These 10 skincare habits will help you achieve your beauty goals in no time

Korean beauty model

When it comes to skincare, many of us are clueless. Based on hearsay, sometimes we commit skincare regime mistakes and then blame it on bad genes. While skin condition may be hereditary, it also takes effort if you want to achieve flawless skin.

Here are 10 skincare habits that will help you achieve your beauty goals in no time.

#1: Get enough shuteye

A consultant dermatologist, Dr Stephanie Ho, shares that your sleep quality affects your skin’s age. Poor sleep quality may weaken its ability to repair itself from damage such as sunburn. Thus, be sure to get enough rest, ideally a good one at night.

#2: Faithfully apply sunscreen
woman applying sunscreen

Image Credits: Depositphotos

According to Dr Ho, prolonged exposure to sun rays result in the early formation of pigmentation, wrinkles, and dryness. All these can lead to initial signs of ageing. To counter it, be sure to include sunscreens in your skincare routine.

#3: Use the right products

Expensive products don’t always do the trick. Manman Chong, education director for Asia at French skincare company Caudalie, points out that using the wrong products might aggravate existing skin problems and conditions. Seek professional help if you’re unsure.

#4: Remove makeup thoroughly
makeup remover

Image Credits: Business Insider

Not correctly removing makeup might result in your pores clogging over time. Makeup artist Clarence Lee recommends us to choose a good cleansing oil. Save time and money since now you do not need to buy separate makeup removers for the eye, lip, and face.

#5: Clean your makeup tools

Talking about makeup, Lee advocates using clean tools. Even if you do not share them with others, bacteria can still form over time due to a certain level of moistness in our makeup products combined with the skin’s natural sebum.

#6: Leave that pimple alone
asian-man-looking-at-his-acne

Image Credits: theogeeclinic.com

Dr Ho remarked that popping pimples does not solve the underlying problem and may lead to infection and even scarring. If you’re facing acne problems, book an appointment with a dermatologist to receive proper topical treatments or oral medication.

#7: Hydrate sufficiently

If dryness, flakiness, and reduced suppleness of the skin is what you detest, then keep up with proper hydration. Dr Ho recommended about 2.7 litres of water for women and 3.7 litres for men. Alternatively, when you feel thirsty or spot a darker urine colour, it’s a sign to drink up.

#8: Go easy on exfoliation
Exfoliating-scrub-on-hand

Image Credits: Foreo

In short, exfoliation is not for everyone. Especially for people with sensitive and dry skin, overdoing it can cause inflammation and itchiness. It’s also wise to check your current skincare products for substances like retinoids or benzoyl peroxide.

#9: Give products time to work their magic

Chong suggests giving 28 to 56 days (or four to eight weeks) to decide if a particular skincare product is working for you because healthy skin regenerates in 28 days. Also known as ‘cellular turnover’, it plays a crucial role in bringing out your product’s effectiveness (if any).

#10: Avoid hot water for face wash
asian woman washing face

Image Credits: Brit + Co

Using hot water for face wash can irritate and strip the skin of natural oils. The ideal water temperature should not be too high or too low since extreme temperatures affect our vulnerable facial skin. Chong proposes using lukewarm water of about 30 degrees Celcius instead.

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UOB partners Shopee to offer customers greater value as they shop online

Partnership comes as more customers are shifting their buying online; online campaigns such as 11.11 and Black Friday expected to boost online spend

United Overseas Bank (UOB) and Shopee have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to offer customers more value when they use UOB’s flagship UOB One Credit or Debit cards to make purchases on Shopee’s online marketplace.

The MOU is timely given the surge in online spending this year. Since the start of the year, spend on retail purchases made online by UOB cardmembers has grown close to 50 per cent year on year. In the second quarter of this year when Singapore underwent a circuit breaker period to contain the COVID-19 pandemic, spend made online surged 69 per cent compared to the same period in 2019.

Even as businesses begin to resume operations from July, online spending continues to increase as customers take to the ease of shopping online. Among UOB cardmembers, Shopee has been their preferred choice, with spend made on Shopee outpacing other popular online marketplaces in 2020. For example, spend at Shopee made by cardmembers of UOB’s flagship cashback credit card, the UOB One Card tripled between 2019 and September 2020.

Given the popularity of Shopee among UOB One Cardmembers, the MOU partners have signed up to offer exclusive deals and cash rebates of up to 10 per cent when customers charge their purchases on Shopee to their UOB One Card. The partnership comes as e-commerce campaigns such as 11.11 and Black Friday are expected to draw in more customers looking for value as they shop online.

In addition to exclusive privileges for UOB One Cardmembers, the MOU partners will also explore the use of data analytics and APIs to personalise the customer experience as they shop online and to offer digital payment options that are relevant to the consumer, such as using reward points to offset their purchases.

This could also lead to initiatives such as the integration of Shopee’s features on UOB’s all-in-one mobile banking app, UOB Mighty or vice versa.

