Looking good isn’t just about vanity…it’s about confidence and self-esteem. The way we present ourselves can influence how others perceive us and even open doors to opportunities we desire. But at what cost does this pursuit of beauty come? Let’s delve into the numbers and explore ways to maintain our appearance without breaking the bank.
The skincare and beauty industry is thriving, raking in over US$90 billion (about S$120 billion) globally. In Singapore alone, the average woman spends approximately S$270 per month on toiletries, fitness classes, and occasional pampering sessions like facials or massages, according to a survey by UOB.
This investment in personal care contributes significantly to Singapore’s premium beauty sector, which reached an estimated worth of S$947.5 million in 2021, up from S$799 million in 2015, as reported by Euromonitor.
However, the allure of luxury brands often leads consumers to overspend. Fancy packaging, celebrity endorsements, and perceived quality can inflate prices, making it challenging to stick to a budget.
Reflecting on personal spending habits, I find myself allocating around S$120 per month for essentials like foot spas, waxing, haircuts, and skincare/makeup purchases, excluding clothing expenses. It’s easy to overlook these costs, but failing to budget for them can lead to financial strain.
To avoid overspending on beauty and wellness products, consider implementing these strategies:
Image Credits: unsplash.com
1. Shop with a Plan: Outline what you need to purchase and set a budget before browsing.
2. Compare Prices: Research and compare prices across different retailers to find the best deals.
3. Implement a Cooling-Off Period: Delay impulse purchases by adding items to your cart and revisiting them after a set time or sleep on it before finalizing the purchase.
4. Space Out Salon Visits: Opt for quality over quantity when it comes to salon treatments. Consider stretching out appointments to reduce overall spending without sacrificing results.
5. Avoid Boredom Shopping: Set dedicated time slots for online shopping and stick to your budget to prevent impulse buys.
6. Prioritize Quality Over Price: Invest in essential products that suit your needs and skin type, even if they come with a higher price tag. Look for Sephora discounts or promotions to save money without compromising on quality.
By adopting these practices, you can maintain your beauty routine without overspending or jeopardizing your financial well-being. Remember, looking good should enhance your confidence, not drain your bank account!
As far as beauty retailers go, NOVELA is one of our favorites. It consistently stocks timeless brands and trending products that are all shelfie-worthy. NOVELA’s sales are always exciting for skin care enthusiasts and beauty junkies alike!
Speaking of sales, its Good Friday Sale kicks off on 15 April and ends on 17 April. Shoppers can indulge in an assortment of discounted beauty buys from giftable kits to a wide variety of international beauty products.
What’s more? You can register as a member to receive all the benefits including a S$5 welcome voucher. Register here.
What are you waiting for? Get up to 50% off on over 400 luxury beauty products including our top picks below!
1. Gucci Flora Gorgeous Gardenia EDP 30ml
USUAL PRICE: S$134
SALE PRICE: S$93.80
Exude the joyful floral signature of the Gardenia flower with the Gucci Flora Gorgeous Gardenia. The mystical White Gardenia note is blended with solar Jasmine Grandiflorum Absolute. The floral signature is modernized by introducing a lively Pear Blossom accord and a touch of sweet Brown Sugar.
2. Jo Malone English Pear & Freesia Cologne 30ml
USUAL PRICE: S$110
SALE PRICE: S$79.90
Jo Malone English Pear & Freesia is perfect for people who love a sensuously deep, woody note. It combines the freshness of just-ripe pears with a bouquet of white freesias. It is then mellowed by amber, patchouli, and woods.
3. Versace Bright Crystal Eau De Tolette 30ml
USUAL PRICE: S$85
SALE PRICE: S$55.25
Wear a blend of floral fruity allure with the Versace Bright Crystal. Since its launch in 2006, it has been one of the well-loved fragrances of this luxury brand. Top notes are yuzu, pomegranate, and ice.
4. Chloe Atelier Des Fleurs Herba Mimosa Eau De Parfum 50ml
USUAL PRICE: S$180
SALE PRICE: S$144
Delicately composed by Amandine Clerc-Marie, the Chloe Atelier Des Fleurs Herba Mimosa works harmoniously with other Chloe Atelier des Fleurs scents. It exudes a desirable floral whiff.
5. Charlotte Tilbury Luxury Eyeshadow Palette #PillowTalk
USUAL PRICE: S$92
SALE PRICE: S$59.90
The Charlotte Tilbury Luxury Eyeshadow Palette in #PillowTalk features rich, feminine shades that are easy-to-apply. These universally-flattering shades will make you effortlessly beautiful.
