Innholdsfortegnelse for May 2017 i Her World Singapore

Ready to rock the urban romantic look? Put some hair wax or clay on your fingers and run them through your heavily texturised bob to create a little mess (and movement). Keep your eyebrows strong but natural with several light strokes of a brow pencil. To add drama to eyes, sweep pink and purple eyeshadow over the lids and blend. Finish with a slick of rose pink on the lips, and you’re ready to impress.…

Goji berries, luo han guo (momordica fruit) and gan cao (liquorice root). They are not the sexiest ingredients to entice any crowd at a bar. But Eu Yan Sang wants to change people’s mindsets about TCM; that it’s bitter and only good when you’re sick. To do that, it has partnered with The Library to create five cocktails that transform the 4,000-year-old practice of drinking medicinal wine into one that appeals to millennials. Because what better way to ease into TCM than with a little alcohol? Like skilled chemists, Adam Bursik (pictured here in the background), 30, general manager and mixologist at The Library, and Eu Yan Sang’s physician Wong Shi Xuan, 30, experimented with herbs and herb-infused liqueurs (made by submerging ingredients in liquor of 50 to 70 per…

There is jewellery that wears you – the way, say, statement fashion does. There is jewellery that is based on a design concept for people who already subscribe to that view, or would like to adopt it. Then there is jewellery that transcends time, age, gender, and style cultures; that somehow in some way speaks to everyone. Hardwear is that kind of jewellery. From a single, understated, unisex (a very on-trend word now) chain-link bracelet with a ball and lock from its 1971 archives, Tiffany & Co. has spawned 90 new pieces – rings, earrings, necklaces and bracelets in sterling silver, or rose or yellow gold – that can be translated and transformed into whatever your cool, classic or contemporary self wants for the day, or night. This is definitely…

Rebecca Minkoff’s Sofia Flap Crossbody ($429) The brand’s saddle for its Sofia collection (the highlight is the tassel). Shoulder strap is detachable. At Robinsons The Heeren. 3.1 Phillip Lim’s Alix ($1,460) The saddle with the office stationery-inspired paper-clip closure comes in tan. Coach’s Saddle ($795) The re-edition of the one from the US brand’s 1972 archive now also comes in yellow. Tory Burch’s Modern Buckle Cross body ($845) Refreshed seasonally, the latest has a striped strap. Inside the bag is a slip pocket for smaller items.…

Peggy Chang, 32, director of Hero Holdings, the F&B company behind dessert joint The Tiramisu Hero. The beauty of turbans I was transiting at Dubai airport eight years ago when I saw this group of African women with huge, colourful turbans. I have always been fascinated with headdresses, but I’d never been able to find the right fabric to do a good one until I saw a post from Aarika Lee’s Instagram (Aarika is Singapore’s reigning turban queen). I got my first headwrap from the website she recommended (https://thewrap.life), and the rest is history. Turbans are great for dressing up a simple outfit and making it more outstanding, but my outfits usually take precedence over my headdress. On occasions when an elaborate turban makes no sense – if I’m going…

“When cleansing, press and pat – don’t go at your face like an aggressive maniac! Excessive tugging can damage sensitive skin.”EUGENE QUEK, associate editor, herworldPLUS Check out the rest of the nominees at http://campaign.herworldplus.com/Guardian-awards-2017.…

“A mouthwash can keep your gums and teeth healthy, making it complementary to brushing your teeth twice daily. Choose one without alcohol – it’s gentler on your gums and teeth but still effective.”ZARELDA GOH, editor, Shape Check out the rest of the nominees at http://campaign.herworldplus.com/Guardian-awards-2017.…

AVENE THERMAL SPRING WATER ($29.90/ 2x300ml) Perfect for soothing, calming and softening irritated skin – spray it on after exercising or while you are travelling. It can also be used over makeup to freshen you up. GUARDIAN INFRARED EAR & FOREHEAD THERMOMETER ($48.90) Whether you need to take your own or your child’s temperature, you can get it done easily, quickly and without discomfort using this thermometer, which can be inserted into the ear or simply placed on the forehead. LISTERINE COOLMINT ANTISEPTIC MOUTHWASH ($9.50/1L) Bid bad breath farewell. This offers 24-hour protection against germs that cause odour, plaque and gum disease. L’OREAL PARIS FALL REPAIR 3X ANTI-HAIR FALL SHAMPOO ($9.90/300ml) One great trick to reducing hair fall that’s caused by preventable factors? Use the right anti-hair fall shampoo so…

#1 Golden Rules Eyebrows give your face definition, frame your features and can pull your look together – or apart. However, they are not one-shape-fits-all. Most brow shapes generally work with an oval face, while arched brows can make a round face appear more oval, and flat, straight brows with a low arch can help balance out a long face, says Apple Loo, senior trainer at Browhaus. “Your-brow-to-eye distance is very important. If the arch is too high, you may look perpetually astounded. If it’s too close to the eyelid, you’ll look chronically exhausted, especially if you have single eyelids. The ideal distance between your brow and upper eyelid should be about the width of your middle finger.” #2 Size Matters Your brows should complement your face, not overwhelm it.…

The one and only brow cushion, Laneige Eyebrow Cushion-cara ($36; in two colours) is blendable and long-wearing. The two hues for shading and two brushes for grooming will help you achieve a three-dimensional effect. Make Up For Ever Pro Sculpting Brow Palette ($76; in two colours) and Etude House Eyebrow Contouring Kit ($20.90; in two colours) come with setting waxes, brushes, three and two shades of brow powders respectively to fill in gaps, and highlighters to define and illuminate the brow bones. A portable all-in-one brow fix, Urban Decay Brow Box ($48; in three colours) holds two shades of brow powders, a setting wax, mini tweezers, an angled brush, a mini spoolie brush and two mirrors for all your brow grooming needs. 3 Things To Know Before Getting Brow Embroidery…

1 For a Natural looking Blushing Effect: Skip the lip liner and tap the lipstick on, starting from the inner part of the lips and working your way out. Your lip colour should be bolder on the inner part of the lips, lighter as it moves towards the lip line, and smudged near it. This effect works well with pink shades such as Love Me New Me. 2 For Bold Lips: For more precision and perfection, apply the lipstick with a lip brush and work inwards from the lip line. Apply two or three layers for bolder colour. This effect works best with statement colours or red ones such as Get The Red. 3 For Ombre Lips: After applying a layer of lipstick, use either Exotic Yellow or Forest Fantasy…

