1 / 22
Nars Light Reflecting™ Makeup Setting Mist
These days, I’ve been skipping the use of primer and instead, relying on the power of skincare to serve as the optimal base. And for the finisher, Nars’s newest setting mist to seal everything in. One pump delivers quite a formidable distribution and it also leaves my skin feeling supple and nourished. 12 hours later and not much coverage has budged, which says plenty especially given our city’s extreme humidity. — Janice Sim, digital editor
Nars Light Reflecting™ Makeup Setting Mist, $60, available at Sephora
2 / 22
Sulwhasoo Concentrated Ginseng Rejuvenating Cream
As the saying goes: if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. And yet, it seems renowned Korean skincare label, Sulwhasoo, didn’t get the memo with the launch of their recently revamped Concentrated Ginseng Rejuvenated Cream. Fortunately, version 2.0 harbours nothing but improvements. Think a lighter, more whipped-like texture that sinks into skin instantaneously, of which is imbued with potent vitamin C derivatives that is designed to remedy obvious signs of skin ageing. I noticed that my complexion appeared discernibly smoother and more taut within just two weeks of use—buoyed along by the incorporation of other products within the range including the Concentrated Ginseng Rejuvenated Ampoule and Serum. — Emily Heng, associate beauty editor
Sulwhasoo Concentrated Ginseng Rejuvenating Cream, $330, available at Sulwhasoo
3 / 22
Tarte Maracuja Juicy Lip Plumping Oil
Matte lip formulas might be easing its way back into relevancy again, but that’s not to say that glosses are on the way out. A solid compromise: the newly-dropped Tarte Maracuja Juicy Lip Plumping Oil, which provides users with the hefty pigment of a matte lipstick formula as well as the shine and hydration of a formidable gloss. A personal favourite hue: Honeysuckle, a deep plum shade that adds dimension and depth to smaller, less-defined pouts. The cherry on top: its silky smooth formula that diminishes the appearance of fine lines, creating the impression of a pillowy-soft kisser. Choose between six irresistible new shades that range from petal pink to dusty rose. — Emily Heng, associate beauty editor
Tarte Maracuja Juicy Lip Plumping Oil, $42, available at Sephora
4 / 22
Burberry Goddess Eau de Parfum
Vanilla—it’s one of the most beloved fragrance ingredients out there. So how unique can a vanilla-led perfume really be? The answer arrives in the form of Burberry’s Goddess, the luxury house’s first refillable perfume. For its creation, perfumer Amandine Clerc-Marie used no less than three different vanilla extraction types. Opening with a bright, woody vanilla infusion, Goddess then reveals a rich heart of vanilla caviar (known as Firgood, a Burberry-exclusive extract) and a darker base of vanilla absolute. Lavender from Provence, cocoa and ginger roots complement these layers. Given this scent’s depth, a few light spritzes is all I need to channel inner confidence and strength. – Dominique Yohanes, contributing beauty writer
Burberry Goddess Eau de Parfum, $200 for 50ml, available at Sephora
5 / 22
Caudalie VinoHydra Sorbet Creme Moisturiser
Sure, the moisturiser’s label claims it’s best suited for normal skin, but it surprisingly plays nice with my combination skin. Its creamy texture hits the sweet spot that doesn’t feel too heavy or lightweight, which plays nicely to how quickly it absorbs into my skin. It also boosts my skin’s moisture levels without adding excess grease to my face, resulting in smoother and bouncier skin that dries out less frequently. It also comes in a an easy-to-use squeezable tube, which makes for a great on-to-go moisturising product. Alternatively, I also like to use a small amount to moisturise my hands. — Nathalia Kelana, beauty intern
Caudalie VinoHydra Sorbet Creme Moisturiser, $45 for 60ml, available at Sephora
6 / 22
Prada Infusion de Gingembre
Spicy, musky fragrances reminiscent of frankincense often get a bad reputation for either smelling too dense or having an overly bitter scent that feels old fashioned, but I find this isn’t the case for this one. Its spicy top notes reminiscent of young ginger make way for soothing (but not overbearing) floral middle notes and a sweet base. That doesn’t mean it can’t pack a punch—if anything, these elements add extra oomph while keeping the overall scent refreshing. Ideal if you want a versatile musky perfume that feels modern, or for those looking to add spicy scents into your fragrance palate. — Nathalia Kelana, beauty intern
Prada Infusion de Gingembre, $225 for 100ml, available at Selfridges
7 / 22
Clarins Double Serum
