MoneyDigest - Personal Finance, Lifestyle, Money Saving Tips

4 travel-friendly sized anti-itch gel/creams under $24.50 to soothe your eczema-prone skin

Finding THE anti-itch cream that fits into your carry-on while also being gentle on your eczema-prone skin can be a challenging task.

Luckily, we’ve done the homework for you with our list of travel-friendly anti-itch creams priced under $24.50 that are sure to provide the much-needed relief and care your skin deserves.

No more discomfort even when your skin flares up during your travels!

DERMA LAB Gentle Relief Cream 50g

Price: $10.15

This fragrance- and colorant-free moisturizer was developed to provide immediate comfort and relief for dry and irritated skin.

The mild and gentle formula is suitable for both face and body use, as well as baby’s skin, and works rapidly to soothe redness and irritation while restoring the skin’s barrier function.

The cream boosts moisture levels and helps retain hydration in the epidermis, delivering instant calm for sensitized skin that needs relief.

CERADAN Soothing Gel 50g

Price: $17.80

Or if creams aren’t really your thing, what about this soothing gel that provides optimal relief for itchy, irritated skin without the harsh smell and stinging sensation of many other products?

The non-greasy gel texture glides on easily and dries quickly, calming your skin and minimizing the urge to scratch.

Formulated with care by dermatologists, it contains no artificial fragrances or dyes that could further irritate sensitive skin.

The hypoallergenic gel is suitable for most skin types, helping to soothe and restore comfort.

Just keep it out of your eyes and mouth and do not use it on broken skin.

EGO QV Body Cream 100g

Price: $18.15

Next, we have this rich, replenishing body cream that hydrates even the driest skin back to life.

Infused with squalane, a natural component that mimics your skin’s oils, this cream forms a protective barrier to lock in moisture and defend against environmental aggressors.

With long-term use, you get skin that feels soft, supple, and comforted—without any greasy residue.

The formula is pH balanced, free from fragrance and dyes, and suitable for sensitive skin conditions as well as infants and the elderly.

One swipe of this concentrated cream and you will wonder how you’ve barely survived those itchy attacks without it.

DERMAL THERAPY Anti-itch Soothing Cream 85g

Price: $24.40

Lastly, we have this quick fix for itchy skin problems—a petrochemical-free, and pH-balanced cream that uses a blend of colloidal oatmeal, Canadian willowherb, and menthol to soothe and relieve dry, itchy skin in just minutes.

Formulated with sensitive skin in mind, the ingredients work to manage irritation and redness while helping to manage dry and itchy skin.

Tested by clinical experts and safe for sensitive skin, this Australian-made cream is a must for anyone who needs quick relief from those unpleasant scratches.

Investing in the right skin care products is essential, especially when dealing with eczema-prone skin. The abovementioned travel-friendly sized anti-itch gel/creams under $24.50 not only provide relief but also offer convenience due to their size. So if you’re constantly on the move, ensure your skin stays itch-free with these compact solutions by your side.

The Most Common Types of Online Scams Targeting Singaporeans

When it comes to ranking the world’s safest countries, Singapore seems to have its place permanently reserved at the top of the list. In 2023, the Global Peace Index (GPI) placed the city-state in sixth place, beating Japan (at 9th place)—the only other Asian country in this top 10 list.

In terms of crime rate, Singapore has one of the lowest crime rates in the world. According to the Singapore Police Force, during the first half of 2023, only 10,000 physical crimes were reported in the country. For a nation with a population of 5.454 million, this is an impressively low figure.

While physical crimes are incredibly low in Singapore, cybercriminality is on the rise. Data from the Singapore Police Force revealed that scams and cybercrimes increased by 69.4 percent during the first half of 2023, compared to the same period in 2022. From 14,481 cases in 2022, it increased to 24,525 cases in 2023. While it’s still low compared to other countries, the rising trend is a concern for Singaporean authorities.

Living in Singapore, it’s easy to take your security for granted. However, when you go online, all bets are off. Whether you’re in the world’s safest country or the world’s most crime-ridden place, cybercriminals are waiting to hook you into their traps. So, be vigilant and don’t allow yourself to fall victim to their scams. Learn about the most common online scams Singapore citizens and residents face these days.

