6 Lip Care Products For An Ultra-Smooth and Plumpy Lips

Showing off ultra smooth and plumpy lips is definitely something everyone longs for, and now that masks are no longer compulsory in Hong Kong, the need to have soft-looking lips is more desirable. So, here are six lip care products to help you with it.

Pure Colour Envy Sugar Scrub by Estee Lauder

Estee Lauder’s Pure Colour Envy Sugar Scrub is infused with tiny sugar crystals that eliminate your dried skin by smoothly exfoliating the lips. The scrub’s hyaluronic acid particles will do their miracle and leave your lips moisturised and hydrated for the day while also smelling pleasant, thanks to the vanilla and mint extracts in the product. Available at Estee Lauder.

Lip Sleeping Mask by Laneige

This lip mask is so far one of the most popular lip care products on social media, and it has proved to be worth the hype. It is loaded with natural ingredients such as shea butter, coconut oil, and murumuru seed butter that work their magic overnight to give softness while the antioxidant elements repair the lips. Available at Laneige.

Also Read: Viral beauty products that are defining the real and digital world we live in

The Lip Polish by La Mer

Promising immediate results that are visible from the very first application is this lip polish by luxury skincare brand, La Mer. The product removes all the flaky skin giving a smooth finish while also having your lips rejuvenated. It has been favoured by beauty enthusiasts for keeping the lips moisturised for a long period of time. Available at La Mer.

Sugar Lip Polish by Fresh

Sugar Lip Polish’s technique to achieve supple lips is quite straightforward and effective. The minute brown sugar crystals scrub off dryness and flakiness, and the jojoba oil and shea butter in it moisturises the lips. It also gives you plumped-up lips to which you can either apply lipstick or leave it as it is. Available at Fresh.

270 Lip Scrub by L:A Bruket

If you are looking for something eco-friendly, then opt for this lip scrub with a cosmos natural certification. The product is full of natural ingredients that are powerful enough to exfoliate every morsel of dead skin, and have you boasting ultra-smooth lips that feel super hydrated. It is vegan too. Available at K11 Musea.

Also Read: Algica: The Next Super Ingredient Entering The Skincare Game

Balmy Night Lip Exfoliator by Ilia

Packaged just like a lip balm, this exfoliator by Ilia is very convenient to use and mess-free too. Its organic ingredients as well as the micro volcanic stone powder soften the lips through exfoliation that is complete with the balm’s moisturising benefits. It is recommended that you follow it up with a lip balm for seeing double the results. Available at The Makeup Room.

Rose Lip Polish by French Girl

Described as a lip polish that will make your lips as soft as rose petals, this lip polish by French Girl has received so many positive reviews for its effectiveness and being a total game changer. A quick and gentle massage of the product during your skincare regime will ensure that your lips look soft and pouty. Available at Revolve.

Also Read: Sun Kissed: Broad spectrum Summer skincare essentials for a healthy glow

6 must-have autumn skincare products for the drier season

The drier season is on its way, and what better way to show yourself some much deserved self-love than to pamper your dermis with the most nourishing and sumptuous autumn skincare products that will rejuvenate, replenish and return you natural, youthful glow. Packed with hyaluronic acid, vitamins, minerals and active ingredients, these are the autumn skincare products Gafecnu we are loving this season…

Pure Gold Radiance Nocturnal Balm by La Prairie

Swiss luxury skincare brand La Prairie has perfected a night balm for skin recovery and rebuilding. Pure Gold Radiance Nocturnal Balm, a sumptuous and nourishing cream-like formulation, revitalises and restores radiance. Applied on clean, toned skin each night, it will aid in fortifying the skin, while improving its natural texture and promoting hydration, smoothness and firmness. Learn more here.

Super Anti-Aging Night Cream by Dr Barbara Sturm

Enabling you to switch up your evening autumn skincare routine for maximum nourishment during the drier winter season, Dr Barbara Sturm’s Super Anti-Aging Night Cream with an exclusive DBS Night System formula. It boasts the triple effects of anti-inflammatory repair, intensive detoxification and instant hydration, thanks to its hyaluronic acid, purslane, avocado peptides and polyglutamic acids. Wake up with a firmer, brighter and smoother-looking complexion. Available at Joyce Beauty.

The Lifting and Firming Mask by La Mer

Best suited for dry, normal and combination skin, the Lifting and Firming facial mask by La Mer permeates with its serum-strength sculpting power. Supporting the skin’s natural renewal process, thanks to its concentrated miracle broth – an elixir made with sea kelp and bio-fermentation processes that is renowned for its renewing energies and transformative results, you can apply this cream a clean and toned face before moisturising, then let it work its magic. Learn more here.