6. Estee Lauder Double Wear Foundation #1W1 Bond 30ml
USUAL PRICE: S$71
SALE PRICE: S$53.25
Feel lightweight and comfortable while covering imperfections and uneven skin tone with the Estee Lauder Double Wear Foundation. Its long-lasting formula will enhance your looks for the entire day. No touch ups needed!
7. Kiehl’s Calendula Herbal Extract Toner 500ml
USUAL PRICE: S$95
SALE PRICE: S$76
Are you looking for an alcohol-free, paraben-free, and fragrance-free toner? Search no further than Kiehl’s Calendula Herbal Extract Toner. It is infused with Calendula petals to visibly reduce redness, oiliness, and improve skin’s texture with continued use.
Clinique Smart Clinical Repair is a trailblazer when it comes to de-aging. Designed with an expert panel of scientists and dermatologists, its formula is including a peptide-rich blend, potent retinoid, and hyaluronic acid. From the first fine lines to stubborn creases, you can repair and revitalize your skin.
9. Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair Multi-Recovery Complex 100ml
USUAL PRICE: $263
SALE PRICE: 2 for $349.90
Wake up to a radiant and plumped skin with a product that is rich in hydration – all day from morning until night. The Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair Multi-Recovery Complex has a 72-hour hydration power and 8-hour antioxidant power.
10. SK-II Best Seller Trial Kit
USUAL PRICE: S$108
SALE PRICE: S$89.90
What better way to treat yourself than by getting the SK-II Best Seller Trial Kit? It includes Facial Treatment Essence, R.N.A. Power Radical New Age, Facial Treatment Gentle Cleanser, and Facial Treatment Mask.
11. Pola White Shot Inner Lock Tablet IXS N
USUAL PRICE: S$248
SALE PRICE: 2 for S$297.60
Pola White Shot Inner Lock Tablet helps to bring you glowing skin by adding collagen, tangerine peel, black pepper, and other special ingredients. It also has a high antioxidant power.
Score great deals at NOVELA by visiting their seven physical stores or by shopping at www.novela.com.sg! See you there!
FairPrice Xtra’s health & beauty fair is back again! From now till 27 Oct, save smart with these great discounts and take this opportunity to stock up your beauty essentials! This time around, FairPrice Xtra has also added men’s beauty products so all can be involved. For the gentlemen out there, bag 1-for-1 picks from Listerine, Gillette and Nivea Men. Not forgetting the ladies, pick out your favourites from well-known brands like Bio-Essence, L’oreal Paris and any more! With a $100 budget, you can easily have a fresh makeover from head to toe in no time!
Save more as you buy more! Redeem FREE* FairPrice Gift Voucher with every $70 spent on participating products. That’s not all. Try your hands on the SURE WIN Spin the Wheel and win attractive prizes with every $30 spent on participating products.
* T&Cs apply: While stocks last. Gift with purchase valid at FairPrice Xtra stores only. Check in-store for more information.
Can’t wait to get your hands on the wide variety of discounted health and beauty products? Stay on this page as we share the best bargain buys with you!
Buy 1 get 1 free picks from 14 – 20 October
1. REJOICE Perfume Shampoo Assorted (600ml)
Usual Price: $9.90 Now: Buy 1 Get 1 Free
Rejoice has been around for years, and they have never failed to deliver products that smell good and work wonders on our tresses. Want lingering fragrance like you’ve just applied perfume on your hair? Try the Rejoice Perfume Collection, available in Peony, Luminous Rose, and Luscious White Strawberry.
2. FOLLOW ME Anti-bacterial Body Wash – Extra Cool / Natural Fresh (1000ml)
Usual Price: $7.90 Now: Buy 1 Get 1 Free
The pandemic has been with us for almost two years now. Kudos to all who’ve been keeping up with safe distancing measures and personal hygiene. Other than washing hands frequently with soap and water, you may want to add FOLLOW ME Anti-Bacterial Body Wash to your collection of tools to fight germs. Whether it’s the Extra Cool or Natural Fresh type, say goodbye to up to 99.99% of harmful bacteria with every wash.
