Chain Reaction of Beauty
All through my embarrassing teenage years, I would be over the moon* if someone gave me:
a) Beauty products
b) Tips that worked
Granted, there was something gratifying about seeing promised results from either options, but on one rare occasion, someone did artfully combine the two and the outcome has since remained a miracle for me.
As a matter of fact, here's a tip off: SK-II is that miracle.
For the longest time, I assumed the Japanese skincare brand was only best suited to mature skin, but oh how wrong I was — and relievedly so. You see, life is made up of a series of chain reactions. One cause can have multiple effects, just as a single domino can knock down multiple strands of thousands of subsequent dominos.
The process of skin aging is also a chain reaction. Unrelated signs like wrinkles, lack of radiance, fine lines and sagging are all part of a complex web of skin aging, like an intricate system of dominos.
Taking control of radical firmness — the first and key starting point of skin’s aging appearance — therefore triggers that domino effect into a chain reaction of renewal, targeting and improving all the different signs of skin aging from one common source.
Quick conclusion with science out of the way: age doesn't matter when it comes to beauty.
*No longer, as my bathroom is now a mini Sephora. Try Manolo's as a gift idea instead.
My SK-II Skincare Regimen
I've been a religious SK-II user for 4 months now, and the range has done nothing but wonders for me. My skin is more radiant, hydrated and bouncier than ever.
Previously I had been going through brands like Laneige and Clinique, but my skin still flaked due to dryness. Within a week of switching to SK-II, however, the peeling stopped and my skin cleared up.
Not pictured above is the SK-II Facial Treatment Mask that I travel everywhere with. I tend to use it before any huge event or whenever I need a quick rejuvenation. At home, I store the masks in the refrigerator as the cooling factor helps reduce inflammation.
SK-II Stempower Eye Cream
I've never been a believer of eye creams but for the most part, the first facial feature people take notice of is the eye. Having said that, I'm still in the process of trialling the SK-II Stempower Eye Cream so I'll do an update on my results in a second instalment.
Although so far, so good.
My Morning Routine:
Step 1: SK-II Facial Treatment Gentle Cleanser
Step 2: SK-II Facial Treatment Essence — Using patting motion across face.
Step 3: SK-II Cellumination Day Surge UV or Stempower Moisturizer
Step 4: SK-II Stempower Eye Cream — Occasionally, using ring finger and a pea-sized dab.
The Holy Grail of all beauty products: SK-II Facial Treatment Essence.
This is much, much more than just a luxury toner. Personally, when I get lazy and skip the liquid gold, I really notice the difference in my skin. Because of that, I no longer go a day without it.
To use, simply apply 3–4 drops in the palm of your hand, and pat all over the face and neck.
My Night Routine:
Step 1: SK-II Facial Treatment Gentle Cleanser
Step 2: SK-II Facial Treatment Clear Lotion
Step 3: SK-II Facial Treatment Essence
5fStep 4: SK-II Cellumination Aura Essence — Dot face and smoothen with gentle, outward strokes.
Step 5: SK-II Stempower Essence — Release a dropper-full into palms and apply it evenly onto face with sweeping upward strokes.
Step 7: SK-II Stempower Eye Cream
Note: Eye cream travels, so apply it ½ inch or so above your upper lashline and below your lower lash line. Be sure to use your ring finger to apply and gently pat.
So, when should one really start using anti-aging skincare?
Honestly, it depends — roughly around ages 19 and onwards. Especially if you've subjected your skin to a lot of sun damage in the first two decades of life, please begin immediately!
I started using the SK-II Stempower range a few months ago, and I turn twenty in less than two weeks. At this stage, I don’t need products that promise to increase collagen production or stimulate youth proteins, since my skin is relatively young and resilient.
Above all, proper sun protection is the number one secret to maintaining great skin. Others include eating a balanced diet, getting proper sleep and exercising or meditating to decrease stress.
SK-II International Giveaway
In my next review post, I'll be giving away 5X full sets of the SK-II Stempower Series, including the pre-launched Stempower Eye Cream.
Until then, what's your favourite beauty product or skincare tip?
Disclosure: This post is simply an insight into my daily skincare routine — the opinions expressed are authentically mine and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of SK-II. Do keep in mind that everyone's skin type is different. Whatever works for me may not work for you, and vice versa.
Labels: beauty, teenvogue