Job Scam

In the Singapore Police Force report on scams and cybercrimes, job scams were the most common crimes reported during the first half of 2023. At that time, 5,737 cases were reported, and SGD 79.4 million were stolen by the scammers.

In this scam, fraudsters pose as recruiters or employers offering lucrative job opportunities. They send unsolicited messages to their victims via social media apps and other messaging apps. These scams come in various forms, including affiliate marketing roles where you’re asked to buy products upfront to boost sales or agent positions involving processing fund transfers through your personal bank account.

Don’t be tempted by job offers from people you don’t personally know. Seek work opportunities offered by legitimate companies or posted on legitimate job-hunting websites.

E-Commerce Scam

As the second most common scam according to the Singapore Police Force, e-commerce scams cost victims over SGD 7.3 million. During the first half of 2023, there were a total of 4,516 cases reported to the police. These scams often involve fraudulent sellers on legitimate e-commerce websites.

In most cases, scammers advertise expensive products, such as gadgets and appliances, at attractively low prices to lure unsuspecting buyers. However, after payment is made, the goods may never arrive, or they may turn out to be counterfeit or of poor quality.

To avoid falling victim to these scams, it’s essential to verify the credibility of sellers and read reviews from other buyers.

Fake Friend Scam

At 17.3 percent, the fake friend scam is the third most common online crime from the Singapore Police’s data on scams and cybercrimes. There were about 3,855 cases reported during from January to June 2023, with the total amount fleeced from the victims reaching SGD 12 million.

In a typical fake friend scam, a potential victim receives a call or message from someone pretending to be their friend. After some interactions, the scammer gains the trust of the victim. Then, they exploit their trust by soliciting money or personal information.

Avoid this scam altogether by refusing to entertain calls, messages, and friend requests from strangers or even from people who purport to be someone you know. Always verify through other means if you really received a friend request from what appears to be family, friend, or acquaintance. For good measure, block the numbers or profiles immediately if you confirm them to be fake, especially if they start asking for financial assistance.

Phishing Scam

In the first half of 2023, 2,991 cases of phishing scams were reported in Singapore, with victims being cheated a total of SGD 7.4 million. It’s a type of social engineering attack designed to deceive victims into giving up sensitive information about themselves or the company they work for.

Phishing scams often start as an email, text, or message purporting to be from a legitimate institution like a bank or utility company. These messages often contain urgent requests or warnings designed to prompt recipients to act impulsively and provide their personal details, leading to ransomware or malware attacks.

Vigilance is key in identifying phishing attempts, which can often be distinguished by grammatical errors or suspicious links.

Investment Scam

One of the most lucrative scams for cybercriminals is the investment scam. With 1,598 cases reported from January to June 2023 in Singapore, investment scams took a staggering SGD 97 million from their victims.

Investment scammers prey on individuals seeking lucrative investment opportunities. To entice their victim to give up their money, fraudsters promise impossibly high returns and guaranteed profits.

Some fraudsters may befriend you online before offering “investment opportunities” to you. In other scenarios, they may pretend to be from legitimate banks or stock brokerage firms.

Common warning signs include pressure to make quick decisions and ROI that’s simply to good to be true. So, before investing your hard-earned money, do thorough research and read reviews of any financial instrument offered to you.

Protecting yourself from online scams requires vigilance, scepticism, and awareness of common tactics used by fraudsters. So, stay informed and follow the best practices for online safety. Remember to trust your instincts, verify the credibility of individuals and organisations, and report suspicious activity to the relevant authorities. Together, we can create a safer online environment for all citizens and residents of Singapore.

4 lip oils under $34 to protect your lips because balms aren’t moisturizing enough

The secret to moisturized lips is our handpicked selection of lip oils priced under $34.

Bid farewell to lip balms and discover the hydration of lip oils if you want lips that are not just protected but also nourished, soft, supple, and irresistibly kissable.

BURT’S BEES Hydrating Lip Oil With Sweet Almond Oil

Price: $14

Feel like your lips have forgotten what hydration means?