3. SKIN BY GILLETTE Face Mask (5S)
Usual Price: $29.90 Now: Buy 1 Get 1 Free
Gentlemen, this one’s for you. SKiN By Gillette is a premium skincare sub-brand designed for men. Using Korean skincare technology, the moisturising face mask contains vitamin B3 with cica to restore more youthful and healthy-looking skin. The top mask targets water-oil balance, while the bottom mask nourishes your potentially bumpy skin after shaving. A perfect combination mask to have!
4. NIVEA MEN Deep Clean Facial Foam (100g)
Usual Price: $7 Now: Buy 1 Get 1 Free
Taking care of your skin is no longer exclusive to the ladies, it’s time for the dudes out there to pamper yourself as you impress the ladies. Before you hydrate with a face mask, thoroughly clean up the dirt from your face with the NIVEA MEN Deep Clean Facial Foam that promises 10x effects! Better still, it comes with vitamin E and aloe vera extract to prevent dry out from frequent washing.
5. LISTERINE Mouthwash Assorted (250ml)
Usual Price: $5.70 Now: Buy 1 Get 1 Free
Do you know that brushing alone only cleans 25% of your mouth? That is why it’s recommended that we rinse twice daily for about 30 seconds to stop the germs from attacking our oral health. Thanks to Listerine’s extensive selection of mouthwashes, you will be able to find one that tackles your underlying oral issues. A healthy oral cavity definitely helps to build up your confidence!
Other juicy deals from 14 – 27 October
6. KIREI KIREI Anti-Bacterial Foaming Hand Soap Assorted (250ml)
Usual Price: $7.80 for 2 Now: $5.95 for 2
The difference between liquid hand soap and creamy foam is that the latter can help reach hidden parts of your hands more effortlessly. This means that you will be effectively protected against germs with Kirei Kirei’s antibacterial and antiseptic ingredients. But not to worry about dryness as it’s gentle on the skin since it contains 100% cleansing ingredients from plants. This is a must have to keep your family safe and protected.
7. MOREMO Keratin Hair Colour Assorted
Usual Price: $37.80 for 2 Now: $26.35 for 2
MOREMO Keratin Hair Colour is a product of South Korea. It’s not your average hair dye because it promises a 3-step intensive hair dye process. Firstly, use the Keratin Hair Ampoule before colouring to protect your hair from damage. Secondly, apply the Keratin Colour evenly to your hair. Lastly, apply the Recovery Balm B as the final step to lock in all the goodness and watch your hair shine from the root after washing. Get higher colour radiance for your hair with less damage. Ladies and gentlemen out there who crave for a fun hair colour, this is a product not to be missed!
8. DOVE Foaming Body Wash Assorted (400ml)
Usual Price: $9.90 Now: $6.90
Powered by Japan’s skincare technology, Dove’s Foaming Body Wash contains 5x beauty essence and hydro-ceramides. It restores and locks in moisture, strengthens your skin’s protective barrier, and can soothe skin from sensitivity. Get them now and enjoy a luscious and indulging shower me-time.
9. L’OREAL PARIS Crystal Gel Cream (50ml)
Usual Price: $39.90 Now: $29.90
Put $10 savings right back into your pocket if you purchase the new L’OREAL PARIS Crystal Gel Cream from now till 27 October. After application, your skin will instantly feel fresh, moist, and smooth. Use it before your make-up routine so your beauty products can glide on effortlessly. Tested by an Asian skin expert, long-term use of the product promises less visible pores, limited oil production, and crystal-like skin.
10. BIO ESSENCE Bio-White Advanced Whitening Day / Night Cream (50g)
Usual Price: $59.80 for 2 Now: $37.95 for 2
We can’t deny our love for combination products because we know they’ve been tried and tested to bring out the best results for our skin. With this promotion, take this chance to bag home the whitening day and night cream as a set. It comes with Tanaka and camellia flower extract to give you a lovely natural rosiness, a lifesaver for any dull skin tone.
Are you all pumped up to shop at FairPrice Xtra’s Get Glowing from Within healthy & beauty products fair? We definitely are! Be sure to collect all of your free gifts and vouchers at their Customer Service Counter before you head home!
You can find out more participating brands available at FairPrice Xtra’s Health and Beauty Fair here. See you there!
Fabulous Aesthetics is an award-winning revolutionary beauty and wellness brand that is committed to empowering men and women with the confidence that beauty provides, and its transformative effect it has on both men and women in life.
$10.10 for clear, unclogged skin
Surface impurities and accumulated dead skin can lead to clogged pores. At-home extraction not done right may lead to scarring. Enjoy our Fabulous Touch Facial for just $10.10. Usual Price $70.