At the heart of the new Eau Thermale range from French brand Uriage is the hydro-thermal complex, which comprises the famed Uriage Thermal Water, a non-occlusive water patch and aquaxyl. The first seeks to restore the natural moisture balance in skin by delivering the ideal amount of water to it and maintaining it. Working in tandem is the water patch, which releases hydrating ingredients into the skin and supports its natural protective barrier, which could be weakened due to factors such as ageing and free-radical damage. Rounding up the complex, aquaxyl works on improving the skin’s water reserves by reportedly increasing the skin’s natural moisturising factors (substances in the uppermost layers of the skin that help keep the complexion smooth and supple) and preventing moisture loss. Here, the low-down on…

ADDITIONAL ATTACHMENT HEADS MISTAKE: CONTORTING YOUR FACE AS YOU TRIM Relax your face when you trim your brows. If you lift your brows, it will distort their natural shape and you will end up with unevenly shaped brows. ALWAYS EXOFLIATE Use a scrub two or three times a week to remove dead skin cells and prevent ingrown hair. NIFTY ACCESSORIES Get perfectly fuzz-free skin on sensitive areas like your face, bikini line and underarms with the Veet Sensitive Touch. A TRIM LIKE NO OTHER There are several reasons why you should opt to use a trimmer like the Veet Sensitive Touch. Unlike hair removal methods like shaving, epilation, waxing and tweezing, trimming doesn’t hurt or irritate delicate skin – even on the face and the bikini area. Compared to shaving,…

WINNERS JOICO COLOR BALANCE PURPLE SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER CATEGORIES COLOUR-TONING SHAMPOO (LUXURY) AND COLOUR-TONING CONDITIONER (LUXURY) PROMOTION Receive a free deluxe sample of Joico K-pak Color Therapy Luster Lock with every purchase of Joico Color Balance Purple Shampoo or Conditioner. Flash this page at exclusive partner salons to enjoy the deal. While stocks last. Everyone’s getting in on the ash hair trend – from ashy brown to greyish blonde, it's a fun alternative to our dark Asian hair. Maintaining the shade, though, can be tough. Over time, it can lose its vibrancy and freshness, and take on an unflattering brassy or even yellow tone. Joico Color Balance Purple Shampoo and Conditioner ($32 each; for 300ml) are just what you need to keep your ash-blonde locks looking good for longer. Combining…

WINNER MUCOTA AIRE+ TREATMENT MOISTURE 04 CATEGORY HAIR MASK FOR BRITTLE/DAMAGED/DRY HAIR (LUXURY) Damaged and unruly hair can be difficult to manage, especially with Singapore's warm, humid weather. While conditioning your tresses daily may be the best way to keep that frizz under control and help strengthen weak strands, the last thing you need is product build-up, which can weigh down your hair, causing it to appear dull and lifeless. This is where Mucota steps in. Its Aire+ Treatment Moisture 04 ($52 for 200ml) is an ultra-moisturising daily-use treatment formulated specifically for dry and frizzy hair. This luxurious hair mask has ingredients such as honey, ceramides, cholesterol, fatty acids, keratin, collagen, silk and jojoba oil, which work together to hydrate parched locks and smooth unruly hair. Simply apply the product…

WINNER HASK MONOI COCONUT OIL NOURISHING CONDITIONER CATEGORY CONDITIONER FOR NORMAL HAIR (DRUGSTORE) You may have heard of coconut oil and its numerous benefits for the hair, skin and body. Now get in line for monoi coconut oil, a traditional scented oil used by generations of Tahitian women to moisturise and condition their skin and hair. It is also popular in Europe and the United States. Infused with the fragrance of Tahitian gardenia flowers, monoi coconut oil is said to penetrate directly into the hair shaft to transform your hair from dry, dull and lifeless to soft, shiny and smooth. This super-moisturising oil also reportedly seals hair cuticles, protecting strands from environmental elements. Hask Monoi Coconut Oil Nourishing Conditioner ($16.90 for 355ml) is formulated with this fragrant oil, and promises…

1 Cold Capellini with Runny Soya Egg Ingredients 2 eggs, room temperature 120ml soya sauce 100ml mirin or rice wine 50ml water 100g capellini 100ml olive oil 20ml sesame oil 20g spring onions, chopped 20ml Japanese rice vinegar A pinch of chilli flakes A pinch of seaweed flakes 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds Make the soya eggs (at least one day before): Add eggs to salted, boiling water, cook for six minutes, then soak in ice water; peel. Mix 100ml soya sauce, mirin and water, and soak eggs in marinade for at least a day. They keep for up to three days. Make the pasta: Cook capellini in salted, boiling water for three minutes. Strain into a large bowl, toss with olive oil, then mix in 20ml soya sauce, sesame…

David and Goliath: Underdogs, Misfits, and the Art of Battling Giants by Malcolm Gladwell What appears to be a weakness could be a strength, says this read. Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown Don’t overstretch yourself. This book teaches you the art of prioritising and making smart trade-offs. Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress-free Productivity by David Allen Think: breaking down daunting tasks into actionable work items. How to be a Bawse: A Guide to Conquering Life by Lilly Singh The title says it all. This Youtube star says there are no escalators to the top. Only stairs.…

“I remember the first time his rejection baffled me. I reached over to touch David in a way that implied I wanted to have sex with him. He didn’t let me touch him. Instead, he was curt – pushing my hand away, with no explanation.” “Most of my friends think that David* and I have a great marriage. In many ways, we do. We’ve been married for 12 years, and David has always been a good provider and an amazing dad to our three young children. We’re a close family – holidays twice a year with the kids, and on our wedding anniversary, David and I do something romantic together – just us. Usually, it’s a staycation at an expensive hotel or a short break overseas. On the surface, everything…

HERE’S THE RUB According to traditional Asian beliefs about well-being, when the body’s meridian points become blocked, energy imbalances can occur and cause health woes. Korea Beauty Centre offers a kyung-rak deep-tissue massage meant to improve circulation, detoxify, and give you brighter, firmer skin. Its Lymph Korea Kyung-rak Facial is a cleanse-mask-massage-mask session that targets hyperpigmentation and wrinkles, while the Full Body Treatment combines radio-frequency and acupressure for a slimmer silhouette. Korea Beauty Centre is at #05-05 Cuppage Plaza. Call 6734-6037 for an appointment. First-time customers get a 10 per cent discount on a kyung-rak facial or kyung-rak deep-tissue body massage. NATURAL SELECTION Formulated for sensitive skin, Dermaveen Moisturising Lotion ($21.80 for 250ml) has colloidal oatmeal, which is derived from oat grains and contains goodies such as lipids, vitamins and…

