This month, we discuss how to get killer brows and weigh in on an eyeliner splurge. Plus, we review a lightweight serum and mineral eye cream in the mix. We’re also super stoked to hear about a couple of new recycling programs. Read on for more exciting beauty discoveries!
Doers of London Daily Grind Hydrating Face Cream
Doers of London focuses on natural products for men, but this face cream is a straightforward moisturiser that’s suitable for all skin types and I’m thoroughly enjoying it too. It’s also listed under “gifts for her” on Sephora’s site, so go figure. Lavender is my absolute favourite essential oil, so no surprises that I fell in love with this lavender-scented cream at first whiff. The formula is moisturising but not heavy, leaving a dewy but not oily-looking effect. Plus, it layers so beautifully under makeup, I think anyone who wears makeup should give this a go! Another mood booster: The incredibly aesthetically-pleasing nature of Doers of London’s packaging. Safe to say, this face cream definitely adds joy to my daily grind.
Doers of London Daily Grind Hydrating Face Cream, $40 for 100ml, available at Sephora stores and online.
– Amelia Ang, Senior Creative Services Writer
Huda Beauty Life-Liner Duo Pencil & Liquid Eyeliner
As a chronic eyeliner user, I’m quite a snob when it comes to this essential in my makeup routine. It has to be long-lasting, waterproof, smudge-proof (‘cos nothing will help my oily lids) and highly pigmented. The eyeliner from Huda Beauty ticks all of the above but why wasn’t I obsessed? I had no issues with the easy-glide pencil liner, though the liquid eyeliner was another story.
It’s really tricky to apply, especially if you’re going for a winged eyeliner look. I always have to clean it up with another eyeliner – which defeats the purpose. And it’s also so effing hard to remove. Even after using a combo of makeup removers, I still have a faint stain over my lids. My lids were begging me to stop. Is it worth it? For the hefty price, I’d say no.
Huda Beauty Life-Liner Duo Pencil & Liquid Eyeliner, $45, available at selected Sephora stores and online.
– Nicole Nithiyah, Senior Lifestyle Writer
Clio Kill Brow Color Brow Lacquer
If you’re looking for a wallet-friendly tint option so that your brows match your dyed hair, I’d highly rate the ones from Clio’s Kill Brow range. The lacquer is of just the right consistency and comes with a small brush for easy application. Pigmentation is great (it totally dyes all of my black brow hairs brown), it dries fast and lasts all day. Oh, and for those who are deep in the Hallyu Wave, you’d be pleased to know that Clio has a list of Korean celebrities as its brand ambassadors too.
Clio Kill Brow Color Brow Lacquer, $22.90, available at Watsons stores and online.
– Amelia Ang, Senior Creative Services Writer
Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Instant Retouch Concealer
“Why look for something else when I’ve finally scored the perfect concealer?” I asked myself as I swatched my shade at the Fenty Beauty counter. But as a beauty writer, I knew I had to embrace change. I might be late to the party (the instant retouch concealer was launched last January) but that will not stop me from dishing my honest thoughts. I kept delaying my purchase after hearing rumours that the formula might be too thick for daily makeup, but the creamy consistency proved me wrong. It has a medium to full coverage with a matte finish. Plus, you do not have to use your hands thanks to the doe foot applicator.
My only beef is that, because of the matte finish, the concealer dries quickly so you have to be fast unless you want to spend more time blending and setting the product – and I can’t afford that.
Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Instant Retouch Concealer, $38, available at all Sephora stores and online.
– Nicole Nithiyah, Senior Lifestyle Writer
Rooki Anti Pollution Nano Drops
A new kid on the local beauty brand block, Rooki’s lightweight serums are a breeze to use. They feel super comfortable on the skin and – get this – you can even mix them into your other serums or moisturisers for that extra boost. Each serum features specific superfoods for different skin concerns, but I’d think the anti-pollution serum (featuring peach juice and Kudzu root) is a pretty universal one for all city folks. After a month of use, the pollution-blocking effects don’t seem to prevent my pores from getting congested, but it does have a subtle anti-inflammatory element, with a slightly calming effect on my skin when it’s irritated (think redness or hormonal breakouts).
Rooki Anti Pollution Nano Drops, $68 for 30ml, available online.
– Amelia Ang, Senior Creative Services Writer
Charlotte Tilbury Full Fat Lashes
I thank my genetics for blessing me with long eyelashes (#humblebrag) so mascara has never been part of my daily makeup routine. Until now. This mascara does all it promises to do: increase curl, volume, length and drama. It’s also incredibly easy to use, thanks to the fine-tipped bristles that leave no lash behind. It doesn’t clump and allows me to apply multiple coats of mascara without drying too quickly. Who needs falsies? However, I’m just not sure if it’s waterproof so be sure to keep that in mind!
