Luxury Choices: The most extravagant products to add to your shopping list this month

Explore a world of luxury as we reveal the most coveted products that are gaining popularity among fashionable and elite individuals worldwide. This thoughtfully curated collection offers something for everyone, whether you’re a perfume enthusiast, a fashion lover, or a watch collector.

Rasei Fort Oud Cavaran fragrance

The Oud Cavaran fragrance by perfumer Rasei Fort takes inspiration from the famed caravans crossing the world’s greatest sea of sand. Swaying camels and shifting dunes in the Arabian Desert inspire a distinct signature of aromatic oud, wood and leather. This spicy, oriental composition provides an olfactive journey worthy of the Bedouin, whose tales have long been forgotten. Exclusively available from Scented Niche at K11 Musea, Tsim Sha Tsui, tel: 2608 2205, and Fashion Walk, Causeway Bay, tel: 2608 2206.

Cartier Baignoire watch

Cartier first created the Baignoire watch in 1912 with a rectangular case rounded at the ends like a bathtub. The concept continued to evolve until 1958, with a so-called ‘curved oval’ watch. With its Roman numerals and curved crystal, this timeless model is now available in two new versions. The first celebrates pure elegance, with a ‘less is more’ approach. For the second, the emblematic oval is transformed into a bangle, a circle of gold – whether rose, yellow or paved with diamonds – to be slipped onto the wrist.

Harry Winston Forget-Me-Not collection

American jeweller Harry Winston spent his famed career reimagining nature’s splendour with the world’s most magnificent gemstones – a tradition that continues to this day. One of the most popular flowers in the brand’s bejewelled garden is the effervescent Forget-Me-Not. The Harry Winston designers have reimagined this captivating wildflower in an enchanting perennial collection of delicate jewellery. Nature’s beauty is expressed through round brilliant, pear-shaped and marquise diamonds.

Rado’s True Thinline x Gardens of the World collection

Since Rado and the Great Gardens of the World organisation began their collaboration in 2017, a whole new range of natural textures and shapes has found its way into the watchmaker’s work. Now, elements from three quite different plants bring visual rhythm to three individual dial designs for the True Thinline x Gardens of the World collection. Crafted in monobloc high-tech ceramic, Chapter 8 unites a polished black case with a matching dial; Chapter 9 is a brilliant white reflection of the monkey puzzle tree; and Chapter 10 depicts branches of the dragon blood tree in plasma grey.

Christian Louboutin’s Froufrou Alta platform sandals

Inspired by the flamenco tradition of Andalucia, the Flamencaba limited-edition capsule collection from Christian Louboutin embodies savoir-faire, passion and female empowerment. Requiring a high level of technical skill and an abundance of crepe satin, the Froufrou Alta platform sandals with 150mm heels are embellished with layered frills and a cascading ruffle. With a handcrafted oversized rose atop the toe, Sevillana lamé uppers, delicate straps and a 100mm stiletto heel, the Flora Queen sandals make an elegant standout on dance floors.

Blue Heart Crème de la Mer

The same combination of skin-soothing sea-sourced ingredients that powered La Mer ultra-rich cream to fame now come in a chic collectible jar. Limited-edition Blue Heart Crème de la Mer brings delight inside and out as the regeneration force of giant sea kelp leaves ripples on the exterior. Its contents offer daily moisturising and the promise of skin firming, uplifting and natural renewal.

Laura Mercier High Vibe Lip Colour

From acclaimed makeup artist Laura Mercier comes High Vibe Lip Colour. Presented in a sleek, sophisticated rose-gold tube, this modern, high-resolution pigment immediately amps up lips. Choose from 10 striking coats of colour with light-reflecting vivid pearls to boost vibrancy. The new lipstick is also infused with guava oil, ensuring moisturising all-day wear and a melting sensation as it kisses the lips.

Glenfiddich 12-Year-Old Sherry Cask Finish single malt whisky

Glenfiddich is the world’s most awarded single malt Scotch whisky brand. Ranging from the signature 12-Year-Old expression to rare, vintage and limited-edition bottles, its whisky is renowned worldwide for quality and consistency. This special edition 12-Year-Old Sherry Cask Finish single malt has matured for many years in American and European oak casks before finishing in Amontillado Sherry casks for a distinctively rich and refined depth of flavour.