Crackerjack’s Grapefruit Campari Trifle It’s about time a new boozy dessert stepped into the limelight. And it’s the best one we’ve tasted yet. We’re talking about Chef Alysia Chan’s modern, deconstructed take on an old favourite, where the classic layered trifle is taken apart and updated with edgier, modern flavours. She takes a gamble with grapefruit, a fruit that’s challenging to work with because of its bittersweet character. What you get is a tart, lively grapefruit-andcampari curd that goes perfectly with a soft, moist vanilla pound cake. Guess the gamble paid off. Crackerjack is at 43 Tanjong Pagar Road, tel: 8121-1462, http://crackerjack.sg. Botanico’s Chargrilled Carabinero This is the ultimate [tip box] Pair comfort it with food : Crackerjack – the smokiness of the fat, juicy n the beans prawns, there…

Ink Gin The unusual inky blue comes from butterfly pea flowers. What’s even cooler: It’s pH-sensitive, which means it turns blush pink when it interacts with tonic water. It’s one tasty gin – the juniper is spicy, with a noticeable hit of coriander and rich lemon. $127.50, from http://gainbrandsdirect.com Whitley Neill Quince Gin The sunny colour and honeyed notes come from Persian quince, a bright yellow, pear-like fruit that boasts a heady vanilla and citrus fragrance. It also uses African botanicals such as baobab and cape gooseberry. The quince gin works as a G&T, but its full-bodied sweetness makes it a great dessert wine too. $122.50, from http:// gainbrandsdirect.com Kyro Koskue The Finnish rye-based gin is aged in American oak, and the usual juniper traits take a back seat to…

How did we get so lucky, to have you come to Singapore? I’ve been to Singapore several times in the past few years, doing guest shifts at events like Cocktail Week and Gin Jubilee, and I really fell in love with the city. And in the last five years, cocktail culture in South-east Asia, especially Singapore, has been just crazy. So it made sense for me to move. It’s no longer about New York and London. Asia is the next big thing. You have more than 1,000 gins at Atlas. What’s the best way to really experience this crazy gin library? When a customer asks for a gin recommendation, we ask some questions to find out their taste profile and what they’re looking for. Our gin tower has gins from…

CLASSIC ck one, $88 for 100ml, $121 for 200ml It’s almost impossible to overstate the impact ck one had when it first came out in 1994. Citrus-based, light, clean and instantly recognisable, it was one of the earliest fragrances shared by men and women, and was an instant hit, becoming the best-selling perfume in the world the year after its launch. It’s targeted at younger customers, and every generation discovers it anew: Its brightness and energy and the way it can be (and indeed is) used lavishly, for any occasion. “I feel that a distinctive fragrance attracts people’s attention and speaks volumes about one’s personality. This has become my signature fragrance over the years – I like how it’s stood the test of time, and shares my tenacity.” DEREK WONG…

CLASSIC Acqua di Giò Pour Homme, $89 for 50ml, $123 for 100ml It’s hard to believe that such a fresh and modern-smelling scent is turning a ripe 21 years of age. Inspired by Giorgio Armani’s holidays on Pantelleria, a tiny Mediterranean island, it combines the power and majesty of the sea with light and air. Marine notes, persimmon and white musk make it a delicate but masculine scent. Uplifting, and quite at odds with typically aggressive men’s fragrances, it is the perfect gift for your favourite man. COMPLEMENTARY Acqua di Giò Essenza, $139 for 75ml, and Acqua di Giò Profumo, $136 for 75ml, $169 for 125ml In 2012, Giorgio Armani decided it was time to expand the Acqua di Giò family, and so, Acqua di Giò Essenza was born. Fresher…

CLASSIC L’Eau d’Issey EDT, $169 for 100ml Since the legendary Japanese designer started making clothes in the 1970s, his aesthetic has been clear: simple and minimalist, yet intricate and technical. So it’s no surprise that when he launched L’Eau d’Issey – his first perfume – in 1992, he took the same approach. Inspired by water – simple and calming, yet powerful and dynamic – it’s one of his most iconic products. An aquatic floral, it opens with rose and lotus, has lily at its heart, and a base of sandalwood, cedar and ambrette. The result is as paradoxical as Miyake’s fashion designs, and water itself: discreet, tenacious, classic, modern, straightforward, and complex. The final part of the picture is the distinctive tall, slim, conical bottle. “L’Eau d’Issey is a really…

CLASSIC KOSÉ SEKKISEI Clear Whitening Mask, $35 for 80g In the four years since its relaunch, this has become a staple for many women. Why they love it: It contains oriental plant extracts to refine the pores, brighten, and suppress excess sebum; it has firming black powder; its soft scent is soothing; and it peels off satisfyingly to remove blackheads, keratin plugs and dead cells. Skin is brighter, clearer and more translucent. “This is great for removing blackheads. My nose feels smoother right after application. It’s easy to peel off, minimises the appearance of my pores and leaves my skin looking brighter. I use it twice weekly, as well as whenever my skin looks dull or before a date.” LEANNE HO Beauty blogger COMPLEMENTARY KOSÉ SEKKISEI Enriched Lotion, $82 for…

CLASSIC Water Sleeping Mask, $42 for 70ml It’s an all-time favourite around the world, and women in Singapore especially love the light but hydrating texture. This star product was originally launched in 2002 and was the brand’s first overnight mask. Revamped several times, the latest version has three exclusive patented technologies that work together to deeply hydrate, soothe and purify skin as you sleep. That means you can go to bed with tired, stressed-out and dull skin, and wake up to a refreshed and radiant complexion. Look out for the limited edition lavender version, which launches islandwide on May 25. COMPLEMENTARY Lip Sleeping Mask, $27 for 20g Laneige’s much-loved berry-flavoured Lip Sleeping Mask transforms dry and flaky kissers to smooth and supple ones virtually overnight. Now, it’s available in three…

CLASSIC Facial Treatment Essence, $259 for 230ml In the 1970s, SK-II scientists began to search for an ingredient that would unlock every woman’s potential to have beautiful skin. They found it in a simple sake brewery, where they observed that elderly brewers who handled the rice had youthful-looking hands. The secret ingredient was Pitera™, a unique yeast strain that’s now at the heart of SK-II’s iconic Facial Treatment Essence. This hydrates, softens, boosts skin-cell turnover, and increases the skin’s translucency to deliver crystal clarity to all women. For a limited period, it comes in a sakura-decorated bottle. “This is the holy grail of all beauty products: SK-II Facial Treatment Essence. This is more than just a luxury essence. Whenever I am lazy and skip the liquid gold, I notice the…