Ms Jacquelyn Tan, Head of Group Personal Financial Services, UOB said, “At UOB, our focus is always on how we can make our customers’ purchasing journey simpler, smarter and safer. We have been expanding the exclusive partnerships for our flagship credit card, the UOB One Card, to serve the lifestyle needs of our consumers. Today, UOB One Cardmembers can enjoy exclusive privileges when they shop at any Dairy Farm Group brands, hail a ride or order food delivery with Grab or pay their utilities bills with SP Group.

With Shopee on board as a long-term partner, we now have the largest partner ecosystem in Singapore to enable our customers to derive greater value as they shop online. We are also excited to embark on our commitment with Shopee to explore and to design innovative processes, solutions and services to drive the adoption and usage of online retail and digital payments.”

Mr. Zhou Junjie, Chief Commercial Officer, Shopee, said, “Shopee’s priority has always been to deliver our users with memorable and unique shopping experiences. We utilise a data-driven and hyper-localised approach to cater to consumer needs, resulting in campaigns, offerings, and partnerships that evolve in tandem with ever-changing user demands. Being a proudly homegrown company ourselves, we thus see great synergy in partnering with UOB, one of the largest local banks in both Singapore and Asia, to explore new ways of deepening user engagement. This timely partnership coincides with one of our largest shopping events – the Shopee 11.11 Big Sale – giving us the opportunity to not only bring users the best shopping experience possible, but to also connect, inform, and inspire consumers all across the region.”

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Top Spots For Rooftop Dining in Singapore

Once you visit Singapore you have not experienced traditional Singapore unless you try rooftop dining in Singapore. It’s a one-of-a-kind dining experience that you will treasure for the rest of your life. You can enjoy fine cuisine, atmosphere , and catch the breathtaking view of the Singapore skyline all at one sitting. Singapore has many unique rooftop restaurants so you have your pick of the best.

Braci – as the name implies serves Italian dishes that have been carried on from antiquity. Freshly imported from Italy the restaurant maintains the fine Italian legacy of rich pasta marinated in rich sauces. The restaurant has picturesque views of the Singapore river that can be enjoyed from both the bar and the restaurant. The atmosphere is relaxed and you can enjoy their fork-tender pork dish a must try among their traditional Italian cuisine dishes.

CE LA VI – situated on the 57th floor of the Marina Bay Sands Hotel brings a new definition to fine twilight rooftop dining in Singapore. Come and enjoy a special night atop this rooftop wonder. You can enjoy one of their unforgettable Asian dishes while you take in the breathtaking Singapore skyline.. You will have an unforgettable panoramic view of the world famous sky-lit skyline.

Zafferano – the pride of Singapore brings you some of the finest Italian cuisine you will ever taste. It is perched atop the 43rd floor of the Ocean Financial Center in Collyer Quay a once-in-a-lifetime rooftop dining experience. You have the luxury of glancing across the crystal clear water of Singapore to drink in the beautiful skyline of Singapore’s impressive Central Business district highlighted by the Marina Bay Sands. You can feast on their delicious Canadian Lobster Linguine and scrumptious house-made fettuccine.

Southbridge – a taste of the sea you will enjoy on this 5th floor paradise. The restaurant features some of the best views of the Lion City’s skyline. And who can forget the view of the majestic Marina Bay Sands hotel. Additionally, you can enjoy mouth-watering oyster dishes from the world over. Don’t forget the Lobster Knuckle rolls a treat you won’t forget.

Stellar at 1- Altitude – restaurant perched 62 levels up into the Singapore skyline. As you dine you can enjoy a panoramic view of the stellar Singapore skyline in the distance. The Marina Sands and Singapore Flyer stand out in the distant star-lit skyline. They offer a fine line of menus especially their constellations menu. It features steamed sea urchin custard(an experience all in itself) and roasted pigeon, two dishes that are out of this world.

Jaan – sits on the 7oth floor of the tallest hotel in Singapore-the Swissotel. It has become Singapore’s signature rooftop dining hotspot. You will experience unforgettable rooftop dining in Singapore that will stay with you the rest of your life. Its food is as dreamy as its spectacular night time views. It has been noted perennially on world famous lists of “Best restaurants in Asia” putting it in a dining class all of its own. Their fish and chips is a must try.

Finally, you have a panoramic view of some of the best rooftop dining in Singapore. The list notes some of the best restaurants you will find in Singapore. Each one presenting its own unique dining experience.

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Fun & Inexpensive Halloween Crafts For Kids

One of the events that children look forward to every year is Halloween. It is possible to stir up a spooktacular Halloween celebration while maintaining an inexpensive budget. Simply use the art materials and common craft supplies that are readily available in your home.

Create these projects with your children to see for yourself!

THEME: UNDER THE SEA

There are two types of activities that you can do to with little preparations. You can either do the Water Balloon Pop or the Jellyfish Paper Craft. The former is a messy activity, which is best played outdoors. Gather twelve vivid balloons corresponding to three colored papers. Cut several circles out of your colored papers. The colored papers must match the color of the balloons. Then, fill up the balloon with water. Stick the papers on the wall. The objective of this game is to pop the balloon directly to its corresponding target. The person with the most accurate throws will win.