Drop d’Issey Eau de Parfum Fraîche

Evoking fragrant blossoms in pools of water, A Drop d’Issey Eau de Parfum Fraîche is the new opus from Issey Miyake. It captures the journey of a raindrop in springtime from the moment it falls from the clouds. Each droplet reveals the facets of all the elements it encounters – grass, flowers, wood and more – for an uplifting and refreshing sensory experience. Designed by Todd Bracher, the distinctive drop-shaped flaçon similarly reflects nature in hues that graduate from blue to green.

Anya Hindmarch Raffia Drawstring Small Tote

The summer season has arrived and Anya Hindmarch has released a bag designed for the sunny holiday months. The Raffia Drawstring Small Tote moves from a casual picnic in the park to an elegant event around town with consummate ease. Lightweight and airy, the woven raffia is gathered together at the top by a leather drawstring trimmed with the London designer’s signature tassels – these smooth leather contrasts come in a choice of striking electric blue, chalk or golden hues.

Narciso Rodriguez For Her Forever

American fashion designer Narciso Rodriguez has worked to uncover and enhance each woman’s inner beauty and sense of self. For Her Forever is a new scent introduced to commemorate the 20th anniversary of his popular perfume range. It continues the tradition of the house’s musk-centric scents with a brilliant new version of the unmistakable olfactory signature, paying forceful homage to the legendary For Her collection.

CurrentBody RF Radio Frequency Skin Tightening Device

CurrentBody, which provides salon-grade devices for home use, has made its first push into radio frequency technology. Its RF Radio Frequency Skin Tightening Device uses the power of heat in the service of anti-ageing, making skin plumper, firmer and smoother. Cutting-edge bipolar RF technology enables effective home treatments that adjust to your skin and combats obvious indications of ageing with long-lasting results. For noticeable improvements, use the device once a week as part of your skincare regimen.

Niessing Spannring® Era pendant

Celebrating 150 years of craftsmanship, German jeweller Niessing presents the new Niessing Spannring® Era pendant. An endless band of gold or platinum arches to encircle two diamonds in a fascinating design that eliminates the need for an eyelet while ensuring that one stone is always facing forward. It is available in six precious metal hues – Supla Grenadine, Classic Yellow, Classic Red, Fine Rose, Rosewood and Platinum.

Cutting-Edge and Chic: The Latest Luxury Products That Are Taking the Market by Storm

From high-end fashion to cutting-edge gadgets, the latest luxury products in the market are a testament to the luxury industry’s unwavering commitment to excellence. In this article, we’ve rounded up some of the most exciting luxury products that have hit the market recently. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or a fashionista, there’s something for everyone. Jump into the world of luxury and explore the latest products that are sure to leave you in awe.

Parfums MDCI’s Enlèvement au Sérail

Full of sensuality and romanticism, Enlèvement au Sérail is a classic oriental floral scent from French independent brand Parfums MDCI. Opening with spicy notes of black pepper and cinnamon, it develops depth through rose, jasmine and ylang-ylang. Brand founder Claude Marchal shares that the inspiration behind this new creation was a unique fragrance that his mother used to wear. It is exclusively available from Scented Niche at K11 Musea, Tsim Sha Tsui, tel: 2608 2205 and Fashion Walk, Causeway Bay, tel: 2608 2206.

Tiffany & Co.’s Bird on a Rock

First introduced in 1965 by Tiffany & Co. designer Jean Schlumberger, Bird on a Rock has evolved into a breathtaking high jewellery creation that showcases the Tiffany Diamond as both a brooch and a pendant. In a sophisticated reimagining of the iconic brooch in which an impudent little diamond bird sits cockily atop its precious ‘rock’, five diamond-encrusted birds swoop around a central stone. The design now features in suites of necklaces, bracelets, earrings, rings, brooches and pendants.

Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch

The new Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch is released with a fine historical track record to highlight its engineering excellence. This is the model that was critical in helping to bring home the Apollo 13 module and its crew successfully in 1970 when an exact 14-second burn of fuel was required to readjust manually the course of the craft. Command Module pilot Jack Swigert timed this with the watch he had on his wrist, thus the Speedmaster played its part in making sure the unique manoeuvre worked perfectly.

Lotos Eyewear Collection

Established by the Schmidt family in Pforzheim, Germany in 1872, Lotos brings a long history of tradition and excellence to crafting beautiful eyewear by hand from precious materials. It boasts its own gold atelier and a customer list that has long included European royalty and nobility. Available from Puyi, this extraordinary collection of decorative gold- or titanium-framed glasses is hailed as the most luxurious eyewear in the world.