HER WORLD X METRO SHOPPING DAY From May 5-7, get 20 per cent off all purchases (excluding Chanel and Sulwhasoo) from the Cosmetics, Fragrances, Health & Personal Care departments at all Metro stores. Simply snap a picture of this page and present it upon payment to enjoy the discount. Terms and conditions apply. BE SURPRISED AT METRO PARAGON! From April 29 to May 14, simply spend $60 in a single receipt at the Cosmetics, Fragrances, Health & Personal Care departments for a chance to open a Surprise Drawer! You could take home full-sized beauty products, $60 Metro gift vouchers, or free Her World digital subscriptions. Visit the Metro Paragon Customer Service counter (Level 3) to take part in this activity. Limited to one game and one prize per…

I have two Singapore Specials: Marius, a boy, and Mylo, his sister. I adopted them when they were a month old, after they and their three siblings were separated from their mother. They have been with me for three and a half years now, and they have become my biggest investment – more than my home, more than work, more than any relationships I have ever had. When they came home with me, I already had five elderly cats and two mixed terriers (three of the former and one of the latter have since passed away). “What’s another two?” I thought. And since Marius and Mylo were going to grow up with them, they would learn how to be dogs from the terriers, and how not to be with the…

Launched last July by Michael Yin, 41, an artificial intelligence (AI) specialist who graduated from NUS, Deja aims to organise the world’s fashion offerings – it currently has over 32 brands, including Cos, Esprit, H&M and Topshop – and match the right fashion to the right users. It does that with an AI algorithm that tailors each user’s experience based on body shape, skin tone, fashion preferences and the product styles frequently viewed. “No two users will get the same product recommendations, as [they] are made based on [individual] preferences,” says Joshua Ong, 31, head of business development and partnerships at Deja. Beyond the ubiquitous Shop page, there’s Explore, a curation of trending #ootd photos across the globe (choose from minimalist, edgy and bohemian); Find, which literally finds the closest…

Everyone wants to live a life of balance: Whether you’re trying to carve out a meaningful existence outside of work, eat a balanced diet or use balancing skincare, achieving any kind of balance can seem elusive. According to the theory of the seven-year cycle in traditional Korean herbal medicine, women experience changes to their bodies every seven years. Because of that, skin can be thrown out of balance and become prone to dryness, dehydration and premature ageing. Beautiful Skin Begins with Balance To restore skin to a healthy, balanced state, Sulwhasoo, a science-based holistic brand from South Korea, uses natural ingredients like ginseng and medicinal herbs in its comprehensive skincare products. It created a unique skincare solution – the First Care Activating Serum EX, now in its fourth generation –…

A mother’s love is unconditional and precious, and needs nothing in return. It is whole and true, ever-present and always pure. When a mum radiates a love this bright, you can’t help but notice it in the way she comes across. To celebrate this effortless beauty, PANDORA releases two very special series, just in time for Mother’s Day. Put a smile on your mum’s face with the Hearts of Love range, designed to symbolise love and family. Each piece is crafted from sterling silver and features different combinations of shimmering silver enamel applied by hand, polished hearts and hand-selected cubic zirconia stones set as pave embellishments or shaped into hearts. The PANDORA Rose Sparkling Love Knot range, which captures the strength of family ties, is equally fashionable and feminine. It…

Omitir Concepts (say Oh-mee-tier) For Margiela-like leather goods The under-the-radar label was founded in 2012 but only gained traction when co-founders Darren Loke, 27, operations manager for multi-label boutique L’armoire, and Bryan Teo, 31, regional visual display and space designer, started fronting it. “We couldn’t find a bag that met our requirements – minimalist and devoid of ostentation and logo,” says Loke. “So we decided to make our own in our favourite medium, leather.” Hides are sourced from Australia (kangaroo), Italy (cow) and Indonesia (goatskin) and made into bags, pouches, hats and belts, all individually handwashed (sometimes even with pebbles and stones) for suppleness. Inventory Co. For bespoke classics with a twist A pair of jeans with Gurkha-style side buckles that eliminate the need for a belt. An update of…

“Skin heals best when it is at rest, so step up your routine with a cream specifically formulated for overnight use.”PENELOPE CHAN, executive editor, Her World “Move your hands in circular motions when you apply moisturiser. This boosts product penetration and microcirculation in the skin.”SIMONE WU, senior beauty editor, Her World Check out the rest of the nominees at http://campaign.herworldplus.com/Guardian-awards-2017.…

“Mousse still does the trick when it’s applied to dry hair, as long as you give it an extra blast with the hairdryer (heat is key).”CLAIRE STARKEY, editor-in-chief, Cleo Check out the rest of the nominees at http://campaign.herworldplus.com/Guardian-awards-2017.…

“Not too thick or thin, straight or arched, Tian Jing’s classic brows frame her heart-shaped face without overpowering her features. Such brows are best suited for petite, oval or heart-shaped faces.” – Cecilia “The semi-straight brows on Claudia Kim work well for oval and long faces. The light brown colour suits her complexion and hair colour, and softens her overall look.” – Apple “Rila Fukushima’s brows are too light for this clean, no-makeup look. I’d suggest going one shade darker to better frame and revitalise her face.” – Bernice…

MOISTURE-PREP YOUR SKIN Kiehl’s Calendula & Aloe Soothing Hydration Masque ($62) is a rinse-off gel mask designed to soothe and help heal skin. To be used after cleansing and toning, it promises to leave skin soft and smooth too. This pre-serum hydrating mask also has a cooling effect on skin that is especially refreshing in our warm climate. This golden-hued concoction (it gets its colour from the calendula petals in the formula) is free of parabens and safe for all skin types – dehydrated, sensitive, fatigued... you name it. DOWN THE GARDEN PATH Formulated for younger skin, K-beauty brand Mamonde uses ingredients from flowers such as hibiscus, camellia, magnolia, honeysuckle and lotus (all grown in its own garden) to churn out skincare that helps tackle concerns ranging from dull skin…

Whether you want to make an impression at the workplace, be the centre of attention at your next event, battle your way to the finish line in your favourite sport, travel in comfort and style, or be one with nature, Watsons is here to help you succeed and express your best self. Here, you’ll find an exciting selection of products from Watsons that not only enhance your features, but also work on addressing your hair, skin and health concerns. All prices indicated are valid until May 24, 2017, and are correct at time of printing. Prices are subject to change without prior notice. Products featured are available at selected Watsons stores. The Professional: Put your best face forward. You have a lot on your plate and not quite enough time…

