Starting from the top

       Even though the beauty industry has gone deeper and deeper into the skin to understand cellular and genetic ageing, don't overlook the surface and strengthening skin barrier function to restore a youthful looking complexion, emphasised Shiseido scientists.
       "It's as important as beauty from within to take care of the top layer of the skin because this is what you see when you look in the mirror. Asians, in particular,should consider it as a basic care because Asian skin is more sensitive, needing a strong skin barrier to weather the sun and pollution that contribute to the formation of premature wrinkles on the face," said Takanari Tsuda of Shiseido Skincare Product R&D Centre in Yokohama,Japan.
       Tsuda is one of the scientists behind the development of the newly launched Future Solution LX,which took seven years of R&D before landing at the cosmetics counters.
       The basic skincare line was developed based on Shiseido's award-winning research of how high levels of a protein called Serpin b3 negatively affects barrier function, making the skin more vulnerable to environmental aggressors.
       "Exposure to UV rays stimulates Serpin b3 production, which damages the skin barrier function. As a result the skin becomes dry and rough, which consequently leads to signs of ageing," explained Tsuda during his pr-
       sentation at the product launch, held at the Sukhothai Heritage Resort, in Sukhothai province.
       Future Solution reformulation features Shiseido's exclusive ingredient, Skingenecell 1P and a botanical blend of Asian plant extracts, including antioxidative premium Uji green tea extract, and biotech super yeast extract.
       The basic care range includes extra rich cleansing foam, concentrated balancing softener, protective day cream SPF15 and regenerating night cream.Scented with delicate notes of cherry blossom,rose and plum, the new products offer aromachology upon application.
       Using the products properly is also neglected, noted training manager Darin Youngfuengmon, who demonstrated how to whip up a rich lather of the cleansing foam for deep cleansing as well as how to massage in the cream with face-lifting movements and Japanese acupressure.
       "Basic care is not only about having quality products. Application techniques help with the absorption of ingredients, as well as lend a daily facial exercise to improve circulation and firm up the skin to make you look years younger," she said.