F-Balm Electrolyte Waterfacial Hydrating Mask by Drunk Elephant

Step your beauty game up a notch by adding Drunk Elephant’s new overnight cooling mask, F-balm Electrolyte Eaterfacial Hydrating Mask, to your bedtime autumn skincare routine. Boasting a cocktail of electrolytes and a blend of barrier-replenishing ingredients comprised of niacinamide, sodium PCA, omega fatty acids and five forms of ceramides, its deliciously powerful mix of antioxidants rehydrates overly parched skin, making it soft and supple — perfect for an autumn skincare regime. Apply the balm before bed, then leave it work on your face throughout the night while you get your much-deserved beauty sleep. Learn more here.

Cookies N’ Clean Face Mask by Fenty Skin

Keeping that oily shine at bay, Fenty Skin yet again does not disappoint with its Cookies N’ Clean Whipping Clay Detox Face Mask. Not only does its name sound delicious enough to eat, its formula is also composed of vegan- and gluten-free ingredients that are suitable for all skin types, especially those with sensitive skin. Unlike the usual clay masks, it reduces excess oil from epidermis without stripping its natural moisture, while also visibly tightening pores, thanks to its clay and charcoal formula. Removing impurities and detoxing the pores with salicylic acid. Organic extracts of rhubarb and ginger, meanwhile, condition and soothe the skin, leaving it smooth and supple. Learn more here.

Sleep Mask by Noble Panacea

This chronobiology sleep mask is indeed exceptional in what it does. From a brand devised by Nobel Laureate chemist Sir Fraser Stoddart, it synchronises to work with your skin’s natural overnight biorhythm of regeneration, so you can wake up to bright, firm, replenished skin. Infused with five natural oils, it intensely moisturises and illuminates your skin, while the powerful antioxidants and active ingredients inside help reduce trans-epidermal water loss and reset the skin’s natural sebum production. Available at Joyce Beauty.

Well groomed: Skincare essentials for men

Gone are the misconceptions that men do not need skin care products. Modern men are increasingly more conscious about their personal wellness, hygiene and appearance. In fact, the global market for male grooming products is expected to rise to US$81.2 million by 2024, according to Research and Markets, a global market insight and analysis company. But with such a diverse range of skincare products from oil-control to vegan-based formula and unisex options, navigating the market for a product right for you can be daunting. Here’s a list comprised of some of the top brands for men’s skincare and grooming products:

Although men’s skin is thicker and more resilient to ageing than women’s, thanks to their higher collagen density and natural testosterone, the skin, regardless of gender, is still vulnerable to external factors such as poor diet, pollutants and excessive UV exposure. Though there is no one-size-fits-all solution to skincare, the holy grail to any healthy and hydrated skin consists of a cleanser, exfoliator and moisturizer. Additionally, grooming products such as serums and beard oils also help support and reinforce the benefits of your skincare routine.

To start, the Venn Moisture-Balance All-In-One Face Cleanser is a vegan all-round cleanser to suit various skin types, especially those with a combination of oily and dry patches. Its non-foaming formula mimics the skin’s natural pH levels mildly exfoliating and brightening the skin for a fresh start to the day before a shave.

Depending on how sensitive the skin is, skincare routine can alternate between face cleansers and exfoliators for an occasional facial skin therapy- removing dead skin cells and allowing for your grooming products to be absorbed more efficiently. La Mer’s Replenishing Oil Exfoliator is especially refreshing after a workout or before a shave. Infused with sugar crystals and sea salt, the exfoliator refines, detoxifies and replenishes the skin.

To top off a clean face, applying moisturizer is key to keeping the skin hydrated and fighting signs of ageing. Dr. Barbara Sturm’s face cream for men is designed to keep a combination of different skin types fresh for 24 hours, countering inflammation from razor burn and other irritations. It targets signs of ageing and supports the body’s natural skin renewal function. For quick absorption, Tom Ford’s Oil-Free Daily Moisturizer absorbs fast and has a matte finish that keeps your skin hydrated and energized.

