4 ways to get the most out of your online spending

The beauty of online spending is undeniable – sit comfortably on your couch, browse on online shopping sites, add to your cart and cash out. Then, wait a couple of days for your package to be sent to your doorstep. It’s pretty much like a present you give to yourself.

With such convenience, however, it’s easy to buy things on impulse. I’m sure we are not strangers to buying a shirt that did not fit, or only realising later that you could have gotten it at a cheaper price with a credit card discount or promo code.

Here are 4 tips for you if you are guilty of spending more than you should while online shopping.

  1. Do plenty of research and read reviews

Especially when it comes to clothing apparels and shoes, it would be helpful to research sufficiently before purchasing an item. For instance, a pair of Nike shoes may be cheaper if you buy it from a US-based website, international shipping inclusive, as compared to buying from local stores.

On top of that, do read the sizing guides and what other people are saying about a brand via reviews before making the purchase. They are likely to tell you if the sizing runs smaller or larger, so that you can avoid buying the wrong size and spending even more money to alter it.

  1. Avoid shipping fee

Most online shopping sites offer free shipping when you spend a certain amount. If you’re unable to make up to that amount, get some friends to buy from the same website, and combine your purchases so that you can leverage on the free shipping.

In the event that your friends are unable to help you, you may add random things to your cart so that you make up that amount. When your purchases arrive, simply return the things that you don’t want. However, this tip is only useful if the online merchant offers free returns!

  1. Look out for discount codes or third-party cashback websites.

Do a quick Google search for discount codes and third-party cashback websites before you click the “check out” button. Websites such as ShopBack offer discounts, promo codes and vouchers. The only gripe is that these rebates only apply to participating merchants.

  1. Take note of credit card discounts

Online merchants usually have partnering banks and credit card discounts, so do read the FAQ page before cashing out your purchases.

Whether you caught the travel bug or are simply itching to shop, relax in the comfort of your home and click away on online sites such as Agoda, Expedia, Lazada and ZALORA. Do look out for promo codes for your HSBC credit card and save up to 75% off with these participating merchants! Visit www.hsbc.com.sg/promo for more offers and details. Conditions apply.

Online and Overseas Rebate Campaign 2017 - Table
In addition, between 1 May to 30 June 2017, be the first 5,000 cardholders to spend a minimum of $1000 on your HSBC credit card and get up to 12% cash rebate on your online and overseas purchases, capped at $200 rebate per month – the more you spend, the more you save!

Furthermore, this offer applies to overseas merchants so you can get that pair of coveted Adidas Yeezys or Colorpop Cosmetics at a fraction of Singapore’s price.

Who knew spending could be so rewarding with HSBC credit cards? Simply follow the steps below and shop away!

Online and Overseas Rebate Campaign 2017 - Register

This post is brought to you in partnership with HSBC Credit Cards

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Amazing Places To Shop For Preloved Clothing In Singapore

There are some articles of clothing that you do not need to purchase new (e.g., infant clothing). This idea extends during the good and awful times.

Scattered in various cities around the world, it seems that thrift shopping is finally catching its moment here. Flea markets, thrift shops, and online marketplaces are great sources of savings. Start digging up unique finds in these places:

NEW2U THRIFT SHOP

Nestled in the heart of Singapore’s “arts and heritage district” is the gem called New2U Thrift Shop. It is the go-to place for fashionistas in the area who desire to save a couple of bucks. Aside from its accessibility, New2U houses a diverse collection of items. The store has men’s clothing, women’s accessories, children’s toys, and so much more. All these products were donated from various initiatives.

You may be surprised to know that the prices of these items start at S$1. You are sure to snag a flashy bargain here. On top of this, New2U will be having a 50%  off sale soon.

Location: 96 Waterloo Street, Singapore 187967

ONLINE

The Internet is a bountiful chest filled with treasures. There are two primary websites/mobile apps for preloved goods in the local scene. These are namely: Gumtree and Carousell. I have spoken a lot about these two as I tested their services myself.

a. Gumtree – The mechanics of Gumtree is synonymous with Craigslist. However, its layout is easier to navigate. It is a virtual marketplace where you can find children’s clothing, secondhand bags, and almost everything in between. You may use this platform for selling your goods too!

b. Carousell – Carousell lets you buy and sell a wide range of items in less than five minutes! Why don’t you give it a shot?

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Image Credits: pixabay.com

SINGAPORE REALLY FREE MARKET

Whether you want to believe it or not, an open market exists in Singapore. Singapore Really Free Market promotes community sharing by presenting their items at no cost. You read that right! You are welcome to get pieces that you what without registration fees or other costs.