A brightening serum that ascertains double the efficacy, Clarins Double Serum holds two formulas—of water and oil—that works together to boost and bolster our skin’s five vital functions. Within, 22 plant extracts, from edelweiss to cocoa, aloe vera to the formidable turmeric, make up the magic concealed in this bottle. Simply twist and dispense the solution; one drop as advised might seem insufficient to cover the entire face and neck, but the concentrate does prove its might in this aspect—especially when it comes to restoring radiance and enabling healthy, plumper skin. — Janice Sim, digital editor
Clarins Double Serum, $195, available at Clarins
8 / 22
Dior Prestige La Micro-Huile de Rose Activated Serum
Beauty, in every sense of the word. Since I’ve started using the Dior Prestige La Micro-Huile de Rose Activated Serum, the experience has been akin to entering a secret garden: in which the Rose de Granville comes alive. Like the flower that is its pièce de résistance, the serum is chock-filled with repair-led micronutrients and precious omegas—specifically the nutri-rosapeptide—that accelerates skin recovery from the skin barrier all the way down to the dermis. Combined with soothing hyaluronic acids and 10,000 micro-pearls which gives it its luscious texture, it’s no wonder the application of this feels as good as it looks. After incorporating it into my routine, my skin has never felt better; better hydrated, plump and free of any scars or blemishes. — Azrin Tan, senior digital writer
Dior Prestige La Micro-Huile de Rose Activated Serum, $430 for 30ml, available at all Dior Beauty boutiques and online
9 / 22
Dyson Chitosan Post-Style Serum
My trusty hairspray has been replaced by the Dyson Chitosan Post-Style Serum as of late; an enhancing and defining cream designed to help my curls maintain its shape and bounce. Beyond ensuring the longevity of my blowout amidst Singapore’s relentless heat and humidity, I’ve also observed formidable frizz-reducing capabilities, where a small amount is able to hydrate and tame previously thought-to-be unmanageable strands. This is attributed to the inclusion of Chitosan—derived from oyster mushrooms—which the brand claims creates flexible bonds that support and strengthen the hair. Another bonus: its light, floral fragrance which scents tresses with the delectable aroma of bergamot and cedarwood. — Emily Heng, associate beauty editor
Dyson Chitosan Post-Style Serum, $79, available at Dyson.
10 / 22
Rare Beauty Find Comfort Gentle Exfoliating Body Wash
To be honest, I haven’t hopped on the much-hyped Rare Beauty bandwagon until now. But a single lather of this exfoliating body wash—the latest addition to the brand’s Find Comfort Body Collection—let me know I’ve been missing out. True to its name, the cleansing gel elevates my daily shower into a cocooning spa sensation. It’s by way of the soothing, scrub-free texture and, particularly, its gorgeous scent. Notes of lemon zest, jasmine and cashmere wood are instantly uplifting—sure to be appreciated by fans of Byredo’s Bal D’Afrique. Furthermore, it exfoliates the skin gently without stripping natural oils. — Dominique Yohanes, contributing beauty writer
Rare Beauty Find Comfort Gentle Exfoliating Body Wash, $41 for 250ml, available at Sephora
11 / 22
JOOCYEE Essence Matte Rouge
When I want my lipstick to last—and really endure for hours—I go matte. Even if that means my sensitive lips would feel drying, heavy, and sometimes even downright uncomfortable, I still go matte. So, imagine my surprise when this glided on my lips like a literal dream. Perhaps it’s thanks to its patented formula, which includes moisture-locking ingredients like collagen, panthenol and aloe. A single swipe, and it’s obvious the Essence Matte Rouge lives up to its claim of being half-watery essence, half-lippie. It sets into a soft velvety finish though, which might not be for sticklers for crisp matte lips. On the other hand, I certainly didn’t mind it. — Julia Sam, digital intern
JOOCYEE Essence Matte Rouge, $25.90, available at Watson’s Takashimaya
12 / 22
Aesop Virēre Eau de Parfum
While green, verdant fragrances aren’t something I typically go for, the Virēre Eau de Parfum proves to be an exception. Developed by long-time Aesop collaborator, Barnabé Fillion, it’s clear to see that the scent pays homage to the mighty fig—where it emits vivacious notes of citrus before settling into a rich, decadent woodiness. Those with more astute olfactory senses should also be able to detect hints of green tea, mastic, and pink pepper which lends the EDP a delicious warmth that brings to mind the sensation of sun-warmed skin. — Emily Heng, associate beauty editor
Aesop Virēre Eau de Parfum, $185, available at Aesop.