“The airflow from the Dyson Supersonic is very strong, but it doesn't damage the scalp and hair. It is also focused, so I can style my hair easily. After use, my hair looked shinier and felt smoother. Hair-drying will never be the same.” – Song Hye Kyo, South Korean actress and Dyson brand ambassador “I like how it saves me precious time in the mornings when I’m getting my kids ready for school as it dries my hair quickly. And it doesn’t wake up my kids when I need to dry my hair at night.” – Heng Win Dee, 37, sales developer and mother of two “Compared to my previous hairdryers, the Dyson Supersonic is lightweight, which means my arms don’t get tired so easily.” – Aries Ong, 31, senior…

WINNERS PHILIPS STYLECARE CURLER AND STRAIGHTCARE VIVID ENDS STRAIGHTENER CATEGORIES CURLING IRON AND STRAIGHTENING IRON Love a head of curls or sleek, straight strands? Whichever you prefer, the best hair looks start with the right tools. When using heat-styling tools though, there’s always the concern that your hair will become dry, frizzy or prone to split ends. While it’s true that heat styling can damage your hair, you can actually prevent such problems if you use the right tools. Philips’ StraightCare Vivid Ends Straightener ($109) from the Sublime Ends range is designed specifically to protect tresses from intense heat damage. It features the brand's unique Splitstop technology: a combination of its Unitemp Sensor and smooth ceramic plates. The former protects your hair from unnecessary heat exposure by maintaining an optimal…

WINNER BALMAIN TEXTURIZING VOLUME SPRAY CATEGORY VOLUMISING HAIRSPRAY (LUXURY) Like it or not, ’80s-inspired fashion – think statement sleeves, pussy-bow blouses and brooches – is making a comeback in 2017. To complete the look, you’ll need a big and bold hairstyle. Try Balmain Texturizing Volume Spray ($53 for 200ml) when your hair needs extra volume and hold. This versatile spray works almost instantly to lift your hair at the roots and hold it in place, boosting the volume of your style. Even fine, limp locks will appear to have more texture and definition, and all hair types will benefit from the product’s conditioning and moisturising properties. Balmain Texturizing Volume Spray is ideal for daily use. Its key ingredients – silk protein and pure organic argan oil – help hair retain…

Honey This makes a sweet, tangy dressing. Try Attiki honey, which is similar to raw honey and is less processed. Mustard The best friend of any meat. Go for Colman’s yellow mustard for a little heat. Sriracha sauce For that spicy kick. It’s savoury, so use less salt when you prep your meal. Fish sauce It’s, well, fishy, yes. And pungent. But just a few drops will brighten noodles, soup or meat. Sea salt For taste, of course. Pick sea salt over regular table salt. It’s less processed and contains more trace minerals. But it’s still salt, so use sparingly to cut back on sodium.…

Use Facebook the right way It helps me build an opinion, directing me to stories – both news and pop culture-related – that are going viral. I follow Mashable, Buzzfeed and BBC, and like or comment on their posts. It makes my feed more informative, as the algorithm pushes content from pages I engage with higher up on my feed. No time? Just scan the headlines. It’s enough for a conversation starter. Awkward silences are your friend Even if you’re prepared, it’s challenging to find common ground with a stranger. But I’m not always the first to initiate the conversation after we’ve said hello. I let the awkward silence linger, to see if the other person starts the ball rolling. It’s much easier to go from there, rather than try…

CHAI WOULD GO ON TO RAISE HER DAUGHTER CLAIRE, WITH THAT SAME INDEPENDENT STREAK AND SENSE OF SELF-RELIANCE. TOUGH LOVE Claire Jedrek, 35 Chai Jedrek, 66 At 17, a free-spirited and independent Chai moved out of her parents’ home and went to the UK. “I did it all. I went to parties, travelled across Europe, and I saw The Rolling Stones, Prince, and The Who live in concert,” she says. It was also in the UK that she met her husband, and eventually settled down. Chai – affectionately known as Mummy Jedrek or M.J. to her family – would go on to raise her daughter Claire, a television host and Singapore’s only woman race car driver, with that same independent streak and sense of self-reliance. When Claire was 15, M.J.…

TONIC 1 Level 1 JW Marriott Hotel Singapore South Beach, 30 Beach Road Tucked in a corner of JW Marriott Hotel Singapore South Beach is Tonic, a bar constantly on the lookout for gins to grow its burgeoning collection. Tonic boasts some of the most unique labels, like Iron Balls from a Bangkok micro-distillery. We Like: Supreme ($24). This drink gets its rosy hue from pink guava juice, balanced with Pimm’s No.1, triple sec, and Bombay Sapphire gin. Dried rosebuds make an elegant garnish. ATLAS 2 Level 1 Parkview Square, 600 North Bridge Road The newest and grandest player in this game is Atlas, an Art Deco-inspired lounge that boasts an incredible selection of more than 1,000 types of gin. We Like: The Atlas Martini ($24). The bar’s signature drink…

The problem with a lot of designer labels’ anniversary limited editions: They have become homogenous. They are usually a new item, a new item in collaboration with an artist, an updated archive piece, or a collection that combines all three. They have become blase. Furla could have gone that way for its 90th anniversary (the brand was established in 1927). But the label from Bologna, Italy, has been going through a renaissance since 2011 when it introduced the Candy Bag (the jelly number in myriad colours), and it decided that its anniversary bags would be fun. Unveiled during Milan Fashion Week in February, the nine-piece collection of My Play Furla flaps – each inspired by an era, from the 1920s to 2000s – is designed to dress up the My…

CLASSIC Double Serum, $121 for 30ml Combining botanical ingredients with cutting-edge science is common for many brands now, but Clarins has had decades of practice. The French brand was founded in 1954 – just three years before Metro – and has grown into an international powerhouse. Its signature product is Double Serum, launched in 1985 as the world’s first double-phase serum (it has an oil texture and a water one). The latest incarnation targets the skin’s five vital functions: hydration, nutrition, oxygenation, protection and regeneration, using 20 plant extracts, including kiwi fruit, oat sugar, green banana and lemon thyme. COMPLEMENTARY Extra-Firming Day Wrinkle Lifting Cream, $135 for 50ml, and Extra-Firming Night Rejuvenating Cream, $140 for 50ml This powerful pair has been France’s favourite anti-ageing skincare duo for the past 15…

