Useful skincare tips from aesthetic doctors like the well-known Dr Georgia Lee and more

Asian woman with good skin

More often than not, we find ourselves googling for information on everything and anything. With so much fake information out there, it’s wiser to hear from aesthetic doctors themselves than to trust that article written in 2012.

Hear directly on skincare tips from aesthetic doctors like the well-known Dr Georgia Lee and more.

#1: Dr Georgia Lee of Dr GL
Dr Georgia Lee of Dr GL

Image Credits: herworld.com

“I recommend using a product that helps to increase the penetration of other products that come after. Also, I believe not everyone needs a moisturiser over the whole face. This step can be skipped if the particular area on your face is acne-prone and oily.

Next, it is important to understand that the skin undergoes changes during the cycle and not all areas of the face are suitable for one particular type of moisturiser. I recommend the concept of layering. Start with a light, gel-based moisturiser and add on a lotion only on areas that are needed.

Additionally, we should never neglect to apply sunscreen over the eyelids as UV rays can accelerate collagen degradation as high as five times and neglecting this step can accelerate eyelid laxity. Find one that is safe for the eyelids.

Lastly, now that many of us are using facial masks, this can cause redness and breakouts. Reduce usage on AHA or retinoic-based products over the covered areas. If you are using reusable masks, ensure that the detergents used to wash your mask has been thoroughly rinsed out.”

#2: Dr Melvin Tan of Epion Clinic
Dr Melvin Tan of Epion Clinic

Image Credits: herworld.com

“It is important to incorporate a number of elements in your routine. For example, the use of a cleanser, toner, chemical exfoliants like AHAs, serums formulated with retinol or hyaluronic acid; and of course, a moisturiser.

Speak to your doctor on how best to apply. Just keep in mind that the rule of thumb would be cleanse, tone, exfoliate, apply serums, slab on some moisturiser and proceed with sunscreen.”

#3: Dr Rachel Ho of La Clinic
Dr Rachel Ho of La Clinic

Image Credits: herworld.com

“Give a skincare product at least three to four weeks before making a verdict on whether you see any improvements, especially for anti-ageing products. The skin cells renew every 28 days for most people, so some products like retinoids may require that duration for results to be seen. 

If you are unsure, my tip is to minimise your skincare steps because your products may be interacting with each other to reduce each other’s efficacy or even cause increased irritation. Additionally, it is important to be consistent with using your product to know if it is working.”

#4: Dr YX Lum of IDS Clinic
Dr YX Lum of IDS Clinic

Image Credits: herworld.com

“Don’t over or under apply. Listen and respect the skin. The skin will tell you its needs. When it becomes dry and flaky, it’s thirsty and needs hydration. When it’s oily and breaking out, the bacteria and oil production has been thrown off balance. By respecting the skin and using skincare products according to its needs, the balance can be restored.”

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Ways To Put A Stop To Hair Loss In Singapore’s Hot & Humid Weather

Compared to other countries, Singapore generally has a pretty stable weather forecast all year round. But that doesn’t mean we’re better off since we have to endure the hot and humid temperatures and its effects on our scalp and hair.

During cold or dry climates, our scalps tend to produce less sebum so the chances of clogged pores are kept to a minimum. But on our sunny island, the hot and humid climate causes our scalp to release more sebum. If it’s not properly cleaned, it will result in clogged pores, dandruff, and eventually hair loss.

Luckily, we have ways to put a stop to hair loss! Here’s how.

1. Shampoo daily

Image Credits: CTV News

For those you’ve heard sayings about how washing your hair daily might strip the scalp of its natural oils, you’re not alone. However, considering Singapore’s hot and humid temperatures, daily shampooing is necessary. In fact, it’s recommended that you wash your hair daily to get rid of excess sebum or impurities that might build up on the scalp and lead to hair loss in the long-term.