13 / 22
The Body Shop Ginger Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Soothing and surprisingly versatile—the phrase I believe best encapsulates this shampoo. The addition of ginger makes for a refreshing wash that leaves my scalp cleaner and less greasy—great for combatting both flakiness and excess oil that accumulates under the humidity, or for those looking for a non-drying solution to naturally grease-prone hair, like mine. However, it goes beyond a mere cleanup—the same active ingredient also effectively nourishes my scalp to better tolerate the heat, resulting in a healthier scalp and lighter hair in the long term. — Nathalia Kelana, beauty intern
The Body Shop Ginger Anti-Dandruff Shampoo, $20 for 250 mL, available at Lazada
14 / 22
Armani Beauty Prisma Glass
It’s not everyday you come across a gloss that’s touted to be skincare for the lips—so much so you can even wear it overnight. Think around-the-clock moisture, courtesy of its whopping 15% squalane inclusion. And as for its glorious shine? This sheer, oil-in-gloss formulation delivers it all, with each of its seven shades promising a mirror-like, luminous finish that’s sure to invite envy in all. We’ll recommend the 01 Clear Shine for anyone who wants a colourless topper that will transform your matte hues into a glossy, staying pout. – Azrin Tan, senior digital writer
Armani Beauty Prisma Glass, $58, available at Selfridges or at selected boutiques and department stores.
15 / 22
Cyspera Intensive System™
It’s the gold standard of all regimes, especially where hyperpigmentation is concerned. Reintroducing Cyspera’s Intensive System: a three-step process that builds on the science-backed magic of the Cysteamine Isobionic-Amide Complex™—a proprietary blend that has proven efficacious in targeting melasma or any post-inflammatory pigmentation. Starting with Cyspera Intensive™, followed by Cyspera Neutralize™, a neutralising cleanser to re-balance the skin’s pH, and lastly Cyspera Boost™, which combines anti-inflammatory ingredients with retinol to boost cellular production. All in all, the carefully-curated regime is a long-term solution that sheds away any of the usual accompanying side effects, whilst still rewarding one’s skin with a healthier, more radiant complexion along the way. — Azrin Tan, senior digital writer
Cyspera Intensive System™, $390, available at selected clinics in Singapore.
