There’s a timeless wisdom that only comes from generations of women who have dedicated themselves to the art of skincare. Growing up, I was always captivated by my mom’s flawless complexion, a radiant display of the care and traditions passed down through our family. Today, I want to share the Asian beauty secret that has shaped my skincare routine for as long as I can remember—a secret that my mom, Umma Lim, lovingly taught me.
At 60 years old, my mom is the epitome of grace and resilience. Her skin is a testament to years of nurturing rituals, a blend of ancient traditions and modern techniques that have kept her looking youthful and vibrant. I often marvel at how effortlessly she glows, and as I’ve grown older, I’ve come to appreciate that her beauty isn’t merely about genetics—it’s about the routine and care she has cultivated over the years. It’s a legacy that even my 92-year-old grandmother proudly upholds, as she still indulges in weekly facials. In our family, skincare is more than a daily ritual—it’s a celebration of self-care and heritage.
One of the pivotal lessons my mom shared with me was the importance of using an essence. As a child, I would watch her diligently apply it to her face every morning and night, seemingly slapping it in with a vigor that puzzled my young mind. Now, I understand that this technique is essential for ensuring that the product is fully absorbed, providing deep hydration and setting the stage for the rest of the skincare routine. In the world of Asian beauty, essence is often considered as crucial as a moisturizer—it’s like a supercharged water that infuses your skin with life and vitality.
My journey into the realm of essences took on a whole new dimension when I discovered SK-II. Today, I proudly team up with this iconic brand—a favorite of both my mom and mine—to celebrate the transformative power of their Facial Treatment Essence. This isn’t just any essence; it’s a luxurious potion imbued with a unique ingredient known as PITERA™. This miraculous component is exclusively found in SK-II’s formulas, and its benefits are truly remarkable. PITERA™ works to signal your skin to renew itself, boosting radiance, smoothing texture, reducing dark spots, and diminishing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. In short, it’s the secret behind the “miracle water” that my mom swore by and that I now consider indispensable.
The SK-II Facial Treatment Essence is not just about its powerful ingredients—it also carries a touch of artistry. I was delighted when I discovered the special edition bottle featuring exquisite artwork by Karan Singh. This unique design transforms the essence into a collector’s item, a tangible piece of beauty that transcends its function. To further enhance the experience, SK-II sent me an augmented reality (AR) kit that brought the bottle’s design to life. My mom and I spent an unforgettable evening exploring this interactive art after our skincare routines, marveling at how beauty and technology can intertwine to create something truly magical.
The journey to flawless skin, for me, is not just a personal endeavor—it’s a cherished tradition that I plan to pass down to my own daughters. Every time I apply my SK-II essence, I’m reminded of my mom’s tender care and the wisdom she imparted to me. It’s a ritual that connects us across time and generations, a small but significant reminder that true beauty is nurtured, not manufactured. I often think about how one day, when the time is right, I will share this secret with my daughters, hoping that they too will embrace the art of self-care and the importance of honoring their heritage.
In today’s fast-paced world, where trends come and go at lightning speed, the timeless ritual of applying an essence stands as a beacon of tradition and self-love. While many in the West are just beginning to appreciate the benefits of this step in their skincare routines, for me, it has always been a fundamental part of what it means to take care of one’s skin. My mom’s devotion to her skincare regimen taught me that beauty isn’t about chasing the latest trends—it’s about honoring time-tested practices that nourish not only the skin but also the soul.
Thanks to my partnership with SK-II, we were able to support Baby2Baby, a charity close to my heart that helps families in need. It’s a beautiful reminder that giving back, much like taking care of our skin, is an essential part of life. Every bottle of SK-II essence I use carries with it a story of care, love, and community—a story that I hope to pass on to the next generation.
As I reflect on these moments, I am filled with gratitude for the simple yet profound lessons my mom has taught me. The best beauty secrets aren’t locked away in expensive laboratories—they are lived and experienced, passed down from one loving hand to the next. So, as you prepare your skin for the holidays, consider incorporating an essence into your routine. Embrace the wisdom of generations before you, and allow yourself to be enveloped in the nurturing ritual that has brought so much beauty into my life.
Before I sign off, I’d love to hear from you: What’s your favorite way to prep your skin for the holidays? Leave a comment below with your Instagram handle and share your secret with our community. Let’s celebrate the art of skincare together, cherishing the traditions that make us who we are.
Here’s to glowing skin, lasting memories, and the beautiful legacy of self-care that unites us all. Happy holidays, and see you tomorrow for the next chapter in the 12 Days of CHRISelle!
