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Davines OI Oil
With the Davines Oi Oil, we’re looking at a multi-purpose hair oil—centred around a main super ingredient: roucou oil. Not only is it rich in beta-carotene that translates to lots of vitamins for a healthier scalp and stronger strands, it’s also well-stocked with antioxidants that offer decent protection against those cumbersome UV rays. A simple rub-in on towel-dried hair left our tresses with a slick, shiny finish after, feeling free from the frizz that often comes with life in the tropics. Doesn’t hurt that it’s a therapeutic process worthy of the morning hour too.
Davines OI Oil, $52, available at Davines
2 / 21
Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
There’s good reason why this is Paula’s Choice number one product. A leave-on exfoliant that sits on gently, placating your weary skin, before your next steps of skincare follow behind. Enhanced with salicylic acid, which helps to unclog pores, as well as green tea as another main ingredient, to soothe irritation and redness, this cult product serves a good reminder to why exfoliating should never be left out of the picture.
Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, $46.80, available at Paula’s Choice
3 / 21
Glow Recipe Strawberry Smooth BHA + AHA Salicylic Serum
So good we’ve even re-upped our supply and are on bottle number three, this serum not only refines pores and smoothens the skin, but it is powerful enough to calm and clear impending breakouts. Despite containing a potent blend of salicylic (AHA) and mandelic (BHA), strawberry, azelaic and succinic acids, the scented serum is also incredibly gentle for the skin thanks to the inclusion of hydrating hyaluronic acid and allantoin.
Glow Recipe Strawberry Smooth BHA + AHA Salicylic Serum, $68, available at Sephora
4 / 21
Fenty Skin Cherry Dub Triple Action AHA Body Scrub
“Chupa Chups goodness” instantly came to mind when we experienced Rihanna’s latest body scrub. Aptly named Cherry Dub, this scrub pays homage to the singer-turned-mogul’s motherland with the sweet, juicy tang of Barbados cherries. An amalgam of skin-smoothing AHAs, potent fruit enzymes, and sugar granules begets a triple threat that promises irresistibly, baby-soft skin. Not only does it retexturise roughness, it also brightens and evens out the skin tone while providing deep conditioning and nourishment.
Plus, defying the bad rap that physical exfoliators have garnered lately, this scrub is gentle enough for all skin types and is vegan, gluten-free, and earth-friendly.
Fenty Skin Cherry Dub Triple Action AHA Body Scrub, $53, available at Sephora
5 / 21
Amouage Amber Sogara
Sultry and sweet, Amber Sogara envelops you in a garden of luscious roses, delicately nestled upon an ambrette musk. Amouage, which was founded in 1983 in the Sultanate of Oman, continues to represent its sumptuous purpose as ‘The Gift of Kings’ through this unisex fragrance of sheer opulence. Using the bottle’s dabber, a single drop of this attar on your pulse points is all it takes to become immersed in the exquisite allure of this Arabian dream. We were pleasantly captivated by the uplifting aldehyde notes which gave the scent a zesty invigoration.
Amouage Sogara Amouage, $540, available at Amouage
6 / 21
Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor Mineral Spf 15 Hand Cream
Here’s an intrusive thought: while we’re busy lathering our faces with copious amounts of SPF, our dainty hands are missing out on the action. After all, they are often the ones that will show first signs of ageing. While we pay extra care to sanitise and moisturise them, we have been forgetting sun protection in the process. This hand cream from Fenty seals it all in—with hydration and weightless sun care in its formula. Carrying a mild scent brimming with lush fruits and flowers, keep this tube close wherever you go, so to nourish your real moneymakers.
Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor Mineral Spf 15 Hand Cream, $34, available at Sephora
7 / 21
Ole Henricksen Banana Bright+ Vitamin CC Stick
Since entering our vanity arsenal, this Ole Henriksen Banana Bright + Vitamin CC Stick has transformed into a daily essential—one we now consider indispensable to the morning routine. Especially for those plagued with the unending saga of dark circles under your peepers. With its compact twist tube packaging, this particular colour-correcting eye cream stick offers ultimate ease when it comes to applying on the under eye area. A generous double or triple swipe ensures enough coverage to neutralise the skin’s visible discolouration—and it remains a smooth and taut layer for the dabbing of concealer over after. Formulated in three different shades—apricot, banana and pumpkin—the creamy pigment targets different skin shades and types of pigmentation. Post-combination with a concealer of your choice, you’ll find your under eye region instantly brightened for the day ahead.