Charlotte Tilbury Full Fat Lashes, $48, available at selected Sephora stores and online.
– Nicole Nithiyah, Senior Lifestyle Writer
Supergoop Bright-Eyed Mineral Eye Cream
Bright-eyed is right: This eye cream has a salmon pink tint to it, which counters the bluishness of dark circles nicely. A corrector and sunscreen in one (it has SPF 40!), this is an easy cream to throw on in a jiffy. Test it out sparingly if you’re using it under makeup as it doesn’t layer too well: After I put on powder (I’ve experimented with both translucent and loose ones) following my usual base, it tends to clump up. I’d recommend it for those no-makeup days when you want to look au naturel, sans the panda eyes.
Supergoop Bright-Eyed Mineral Eye Cream, $55 for 15ml, available at Sephora stores and online.
– Amelia Ang, Senior Creative Services Writer
Rimmel Brow This Way Brow Sculpting Kit
I can never fathom the exorbitant prices of products for brows. So when I spotted this affordable brow sculpting kit, I just had to give it a go. It has two mini palettes: wax to sculpt those brows into shape and powder to set, with a dual brush and a spoolie. Also, it comes in a handy kit so you can touch up your brows on the go. Great value and quality? I’ll take it any day!
Rimmel Brow This Way Brow Sculpting Kit in 003 Dark Brown, $13.90, available at selected Watsons stores and online.
– Nicole Nithiyah, Senior Lifestyle Writer
Beauty news: Get all the latest happenings right here!
Recycle your empties with L’occitane
Kudos to L’occitane for launching the first recycling program in Singapore to accept empties from any beauty brand. You also score some amazing deals: receive travel-size L’occitane products with every 10 beauty empties and enjoy gifts worth $100 for 70 accepted empties. The Big Little Things Recycling Program begins from 1 April 2020 at selected L’occitane stores.
L’occitane, nine locations islandwide and also available online.
Pure Wellness launches immunity gift packs
If you’re doing all you can to boost your immunity amidst the Covid-19 outbreak, Pure Wellness has something for you. Apart from using infrared saunas to increase the body’s core temperature and strengthen the immune system, it’s created immunity gift packs. Available in five-, 10- and 50-pack sets, these come stuffed with essential oils, vouchers, detox sprays and sage bundles from partners Cahaya Naturals, Activa Wellbeing and City Osteo and Physio Clinic.
Pure Wellness, Level 2, 70 Duxton Road, Singapore 089529
Re:erth adopts a sustainable approach
Local beauty brand Re:erth is collaborating with Environmental Solutions Asia for a new recycling initiative. All you need to do is drop off Re:erth empties and the team will do the rest. The bottles are recycled right here in Singapore to reduce carbon costs and will be converted to non-fossil derived fuel. This also allows for mixed plastic packaging (which is inevitable for most products) to be recycled in its current form, sans washing, cleaning or dismantling. Super cool stuff!
Re:erth, drop your Re:erth empties at Design Orchard to gain rewards, 250 Orchard Road, Singapore 238905
Beauty reviews & news: Feb 2020 edition
Soul Good Project deodorant spray and balm
If you’re concerned about what you put on your face, you should also pay as much attention to what you apply on your pits. This homegrown brand is educating us with an array of natural deodorant sprays and balms, featuring woody and citrusy scents that smell oh-so-good. Free of aluminium and parabens, these babies are made with natural active ingredients like coconut oil, magnesium and arrowroot starch to neutralise odour. The sprays come in a 50ml bottle, which you can pop into your bag. Even though it’s hassle-free to use, I did find it a little sticky. I’m leaning towards the balm for now. It’s dry and has an amazing scent (I’m using Himalayan Wilderness) that stays on throughout the day. However, it would be great if it came with an applicator. A spatula, perhaps?
Soul Good Project, Deodorant Balm ($26.90); Deodorant Spray ($25.90), available online.
Skin Better Instant Effect Eye Gel
It’s tricky to weigh in on eye creams as it takes a while for results to show. Which is why I was surprised to see visible results from this eye cream in just a month or so. This newly launched eye gel by Skinbetter Science promises to improve eye bags, crow’s feet and wrinkles. Even though I did not see a significant difference in my crow’s feet, my dark circles appeared lighter – probably from brightening ingredients like vitamin C. I also like the hands-free applicator that comes with a stainless-steel rollerball to reduce puffiness.
Skin Better Instant Effect Eye Gel, $130, available online and at selected clinics including Ageless Medical, Freia Medical, NU.U Aesthetics & Wellness Clinic and Sozo Aesthetic Clinic.