CLASSIC Prisme Libre, $91 for 12g Before 2006, loose powder had come to be seen as an old-fashioned, irrelevant product – something your grandmother might have had on her dressing table. Then along came Prisme Libre. The jar contained four shades of powder that were designed not just to set makeup, but also to correct colour imperfections. An instant bestseller, the original quartet of colours, called Mousseline Pastel, has now been joined by other colour variations: Taffetas Beige for a healthy glow, Voile Rosé to impart rosy radiance, and Satin Blanc for natural-looking bronzing. “Quality complexion enhancers are key to my daily look. I prize the fine and silky textures of Givenchy’s powders, and love that they have a very natural, second-skin finish.” MICHELLE SIELMAN Fashion designer and beauty blogger…

CLASSIC Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Recovery Complex II, $163 for 50ml, $118 for 30ml In 1982, Estée Lauder launched Advanced Night Repair (ANR for short). It was the first serum and the first skincare product to include hydrating hyaluronic acid, and was also the first to be based on the notion that skin repairs itself overnight. In 2013, the brand revamped this iconic serum, adding ingredients designed to dramatically reduce the appearance of wrinkles, boost radiance and even out skin tone. Thirty-five years after its launch, approximately nine bottles of it are sold around the world every minute. “Advanced Night Repair is my go-to product when running between shows. It helps restore my skin’s suppleness and heals it after all the endless makeup applications and removals.” LIU WEN Model and…

CLASSIC Skin Caviar Liquid Lift, $850 for 50ml This arrived at counters in 2012, but harks back to the 1987 origins of La Prairie, when it launched Dermo Beads – concentrated skincare ingredients encapsulated in tiny “caviar pearls”. With Skin Caviar Liquid Lift, the Swiss brand brought back the pearls, but this time, they contain the highest concentration of pure caviar extract of any La Prairie product, suspended in an anti-wrinkle peptide solution, with a pentapeptide recovery complex housed in a separate chamber. Press the pump to burst the pearls and mix the liquids for a perfect dose of firming, wrinkle-fighting serum. “I chanced upon my first La Prairie product at Metro Paragon in 1993. I tried it, fell in love, and bought it right away. The caviar-infused range is…

CLASSIC Eudermine Revitalizing Essence, $75 for 125ml There’s vintage skincare, and then there’s Eudermine, which has been around since 1897. Revamped multiple times in the 120 years of its existence, its purpose remains the same: to soften, moisturise and boost your skin’s own hydrating abilities. It has a soft, relaxing peony scent and can be used after cleansing for any skin type or condition. “I’m a firm believer in Shiseido products, which I buy from the Metro Paragon counter. How do I know they work for me? I am in my early 50s, but still receive many compliments on my glowing skin.” ISABELLE LIU Director of a consultancy firm and Metro Cardmember for 25 years COMPLEMENTARY Ultimune Power Infusing Concentrate, $145 for 50ml, and Vital-Perfection White Circulator Serum, $196 for…

We wouldn’t call French dudes Richard Piras, 43, and Nicolas Boutherin, 52, disruptors. But like most innovators, they share this similar trait: they look at existing objects or situations, and question what new could come out of them. When the two met at a conference in 2013, Piras was already in watchmaking, including five years as a managing director at Ladoire Geneve, and Boutherin hailed from 15 years in the media industry, including making cartoons for French cable channel Canal+. Their similarities, plus three years and 20 prototypes later, have produced Klokers watches – assembled in Les Breuleux, Switzerland, they come in two versions: Klok-01 and Klok-02 – that go beyond being a timepiece. The key to that ability: a stainless steel “key” at the back of every Klokers that…

The Clutch-size Bag Carry your essentials with a whole lot of personality. The Jeans There is no one type anymore. Experiment. The Romantic Blouse Thanks to Gucci and Chloe, folklore-inspired blouses and the ’80s’ ruffles and mini bow ties have gone from New Wave to everyday. The Sweatshirt & Pullover The former is athleisure, the latter is lean; the former channels street style, the latter, French chic. Wear them however you want. The Day Tea Dress Ground its prettiness with ankle boots. The Boho Dress Your new Saturday night party number. Good at the new Zouk or Fort Canning. The Wide-legged Pants Some are cropped, some are floor-length. Both are good with heels or flats. The Printed Shirt A few – or a lot of – stripes, a little plaid…

“When applying foundation, start at the centre of your face where coverage is needed most, then carefully spread the product outwards.”CYNTHIA CHEW, senior beauty editor, Cleo Check out the rest of the nominees at http://campaign.herworldplus.com/Guardian-awards-2017.…

“Use a moisturiser immediately after showering to get the best benefits. Where possible, limit your showers to just 10 minutes as the hot water quickly starts drying out skin.”DAWN CHEN, writer, Shape Check out the rest of the nominees at http://campaign.herworldplus.com/Guardian-awards-2017.…

BEFORE YOU BEGIN: Neutralise Your Skin Tone Have you ever applied bright eyeshadow only to be disappointed by the murky hue on your eyelids? To avoid this, you need to counter any unevenness in skin tone and/or greyish tinge on the skin with an eyeshadow primer like Kat Von D Lock-it Color Correcting Eyeshadow Primer, explains makeup artist Larry Yeo. Use one in a shade closest to your natural skin colour. CHANGE YOUR BASE If you like bright eye makeup, but prefer a softer, less intense look, switch your usual eyeshadow base to a lighter-coloured one, suggests Larry. Similarly, for a darker version of any bright eyeshadow, just use a darker base. Make Bright Colours Pop For an ultra-pigmented look, use your fingers to smooth a thin layer of cream…

BEAUTY SLEEP FOR YOUR SKIN We know we’re supposed to score eight hours of sleep every night for good skin and health, but let’s be honest: we’re all guilty of neglecting shut-eye. A lack of sleep wreaks havoc on the skin and when that happens, its ability to fend off free radicals, efficiently repair the damage sustained the day before and produce new cells is compromised. The result? Accelerated skin ageing. To deeply moisturise skin and help it repair itself while you sleep, turn to Laneige’s moisturising sleeping masks. WAKE UP TO REFRESHED, BRIGHT EYES It’s hard to look energised in the mornings when you don’t get enough sleep . Apply Laneige Eye Sleeping Mask the night before for more supple , brighter skin that looks less puffy the next…