According to Pooja Chhabra, a certified trichologist from TK TrichoKare, it’s wise to always opt for shampoos that do not contain any harsh ingredients. If necessary, make the switch to chemical-free shampoos without paragon and silicone. Opt for those that contain ingredients such as argan oil, rosemary, lavender, and chamomile that nourish your hair and help restore its moisture balance.

2. Use a moisturizing hair mask

Image Credits: Brawta Living

Similar to how you’ve been investing money and time on face masks, your hair needs some tender loving care too. This applies especially to individuals who have their air-conditioners turned on for the most part of the day to counter Singapore’s humidity.

We’re not sure about you but we’ve personally encountered dry and itchy skin after long periods in an air-conditioned room. This is because while the air-conditioning keeps us cool, it snaps away moisture from our body too. The same applies to our scalp and hair as well. To avoid the damaging effects on our hair, be sure to treat it with a moisturizing mask at least once a week.

3. Take care of your hair & scalp with TK TrichoKare’s award-winning treatment

While DIY routines are important, it’s also essential to let the professionals handle it at times. If you’ve tried various hair care products but to no avail, then it’s probably wise to seek a second opinion. We recommend taking care of your hair & scalp with TK TrichoKare before your condition worsens.

About TK TrichoKare

TK TrichoKare has been around in the market for a long time. With a history that dates back to 2004, they are the first and leading brand that provides customised European herbal hair remedies that are validated by certified trichologists.

If you’re not aware, trichology is the scientific study relating to scalp and hair health. It covers the anatomy, chemistry, physiology, nutrition, genetics and microbiology. With that said, trichologists are professionals who specialize in hair and scalp care. Coupled with advanced technology used in TK TrichoKare’s treatment process, you know you’re a step closer to better hair and scalp health.

Here’s what to expect during your treatment process.

Step 1: Hair & Scalp Analysis

Image Credits: TK TrichoKare

To tackle the problem, a hair and scalp analysis is needed. Using a lens tool that magnifies up to 200 times, you will be able to see for yourself your scalp condition before the treatment.

Step 2: Customised Premium European Herbal Scalp Masque

After the analysis is done, your trichologist/hair consultant will explain to you more about the hair problems you’re facing based on the scan results. Thereafter, receive a recommendation on a customised premium European herbal scalp masque to detox the scalp and remove impurities and excess sebum.

Step 3: 3-Step TriOxy Treatment

Image Credits: TK TrichoKare

You will then be ushered into the treatment area to begin your treatment process with TK TrichoKare’s 3-step triOxy treatment. The 3-step triOxy treatment consists of OxyPeel, OxyJet, and OxyNutrient.

Think of OxyPeel as an exfoliation procedure that clears up your congested hair follicles. This is followed up by OxyJet, a spray that helps to accelerate your scalp’s cell metabolism and improve blood circulation.

Once that is done, there will be a 15-minute waiting time to allow the goodness from OxyPeel and OxyJet to set in. You will then be guided to the hair bath area for a revitalizing hair bath to aid your scalp in restoring its sebum balance. Get ready to feel completely refreshed after the wash!

As you head back to your dedicated seating area, a hot pad will be placed over your shoulders. Relax and feel the tension fade away as your trichologist/hair consultant works on the last step – OxyNutrient. This provides the necessary nutrients and hydration your scalp needs to thrive.

Step 4: Photodynamic Therapy

Image Credits: TK TrichoKare

To wrap things up, sit under the Photodynamic Therapy machine that uses laser light technology to support your hair regeneration. This final step will greatly accelerate the healing process.

Book an appointment at TK TrichoKare

Liked what you just saw? The award-winning Advanced Scalp Detox & Care Treatment is now priced at just $40 nett with a free HairGRO ampoule and hair care kit (total worth up to $745). On top of that, stand a chance to win the all-new iPad 10.2-inch (worth $499) after the trial treatment.

Book yourself an appointment today!

This article is sponsored by TK TrichoKare.

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Ant shop in Singapore sells a handful of ants in a test-tube kit for about S$12 for ant hobbyists

singapore-ant-shop-starter-kit

While the average person will press their fingers against ants to get rid of them once they come to sight, a 41-year-old started an ant shop in Singapore. Just Ants is the name of the shop with about 30 to 35 species of ants.

