SKII- The secret to achieving the enviable Japanese complexion

JAPANESE BEAUTY BRAND 101: SKII

Brand History

SKII was first launched in Japan in the 1980’s, but it is now renowned worldwide as one of the foremost luxury skincare brands, specialising in anti-aging. The brand was conceived after a group of Japanese scientists in the 1970’s were looking for naturally derived ingredients that reduce the signs of ageing. Whilst on a trip to a sake brewery, scientists noticed the contrast between the elderly workers aged, creased faces and their smooth, youthful hands and surmised that their skin had retained its youthful condition from working with their hands submerged in the sake yeast. After much research, the SKII scientists were successful in isolating the single strain of yeast that held the skin beautifying qualities, and SKII’s miracle ingredient Pitera was born.

What is SKII known for? 

SKII’s miracle ingredient Pitera is the heart of the SKII brand, offering a source of timeless beauty and crystal clear, youthful skin through the SKII skincare and makeup products. If you are serious about upgrading your skincare in your 30’s and 40’s then SKII has some of the best anti-aging products in the world.

SKII Product Range

SKII is a prestige skincare brand concentrating on the following skincare steps:

1. Cleanser
2. Wipe Lotion/ Pre-Lotion (toner)
3. Lotion (facial treatment essence)
4. Serum
5. Milk
6. Eye Care
7. Cream
8. Sunscreen/ UV Care
9. Special Care (masks and intensive treatments)

Unsurprisingly, the range of SKII products available is much larger in Japan than in the U.S.A or the U.K. In Japan, SKII also has a range of Pitera infused base makeup and colour cosmetics (lipstick, lipliner, blush, eyeliner and mascara).

5 Must try SKII products 

Where to buy SKII in Tokyo

Japanese Department Stores such as:

Daimaru, Hankyu, Mitsukoshi, Matsuya, Isetan, Takashimaya and Tokyu.

High-end drugstores like Koyasu in Hiroo