16 / 22
Frank Body Niacinamide Body Scrub
In typically playful fashion, cult Australian brand Frank Body is back—this time with a ‘berry scented and berry effective’ niacinamide-based scrub for your bod. Its whipped formula is a straightforward delight to use, from the lavender hue to ease of application and pleasing berry scent. More than just a pretty addition to your shower shelf though, a medley of antioxidants—niacinamide, berry extracts and green tea—protect the skin against daily damage from free radicals while diminishing irritation, dryness and uneven skin tone. — Dominique Yohanes, contributing beauty writer
Frank Body Niacinamide Body Scrub, $35, available at Sephora
17 / 22
Paula’s Choice Pro-Clinical Retinaldehyde Treatment
By now, we’re all familiar with retinoids as the golden standard in skincare. Their ability to accelerate skin cell turnover, resulting in improved skin texture and clarity, is unparalleled. Paula’s Choice cuts to the chase with their potent new treatment spotlighting retinaldehyde, the retinoid that’s closest to prescription strength. This treatment encapsulates retinaldehyde (also known as retinal) and pomegranate peel to deliver the high-strength efficacy of a retinoid via gentle release for less irritation. As a habitual retinol user, I’ve found switching to two pumps of this product each night to be seamless. However, beginners are advised to begin with no more than three nights weekly before building up. — Dominique Yohanes, contributing beauty writer
Paula’s Choice Pro-Clinical Retinaldehyde Treatment, $98 for 30ml, available at Sephora
18 / 22
Nars Explicit Lipstick
Talk about a lippie that delivers on maximum comfort and pigment. The latest iteration of the Nars Explicit Lipstick encases pouts in a generous helping of colour and hydration, easing away flakes without skimping on hue vibrancy. Available in 28 stunning hues as well as a satin finish, 850 Bite Me was a personal favourite; a soft coral that makes for a versatile addition to my burgeoning arsenal. Another plus point—its smudge-resistant formula that clings on for hours on end, powering through oily food and multiple drinks with ease. — Emily Heng, associate beauty editor
Nars Explicit Lipstick, $55, available at Sephora
19 / 22
Guerlain Parure Gold Skin Double Veil Rejuvenating Effect Skin-Caring Perfection Primer
Talk about a jack-of-all-trades—and a master of all. Not only does it effectively help make-up withstand the sweltering humidity, it’s creamy and weightless formula leaves skin supple and clear underneath layers of make-up. The SPF 50 is also a welcome addition that doesn’t feel like an afterthought—I find that it shields my skin as effectively as a traditional sunscreen. For the days where I’m not in the mood for a full face, its skin-blurring effect makes it a great alternative to foundation or tinted moisturiser. — Nathalia Kelana, beauty intern
Guerlain Parure Gold Skin Double Veil Rejuvenating Effect Skin-Caring Perfection Primer, $140, available in-store at Guerlain Boutiques.
20 / 22
Kosé Sekkisei Precious Snow V
Though it’s a powder compact, it feels and acts similarly to loose powder, in the sense that it’s light without compromising on coverage or imperfection blurring. Just like its namesake, it’s soft as snow and helps combat oily skin without clogging pores or fading away too quickly. It also comes with two different kinds of applicators to allow for full control over the amount of product you need for your face and skin condition. Personally, I find that the thinner one is great for precise application. — Nathalia Kelana, beauty intern
Kosé Sekkisei Precious Snow V, $88, available at BHG.
21 / 22
Biossance Squalane + Ectoin Overnight Rescue Ultra-Rich Cream
It’s a relatively underrated skincare ingredient: ectoin. But after a period of putting this impressive overnight cream to the test, consider me convinced. The powerhouse component protects and repairs by binding with water to form a hydrating shield around skin cells. By way of its blend here with magnesium and sugar-derived squalane, the formula immediately gets to work strengthening your skin barrier and reducing stress and damage overnight. After applying the scentless cream to my face each evening (as my skincare routine’s final step), I’ve been loving waking up to a palpably plumped, hydrated and calmer complexion. — Dominique Yohanes, contributing beauty writer
Biossance Squalane + Ectoin Overnight Rescue Ultra-Rich Cream, $112 for 50ml, available at Sephora
22 / 22
Avene Hyaluron Activ B3 Triple Correction Eye Care
Considering my erratic sleep schedule, dark eye circles are something I’ve always been at war with. And whilst the simple, most effective remedy would be to get more winks in, sometimes you have to settle for second best. Which is precisely what Avene’s Hyaluron Activ B3 Triple Correction Eye Care is. In its name, a triptych of ingredients come into play here: dextran sulfate to depuff and improve blood circulation around the area, niacinamide to boost collagen production and hyaluronic acid for that direct hydration kick. Two weeks in, and the results have been reaped; panda eyes visibly diminished and my usually thinning under eye area feels significantly firmer.— Azrin Tan, senior digital writer
Avene Hyaluron Activ B3 Triple Correction Eye Care, $69.80, available at Watsons