Not too long ago, you had to be an It girl – think: Sofia Coppola, Kim Kardashian West, Emily Ratajkowski – to get your own lipstick shade. Not anymore. Today, anyone can create a personalised lip colour by layering two different hues from the reformulated Laneige Silk Intense Lipstick collection. Claire Jin, senior vice-president at Laneige, explains that after 20 years of heritage, the brand is getting a fresh injection of youth and positioning itself as an iconic brand for millennials. This wide range of colours – 35 in total – allows Gen-Yers to express themselves more fully and, as Claire says, “show off their unique styles”. You Get Great Colour Payoff and Maximum Comfort The revamp sees the colour pigments downsized and packed tightly together for a brighter and…

Protect your hands with Crabtree & Evelyn Evelyn Rose Anti-pollution Hand Primer ($38). To be used before your usual hand cream, this leaves your mitts soft and smooth, and is said to prevent harmful particles from adhering to your skin. IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Redness Neutralizing Correcting Cream ($52) is enriched with ingredients that work to reduce the look of rosacea and broken capillaries for all-day radiance. Revlon Instablush ($26.90) has a cream-to-powder formula that gives cheeks a lovely natural-looking flush.…

I’m in my early twenties and I get at least eight hours of sleep every night. However, I get under-eye dark circles. What causes them and how do I get rid of them? – Luvina Lim There are many factors that contribute to under-eye dark circles. These include nasal congestion, nutritional deficiencies, water retention, stress, physical ailments, allergies, fatigue, rubbing of the eyes, smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Also, if the skin around the eyes is thin, the blood vessels in the area would be more visible, and they’d make the skin look greyish blue. There isn’t a cure for dark circles, but dermal filler injections can help reduce their look by plumping up the skin. Radio-frequency treatments can also be done in synergy with filler injections to tighten and…

4categories The most definitive awards of its kind in Singapore. 42 products 9 judges MEET OUR JUDGES HAIRSTYLISTS EDITORIAL DRUGSTORE CATEGORY REPAIRING SHAMPOO FOR BRITTLE/DRY/ DAMAGED HAIR 1. Ma Cherie Moisture Shampoo, $19.90. Said to strengthen the inner hair shaft to smooth damaged hair and give it a beautiful shine, this has a pleasant fruity-floral fragrance and a whipped-cream-like lather that makes the shampoo experience more luxurious. REPAIRING CONDITIONER FOR BRITTLE/DRY/ DAMAGED HAIR 2. Ma Cherie Moisture Conditioner, $19.90. This spreads smoothly and easily through hair, and leaves it looking shiny post-wash. Like the shampoo in the same range, it has a lovely, refreshing fruity fragrance. LEAVE-IN TREATMENT FOR BRITTLE/DRY/ DAMAGED HAIR 3. Lucido-L Argan Rich Oil Essence Charge, $18.90. Enriched with argan oil, known for its moisturising, reparative and…

WINNER TIMOTEI VIVID COLOR SHAMPOO CATEGORY COLOUR-PROTECTING SHAMPOO (DRUGSTORE) Hair that is frequently coloured needs extra TLC – but not by way of more chemical-based products. Instead, pamper your locks with haircare fortified with natural extracts. Timotei is known for its range of nature-inspired shampoos and conditioners that are typically mild, yet packed with potent natural ingredients. Scented with herbs and flowers, they ensure your hair won’t just look and feel beautiful, but smell amazing too. Created specially for coloured hair, Timotei Vivid Color Shampoo ($7.90 for 400ml) is enriched with natural camellia extract, known to have antioxidant and nourishing properties, to gently cleanse over-processed, dry and damaged strands. The result? Coloured hair that stays fresh and vibrant for longer. The shampoo is also free of parabens, which are known…

WINNER HASK KERATIN PROTEIN SMOOTHING SHAMPOO CATEGORY ANTI-FRIZZ SHAMPOO (DRUGSTORE) Women put their hair through a lot in the name of beauty. What with all the colour treatments and heat styling, it's little wonder your mane is starting to look a little worse for wear. Give your over-processed hair a makeover with Hask Keratin Protein Smoothing Shampoo ($16.90 for 355ml), which works on putting the shine, strength and moisture back into hair that has become weak and damaged. In addition to gently cleansing your hair, the formula is infused with hydrolysed keratin – a protein that is structurally identical to the protein found naturally in hair – to reduce frizz and prevent humidity from ruining the appearance of your tresses. It also has shea butter, and coconut, sesame seed, olive…

HOLD UP! Don’t ride in the rain. E-scooters’ electronic components aren’t waterproof. Your electric scooter should weigh less than 20kg, be wider than 70cm and have a top speed of 25kmh. The i-Max Q5: the safest & most woman-friendly 1. LEVER FOR THROTTLE When you want to speed up, you want features that make life easier – like a lever that you hold down with your index finger, rather than having to push the throttle up with your thumb. 2. WIDE YET FOLDABLE HANDLEBARS For serious control, you want them as wide as a bike’s. 3. THE OPTION OF MECHANICAL BRAKES For the most obvious reason: safety. 4. ALUMINIUM ALLOY FRAME So this e-scooter is lighter, stronger and more durable. 5. INFLATABLE FRONT WHEEL It cushions the impact of bumps…

How many dogs have you rehabilitated? Ask it because: Real-life experience matters. “Dogs are like little kids, so the more [types of] behaviour the person is exposed to, the easier it is to spot trends and understand how the dogs think,” says Ricky. Look for someone with at least three years’ experience, who handles at least three cases a week, he adds. The toughest cases you’ve handled? Ask it because: Thumbs up if he tells you he works with rescued dogs. They can be way more challenging to help. Ricky says some people skirt the difficult cases so that they can tell customers they have a high success rate. Do you use electric shock collars or muzzles? Ask it because: If he uses either, be concerned. Because these don’t get…

1 Take on the toughest task first It’s the philosophy concert violinist Siow Lee Chin lives by. The first thing she does each morning? Practise. And if you thought it’s just about being disciplined, hold up. Lee Chin, one of the speakers at a recent conference organised by the women’s arm of the Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry, has a little Jedi mind trick she uses. “What helps me overcome [the] resistance [to get started] is to trick the brain into thinking that I’m only going to practise for a small fraction of time – say 10 minutes. I tell myself it’s the same amount of time I’d take to watch a Youtube video. And I just do it. Once I get over that hump, I easily end…

I really dislike my boyfriend’s group of guy friends, but he always invites me to hang out with them. I’ve not told him the truth about how I feel, but should I? Or how can I tell him – without hurting his feelings – that I just don’t want to spend time with his friends? It’s awesome that your guy always invites you out with his friends, but when you’re not one of the guys, it isn’t too much fun. No need for any drama – just let him know that while you appreciate the invites, you’re happy letting him be one of the boys without you. I’ve been seeing this guy for almost two years and he recently got posted overseas for work. A long-distance relationship is really hard,…