As a friendly reminder, tackle the situation with restraint. Do not hog everything as some people may need it more than you. Follow Singapore Really Free Market on Facebook for the details on their next flea.

How will you rock your secondhand clothing in style? Here it from the fruitful speech of the American designer Jessi Arrington. Spoiler alert! She packed nothing for TEDActive but seven pairs of undergarments.

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Japanese Beauty Products That Are Worth Every Dollar

The global interest given to Japanese companies such as Shu Uemera and Shiseido paved way for the entrance of lesser-known Japanese brands. More and more Singaporeans are embracing these imported products into their vanity kits. You see, Japanese beauty products shine above the rest due to its adorable packaging and unique design.

The idea is perfectly encapsulated by Ms. Anna-Marie Solowij – the BeautyMART Co-Founder. She once said: “Their cosmetics and skincare products are exciting because they’re novel and exotic and they’re popular thanks to their high quality and innovation, for the same reason as their cars and electronics before them.”

On that note, here are 5 Japanese Beauty Products That Are Worth Every Dollar:

1. DHC DEEP CLEANSING OIL

Get it at Watsons Singapore for a discounted price of S$30.70.

A beauty product that is ever-present in the “best” lists, DHC Deep Cleansing Oil has a water-soluble formula to completely rinse any pore-clogging materials from your skin. Let say you came home from a formal wedding ceremony. Massage the product to your face using your fingertips to remove your waterproof mascara and wipe off other clingy cosmetics. You will never see a greasy residue again!

The formula is suitable for people with sensitive skin as it was made from natural ingredients and is free from Paraben or fragrance.

2. BIORÉ CLEANSING WATER MAKEUP REMOVAL

Get it at Watsons Singapore for S$18.90.

Bioré Skincare made a bold claim when they highlighted that the Cleansing Water Makeup Removal can lift off a significant amount of makeup with just one swipe! I am not entirely sure that one swipe is enough as it depends on your skin type. However, this remover will easily cleanse your face from your pores to your lashes. This is because it is enriched with natural mineral water from the Northern Japanese Alps.

The formula’s weak acidity proves that it is gentle and safe on the skin. Thus, it is suitable for young people.

3. MUJI COSMETIC PAPER

Get it at Muji Singapore branches for S$1.90. 

When I was in secondary school, oil blotting papers were all the rage! It originates from Japan and has been use for years by Geisha and actors (to freshen their faces before their performances). The traditional version was made from Abaca leaf, but modern technology is able to make it from pulp or rice paper. Muji’s version is made from the former.

Image Credits: muji.com.sg

Image Credits: muji.com.sg

The thinness of Muji’s Cosmetic Paper makes it more efficient at absorbing oil. Furthermore, the product and its packaging is environmentally friendly. Feel free to put it on the composting bin!

4. SUMI HAIGOU SETTUKEN CHARCOAL BAR SOAP

Get it at Qoo10 Singapore for about S$23.79. 

Putting black charcoal on your face may seem “unglam”, using this ingredient properly can provide many health benefits. Some of its benefits include minimizing the pores, soothing skin irritations, and cleansing oily skin. A top soap infused with activated charcoal is the Sumi Haigou Settuken Charcoal Bar Soap.

This bar soap has powder, which comes from the Kishu region of Japan. The makers begin by burning and cooling oak branches for several days. The end result is an activated charcoal powder that users claim to make their skin brighter and more even-toned. See for yourself!

5. TSUBAKI DAMAGE CARE CONDITIONER

Get it at Watsons Singapore for a discounted price of S$14.37.

Shiseido Company Limited houses a myriad of skin care, hair care, cosmetics, and fragrance brands under its roof. As one of the oldest cosmetic companies in the world, Shiseido introduced Tsubaki as its master for hair. The Tsubaki Damage Care Conditioner relies on age-old ingredients such as the Japanese camellia oil.

It is high in oleic acid to moisturize and strengthen your hair strands. It is also full of antioxidants to beat free-radical damage. Regularly using this products will help you achieve a softer and shinier “crown”.

Image Credits: facebook.com/TsubakiSG

Image Credits: facebook.com/TsubakiSG

Sources: 1 & 2

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Netizens Are Going Crazy Over These Affordable Korean Cosmetics

After getting personal with the best cleansers and masks, it is time to learn about the amazing innovations in cosmetics. Make a substantial room in your vanity kit and get ready to play!