Ole Henricksen Banana Bright + Vitamin CC Stick, $49, available at Sephora
8 / 21
Kyssva Aglow Instant Dewy Mask
According to Kyssva, traditional sheet masks soaked in serum often require preservatives and stabilisers to lock in the efficacy of their active ingredients. This often leads to overloading the skin with unnecessary substances that may cause sensitivities or reactions. Kysvva’s novel freeze-dried masks on the other hand, offer instant hydration and skin comfort while maintaining freshness in formula. Simply pour on the liquid serum, featuring four types of hyaluronic acid, soothing cica and the desert resurrection plant to lock in moisture, increase volume and replenish the skin. We love that it’s gentle enough to use on sensitive, eczema-prone faces, offering brighter, glass skin every time.
Kyssva Aglow Instant Dewy Mask, $59, available at Kyssva
9 / 21
Burberry Beyond Wear Perfecting Matte Foundation
Much like the acclaimed breathability and weather protection found in Burberry coats, their foundations offer both resilience and comfort. Infused with rosa damascena and darjeeling tea leaf extract, these Beyond Wear bases enrich the skin with antioxidants that protect against environmental aggressors. Folks with combination to oily skin will also appreciate the foundation’s long-lasting matte effect, which remains unaffected by water, sweat, and heat thanks to a bamboo powder additive.
The medium coverage formula is available in 19 shades, and one pump is enough to cover the face with a natural, air-brushed finish. For those big on scents, the foundation also features a delicate floral aroma—a delightful departure from the typical chemical odour associated with foundations.
Burberry Beyond Wear Perfecting Matte Foundation, $90, available at Sephora
10 / 21
Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Tinted Lip Oil
This viral gel-to-oil formula grants a lightweight sheen of colour over lips, a high-shine finish, as well as hydration for parched pouts. Available in eight diverse shades, its appeal lies largely in its weightless texture that allows for multiple layers without leaving behind any residual stickiness—making it perfect for on-the-go touch-ups. To add more dimension and depth to your pout, pair this with the Rare Beauty Kind Words Matte Lip Liner which will help create the impression of pillowy soft lips.
Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Tinted Lip Oil, $33, available at Sephora
11 / 21
Stila All About The Blur Instant Blurring Stick
Behind every electrifying make-up look is a formidable primer; the hidden hero that smoothes out skin texture and prolongs makeup wear. Stila’s latest blurring stick does all that and more—veiling pesky pores, controlling sebum and nourishing skin with antioxidants. Plus, on-the-go girlies will appreciate the handy, stick format of the primer in a lipstick-esque container.
The translucent formula glides seamlessly on bare skin and leaves a softly-blurred, matte veil that goes well on all skin tones. Use alone or under foundation for a flawless canvas.
Burberry Beyond Wear Perfecting Matte Foundation, $45, available at Sephora
12 / 21
Paula’s Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster
Strengthen your skincare ranks for another assault on dull skin and pesky pores with this Niacinamide Booster. As its name suggests, this ultra-light liquid formula was created as an add-on to your existing moisturiser or serum, although it’s also pretty potent by itself. Niacinamide, or vitamin B3, is a formidable ingredient that fights ageing skin by refining texture, minimising pore size, and brightening complexion. Fragrance free and non-irritating, this skinfood is also best used alongside an SPF 30 or greater. Dispense 3-4 drops on the palm before patting into the face and décolletage.
Paula’s Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster, $57.60, available at Paula’s Choice
13 / 21
Make Up For Ever HD Skin All-In-One Face Palette
Here’s your full face in just one palette. Make Up For Ever’s latest All-In-One Face Palette is an assembly of 12 creamy pans that cover all the bases of your base make-up routine. Say goodbye to bulky make-up bags with these lightweight shades for concealer, foundation, blush, contour, and highlight in one, pocket-sized compact. Available in 2 variations, these medium coverage creams correct and flatter all skin tones, leaving a natural but sculpted finish. Pro tip: Lock it all in with a translucent powder or setting spray for a longer lasting base.
Make Up For Ever HD Skin All-In-One Face Palette, $135, available at Sephora
14 / 21
Narciso Rodriguez For Her Forever Eau De Parfum
If femme fatale were a scent, we’d reckon it’d be For Her Forever. Piquant, elegant, and ever so sensual, the eau de parfum is a stunning ménage à trois of floral, woody and musky notes. If the name sounds familiar, that’s because the fragrance is an updated version of Narciso Rodriguez’s floral-fruity signature, For Her. Long lasting and intense, one delicate spritz is enough to enswathe you in a verdant haze of frangipani, gardenia, and jasmine blooms from morning to night.
Narciso Rodriguez For Her Forever Eau De Parfum, $210, available at Sephora
15 / 21
Laneige Radian-C Double Essence
We love a good power couple when it comes to skincare ingredients. Laneige’s newest essence marries the brightening qualities of vitamin C with the firming properties of collagen to relieve oxidative and glycation stress, for a brighter, firmer mein. So, if you’re tired of tired-looking skin, Radian-C is a worthy addition between your toner and moisturiser steps.