“It started from a hobby, a small hobby,” Mr John Ye said. “And then when I actually learned more about ants, I was mind-blown. I ventured deeper and deeper. So I thought to myself, why not start an ant shop in Singapore?”

Prices

A starter test-tube kit with a handful of ants for a beginner ant hobbyist is priced at about S$12. For an established colony of 20 to 30 ants, it’s selling at S$20. While for rare ants, it can go for up to S$60.

The owner’s love for ants
singapore-ant-shop-just-ants

Image Credits: CNA

Don’t underestimate Mr Ye’s love for ants. It is that which prompted him to quit his job of distributing wholesale electronics to set up his shop in early 2019.

He even has a poem written about ants that’s framed up in his shop. “Why keep ants they say. They are not entirely pests I say,” it read. “Ant keeping can be a joy. A lot more fun than that boring toy.”

just-ants-ant-poem

Image Credits: CNA

“It’s very therapeutic. My favourite part about keeping ants will be just looking at them, gazing at them… It calms my mind after a hard day at work. They really soothe my stress,” said Mr Ye.

“They are so adorable crawling around, grooming themselves, it just tickles me. Doing their daily stuff, their strategies, the characteristics, how they organise themselves so uniquely,” he added.

His interest started randomly

“I was watching some videos online. In Singapore, it’s fairly new, but in Canada, the United States, it’s quite a hobby. So there’s a very popular ant channel in Canada – he’s also a comedian – Mikey Bustos.”

“He started the trend back then, and he did a storyline for each ant colony. So every time you will (be like) – wah, what’s the second episode like?”

The public’s reaction

“We have more curious people – not ant-keepers – but (they’re) curious as to what we are doing.”

“We even have an uncle (who started with us). He’s 79-years-old. He bought a few colonies and he said he will spend hours observing them, taking pictures… He’s very cute because he will keep asking me, ‘you have any new ants?’ I say, ‘no more, all you have already’,” Mr Ye said.

In fact, schools and the Singapore Science Centre have approached him to talk about ants.

But it’s not always a pretty picture for the ant lover. He was doubted by friends and relatives with many wondering if he was in the right state of mind. When he first started, his wife even threatened to spray his ants with Baygon if they escaped from their enclosures.

Passion over profits
exterior-of-ant-shop-just-ants

Image Credits: CNA

“I know it will not be very profitable like a full-time job as in the workforce, but as time goes by, we thought of, well, passion would be ultimately over profit. Of course, we are not earning as much (as) back then in the workforce, but slowly we found really little happiness in what we’re doing,” he said.

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Fashion tips for women: 5 wardrobe essentials Zalora’s Head of Social swears by

Fashion tips for women

When was the last time you dressed up and felt good about it? With the ongoing pandemic, it seems like more of us are dressed in loungewear these days. It also made us rethink fashion essentials that we could put on without the fear of going out of style.

If that is you, look out for these wardrobe essentials that Illya Nadira, Zalora’s Head of Social, swears by.

#1: Jeans

“Every woman needs a pair of jeans, be it skinnies, flare or even straight-cut because they don’t go out of style, ever! I’m currently obsessed with these baggy oversized jeans with torn hems from Zara – they’re super comfortable while giving off a cool vibe.”

Consider getting: Dorothy Perkins Regular Midwash Eden Jeans

Sale Price: S$29.90

Dorothy Perkins Regular Midwash Eden Jeans

#2: White vest/tank top

“This is everything to me! I must have a white vest/tank with me, even when I travel. It’s the easiest, most versatile piece to pair with everything else. I usually head to Uniqlo to get mine.”

Consider getting: Mango Embroidered Cotton Top

Sale Price: S$29.90

Mango Embroidered Cotton Top

#3: Earrings

“You will never catch me out of the house without earrings or studs. I feel naked when I miss out that important step of accessorising because it really completes the whole look.”

