Beauty review: Shiseido 2020 Tokyo Big Moment Ultimune Defense Refresh Mist

Shiseido’s iconic ULTIMUNE Power Infusing Concentrate is the legendary beauty brand’s best-selling product, with one sold every 8.9 seconds and having amassed an insane 151 beauty awards since its launch in 2014. To say it’s much-loved would be an understatement, and fans of the brand can’t get enough of the little red-hued powerhouse. With all that in mind, Shiseido has released a limited edition ULTIMUNE Mist for Spring/Summer 2020, and needless to say, it’s pretty gorgeous.
A refreshing face mist that cools, hydrates, and defends skin from daily damage, it is one of those products that is just so perfect for right now – especially as those of us in the Southern Hemisphere start heating up under masks as warmer temperatures start to hit. Literally a powerful serum in mist form – surely a beauty industry first? – the newbie was inspired by the Japanese custom of Uchimizu – sprinkling water to ease the summer heat. Water is traditionally ladled onto the ground at the entrance to homes, businesses and gardens to settle dust and lower the temperature. On a deeper level, it also lends a sense of purification, and shows consideration for others by creating a feeling of coolness, which I love.
But back to ULTIMUNE Mist, which is suitable for normal, oily, combination and dry skin types and cools the instant it touches the skin. On a scientific level, the formula utilises the brand’s own “Uchimizu Technology” and Kirishima Mineral Spring Water to instantly cool skin while infusing it with moisture. Rosa Roxburghii Fruit Extract and Peppermint Extract address sweat and sebum, balancing oil and supplying moisture lost through sweat, whilst “ImuGeneration Technology” featuring botanical extracts of Reishi Mushroom and Iris Root, continuously fortify the skin’s ability to defend itself.
It is also officially a “micro mist”, as it has a grain size less than half that of a regular spray-type product. This means it can be used on bare skin and multiple times over makeup without disrupting it, you just spray from a few inches away, with eyes closed. Gently press into your skin immediately afterwards, and reap the benefits.
As for the super chic Limited Edition packaging, it was reportedly inspired by the dynamic movement and energy of Ginza, Tokyo where Shiseido was founded. This beauty is on counter now with an RRP of $99, which includes a Defense Refresh Mist 30ml and a Defense Refresh Refill 30ml. Totally portable and absolutely gorgeous, don’t leave home without it!