Byredo’s Remembrance

Byredo’s latest limited-edition eyeshadow palette, Remembrance, sees 18 shades encased in a sleek, distinctive box designed by the company’s founder, Ben Gorham. Among the soft, creamy and lightweight second-skin textures in warm nudes, roses and browns, some are streaked with silvered shine, and together they form a seamless story through their mutability. Going on and staying on with ease, they encourage the wearer to take intuitive experimentation into their own hands.

Bang & Olufsen’s Beosound A5 speaker

Bang & Olufsen has introduced the new portable Beosound A5 speaker. Designed in collaboration with the Danish-Italian design duo GamFratesi, Beosound A5 bridges northern and southern design cultures with the immersive sound, meticulous craftsmanship and product longevity for which Bang & Olufsen is renowned. Epitomising Scandinavian design excellence, the speaker comes in two colourways, natural and black anthracite aluminium, with both finishes able to sit beautifully inside the home or outside in nature.

Hennessy V.S.O.P NBA 2023 Limited Edition

Hennessy and the National Basketball Association (NBA) have expanded a global partnership, making Hennessy the first “Official Spirit of the NBA”. The new, vibrant Hennessy V.S.O.P NBA 2023 Limited Edition comes in a bright orange gift box, with both box and bottle bearing the logos of the two brands. The elixir within is as you would expect, powerful and balanced with a lovely light spice on the nose. This highly sought-after Limited Edition is now available from selected retailers.

Montblanc Sartorial Collection

Montblanc has added a new dimension to its signature business collection inspired by libraries and the written word. The redesigned Montblanc Sartorial Collection features bags and small accessories in softer leather with a deep two-tone effect, new colours and the introduction of a modularity system that allows the smaller pieces to be attached to larger bags – creating new functionalities, styling options and many customisation possibilities. The triangular design of the handle nods to recognisable ink bottles from the Montblanc archive.

Bulgari’s Pour Homme

Pour Homme is a refreshing scent from Bulgari that induces feelings of harmony. Master perfumer Jacques Cavallier attains the perfect balance of olfactive forces in a contemporary composition that delivers a myriad of expressions – from freshness to comfort, subtlety to intensity, and energy to peace. Key notes of Darjeeling tea accord, lily and guaiac wood waft from the newly designed bottle that represents the elegance of the house.

Berluti’s Playoff Sneakers Collection

Berluti has selected a series of footwear classics to pay tribute to a father’s love from the ground up. These include the latest addition to the Playoff sneakers collection for Summer 2023, which are stylishly designed with patinated Venezia leather cut-outs and a rubber outsole with a colourful leather insert. A version of the Alessandro lace-up court shoe features an asymmetrical Scritto pattern. The brand’s Father’s Day selections are curated to suit individual needs.

The Ultimate Guide to Gua Sha: Everything You Need to Know About this Ancient Beauty Technique

Among the many Traditional Chinese Medicine techniques, gua sha has predominantly been considered a beauty tool these days but what most people overlook is that this TCM works wonders in improving one’s health and managing stress.

Gua sha, which has been practised for more than thousands of years, has become super popular for being convenient to practice while offering so many benefits when done in the proper way. In this article, we have covered everything you should know before buying or using your first gua sha.

Also Read: Why the world is waking up to the goodness of Traditional Chinese Medicine?

What is Gua Sha?

Gua sha which also means scrapping is a technique in which a small and flat stone with smooth edges is used to scrape the skin as it helps to improve the energy flow called Qi in our body which in turn helps the body to release tension, reduce inflammation and stimulate the immune system.

That is why, back in the past, Gua sha was used to treat different health-related issues such as body pain, indigestion, breathing issues and certain skin conditions.

But what made this age-old practice be adapted to the beauty industry is its ability to give you glowing skin as the stone improves blood circulation and lymphatic drainage. It also has anti-ageing properties and reduces puffiness.

Also Read: Are Jade Rollers a cosmetic con or a skincare secret?

How to pick the right Gua Sha?

The main thing to consider when picking a gua sha is the material. There are so many options, with the most common ones being jade, rose quartz, green aventurine, bian stone and amethyst. Though all these materials help the skin in many ways, each gemstone also has its own unique properties that make them better than the others for certain functions as mentioned below briefly.