Two Halves Better Balance Soothing Hydration Essence
Oh, how we squeal in delight when there’s a new vegan skincare brand on our radar. As its moniker suggests, Two Halves’ soothing hydration essence does just that – it’s a lightweight gel that my skin just drinks up upon application. Using plant-based ingredients packed with anti-inflammatory, anti-photoaging and antioxidant properties, the essence is said to nourish and rejuvenate the skin. But does it do the job? I’m giving it a maybe for now. Even though I love the gentle, non-sticky formula and how glides on nicely, I’m still waiting for noticeable results after a month. I’ll give it a couple of months for it to work its magic.
Two Halves Better Balance Soothing Hydration Essence, $85, available online and at all Novela outlets.
Hourglass Nº 28™ Lip Treatment Oil
We’re all for multi-purpose (aka lazy-girl) makeup over here and this lippie treatment does the job. It’s got a whopping 28 ingredients that target moisture and wrinkles – leaving your lips plump and soft, along with a choice of five shades for a hint of colour (just like lip gloss). And if you’re OTT, you’ll love the gold-plated palladium tip that dispenses the product.
Hourglass Nº 28™ Lip Treatment Oil, $82, available at selected Sephora stores and online.
Est. Lab LumiWhite Exfoliating Scrub
I’ve been looking for an exfoliator that’s not too harsh on my skin and I think I’ve found a strong contender. Est.lab’s LumiWhite exfoliating scrub doesn’t strip off moisture – probably ‘cos of hydration heroes like fucogel, panthenol and gentle jojoba beads. And it’s also 100% bio-degradable. As with any brightening formula (Stay-C 50, a derivative of vitamin C, is a key ingredient), my dull skin appears visibly “alive” after each wash. I use this twice a week for best results.
Est. Lab LumiWhite Exfoliating Scrub, $78, available online and locations at Dhoby Ghaut, Sengkang, Tampines and Jurong East.
Spa Esprit and Compendium collaborate to produce a gin-inspired shower gel
Now you can incorporate your fave gin into your shower, thanks to this fun collab by Spa Esprit and Compendium Distillery. Cleverly named as Gin & Detox, the gin-inspired shower gel uses torch ginger essential oil specially distilled in Singapore and juniper, lemon and clary sage to replicate the scent of your fave tipple. Happy hour in the shower? Yes, please!
Spa Esprit Gin and Detox Plantation Shower Gel, $88, available at Spa Esprit outlets and online. For a limited time only, receive a complimentary 250ml bottle of Compendium’s Rojak Gin with every purchase of the Gin and Detox shower gel.
Say hello to Peachy Skin Bar, Singapore’s first bespoke membership skin bar
Has your facial experience turned sour ‘cos of pushy beauticians who just won’t take no for an answer? Turn to Peachy Skin Bar, a beauty salon that offers fuss-free skincare memberships with customised sessions that adhere to your skin type. Membership privileges go up to 50% off on selected facials. Plus, we’re crushing on that Insta-worthy salon.
Peachy Skin Bar, #01-13, City Gate, 371 Beach Road, Singapore 199597
Beauty reviews & news: Jan 2020 edition
Solos Cosmetics MyLiner Felt Black Liquid Eyeliner
My daily makeup routine is simple. Concealer, setting powder, eyeliner and I’m ready to go. So it’s crucial that my eyeliner has to feature the trifecta: It needs to be waterproof, smudge-proof and have an intense black colour that’ll stand out on my brown skin. I thought I had found my holy grail but boy, was I wrong. Enter Solos’ eyeliner. This product is the perfect dupe for all your liquid eyeliner needs. Extra points for the vegan and halal-certified formula. Oh, and did we mention it’s only $8? What a steal. I’m using the regular-sized felt tip but you can opt for the micro-size tip for more control.
Solos Cosmetics MyLiner Felt Black Liquid Eyeliner, $8, available online and at Zerrin @ The Social Space, #01-03, Marina One Residences, 5 Straits View, Singapore 018935
– Nicole Nithiyah, Senior Lifestyle Writer
Fresh’s Rose Face Mask
Before I begin, I have to say that this mask smells heavenly. It’s like I’m submerging my face in a pool of roses. It states that they use two-and-a-half roses per jar and a “smart” algae that is able to deliver moisture to areas that need the most hydration. Well, that this is one brainy algae. In 10 minutes, my skin feels plump and fresh (no pun intended) – maximum benefit with minimum effort!
Fresh’s Rose Face Mask, $38, available online and selected Sephora outlets.
– Venkat Gunasellan, Lifestyle Writer
LG Pra.L Derma LED Mask
I’m sure there were many oohs and ahhs when LG launched its beauty tech collection last year. I mean, just look at this technological marvel. Even Iron Man’s got nothing on this futuristic piece. There’s ample reason to geek out on the Derma LED Mask – it holds 160 red and IR LED lights with specific wavelength spectrums to tackle beyond the surface. This power mask also promises to rejuvenate and plump up the skin, improve elasticity around the eye rim and reduce pigmentation and pore size – all in nine minutes.