When first using the product, twist the middle and bottom sections of the product in opposite directions until you hear a “click”. Afterwards, a quick shake and a coin-sized pump is all you need for an instantly hydrated glow.
Laneige Radian-C Double Essence, $71, available at Laneige
16 / 21
The Body Shop Zesty Lime Blossom Water-Gel Body Yogurt
In the enduring summer of sunny ol’ Singapore, body moisturisers aren’t necessarily sought after. After all, who enjoys marinating in creams and sweat? Here to sway your aversion is The Body Shop’s latest Water-Gel Body Yogurt that promises lightweight hydration that swiftly sinks into dehydrated skin and nourishes for 24-hours. Besides lapping up the aloe vera-enriched gel, your skin will also feel noticeably cooler—a major plus on this hotbed we call home. Feel fresh and smell fresher too, with a citrusy zing of lime that subtly lingers.
The Body Shop Zesty Lime Blossom Water-Gel Body Yogurt, $24, available at The Body Shop
17 / 21
Sephora Super Glow Cleansing Powder
Here’s a product that’s both fun and functional—Sephora’s latest cleansing powder is a complexion booster that lathers up into bubbly goodness upon contact with water. Much like a pill container, the inspired palm-sized pot is a convenient addition to your travel pouch; and much like a pill container, the cleanser is enriched with vitamin C and E supplements. Combined, these ingredients gently cleanse the skin, while boosting radiance and refining texture. Our skin felt noticeably suppler and visibly brighter after just one use.
Sephora Super Glow Cleansing Powder, $24, available at Sephora
18 / 21
Aromatica Rosemary Scalp Scrub
The relentless heat is not kind on your scalp. For anyone dealing with itchiness, flakes, and greasiness, look to this gentle rejuvenating solution from Aromatica. Crafted to be utilised on a weekly basis, it contains nutritious rosemary leaf extract to soothe and reinforce weakened scalps; natural, mineral-rich salt from Lake Andes to exfoliate away dead skin cell build-up without causing irritation; as well as caffeine to address further imbalances. Users will be able to spot a discernible difference within several times of use, where its potent effects aids in the creation of a healthy environment that allows for accelerated hair growth and stronger, healthier strands.
Aromatica Rosemary Scalp Scrub, $25, available at Sephora
19 / 21
Dior Le Baume
The apex of hydration. In case you missed it: Dior’s latest multi-purpose balm ticks all the boxes when it comes to skin-reparation and -soothing. Think the inclusion of healing Centella Asiatica extract to coddle fragile complexions as well as a lightweight, bandage-like texture that drapes areas of application with a protective veil. Slather it on your hands, lips, and nails to ensure they are shielded from external stressors known to dehydrate and damage in the vein of temperature changes, UV rays, allergens, and more. Sustained use and consistent re-applications delivers upon a bolstered skin barrier, as well as up to 72-hours of nourishment for anyone dealing with flaking and cracking.
And that’s far from all. Encased within a sleek, travel-friendly case, the Le Baume also boasts the maison’s logomania motif spotted on their couture creations, and is composed of an eco-friendly mono-material, polypropylene—a largely recyclable material. A product that proves to be good for the earth as it is your skin? We’re here for it.
Christian Dior Le Baume, $88, available at Dior
20 / 21
Fenty Beauty Match Stix Color-Adaptive Cheek + Lip Stick
In line with their tenets of inclusivity and universality, Fenty Beauty has just dropped a conditioning, multi-use gel stick that works for all; a hydrating formula that employs colour-shifting technology to deliver on an one-of-a-kind rosy hue best suited for an individual’s complexion. Swipe it on across the cheeks and lips for a natural, sheer flush, or layer it on using a brush for a more potent effect—the choice is yours. What’s more, its velvety-like finish certainly acts as the cherry on top, where it grants a jolt of colour to the visage without lingering stickiness or greasiness.
Fenty Beauty Match Stix Color-Adaptive Cheek + Lip Stick, $49, available at Sephora
21 / 21
Shu Uemura x Peko Raspberry Lollipop Eye Palette
She’s sugar, spice, and everything nice. Japan’s favourite candy mascot brings her fun-loving sensibilities to Shu Uemura, where she fronts their latest range which exudes a vivacious carefreeness associated with the character. From standout blush shades comprising shimmery, pearlescent finishes to scented liquid lipsticks that smell like milk candy, there is certainly no shortage of whimsical playfulness within the collection. Our pick: the Raspberry Lollipop Eye Palette, which encompasses six varied hues of peach, pink, purple, and brown, all of which harbour a pigment-packed formula that glides on deliciously to grant depth and dimension to lids. Pack it on with a brush to turn up the volume on your eye make-up, or sheer it out with your fingers for a more muted effect.
Shu Uemura x Peko Raspberry Lollipop Eye Palette, $95, available at Sephora
