properties, SK-II recommends the “pat-pat routine.” Gently and evenly apply five to ten splashes of essence to your face and neck with your palm or a cotton pad before “patting” skin lightly for optimal absorption. A must-have for deep and lasting facial therapy, both the SK-II 230ml version and the SK-II 330ml version regularly top global beauty bestseller lists.
Further harnessing the unique metabolism-boosting properties of Pitera, SK-II developed the anti-aging R.N.A. Power line, which comprises the SK-II R.N.A. Power Radical New Age Cream, the SK-II R.N.A. Power Eye Cream and the SK-II R.N.A. Power Essence Serum. The SK-II eye cream is particularly well-loved. Supercharged with the brand’s signature anti-aging RNArchitect Complex and infusions of Pitera, alfalfa extracts and white lupin seed, this product aims to rejuvenate the eye area by smoothing skin, softening the appearance of wrinkles and improving skin elasticity. The SK-II R.N.A. cream, meanwhile, comes packed with the brightening ingredient niacinamide and the skin-conditioning chlorella extract on top of SK-II’s signature brew of anti-aging ingredients to deliver that lit-from-within glow. For a transformative boost to aging skin, the R.N.A. Power Essence Serum provides the answer. Adding plant-based phytoingredients to the brand’s anti-aging formula, this milky essence is primed to improve skin elasticity while amping up its moisture-retention capabilities. Together, these bestselling products from the powerful SK-II R.N.A. line promise to provide complexions with a truly age-defying finish.
Keep your skin soft, plump and hydrated with SK-II’s flagship range of toners, cleansers and sheet masks, which are all formulated with infusions of Pitera. The SK-II Facial Treatment Cleanser, a gentle, powerful but non-drying foam cleanser anchored in Pitera and white willow extract, effectively lifts stubborn dirt and impurities from skin, revealing a smoother, more radiant finish. White willow extract, in particular, contains plenty of salicylic acid for soothing skin, controlling sebum production and gentle exfoliation. Amplify the effects of your skin care routine by investing in the SK-II Facial Treatment Clear Lotion, the brand’s bestselling hydrating toner, which comes packed with AHA to improve dullness and unevenness of skin tone by sloughing off dead skin cells and removing impurities. Used in conjunction with the Facial Treatment Essence, it promotes brighter, smoother and fully revitalized skin. For periodic boosts to your skin care regimen, indulge in the bestselling SK-II Facial Treatment Mask, which is soaked with a high concentration of Pitera essence to bring out that glow. For an extra brightening effect, the SK-II Brightening Derm Revival Mask, which contains a gel serum packed with Vitamin C, delivers a skin-saving, spa-worthy experience.
From SK-II foundations and SK-II CC creams to makeup bases and sunscreens, the brand’s venture into makeup has resulted in skin-care-grade products providing flawless coverage along with Pitera-based benefits. Chief amongst its offerings is the SK-II Signs Control Base SPF 20 PA++, which covers pores and softens blemishes to allow smooth application of foundation and powder. With a hydrating formula rich in Pitera as well as Fine Silk Complex, this product allows foundation to adhere more closely to skin for a long-lasting finish. At the same time, it stops skin from drying, prevents makeup from caking and effectively guards against sun damage. For color correction and amped-up sun protection, SK-II’s Atmosphere CC Cream SPF 50 PA++++ can help. A tinted and lightweight sunscreen formulated with a potent mix of Pitera, niacinamide and naturally derived plum extract, it protects skin from deadly UV rays while concealing blemishes, mitigating unevenness and adding an all-round glow.