Jade: Most suitable for improving skin tone
Rose Quartz: Ideal for sensitive skin
Green Aventurine: Best for reducing wrinkles
Bian Stone: Excellent for stress relief
Amethyst: Perfect to reduce inflammation

How to use Gua Sha?

Before starting with the gua sha facial, you need to apply oil or moisturiser on your skin so that the tool can be used smoothly, or the frictional force can surely hurt the skin and do more damage than good. Then using the edges of the stone, make long strokes along different parts of the face and/or the body while applying some pressure.

Each stroke should be repeated a couple of times and experts will advise you to pay special attention to certain acupressure points. Moreover, you can always refer to videos by professionals to do gua sha at home.

What are the other crucial things to consider before practising Gua Sha?

If you have the time, you can always include gua sha in your daily skincare routine or even thrice a week is enough to eventually see results.

However, it is important to avoid or seek a healthcare personnel’s advice before doing gua sha if you have any medical concerns. These include but are not limited to, having an injury; suffering from certain skin conditions; and having recently undergone surgery.

Also, as with any skincare practice, hygiene is very important so it is vital to thoroughly wash your hands and the gua sha tool before using it.

Face Moisturisers 101: The Best Face Creams According to Different Skin Concerns

Face moisturisers have always been an essential part of skincare. Even if we were to skip the other steps in the skincare routine on a lazy day, we ensure not to forget the moisturising ritual. For some, it is essentially the only step in their skincare regime following cleansing and exfoliation.

As a matter of fact, face moisturisers have proven to improve the skin’s texture and are necessary to tackle dermatology issues like fine lines, wrinkles, dryness and more. They are said to be a replacement for our dermis layer’s natural moisturiser – oil-producing glands – that function less effectively as we age.

Recommended that we start moisturising from our teen years and start opting for anti-ageing ones in our twenties, Gafencu has found the best face moisturisers depending on the different common skincare concerns.

Best for Skin Ageing – LA MER The Moisturising Soft Cream

Infused with the extremely effective ingredient called the Miracle Broth – discovered by La Mer’s research team – this moisturising soft cream works wonders in removing fine lines and improving your skin’s elasticity. It is packed with billions of moisture spheres making sure that the cream works its magic on every part of the skin. When the product was clinically tested on about 30 Asian women, there were visible signs of improvement within four weeks of using the moisturiser twice every day.

Best for Dull Skin – Dr Dennis Gross Oil-Free Radiant Moisturiser

If you are prone to blackheads then the Dr Dennis Gross Oil-Free Radiant Moisturiser is possibly the best face cream for you because it is non-comedogenic – as in it does not clog the skin’s pores. Instead, it improves your dermis layer by hydrating and diminishing sun damage which eventually results in even and glowing skin. This dermatologist-approved product does so with its power-packed ingredients like lactic acid, vitamin C, niacinamide and more.

Best for Damaged Skin – L’Occitane Immortelle Divine Cream

The Immortelle flowers have been considered a nature’s gift to the skincare industry for their anti-ageing properties and moisturising benefits so it is not surprising to see that L’Occitane has developed an entire face care line that uses the exotic flower as one of the primary ingredients. One product in this collection is the Immortelle Divine Cream which repairs the dermis layer by visibly removing wrinkles while also making the skin soft and firm by hydrating it.

Best for Hyperpigmentation – Natura Bisse Luminous Brightening Rejuvenating Moisturiser

Even skin with no blemishes is typically seen as aesthetically appealing and most of our skincare routines are catered in expectation of such an outcome, and Natura Bisse’s rejuvenating moisturiser promises similar results as it helps enhance the skin by fully reducing hyperpigmentation, blemishes and other signs of sun damage and ageing. It also helps with hydration and gives the skin a brighter appearance thanks to the hyaluronic acid and aloe vera in it.

Best for Dryness – Laneige Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Cream

Given its numerous benefits, hyaluronic acid has become a ubiquitous skincare ingredient found in almost every hydrating moisturiser which also includes the Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Cream by Laneige. This Laneige product is ingrained with many micro-sized blue hyaluronic acid particles that get deeply into the skin thus helping with hydration and dealing with redness and roughness on the skin. The face cream comes in two renditions – one which is suitable for dry skin and another which is perfect for combination to oily skin.

