Switching on a lovely glow has been Suqqu's goal in creating luxurious cosmetics since the brand was launched in 2003.
The name Suqqu refers to a Japanese expression of a graceful and shining woman rising to her full height. A dull complexion, however, is a concern among many women and restoring a hydrated radiance was the aim in developing the new Aqufons collection.
Fons is Latin for source, spring or fountain, and Aqufons means a spring welling up with water.
The Japanese brand took a multidimensional approach in addressing dryness, roughness and uneven texture that cause the skin dullness.
Aqufons was particularly formulated to support the stratum corneum, which functions as a first line of defense against the external environment. The skin's outermost layer also plays a role in hydration and water retention. Maintaining its moisture and increasing light reflection are among the mechanisms in promoting radiance.
The aquatic concept encompasses Nasturtium officinale and Zostera marina as key botanicals in the Aqufons Complex.
N officinale or watercress has long been prescribed in traditional medicine. The leafy green is also used for cooking while its leaf extract has been applied to cosmetic formulations, in order to improve the appearance of the skin against signs of ageing.
Characterised by flat and wide leaf blades, the flowering Z marina or eelgrass plays an important role in filtering water in the marine ecosystem. For healthy skin, its extract serves as an anti-ageing and moisturising agent.
Suqqu also included Robert geranium and white lupine extracts as well as acetyl glucosamine and methylserine in the Aqufons Complex, which powers the serum, hydrating lotions, and replenishing fluid.
Enriched with other ingredients, the formulas are applied in a three-step routine. Following Suqqu's "serum-first" methodology, the non-sticky Aqufons Refining Serum is applied to quench the skin with moisture.
Radiance is circulated in the second step, by enveloping the skin with the hydrating lotion, which comes in two versions with a fresh or thick texture.
Formulated with a carefully-balanced oil and moisture content, the Aqufons Replenishing Fluid has an elastic jelly-like texture that becomes richer and thicker when applied in the third step, which seals in the moisture.
Aqufons was also designed to offer aromatherapy, with the scent reminiscent of fresh natural springs. The composition opens with sharp and citrus essential oils of bergamot, mandarin and kabosu. Rose and jasmine essential oils mingle with muguet, apple and honey in the middle notes, followed by woody base notes that transport users to a forest.