BURT’S BEES lip oil features a 100% natural formula packed with sweet almond oil and other nourishing ingredients that instantly moisturize dry, chapped lips.

The lightweight oil provides hydration for up to 8 hours without feeling sticky.

Rich in essential fatty acids, the blend of natural oils like sunflower seed oil, coconut oil, and shea butter helps lips retain moisture so you can stop reapplying balms.

Formulated without parabens, phthalates, SLS, or petrolatum.

SEPHORA COLLECTION Care Better Balm Shine Lip Oil

Price: $18

Next, we have the SEPHORA COLLECTION Care Better Balm Shine Lip Oil that glides across your lips, beautifying them with color, shine, and softness.

The formula, made with 93% natural-origin ingredients including sweet almond oil and apricot kernel oil, subtly colors and smoothens your lips, resulting in a pigment that stays put and doesn’t bleed.

The applicator dispenses just the right amount for an even application that never looks overdone.

With its blend of natural oils and hydrating ingredients, this lip oil shields your lips from dryness while adding a high-shine glossy finish.

THE CRÈME SHOP X Hello Kitty Kawaii Kiss Moisturizing Lip Oil

Price: $20

Swipe on this ultra-moisturizing lip oil for a juicy, glossy pout that’s kissably soft.

This jelly-textured formula from THE CRÈME SHOP X Hello Kitty delivers hydration thanks to jojoba oil and vitamin E that help restore supple lips and promote cell turnover.

Free from parabens and sulfates, it contains no harsh chemicals, just ingredients for lips that feel like velvet.

Simply swipe a clear layer onto bare lips for an instant boost of moisture, or layer over lipstick for a high-shine finish.

RARE BEAUTY Soft Pinch Tinted Lip Oil

Price: $33

Last on our list, we have this lip oil that gives you the best of both worlds: gloss and color that stays put for hours.

The gel-to-oil formula glides on smoothly, hues your lips in a buildable wash of sheer-to-medium pigment, and leaves a slick of shine—no stickiness.

The tinted oil hydrates your lips so they feel soft and look healthy, while the lightweight formula means you barely know it’s there.

With just one swipe you can achieve a subtle tint, or layer it up for a higher highlight.

Eight versatile shades give you endless options for day or night, and every one stays put through coffee, cocktails, and beyond.

Make a change to your lip care regimen with these lip oils under $34, curated to deliver the hydration and protection your lips crave. Take a rest from ineffective lip balms and welcome a new era of moisture. With these lip oils, your lips will be wrapped in softness, ensuring they stay plump and healthy day in and out.

Money Management Tips When Travelling in Singapore

Singapore is known as a global leader in finance and technology, with its world-class airport, cutting-edge architecture, and bustling commercial districts. Thus, many people believe that the country can only be enjoyed if you have deep pockets. However, this is a misconception that’s quite far from the truth. Indeed, the Lion City is actually one of the most tourist-friendly travel destinations in the world. Aside from the warm and welcoming atmosphere, Singapore has an efficient public transport system and plenty of affordable options for attractions, food, clothing, and lodgings.Simply speaking, even if you are on a tight budget, you can still have a good time in Singapore. You can also follow these practical tips to further maximise your budget and make the most of your trip:

Shop in Local Street Markets

Singapore is a shopaholic’s dream destination, with global premium fashion and lifestyle brands found in almost every major mall. That said, if you’re not interested in the pricey stuff and want something more affordable and authentic, you can explore the street markets in districts like Bugis and Chinatown. These places cater to the more budget-conscious travellers and have a wide assortment of products. You can even haggle for a lower price and take advantage of the tax refund.

If you’re at the airport and need to make some last-minute souvenir purchases, many Changi Airport shops are duty-free, so you can easily find the perfect souvenirs for yourself and gifts for people back home. When you shop at local markets and duty-free stores, you can better control your expenses and spend within your budget.

Use Public Transport

Taxi? Private transfer? You won’t need these in Singapore because their public transportation system is one of the most efficient if not the most efficient in the world—and the rates are also affordable. You can travel across the island nation by riding on the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT), buses, or light rail networks. The fare costs around SGD 0.80 to SGD 2.50 per journey, which is definitely pocket-friendly. Consider getting an EZ-Link card or the Singapore Tourist Pass for more savings.