For the latter, you must gather yarns or strings, markers, paper plates, and paint. Cut a paper plate in half to create the dome-shaped head of the jellyfish. Staple holes on the bottom of the plate and attach the yarns or strings. Paint the paper plate to complete this lovely sea creature.

THEME: MONSTER SMASH

For a monster-themed Halloween, you may start by building your own monster out of modelling clay. Attach art materials such as moving eyes and fuzzy wires to your sculpted monster to complete its look. You may also create monsters using popsicle sticks. Attach five to seven sticks together to form a vertical file. Paint on the sticks and add refinement of details by using markers. Let your creativity shine through!

Image Credits: iheartartsncrafts.com

Secondly, you may use a green and a black paint to create your own Frankenstein handprint. Half of your child’s hand will be painted black (i.e., Frankenstein’s hair) and half will be painted green (i.e., Frankenstein’s head). Press your hand on a paper and let the paint dry. Finish the craft by drawing details on your hand print such as its signature screws.

Image Credits: rd.com

THEME: THE MUMMY RETURNS

If you want to embrace the “Mummy” as your spooky theme, you may use two rolls of tissue paper to create a mummy race. Let your children use one roll of tissue paper to wrap you and your spouse. The person who wraps the mummy the fastest will win. You may also encourage them to decorate the mummy afterwards by using washable markers and non-toxic paint.

THEME: SPIDER HUNT

If your child is fond of spiders and Spiderman, fill up the room with spider décor. You may create a spider Halloween wreath or a spider sticks web. For the Spider Halloween wreath, all you have to do is to gather twigs that have fallen from the tree. Glue these twigs onto a piece of cardboard to create a base for your wreath. Embellish the wreath with some cut-out spiders.

Image Credits: buggyandbuddy.com

For the spider sticks web, you will need scissors, yarn, paint, glue, and popsicle sticks. Stick the popsicle sticks together to create this shape: *. Then, paint it white and add some black or orange yarns. This will enable you to tie the craft to your doors or ceilings. You may add some cut-out or toy spiders to increase its effect.

THEME: BOO – THE FRIENDLY GHOST

You can either put ghosts on your candy paper bags or your Halloween cards. Start by purchasing white paint and brown paper bags. Turn your ordinary paper bag into a glowing ghost bag by painting on it. You may put the candies inside once you are done.

The last craft is quick and easy. Cover your child’s feet using white paint. Let your child press it on a colored paper. Once it is dry, you may decorate your very own ghost. Enjoy!

Sources: 1 & 2

 

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Low-Maintenance Cat Breeds To Bring Home

Cats are wonderful companions, especially as pets kept indoors. They are generally low-maintenance and are not difficult to provide care for. There are many breeds of cats that go beyond the black or white cat you see in the television. In fact, the International Cat Association (TICA) officially recognizes 71 breeds as of 2018. That is a lot!

If you are keen to own a cat, you may choose from these adorable low-maintenance cat breeds.

#1: SCOTTISH FOLD

What makes the Scottish Fold unique is its ears that fold forward and lie close to the head. This cat is a lovely addition to any home due to its adaptable personality and its short stature. They are unlikely to attempt any grand leaps or obstacle courses. It can get along with other cats, dogs, and children. Their thick coat is surprisingly easy to maintain as it requires brushing once or twice a week.

Global singing sensation Taylor Swift is a proud owner of Scottish Folds. Her Scottish Folds Meredith and Olivia were both named after fictional television characters.

#2: SPHYNX

The Sphynx is a hairless cat breed, which is often the first choice of cat owners with allergens. The Sphynx’s fur feels more like fine hair or peach fuzz. Not only will its owner get less allergy attacks, but it will not need to groom its fur regularly.

This is an independent cat that is happy to amuse itself while you are busy indoors or outside with your friends. You may invest in a cat tower as the Sphynx enjoy jumping around.

#3: BRITISH SHORTHAIR

Known for its easygoing temperament and undemanding personality, the British Shorthair is popular amongst many cat lovers. It is affectionate, but not needy. It is the perfect companion for people who are looking for cats that stay away from trouble while they are not home. This cat’s short and dense coat is easy to maintain. A good weekly combing should be sufficient to remove the debris and to distribute the skin oils for a healthy coat.

#4: MAINE COON

The Maine Coon originally descended from ship’s cats. It is the largest domesticated cat breed. It is known for its chill, almost dog-like personality. They love the outdoors and can even be walked on a leash. Despite its long coats and large stature, it only requires minimal grooming. This is because its fur is silkier. You just need to comb it once a week and you are good to go!

Although it enjoys human interactions, it can easily entertain itself and is not considered as clingy. Let it freely play on its own.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Always remember that although these cat breeds are seemingly simple to take care of, you are still responsible for your cats. Love and treat them properly.

Sources: 1 & 2

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