System II Defend is a system by the company known as Skinceuticals (
http://www.vfhcinc.com/products.html) that is used to restore a youthful appearance to aging skin and to help protect it from any more environmental damage.
It is more of maintenance program that one that uses to aggressively fight skin hyperpigmentation or wrinkles. It is also fairly expensive and typically sold online for about $175. The price might be higher or possibly discounted if you buy the popular System II Defend system through a high end salon.
There are four products in this system which is usually sold as a complete kit in its own little make up bag. There are pore cleansing, anti-aging, moisturizer, and anti-aging products that can be used alone or in conjunction with other skin rejuvenation treatments or almost any acne care system (
http://www.vfhcinc.com/catalog/index.php?cPath=27).
To maximize the effectiveness of these treatments you need to use the products as directed, which is usually once in the morning and once at night. If you do not use them every day you may not get the guaranteed spectacular results that most people experience when they start using the System II Defend. This is also an all purpose regimen which is designed for all skin types and all ages of skin. It is not really geared to one problem or age group.
The first component of the System II Defend Kit is called Serum 15 AOX+ and it neutralizes free radicals and helps defends against environmental damage. It also helps prevent early signs of aging. It is a very lightweight and fast acting serum that combines ferulic acid with 15% pure vitamin C to enhance the free radical fighting (antioxidant) power of the serum.
The second component of the kit is called Hydrating B5 Gel. This is enriched with vitamin B5 and helps with tissue repair. It replenishes the nutrients lost due to aging and helps the skin to feel smoother.
Daily Sun Defense is another component of System II Defend and it contains a broad spectrum sunscreen that contains 5% transparent zinc oxide so all harmful U.V. rays are completely blocked out. This includes both the UVA and UVB rays that cause extensive skin wrinkling.
This is a moisturizing sunscreen that can be applied under makeup. It also does not contain oil, fragrance or PABA. It is recommended for use with Vitamin C treatments and will help optimize the benefits of your daily moisturizer. The active ingredient is hyraluronic acid which binds moisture to the skin.
The fourth component of the kit is a cosmetic concoction called "Foaming Cleanser" that removes oils and debris from pores and leaves the skin feeling super clean and refreshed. It is ideal for removing make up and preparing the skin for advanced antioxidant treatment. It contains gentle non allergenic ingredients that help allay any skin irritation.
However, similar to any type of skin cream or lotion you may use, the products in this system can cause skin irritation. You should stop using System II Defend if you experience any skin irritation.
