Skin Infusions and Essences

The June 2012 issue of Elle features a great article, "Liquid Assets," by April Long who investigates the benefits of liquid infusions/essences for the skin.  Women in Asia have been using them forever and I have a feeling that they will soon gain popularity in the states.  The theory goes that "when suspended in liquid , many anti-aging ingredients can penetrate more deeply into the skin than when in heavier formulations..."  These are some to try:

SK-II Facial Treatment Essence ($155) is the one the author uses, which contains more than 90% of Pitera, "a vitamin-, mineral-, and amino acid-rich metabolic fluid released by a specific stain of yeast during the fermentation process-purportedly developed after a scientist noticed the soft, youthful hands of otherwise wizened workers at a sake brewery."

Caudalie's grape yeast derived Toning Lotion ($35)



Biologique Recherche Silk Plus ($118) "protects and hydrates a compromised complexion"


Darphin Intral Redness Relief Soothing Serum ($85) "quells redness and soothes irritation"

















Shiseido Eudermine Revitalizing Essence ($56) "a luxe, peony-scented humectant, amino-acid, and skin-renewing enzyme blend, dates back to 1897"





Clarins HydraQuench Intensive Serum Bi-Phase ($58) "which was recently relaunched with a lighter, ultraliquid consistency (the balance of four parts water to one part oil purportedly better mimics the mixture of water and lipids in the skin)"


Fresh Creme Ancienne Infusion The Ultimate Treatment Toner ($90) "revitalizes with a blend of bamboo water, rosewater, and lavender flower water, plus nourishing oils and hyaluronic acid"