Best for Sensitive Skin – Giorgio Armani Crema Nera Supreme Reviving Light Cream

Boasting a very silk texture, this light cream from Giorgio Armani allows for easy application while also deeply penetrating the skin to work the power of its primarily-ingrained ingredients such as the brand’s trademarked Reviscentalis and Mediterranean caper. The Giorgio Armani cream helps to achieve glowing and supple skin, and its light texture makes it the perfect moisturiser if you have sensitive skin.

Also Read: Face Serums 101: Get nourishing skin from Summer to Monsoons

Serum Secrets: Discover which specialist serum delivers the biggest win for your kind of skin

Maintaining radiant and healthy-looking skin is something pretty much everyone aspires to. It is, after all, one of the key aspects of ourselves we present to the wider world and something we can be unfairly judged on. Ensuring it passes such intrusive inspection requires diligence and adherence to a strict self-care regime, one that serums are playing ever more of a lead role within.

A well-chosen salicylic acid serum applied up to twice a week, for example, is a positive boon when it comes to banishing acne. By contrast, it’s a hyaluronic acid serum you should be calling on to help counter any dry skin problems, while a morning application of Vitamin C serum is all but sure to revive dull and weary skin. Intriguingly, all of these life-enhancing potions come packaged in miniature bottles, complete with droppers to ensure micro accurate deployment. As to which to opt for, well here are some of our tried and tested favourites…

Eadem Milk Marvel Dark Spot Serum

For the many blessed with a darker skin tone, reducing hyperpigmentation has always been something of a particular challenge. Thankfully, here to help is this fragrance-free serum which has been specially formulated for use on darker-coloured skin. In addition, its unique composition is also said to help reduce post-acne scarring without bleaching the skin’s natural tone, largely on account of its delicate infusion of niacinamide, liquorice root and amber algae.

Valmont V-Firm Eye Gel

Specifically engineered to help protect the sensitive area around the eyes, this hydrating optical serum contains collagen-enhancing peptides said to both keep your skin exceptionally tight and to ensure your eyes appear bright and maintain their twinkle. With its gel-like eye contour having thicker viscosity than comparable serums, it’s ideal for use in any environment likely to leech moisture from your skin.

Dr. Dennis Gross retinol ferulic serum

Containing such potent hydration as hyaluronic acid and squalane, as well as being rich in antioxidant ferulic acid, this new renewing serum also has a healthy level of both retinol and bakuchiol, its herbal, skin-smoothing counterpart. Apply it immediately before bedtime and you’ll supposedly awaken with a singularly smooth, taut and radiant complexion.

Dermalogica calming serum for sensitive skin

Favouring oats, botanical extracts, primrose oil, hyaluronic acid, collagen and peptides, this is the serum you need if you’re looking to accelerate the healing time of any recently damaged skin. It’s particularly recommended for use when you’ve maybe over-exposed your epidermis, possibly when that day in the sun dragged on just a little too long.

Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Serum

With a staying power that would be the envy of many, this legendary brand remains very much at the cutting edge when it comes to complexion care products. Proof – if proof was needed – comes courtesy of its seven-in-one Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Synchronised MultiRecovery Complex Serum, which is said to both eliminate the giveaway signs of aging and deliver a younger, more radiant, even-toned look.

(Text: Joseff Musa)

Read the full article in the March 2023 issue (pg: 44). Available on the Gafencu app on Android and Apple.

The Best Beauty Subscription Boxes Delivering To Hong Kong

Despite our different skin types, we all have one common dream – achieving that clear and glowing skin. Fortunately, there are beauty subscription boxes with carefully handpicked essentials – specially catered for each individual – that help us with our skin goals.

Each box is either suitable for all skin types or curated based on our profile. (Some brands make customers take a quiz to understand their skin needs better).

Besides, there are plant-based and non-toxic items, such eco-friendly options allow us to take care of our beauty regime while paying attention to our planet – a win-win. With so many beauty subscription boxes available in the market, here are five we absolutely love.

Bomibox

Obsessed with the sought-after glass skin, then, like us, you will also love this Korean beauty box. Each box has either full-size or travel-size items. For those not ready to commit to a monthly or quarterly subscription, without trying the Bomibox Korean Beauty Box, there is a three-month plan. (when going on a trial, remember to choose the gift option so that the subscription does not automatically renew after three months). Subscribe here.