However, you gotta be patient. There are no visible immediate results, but after using it religiously over eight weeks on alternative days, I’m left with a more even skin tone (save for stubborn scars) and smaller pores. I pop it on every night after moisturiser and end off with a face mist. My only gripe is that the mask was not the most comfortable. It weighed down on the bridge of my nose, leaving a slight dent after each use. But hey, anything for porcelain skin, amirite?
LG Pra.L Derma LED Mask, $1,349, available online and at Tangs.
– Nicole Nithiyah, Senior Lifestyle Writer
Lagom Cellup Gel-to-Water Cleanser
As someone with oily skin, gel cleansers are my go-to. Lagom’s gel-to-water cleanser is lightweight and just enough to remove my skincare products from the night before, without stripping away moisture. After all, it is formulated DermaFluxTM – an ingredient that activates aquaporins. TL;DR: It basically hydrates your skin cells with adequate moisture. Fair warning, if you’re using this as a night-time cleanser, best to pair it with the Micro Foam Cleanser to really remove all excess makeup and gunk.
Lagom Cellup Gel-to-Water Cleanser, $28, available online.
– Nicole Nithiyah, Senior Lifestyle Writer
The Inkey List Kaolin Clay Face Mask
You know, one of those days where your skin looks oily enough to fry an egg but you’re too lazy to use peel-off masks (which take ages to dry and not to mention they can be a total b**** to remove). C’mon, nobody has time for that. That’s when The Inkey List clay mask comes in. It takes just 10 minutes to suck out the excess oils on your face and it washes off easily. And no, it doesn’t harden, so you don’t feel like a statue that’s about to crack. It actually leaves your skin feeling fresh and clear – almost like a blank canvas, all ready to absorb the good stuff you’re going to lather on after. And at $12, this is a total steal!
The Inkey List Kaolin Clay Face Mask, $12, available online and at selected Sephora outlets.
– Venkat Gunasellan, Lifestyle Writer
Remescar Eye Night Repair
We all know that eye creams are a vital step in everyone’s skincare routine. I’ve been using a gentle eye cream for both day and night until I got my hands on this baby. The Remescar Eye Night Repair promises visible results for eye bags and dark circles, crow’s feet and saggy eyelids in just 28 days. With all the binge-watching going on during the holidays, I haven’t been good to my eyes so I had to put this to the test. I’ve been using it for two months and I must say, my crow’s feet have faded ever so slightly. I spend some time dabbing the cream on my lids and around the contour of my eyes. Of course, clocking in enough ZZZs is also crucial.
The Remescar Eye Night Repair, $56, available online and at Guardian, Watsons and Unity stores.
– Nicole Nithiyah, Senior Lifestyle Writer
Atelier Swarovski’s Spring/Summer 2020 collection presents new designer collaborations that benefit environmental causes
BRB, we’re currently obsessing over Swarovski’s new collab with jewellery and womenswear designer Catherine Prevost, filmmaker and conservationist Susan Rockefeller, and actress and Atelier Swarovski brand ambassador, Penélope Cruz. Each collection is inspired by the environment: Think botanicals, earth and sea. Vibrant colours, fine cuts and elegant pieces aside, each collection will also give back to a related organisation – Cruz’ botanical jewels collection will benefit The Nature Conservancy, Rockefeller’s bold earth collection aids The Nature Conservancy, and Prevost’s sea life collection helps the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Environment Fund.
Atelier Swarovski Spring/Summer 2020 collection, available in Swarovski stores and online.
Clarins Skin Spa relocates to Ion Orchard
Newsflash: Clarins Skin Spa will be moving a few steps away from its Wheelock Place location this January. Wanna take a break from all that shopping around Ion Orchard? Recharge with an express facial or treat yourself to a spa treatment with Clarins PRO formulas at the new spot. More details are underway, so stay tuned!
Clarins Skin Spa, opens January 2020, #04-19, Ion Orchard, 2 Orchard Turn, Singapore 238801
Clean skincare brand Alche(me) introduces new environmentally-friendly packaging
Local beauty and customisable skincare label Alche(me) takes it up a notch by introducing new eco-friendly packaging. It was previously using recyclable plastic skincare bottles but it’s now moved on to glass jars and bottles with wooden caps, still retaining the iconic vibrant blue colour, of course. They look absolutely chic, don’t you think?
Alche(me), available online.
Fenty Beauty launches a mascara that does it all
She may not be releasing her much-awaited album anytime soon but Rihanna’s gifting us beauty junkies with yet another key product from Fenty Beauty. This time, you’ll have poppin’ lashes for days with the new Full Frontal Volume, Lift & Curl Mascara. The wand features a unique fat and thin side so every single lash gets a slab of this long-wear, water-resistant formula.
Fenty Beauty Full Frontal Volume, Lift & Curl Mascara, $39, available from 16 Jan online and at Sephora stores.
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