Life is busy. We get it. The age of the smartphone – which keeps you tethered to people 24/7 – means constant bombardment by colleagues, meetings, e-mails and a social life all screaming for your attention. It’s just so… noisy. And when life is always noisy, it’s easy to forget how to be comfortable in your own company. Small wonder, then, that there’s a boom in an industry catering to the beleaguered. Enter the silent retreat – where people fork over good money to disconnect at centres that compel you to surrender your phone, immerse yourself in nature, and spend a few hours a day simply staying silent. Supermodel Gisele Bundchen’s done it. So has actress Emma Watson. Both said it was so they could learn to be more at…

Gin makers are getting more creative Some use only locally sourced ingredients to give the drinker a sense of the place where the gin originated, while others are more unorthodox, choosing ingredients like butterfly pea flower, olives, and even Sichuan peppercorns. This playfulness with ingredients has also trickled down to producers of tonic water, which means diverse and unusual flavours like yuzu and grapefruit have come to the fore. You can get it anywhere in Singapore Well, almost. Watering holes here have embraced gin in a huge way. The recently opened Atlas, at Parkview Square, boasts the largest collection of gin in the world, with more than 1,000 labels lining its shelves, while gin bars like Cin Cin and The Spiffy Dapper have ramped up their libraries with collections that…

To do that, you first need to know your gin. There are two types: the more traditional London Dry gin, and Modern gin. A London Dry has juniper as the dominant botanical, and mustn’t be clouded with artificial ingredients, added colours or flavouring. On the other hand, a Modern gin pays less attention to juniper, letting other botanicals take centre stage. Got the gin figured out? Now know your tonic waters and how they complement your gin. No, they are not all the same, and the answer is not always Schweppes. A G&T is about three-quarters tonic water, so you can see why it matters – a lot. A good one is made with good-quality water and natural sweeteners. For a London Dry Gin Try: Fords Gin, $92, from www.ecproof.com.…

CLASSIC Advanced Ceramide Capsules Daily Youth Restoring Serum, $75 for 30 capsules, $146 for 60 capsules, $169 for 90 capsules In 1990, Elizabeth Arden introduced something no one had seen before: a moisturising, anti-ageing serum packaged in single doses – capsules – that kept the product fresh, ensured women used exactly the right amount every morning and night, and were travel-friendly. In the ensuing 27 years, the product has been revamped, redeveloped and reformulated, but always with the same core ingredient, ceramides, which repair the skin’s moisture barrier. The latest generation also contains a moisturising botanical complex and anti-ageing tsubaki oil and retinyl palmitate. “The Ceramide Capsules are a must-have when I travel, to reduce the effects of jet lag on my skin. I adopted it as part of my…

CLASSIC Guilty Pour Femme EDT, $125 for 50ml, $162 for 75ml When creative director Alessandro Michele took the reins at Gucci in 2015, he brought with him an eclectic, romantic aesthetic that celebrates individuality and freedom. Though the brand’s Guilty scents were launched five years before his arrival, they perfectly complement his style. For Her uses geranium, typically found in men’s scents, while For Him is characterised by sensual orange blossom, a common ingredient in women’s fragrances. Michele says these are scents for “anarchists” or “hedonistic libertines” – those who defy conventions to be truly free, ever relevant and impervious to the passage of time. COMPLEMENTARY Gucci Guilty Eau Pour Femme EDT, $125 for 50ml, $162 for 75ml Five years after the original Guilty came its more innocent kid sister…

CLASSIC FlowerByKenzo EDP, $96 for 30ml, $133 for 50ml, $183 for 100ml Everything about this fragrance, which was launched in 2000, is iconic, from the tall, slender bottle meant to represent a poppy’s stem, to the juice. The poppy has no scent, so the nose behind the fragrance, Alberto Morillas, imagined it. The result is a soft, powdery floral – light and luminous thanks to notes of Parma violet and vanilla, with luxurious, elegant Bulgarian rose as the signature. Simultaneously sensual and elegant, it’s meant to tell the story of a flower in the city. COMPLEMENTARY FlowerByKenzo L’Elixir, $101 for 30ml, $141 for 50ml, $195 for 100ml, and FlowerByKenzo Eau de Lumière, $83 for 30ml, $116 for 50ml, $156 for 100ml The poppy’s story was far from complete with the…

CLASSIC Absolue Precious Cells Night Cream, $410 for 50ml Lancôme’s most prestigious collection celebrates its 52nd anniversary this year. The franchise strongly embodies a key element of the brand as it has precious extracts of the rose – Lancôme’s symbol. The newest star of the range, Night Cream, contains extracts of rose centifolia and rose damascena, obtained using high-tech techniques that preserve the quality of the ingredients. The texture is inspired by cold cream, one of the traditional beauty secrets of French women. The cream is said to repair the skin barrier, hydrate and nourish skin, and boost its repair processes. It has the Absolue range’s Jardin des Thés fragrance with notes of rose, iris and jasmine, and is designed to work overnight so skin becomes rested, repaired and revitalised…

CLASSIC Ecological Compound, $275 for 125ml This French brand was founded in 1976, and just four years later, it came up with its first iconic product. Ecological Compound is a moisturiser that has had the same recipe for more than 35 years, with centella asiatica as its main ingredient. The extracts of this plant are said to boost collagen production. The moisturiser also has extracts of horsetail, ginseng and rosemary to soothe skin and stimulate it to generate new cells. That must be why it continues to fly off the shelves – globally, one bottle is sold every minute. Insider tip: Hide it from Hubby – it’s very popular with men as an aftershave. “I have been using Ecological Compound since my Ford Supermodel days. It’s a light moisturiser that…

CLASSIC First Care Activating Serum EX, $115 for 60ml Korean brand Sulwhasoo launched its First Care Activating Serum 20 years ago. It debuted as a boosting serum based on traditional Korean herbal medicine, and guided by the philosophy of harmony and balance. The key ingredient was JAUM Balancing Complex, a mixture of five herbs said to rebalance skin. In 2015, Sulwhasoo revamped the serum – not with new ingredients, but with the PREXtract process. This new method of creating the JAUM Balancing Complex increased the concentration of the herbs 1.8 times to boost the serum’s purported ability to regenerate, nourish, clarify, strengthen and improve the vitality of skin. Thus, Sulwhasoo recommends that the serum be applied as the first skincare step after cleansing to boost the effectiveness of other products…