Petit Vour

Whether it is its array of customized products, tailor-made based on personalized quiz responses for your skin goals or the fact that its selection of products is non-toxic and plant-based, it is no surprise that Petit Vour has become many beauty aficionados’ favourite when it comes to beauty subscription boxes. Each parcel consists of four or more beauty picks including treats for skin and hair; and cosmetics such as mascara, lip polish and more. Subscribe here.

Laurel & Reed

Laurel & Reed is another ethical brand that delivers all-natural skincare essentials to you. The products are also non-toxic and cruelty-free. Each pack comes with more than three full-sized products. If you wish to try a box before subscribing, there is a one-time plan that does not renew. Subscribe here.

The Detox Market

The Detox Market brings you sustainable skin treats that are tested and loved by skincare experts. Like most subscription boxes, you will receive different products each month from The Detox Market’s select brands like Biophile, Pai, Kora Organics and more. Subscribe here.

Nourish Beauty

The four products in the Nourish Beauty Box are specially curated for each month. For instance, the March 2023 package features products like an eyeshadow palette, hair colour care essentials and more that match the Spring-Summer beauty needs. Also, Nourish Beauty lets you either buy the already-curated boxes or customise your box by choosing from the list of available products. Subscribe here.

Also Read: Wake up & Makeup: Beauty essentials for a dazzling party look

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

Algica: The Next Super Ingredient Entering The Skincare Game

Rice water, snail mucin, green tea, and many more ingredients, the skincare industry has borrowed from nature for the benefits they can have on the dermis. Newly entering this lineup of organic materials is algica.

Said to have a chemical structure that cosmetology experts have been trying to mimic, the algica is built in a unique way allowing it to be an iconic addition to the skincare game.

For those interested in the science of it, algica is basically the outlet layer of algae called diatoms which scientists from the Swedish Algae Factory have discovered a technique to produce in an environmentally friendly and circular manner thus leaving no harmful chemicals in our ecosystem.

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This super ingredient is environmentally friendly and has an EcoCertification for being safe for the ocean and sea life.

In addition to being a more conscious choice, here are all the reasons why algica for the skin is a godsend for skincare enthusiasts.

Moisturising
One of the purposes of the algica in nature is to ensure enough water in the algae. Much like it, it will keep the dermis layer hydrated when included in moisturisers, serums or toners. It is even proven to be more effective than hyaluronic acid which has long been a game changer for its hydrating property. Besides, its light weight makes it easier to apply and the skin soaks it up much faster than hyaluronic acid.

Also Read: 6 must-have autumn skincare products for the drier season

Cleansing
It absorbs oil, dirt, sweat, and other impurities thus making algica an excellent cleanser.

In fact, it can take in nearly 20 times more impurities than any other chemically-engineered material and shows results three times faster.

Protecting
It is a perfect barrier for the skin as it not only blocks harmful UV rays but also stops air pollution from getting into a person’s skin.

Also Read: Sunscreen Sprays: Easy alternatives for ample SPF protection

In other words, algica is sure to take the dermatology industry by storm because it is going to make your skincare routine much quicker as this single ingredient guarantees multiple benefits.

Dermatology brands like L:A Bruket, Kari Gran, Lumi, Ecooking and more have already started infusing it into their products. The organic skincare brand L:A Bruket has even taken it a step further and launched a face care collection which has algica as one of the key ingredients.

Also Read: Jade Rollers – Cosmetic con or skincare secret?

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.

Face Serums 101: Get nourishing skin from summer to monsoons

Spring in Hong Kong is but a brief interim between seasons, and the blazing heat will soon be firmly set upon the city. Giving our skin the right treatment to stay nourished and protected against the elements is vital.

You have probably heard of retinol, niacinamide and ascorbyl palmitate – all beauty buzz words nowadays. Derived from vitamins A, B and C respectively, these are the active ingredients commonly found in serums. Each plays a significant role in supporting skin health – balancing, brightening, clearing, hydrating and protecting inside out.

A-Stars
Starting with ‘A’, retinoids are antioxidants that promote the turnover of skin cells and smoothen signs of ageing – those worrying fine lines and wrinkles – while also reinforcing the skin’s natural defences. The popularly used retinol is known to dry out skin because of its high pH level, but when paired with other potent hydrating ingredients, it can work wonders.

