Kiehl’s Iris Extract Activating Treatment Essence

Where I got it: I was sent this for consideration, while I haven’t tried much of Kiehl’s product before and this is a great start becuase it’s got me hooked! Kiehl’s is available from the flagship boutique in Britomart, Smith and Caughey’s, Ballantynes and Kirkcaldie & Stains. This is RRP $60 for a 200ml bottle, on counters 7th October 2015! Kiehl’s will be having a waiting list for this treatment essence and we know that it will be very popular and in high demand. So if you are interested, drop in to their shop or give them a call to be on the waiting list! (09) 354 4117

What I got: This is a 200ml bottle of Kiehl’s Iris Extract Activating Treatment.  To combat loss of radiance and optimize the benefits of subsequent skincare treatments, Kiehl’s introduces Iris Extract Activating Treatment Essence — a multi-action formula that treats and primes skin with key anti-aging actives. Harnessing the nourishing power of Iris Florentina Root Extract, this advanced liquid concentrate quickly and deeply penetrates the skin to boost radiance, reduce fine lines, and improve dullness.

When skin is young, it is smooth and possesses a healthy rosy glow. At the earliest stages of aging, skin’s texture begins to look rough, fine lines are more visible and youthful radiance is lost. This loss of radiance is a result of skin’s inability to properly reflect and diffuse light from its surface and throughout its deeper layers due to a deceleration in skin’s cell turnover rate, a reduction in the integrity and cohesion of skin’s layers and a decrease in skin’s hydration levels.

To reactivate these properties of the skin and impart essential nutrients, this first step of any anti-aging routine renews skin by activating its natural exfoliation process; renourishes skin with nutrients that preserve skin quality and cohesion and replenishes skin with instant hydration.

Renew Skin with Lipo Hydroxy Acid (LHA)
– LHA is a more lipo-soluble derivative of Salycilic Acid, which allows it to diffuse better in the outer layer of the epidermis, reaching dead cells and helping to remove them.
– Its mechanism of action is a gentle and precise cell-by-cell removal different from other acids that produce harsh exfoliation.
– This precise and milder cell removal is associated with a smoother, rejuvenated and cleaner skin. It also helps optimize the penetration of the formula’s nutrients and subsequent skin treatments.

Re-Nourish Skin with Iris Florentina Root Extract
Known for its regenerating properties and heritage in herbal medicine, Iris Florentina Root is rich in nutrients and acts as a unique reservoir of energy for the Iris Florentina flower, allowing it to bloom 3 times each year and thrive in the varied Mediterranean climate. The root is also abundant in flavonoids which are essential for the plant to thrive and grow, serving as chemical messengers and physiological regulators that offer the plant protecting and restorative properties5. Hand-harvested from spring to autumn, Iris Florentina Root is carefully cleaned, peeled, dried, and processed to yield a purified, nutrient rich extract.

Replenish Skin with Sodium Hyaluronate
– With the ability to hold up to 1000x its weight in water, this ingredient’s hydrating properites instantly replenish skin and smooth fine lines.

How I find it: After cleansing and toning, I use 3-4 drops of this treatment essence into my palms, spread them together and gently press all over my face and neck. A little goes a long long way and the texture is really smooth and silky. You can pat until it is all absorbed otherwise just let it soak into the skin then apply your usual serum and moisturiser. At night, I have been using Kiehl’s Overnight Recovery Concentrate (review to come!) and it works very well together for a hydrated, supple and soft skin in the morning!  Sometimes I use a little bit more and while my skin is still slightly damp, I apply my ANR so that the ANR gets absorbed better. Also once a week, or once a fortnight, I like to mix the treatment essence with a bit of distilled water onto a thin cotton pad (not the ones you use for makeup removal, but the thin ones you can split into few layers.) then put them onto areas of dryness (my cheeks) and let it sit for 5-10 minutes – it is like a quick hydrating mask for the skin for better foundation application.

Overall: I have been loving treatment essences lately. 2 of my favourites are: SK-II Facial Treatment Essence (pretty much the first of its kind and super popular) and Estee Lauder Micro Essence (more affordable but still very effective, especially with the ANR). The Kiehl’s Iris Extract Treatment Essence is thicker in texture compared to SK-II and the Micro Essence. It has a really pleasant scent and it is clear. I love how these treatment essences are lightweight but packs a lot of hydration. I also find them very versatile (see above under How I find it). I love this treatment essence and my first Kiehl’s product has got me hooked onto the brand! I’ve since bought more products from Kiehl’s so keep checking back for my review or follow me on Instagram – Kittiemui to see what I bought!

Instagram: https://instagram.com/kiehlsnz/ – #kiehlsnz

Disclaimer: I am not paid to do these reviews. All reviews are of my honest and personal opinions.