Consider getting: ALDO Jerilinna Pierced Earring

Sale Price: S$22.90

ALDO Jerilinna Pierced Earring

#4: Oversized white shirt

“You can wear a white shirt anywhere and everywhere – to the office, lunch dates with your girlfriends, as outerwear at the beach, and even to bed! Though I’ve never bought one before because I can find tons in my late dad’s wardrobe.”

Consider getting: French Connection Aoko Rhodes Popover Shirt

Sale Price: S$53.90

French Connection Aoko Rhodes Popover Shirt

#5: A set of co-ords

“I love a good set of co-ords. My friend Cheryl Teo designed (a) geometric-print set for her final-year project at Lasalle College of the Arts and she sewed one for me as I couldn’t stop raving about it. She eventually started her own line called Aryl Ctto for a while. The best part is I can wear either the top or the pants on separate occasions.”

Consider getting: TOPSHOP Dogstooth Jumpsuit

Sale Price: S$66.90

TOPSHOP Dogstooth Jumpsuit

Fashion inspiration

If you’re looking for fashion inspiration, take it from the 30-year-old: “I usually go on Instagram and Pinterest, but I get inspired by everyday people too. When I see someone on the train wearing something super cool and chic, I’ll try to recreate it in my own way.”

Also, here’s a bonus fashion tip before you go: blazers.

“You can easily look professional with a blazer on, regardless of what you’re wearing underneath,” says Nadira.

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M.A.C X Kakao Friends Love Lips Collection has launched at a discounted price on Lazada

kakao-friends-mac-lipsticks

We’re dreaming of a day where mask-wearing is no longer needed. When that comes, we can don our favourite lipsticks without worries of smudging.

As we await that day to arrive, let’s turn our eyes to the new product in town. M.A.C has collaborated with Kakao Friends to launch a Love Lips Collection, which is available in five colours. If you’re familiar with the brand, you will be glad to know that Lucky in Love and To Luck shades have also been relaunched in this lipstick collection. The other three shades are Ruby Woo, Lady Danger, and See Sheer.

Let’s take a closer look.

#1: Lucky in Love X Frodo

Lucky in Love X Frodo

First up on the list we have Lucky in Love X Frodo. It’s a mauve-toned pink shade with a matte finishing. You will be accompanied by Frodo, a rich-born dog from the city who is also Neo’s partner in Kakao Friends.

#2: To Luck! X Muzi

To Luck! X Muzi

Joining Lucky in Love X Frodo as a relaunched product is To Luck! X Muzi. The lipstick comes in a soft dusky rose colour that also has a matte finishing. The featured character is Muzi, a piece of danmuji (단무지) (pickled radish) in a rabbit costume.

#3: Ruby Woo X Ryan

Ruby Woo X Ryan

Now, onto M.A.C’s best-selling shades. We have Ruby Woo X Ryan to start us off. Rock this shade of intense blue-red with a retro matte finishing. You will be escorted by Ryan, a bear-looking strong and independent lion from Kakao Friends.

#4: Lady Danger X Neo

Lady Danger X Neo

As you walk down the streets of Seoul, you’ve probably noticed many ladies with bright orange-red lips. M.A.C X Kakao Friends’ Lady Danger X Neo is actually a close representation of that shade – a vivid bright coral-red undertone. Neo, the representative fashionista of the Kakao Friends characters who love shopping, will show you how to get it done.

#5: See Sheer X Apeach

See Sheer X Apeach

I’m saving the best for the last! Just kidding. I’m a huge fan of Apeach, that’s why. Alongside Apeach is See Sheer X Apeach in pale deep red. It is the only lippie in the collection with a lustre finish.

Where to buy?

From now till 9 September, the limited edition M.A.C X Kakao Friends Love Lips Collection is retailing at a discounted price of S$33 (usual price: S$36) on Lazada.

If you prefer to shop in stores, you can head to the M.A.C Flagship Store at ION Orchard or TANGS on 1 September. It will be available on Sephora Online on 22 September.

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