South Korean pioneer Sulwhasoo combines research, technology and beauty formulation for its ginseng-centric holistic skincare lines. The newly released Concentrated Ginseng Renewing Serum spotlights a rare type of ginseng saponin in a potion that, per 50ml bottle, contains 190,000 patented Ginsenomics capsules rich in retinol, ginseng seed and amino acids. Said to work eight times faster than earlier formulations, this quick-absorbing serum soothes irritated skin, activates collagen production and delivers anti-ageing benefits.

Plant oils, on the other hand, such as paeonol – an antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory organic compound derived from peony shrubs – are considered gentler alternatives to retinol. Peony root extract is one of the active ingredients in Spanish skincare expert Natura Bissē’s innovative Diamond Extreme Serum. Buoyed by the company’s exclusive Smart Energy Complex and artemiasalina, hailing from plankton, it boosts the skin’s natural protective layer and the epidermis’s resistance to damage caused by UV rays and heat-induced stress. The serum also supports and balances skin metabolism for a more luminous complexion.

BPlus

Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, is an essential nutrient that addresses multiple skincare issues, such as excessive sebum production, inflamed pores, dull complexion and signs of ageing. Its more neutral acid / alkaline level (pH6) also ensures compatibility with other ingredients and a gentler touch – a boon for sensitive skin.

German brand Dr. Barbara Sturm has added The Better B Niacinamide Serum to its science-based skincare range. Delivering a handful of helpful solutions, the new product controls excess oil, reduces fine lines, soothes enlarged pores, evens skin tone and prevents moisture loss by promoting the natural production of ceramide. Returning skin to its natural, flawless state while preserving its unique texture, supple, youthful glow is an skincare’s ultimate aim.

Lots to C

Ascorbic acid, or vitamin C, is the trickiest active ingredient to blend into beauty serums; as an unstable, acidic compound (pH3 or less in water-based solutions), it can cause irritation. However, when done right, its benefits – including collagen and elastin production – will have you excited to start your morning routine.

A great example is N°1 de Chanel Revitalising Serum from the beauty arm of the eponymous French luxury house. Featuring the red camellia, a flower known to contain vitamin C, zinc, potassium, folic acid and amino acid, as the hero ingredient, the serum’s refreshing gel texture instantly seeps into the skin, where it corrects as well as prevents signs of ageing by improving elasticity.

American beauty conglomerate Estée Lauder takes a different track, infusing its new Re-Nutriv Ultimate Diamond Transformative Brilliance Serum with a breakthrough ingredient in the skincare industry: black diamond truffle extract. Derived from truffles in southwest France, this potent harvest is coupled with vitamin C derivatives and the brand’s proprietary youth sustaining technology. The result will be clearer, more radiant skin, and a significant reduction in the harm caused by extensive sun exposure, pollutants, stress and other environmental factors.

Layer On

You don’t need to be a science geek to incorporate serums into your skincare routine, a better understanding of pH level and viscosity certainly helps. A useful rule of thumb is to dab on thinner (water-based) products before thicker oils and emollients, and move your way up the pH scale, from lowest to highest. For example, apply a vitamin C serum before one with a vitamin A kick, followed by a moisturiser; or massage a drop of retinol into the skin ahead of water-soluble acids like AHA and BHA.

Alternatively, you could grab Dior’s Diorsnow Essence of Light Serum. The formula’s co-stars are edelweiss and yeast extract, sources of vitamin C and B that work deep within the dermis to reduce pigmentation and dark spots, thus brightening the skin while also countering the effects of free radicals.

But keep in mind that not all active ingredients work effectively together. Retinol and ascorbic acid, for instance, sit on opposite ends of the pH scale, making it difficult for the skin to absorb both simultaneously. So, split the two into a day-time and night-time routine.
Cult beauty brand IT Cosmetics offers a guided option with its new Bye Bye Serums collection. Co-developed with plastic surgeons and dermatologists, each of the quartet focuses on a specific skin flaw. There’s Bye Bye Dullness, a brightening, nourishing serum of 15-percent pure vitamin C plus vitamin E; the smoothing Bye Bye Pores that combines glycolic acid and hydrating hyaluronic acid; the plumping Bye Bye Lines with hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5 and peptides; and Bye Bye Dark Spots, a skin balancing formulation of niacinamide and ethyl vitamin C.

No matter how you choose to layer your active ingredients, remember that all serums should be applied on a cleansed, toned face, and never skip the moisturiser.