Shiseido has unveiled a groundbreaking base agent designed to improve under-eye bags within just two weeks of continuous use, marking a significant advancement in its proprietary “Second Skin” technology. The technology forms a flexible, contractile film over the skin, generating a mild compression stimulus that acts on the underlying tissue. This action promotes collagen production and structural remodeling, potentially leading to healthier, firmer skin depending on the forces applied.
The recent study revealed that the evolved “Second Skin” formulation not only addresses visible under-eye puffiness but also contributes to changes in the skin’s internal structure. This opens the door to non-invasive, non-aesthetic medical options for consumers seeking solutions to under-eye bags. Shiseido aims to continue innovating in skincare, offering products that deliver tangible physical and cosmetic benefits beyond traditional formulations.
Research Background
Shiseido acquired the “Second Skin” technology from US-based Olivo Laboratories in 2018 and has since conducted extensive research to enhance its efficacy. By applying a special base agent over a polymer substrate, the technology allows an artificial skin layer to form and integrate with natural skin, smoothing irregularities.
Previously, Shiseido reported that the technology acts as a breathable barrier that protects skin from dryness while allowing oxygen and carbon dioxide to pass through, effectively creating a “second skin.” The technology offers a range of benefits, including:
- Immediate reshaping of under-eye bags
- Improvement of sagging and wrinkles with continuous use
- Enhanced penetration of active ingredients
- Occlusion effect and selective sebum adsorption
- Stratum corneum peeling effect
The company’s ongoing research aims to further optimize these effects and expand applications for skin health and appearance.
Evolved Effects of “Second Skin” Technology
The latest base agent strengthens the contractile effect of the film, delivering noticeable improvement in under-eye bags within two weeks—shortening the response time from previous formulations, which required up to two months. The contractile film reduces puffiness by applying gentle tension over the skin surface.
To understand the mechanism, Shiseido developed a 3D dermal model featuring dermal fibroblasts embedded within a collagen network. When subjected to mild compression for several hours daily, collagen production increased within a day, and remodeling signs were observed after a week. The model maintained its thickness under stimulation, while unstimulated samples thinned over time, suggesting that mild compression helps fibroblasts reorganize the collagen network to preserve skin structure.
Future Prospects
Shiseido’s “Second Skin” technology represents a new frontier in skincare, creating a layer that augments the natural skin barrier while offering physical and cosmetic benefits. By leveraging this technology, Shiseido aims to develop products that go beyond conventional cosmetics, addressing both aesthetic and structural skin concerns. The insights gained from this research will inform future innovations, delivering effective and science-backed solutions for consumers.