Rounding up the grooming regime, serums and beard oils are the perfect boost of hydration and revitalization to reinforce the effects of moisturizers. Serums contain a higher concentration of active ingredients (eg. hyaluronic acid and vitamin C) than moisturizers and provides extra attention to skin management such as reducing wrinkles. Clinique for men’s Maximum Hydrator encapsulates antioxidants and super-moisturising hyaluronic acid that adds a boost of hydration for the skin. Alternatively, Natura Bissé’s Essential Shock Intense Complex reduces the depth of wrinkle lines and tightens the skins with ingredients such as Iris Florentina flower extract, amino acids and encapsulated vitamin C

For a refreshing aftershave, the luxurious Acqua Di Parma’s dedicated line of beard care products are crafted with ingredients that help soothe and condition facial hair effectively. Alternatively, Espa Men’s Triple Action Grooming Oil is enriched with vitamins A and E, candeia tree extract and omegas three and six to replenish moisture and smooth coarse bristles for effortless grooming

Neck’s Best Thing: These new creams target your neck and décolleté

Though ladies never hesitate to splurge on skincare routines for their faces, one of the first telltale signs of ageing actually appears around the neck. To combat this undesirable conundrum, a slew of new products have been launched this season, putting the focus beyond the face to the nape and the décolleté as well.

Notable among these is international beauty brand La Mer’s new offering, The Neck and Décolleté Concentrate, said to strengthen, soften and smoothen skin through a cell-renewing Miracle Broth. Coming with a similar promise is the Syntactif Crème Cou et Décolleté cream from Japanese skincare marque Clé de Peau Beauté. When used together with the rose-petal shaped Essential Flow Massager, it enhances blood circulation around the neck area, lifting any signs of sagging.

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Parisian brand Darphin, meanwhile, offers a holistic skincare regime through its Stimulskin Plus Multi-Corrective Divine Cream. Targeting not just the neck but also the face, it’s apparently best utilised when applied using Darphin’s own Kinesio massage techniques. Taking a similar approach is US-based cosmetics company Tom Ford Beauty’s Tom Ford Research Crème Concentrate, said to provide 24-hour moisture protection to the skin, thanks to its algae, caffeine and green tea extracts.

Finally, beauty brand Helena Rubinstein looks to restore damaged skin in just three days courtesy of its Replasty Age Recovery Night cream, that contains an unprecedented 30-percent clinical dose of Pro-Xylane – a key ingredient for skin recovery.

Nature’s Mothering: Top four creams with natural ingredients

Since time immemorial, ladies have found in nature a true ally when it comes to enhancing their own beauty. Whether it was Cleopatra, the timeless Queen of the Nile, bathing daily in asses’ milk or the princesses of India turning to sesame oil to enhance their complexion, our foremothers knew a thing or two many cosmetic brands have yet to pick up on. That, though, may be changing.

La Mer, the internationally renowned skincare specialist, for instance, has just launched Crème de la Mer, a treatment said to contain a Miracle Broth, an ingredient wholly sourced from the ocean. Harnessing the goodness that is sea kelp, it is fermented to create a cream with unique skin-soothing properties.

Also looking seawards, Switzerland’s La Prairie recently unveiled its Skin Caviar Luxe Cream. With a reputation for maximising the benefits of maritime-sourced treatments that dates back to its early days in the late ’90s, this is the most recently launched of its caviar-extract collection.

Clearly not one to be left behind, Paris-based Guerlain has on offer New Orchidée Impériale Black The Cream, a preserving balm made from rare black Andean orchids that deliver protection from excessive sunlight while also compensating for the damage caused by too little exposure to natural light.

Another brand relying on nature to bolster sales is Chanel, which has just released its Le Lift Cream. Getting back in touch with its Gallic inheritance, alfalfa is said to be the treatment’s key ingredient.

Text: Suchetana Mukhopadhyay

5 new must-see attractions in Dubai

As one of the fastest-growing cities in the world, Dubai is continuously to surprise the world with something new and unique to explore. From new rides and attractions to neighbourhoods and safaris, check out our list of 5 new must-see attractions in Dubai.

The Dubai Frame

5 new must-see attractions in Dubai — Image courtesy of Dubai Frame

Measuring 150 metres high and 93 metres wide, The Dubai Frame offers unbeatable 360 degree views and is one of the newest landmarks to grace the city this year. Located in Zabeel Park, the experience takes visitors on a journey through time to discover old Dubai, present Dubai and future Dubai. Worth 160 million Dhirams and expected to attract two million people annually, its no surprise that tickets are selling fast.

For more information, visit www.thedubaiframe.com

XLine Dubai Marina

If you’ve heard of XLine on the Dubai Fountain, get ready for the sequel, XLine Dubai Marina. With twice the distance, double the lines and lasting for twice the duration, the world’s longest urban zip line is perfect for those seeking adventure. At 1km, the zip-ride offers end-to-end views of the iconic marina and is available for those aged between 12 to 65 years.