Ultrasonic vibrations to unclog pores.
Gentle yet detailed extraction by trained and experienced therapists
1 hour facial therapy session includes aromatherapy and eyebrow shaping.
In-house OFFER. Grab 3 sessions for $180
$10 for the perfect tan
Want the perfect tan but don’t have hours to spare? Weather looking a little gloomy lately? Get the perfect tan with indoor tanning at Fabulous for just $10. Usual Price $68
8 minutes = 2.5 hours in the sun
Air-conditioned private treatment rooms
Controlled exposure for safe & even looking tan
In-house OFFER: Grab 5 sessions for $288 | 10 sessions for $588
SMS 94999966 or call 64658465 to book your appointment today or sign up here.
Terms & Conditions
• Minimum age of 21 applies.
• Valid for Singaporeans, PR, EP, SP, S-PASS, WP and DP.
• Valid for customers new to Fabulous Aesthetics, those who have not visited us for 12 months or more and existing customers new to the service.
• By contacting our appointment hotline, you are agreeing to be contacted by Fabulous Aesthetics even though you are registered with the DNC registry.
Whether you are attracted to musky or floral scents, your perfume is your signature. Get the most out of your money by lengthening your perfume’s longevity. Here are seven tips to help you in your quest.
1. KNOW WHERE TO SHOP
Saving money starts with shopping for perfume at bargain prices. A list of top places to raid will not be complete without mentioning Mustafa Centre. Mustafa Centre offers an array of product selections. If you are buying fragrances in bulk, go to Level 1. There, you will find different fragrances, household items, books, cosmetics, electronics, shoes, watches, and so much more.
Most people go to Mustafa to shop in bulk due to its competitive prices. This way, they had increased their savings.
Some things thrive in the dark. Extend the privilege of going “incognito” to your fragrance. By storing your perfume in dark and cool places (e.g., inside cabinets or shelves), you are ensuring its longevity. Exposing your products to heat and humidity can break down its components. So, avoid damp or warm places such as your bathroom.
3. FOCUS ON PULSE POINTS
Let me take a quick moment to enlighten you about pulse points. Pulse points highlight the areas where your blood vessels are the closest to the skin. Heat activates the perfume. Thus, the pulse points on your body are the best places to spritz a scent due to the warmth of your blood. Choose two target areas to which you can apply your scent on.
Image Credits: shadesofglam.com
Do not over do it! Personally, I prefer putting some on my wrists and on the back of my knees. The aforementioned warmth shall aid in evaporating the alcoholic carrier that most perfumes come in. Moreover, it will help release the fragrance more effectively.
4. PUT SOME PETROLEUM JELLY
Pure petroleum jelly such as Vaseline seem to be a holy grail for many beauty enthusiasts. It can be used in lash extensions, lip balms, and fragrances. Yes! You read that right. You can make your scent last longer by rubbing this product on your pulse points before spraying a layer of perfume on top. This quick hack will only use a minute of your time.
Perfume gets stronger when put on “oily” skin. It works by trapping moisture of your skin and by trapping the alcohol-based scents.
5. CHOOSE THE WOODSY BASE
Perfumes are made up of notes, which are separated into three layers: top, middle, and base. The top note is the first scent that is activated upon spraying the fragrance. It typically fades away in a minute. Then, the middle or heart note will stay for a longer period of time. When both notes evaporate, the base note shall remain.
For a better staying power, stick to perfumes with woodsy base notes. Scents with citrus base notes tend to disappear the fastest!
6. SPRITZ IT ON YOUR BRUSH
Whether you believe it or not, your hair has the ability to trap scents better than your skin. Spraying some of your signature scent on your hair will help it linger throughout the day. I am not saying that you must directly apply the perfume on your scalp. I, for one, have a sensitive scalp. Instead, you must spray it on your hairbrush and wait for it to dry up.
Image Credits: pixabay.com
Comb the smell through your hair strands. Doing this will still distribute the scent evenly and will minimize the contact of alcohol to your scalp.
7. BONUS TIP: STOP RUBBING THE SCENT ON YOUR WRISTS
Rubbing the scent on one’s wrists and distributing it on the neck is a typical move that your mother or grandmother employs. Stop doing this! Rubbing your wrists together forces the top notes to break down. The scent will disappear at a faster rate. Please, just let your perfume sit.
Usual Price: $39.90