CLIO WATERPROOF BRUSH EYELINER (KILL BLACK)

Get it at Watsons Singapore for S$25.90.

Please make way for a showstopper! The Waterproof Blush Eyeliner in Kill Black embodies the inspirational slogan of not quitting. You see, this great black liner from CLIO stays all day long. It is packed with a smudge-proof formula that can withstand various weather conditions. We all know how this could help you in the humid Red Dot.

The Kill Back has a fine marker to help you create the perfect flick. The matte and opaque formula dries quickly to avoid the horrible upper-lid blotch.

BEAUTY SHOT FACE BLUR SPF 15/PA++

Get it at Etude House Singapore for S$27.90.

Bid farewell to your smoothing beauty app as I introduce the Beauty Shot Face Blur by Etude House. This lightweight cream brings you multi-blurring effects for instantly flawless skin. It claims to minimize pores and brighten complexions.

Image Credits: facebook.com/etude.gl

Image Credits: facebook.com/etude.gl

Face Blur is a handy tool for beginners to help them achieve the UV-protected primer effect.

TONY MOLY PETITE BUNNY GLOSS BAR

Get it at Lazada Singapore for only S$7.50.

Oh! I cannot describe how adorable these Tony Moly bunny glosses are. As we all know, Korean Beauty boasts its subtle colors. The tints and faces inside the Petite Bunny Gloss Bars are different. They work well over or under any type of lip product. As a standalone product, it creates an ideal everyday look. You will love how this product does not smear or crease.

The official Tony Moly stores in Singapore are situated in Jurong Point and Bugis Junction. However, you can get these glosses at Lazada Singapore.

PERIPERA AH MUCH REAL MY CUSHION BLUSHER

Get it at Lazada Singapore for S$29.12.

One of this year’s bestselling cult-favorites is Peripera’s Ah Much Real My Cushion Blusher. Showcase a post-workout flush without breaking a sweat by dabbing the product to your cheeks. This cheerfully packaged blush is easy to use due to its sponge applicator.

The creamy formula will brighten your face and leave it with a soft finish. All these are achieved while hydrating your skin.

Sources: 1 & 2

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Korean Beauty Products That Are Worth Every Dollar

The clamor for Korean beauty products skyrocketed in the recent years. As with any trend, the volume of said products boomed as the global obsession grew. Let us filter out the mediocre products and leave with these amazing products (i.e., which are under S$20).

TONY MOLY STRAWBERRY 3-STEP NOSE PACK

Get it at Lazada Singapore for only S$8.37. 

The official Tony Moly stores in Singapore are situated in Jurong Point and Bugis Junction. Here, you will find the Strawberry 3-Step Nose Pack that exudes a delicious milky strawberry scent.

The nose pack has been on trend way back in the ’90s. This Korean rendition stands out as it cleanses your pores and tackles your blackheads, while moisturizing your skin. All these are possible because the product was enriched with witch hazel, lemon, sage leaf, and green tea extract.

ELIZAVECCA MILKY PIGGY CARBONATED BUBBLE CLAY MASK

Get it at Althea Singapore for a discounted price of S$14.40.

From the makers of the painful Hell-Pore Clean Up Mask comes the funky Carbonated Bubble Clay Mask. The Elizavecca Milky Piggy Carbonated Bubble Clay Mask took the Internet by storm due to its fizzy and foamy nature. Watch as it cleanses Vivienne Fung’s face:

To maximize the results, the mask is meant to stay in your skin for five minutes until the bubbles are generated.

BANILA CO. CLEAN IT ZERO

Get it at Changi Airport for S$19.70. 

Are you hunting for a facial cleanser, which is supported by positive consumer reviews? Look no further than the Clean It Zero. This “scoopable” cleanser starts out as a solid balm and later turns into an oil when you massage it to your skin. It boasts with papaya extract – a gentle exfoliating ingredient that will give you a glowing complexion. No need to brighten your face with a beauty app!

Lastly, it claims to remove even the clingiest of makeup looks!

HOLIKA HOLIKA GOLDEN MONKEY GLAMOUR LIP 3-STEP KIT

Get it Althea Singapore for a discounted price of S$2.70. 

Ready to renew your pout? Ladies and gentlemen of all skin types can benefit from the Golden Monkey Glamour 3-Step Kit.

Holika Holika_Golden Monkey Glamour Lip 3 StepAs I have insanely chapped lips, this lip mask buzzes music to my ears. You have heard of a face and a lip mask works similarly. Apply it to your beloved lips to exfoliate and hydrate it.

Sources:1 & 2

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