If you’re ready to hang tight and fly like Superman, book your tickets at www.xdubai.com/xline/

La Mer

While the laidback beachfront neighbourhood of Meraas opened a while back, more and more restaurants, outlets and experiences are opening up every day. For those looking to relax and unwind, book a private cabana at Sea Breeze, La Mer’s relaxing sandy beach front and unwind with beautiful views of the Arabian Gulf and city skyline. Alternatively, opt for some family fun at Hawa Hawa, an outdoor inflatable playground originating from Japan. With two unique dunes and seven peaks, family and friends can enjoy some low-impact, high-intensity fun together.

For more information, visit www.lamerdubai.ae

Dubai Safari

Explore the Arabian, Safari, African and Asian village at the Dubai’s new wildlife park. Drive through the hippo exhibit and the baboon canyon or meet Asia’s only great ape. Alternatively, the Kids Zoo is a perfect environment for children to play and learn about animals. If you’re celebrating a special occasion, why not arrange a hands-on experience where you can feed a Giraffe or witness Cheetah’s speed?

To find how you can arrange a fun-filled day at Dubai Safari, visit www.dubaisafari.ae/en

Jumble

Are you ready to jumble? Get together with your family and friends for a visit to the world’s first Urban Maze. You will work together to solve a series of physical and mental challenges as you progress through a unique, unconventional and completely whacky gaming experience.

If you think you’ve got what it takes to beat the Jumble, visit www.jumble.ae

If you’ve been inspired to take a trip to Dubai, look no further because Emirates, the largest international airline in the world, invites Hong Kong travellers to explore Dubai with special discounted fairs.

Economy Class fares start from HKD 3,910 while Business Class fares start from HKD 25,280. Tickets can be booked until 18 July 2018, and with travel dates from 14 July till 30 November 2018, travellers will have the flexibility to plan ahead for their dream visit (Blackout dates and terms and conditions apply. Fares exclude applicable surcharges and taxes).

From Hong Kong, Emirates operates four daily flights to Dubai, including three daily flights on Emirates’ flagship A380 aircraft and one daily flight on Emirates’ Boeing 777-300ER aircraft.

Emirates passengers can also take advantage of exclusive offers and discounts with the popular My Emirates Pass programme from now until 31 August 2018.

For more information, visit www.emirates.com/hk/english/or click here for further offers.

Text: Hira Desai

Beauty Must Haves: Top 5 products to keep your complexion hydrated

Ample hydration has always played a key role in maintaining skin health. Properly applied, it prevents the production of dark spots, excessive oiliness, redness, loss of elasticity and even wrinkles. Many women, though, struggle to find the right product for their skin type. In order to make this hunt a little more fruitful, we’ve road-tested a number of the big brands’ newest products that will keep your complexion hydrated.

In the case of Caudalie, its new Vinoperfect series is said to be free of oil and chemical preservatives. The stand out here is the Vinoperfect Concentrated Brightening Essence, which sweeps away dead skin cells with a glycolic acid-based composition, while moisturising and soothing the skin with grape water. Is white peony extract also helps to maintain an even complexion.

Turning now to Dior and its recently-launched Hydralife sorbet programme is said to offer three-step skin care. For the first step, you prep the skin with Balancing Hydration · 2-in-1 Sorbet Water, then, secondly, rehydrate the skin with Hydration Rescue ·Intense Sorbet Creme, before rejuvenating the skin around the eyes with Cooling Hydration · Sorbet Eye Gel.

For La Mer, its latest innovation – the Moisturizing Cool Gel Cream – boasts a water-fresh formula that treats the skin to a burst of pure refreshment. Its intense hydration immediately lowers the surface temperature of the skin, apparently reducing the redness of sensitive skin by up to 72%.

Elizabeth Arden’s new Visible Whitening Brightening Hydragel Cream, meanwhile, promises the kind of intense hydration that will counter any discolouration largely on account of its two active proprietary ingredients – Wonderlightand and NanoWhite.

Bringing up the rear then is Clé de Peau Beauté’s Synactif‘s synergistic approach, which blends three key ingredients – Rose Synactif, Jasmine and Lotus Element – to deliver deeply-relaxed skin.

So there you have it – Five simple ways to keep your complexion hydrated from the inside out so you can wake up with healthy, naturally glowy skin every day.