Eat Like a Local

While many fine dining restaurants in Singapore are often worth their price, hawker centres and local eateries offer delicious authentic Singaporean cuisine for just a fraction of the cost. One whole meal with a complimentary beverage costs around SGD 3 to SGD 10, making it super affordable even for the most frugal traveller. These places also feature diverse dishes that cater to different palates and dietary preferences. If you’re travelling with family or friends, get different food items to share within the group so all of you can try various dishes without exceeding your budget.

Take Advantage of Free Attractions

Did you know that many of the famous attractions in Singapore are free? Yes, that’s right! From Merlion Park to the Gardens by the Bay’s outdoor gardens, you can visit plenty of iconic tourist attractions and landmarks in Singapore without spending a single cent. If you’re into more culturally significant and religious locations, Singapore has many free temples open to tourists as well, like the Buddha Tooth Relic and Sri Mariamman Temples. If you want to savour the views of the city, you can head over to Marina Bay and walk along the boardwalk to enjoy the breeze and the sky.

Take Note of Peak Travel Times

Singapore welcomes tourists all year round, but travelling during off-peak periods can help you save on airfares and accommodation. Usually, the peak travel season is November to January and June to July, so schedule your trip outside these time frames. Moreover, visit famous attractions on weekdays rather than weekends to reduce entry costs and enhance the experience by avoiding crowds.

Explore Budget Accommodations

If you’re looking for affordable accommodations in Singapore, there are hostels, serviced apartments, and capsule hotels among many others to choose from. One night at these budget accommodations can be as low as SGD 30, and most of these are strategically located near public transportation hubs and local street markets. Try to compare prices on various booking platforms and look for deals for added savings.

Use Free Wi-Fi

The widespread availability of free Wi-Fi in Singapore’s public areas, shopping malls, cafes, and even some public transport stations can make it possible for you to not buy a local sim or data plan. This connectivity helps manage your itinerary and lets you keep in touch with loved ones without incurring additional costs.

Look for Combo Deals and Passes

Some popular attractions in Singapore offer special tourist passes and combo deals that can significantly reduce the cost of visiting multiple attractions. You can find these deals online in booking apps or on the official website of these attractions. Make sure you research before booking so you don’t miss out on substantial savings!

Exploring the Lion City on a Budget

As you can see, travelling to Singapore doesn’t mean you have to break the bank. Simply set a specific budget and do ample research to enjoy this wonderful country and all it offers. By making smart money decisions, you can make your trip to Singapore a truly memorable one.

Latest WFH internships posted from 19 to 22 February 2024

We took a long break for CNY.

Hope you’ve had a good reunion with your loved ones over the festive period!

And now that things are back in full swing with visiting coming to an end, let’s shift our gears back to internship sourcing.

Here are the latest opportunities we have for you this week.

#1: Kosme Aesthetics – Automation Intern

Website: kosmeaesthetics.sg

Allowance / Remuneration: $1,000 monthly

Job Qualifications

Currently pursuing or have completed an undergraduate degree in Statistics, Data Science, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Technical, Information Technology, Science, Information Systems, or Software Engineering.
Must be familiar with AI tools such as ChatGPT and have a keen interest in exploring and testing different AI tools to drive innovation and efficiency in the beauty industry.
Intuitive with numbers, detail-oriented, and highly collaborative.

Key Responsibilities

Evaluating new tools and technologies, with a particular focus on AI and automation tools relevant to the beauty industry.
Define, develop, and execute test engineering tasks, including reviewing product requirements and analysis, executing test plans and test cases, and monitoring and analyzing test results.
Assist in the development of software testing methodologies, testing approaches and planning, QA processes, tracking of metrics, and defects.
Identify new tests to write and update existing tests, focusing on enhancing automation and efficiency.
Work closely with the Head of Operations on designing use-cases and concepts for process and workflow automation.
Collaborate with the team to design, prototype, implement, and test solutions for identified problems and use cases.
Document the automated systems developed and contribute to the technical implementation of automated quality assurance measures.