Masks that pack a punch
South Korea’s SEP comes out with masks to address various skin concerns.
FACIAL masks have become a staple in women’s skincare regime as they are easy to use, readily available and affordable. With new formulations to address skin flaws including acne, dry skin and hydration, it’s no surprise masks have experienced a rise in usage, growing from 35% in 2013 to 39% in 2014, according to Mintel consumer research.
Facial masks are also a skincare trend popular across social media in South Korea. South Korean merchandising company CJ IMC South East Asia managing director Yong Jin Lee explains the popularity of masks have far surpassed make-up, with Korean women placing more emphasis on skincare as opposed to lipsticks, foundations and eye shadow colours.
“Instead of make-up, South Korean women are taking extra efforts to care for skin. The fast and most convenient method is through facial masks. Plus it provides the much-needed hydration for skin,” said Yong after the launch of South Korean beauty brand SEP’s Jeju Mask Pack in Kuala Lumpur recently.
Yong explained Korean women are always looking to find manageable ways to care for skin without having to go under the knife.
“Skin spas and clinics are gaining popularity in South Korean. Women are taking extra efforts to care for their skin instead of turning to reconstructive surgery that could cause side effects.”
SEP Jeju Mask packs are formulated with ingredients from Jeju Island, South Korea, to address different skin types. Four types of facial mask packs are available – Canola Honey Nourishing Mask, Cactus Fruit Moisturising Mask, Tangerine
Laneige BB Cushion Giveaway winners Brightening Mask and Green Tea Soothing Mask.
Each mask pack contains concentrated ingredients from the island, known by locals as a mystic island with clean water and refreshing air. Complemented with its fertile soil formed by volcanic eruptions two millions years ago, the island is home to a unique and rich ecology with an abundance of flora and fauna.
To enable maximum absorption of the essence by skin, the mask packs use an innovative formulate known as air pocket sheet. Specifically designed to fit any face, the mask sheet contains airy space on the facial masks. It adheres to skin to encapsulate air and lock in the active-rich essence, providing effective absorption of nutrients for skin of different ages with various skin concerns.
Yong said the masks are designed to cater to women living in countries with high humidity levels. “The masks are lighter and refreshing and is suited to women living in hot climate countries. While it is formulated with a light texture in mind, it contains potent essence that helps to nourish skin.”
For those wanting to hydrate skin, try the Canola Honey Nourishing mask. It is formulated with concentrated honey extract from Jeju Island. Centella asiatica, known as tiger grass, is added to revive dull and dehydrated skin. It also contains aloe vera which is known for nourishing properties.
Cactus Fruit Moisturizing mask gives dry complexions a revitalising and hydrating boost as cactus fruit has a high content of Vitamin C. To enhance the absorption of nutrients, oat seed is added to the mask to exfoliate and nourish skin.
Tangerine Brightening mask brightens dry and dull skin with Jeju tangerine and cucumber that contain rich amount of nutrients. Ingredients harvested in Jeju Island such as anti-inflammatory devil’s claw herb – known for its anti-inflammatory effects, daisy – good for detoxification, and edelweiss, which helps skin whitening - are included in the mask.
Green Tea Soothing mask contains green tea extract to comfort irritated skin. Propolis, yam essence and lavender are added to refresh and moisturise skin.
SEP Jeju Masks are available at Watsons stores nationwide. It is priced at RM5.90 per piece, and RM24.90 per box of five pieces.