6 Smart Ways to Slash Your Electricity Costs in Singapore

Electricity prices aren’t exactly friendly to your wallet these days. If you’re still on the standard SP Group plan, you’re paying 30.65 cents per kilowatt-hour, inclusive of GST. For a 3-room HDB flat, that adds up to about S$81.22 a month, and for larger homes, it can be even higher.

But cutting back on your electricity bill doesn’t have to mean cutting back on comfort. With just a few thoughtful changes to your habits and home setup, you can start saving significantly every month.

#1: OPT FOR LED BULBS

When it comes to easy energy savings, lighting is a great place to begin. LED bulbs consume far less electricity than traditional incandescent or CFL bulbs while delivering the same brightness.

They also last much longer, which means fewer trips to the store and less money spent on replacements. It’s a simple switch that brings long-term payoff.

#2: GET CASHBACK WHEN YOU PAY THE BILL

Paying your electricity bill can actually earn you money if you use the right credit card. Some cashback credit cards offer rebates on utility payments, provided you meet a minimum monthly spend.

Popular options like the UOB One Card, OCBC 365, or Maybank Family & Friends Card can give you up to 6 percent cashback. If you’re already paying the bill, why not get rewarded for it?

#3: CHOOSE ENERGY SAVING APPLIANCES

Not all appliances are created equal. Major energy consumers in the home include air-conditioners, refrigerators and water heaters. The next time you’re shopping for a replacement, look out for appliances with more ticks on the NEA energy label.

Image Credits: nea.gov.sg

The more ticks, the more efficient the appliance. For example, a five-tick air-conditioner can save you up to S$260 per year compared to a two-tick model. While the upfront cost might be a bit higher, the long-term savings often outweigh it.

#4: ADOPT SMARTER HABITS

Small actions can lead to big savings. Start by switching off electronics completely at the socket when not in use. Devices like smart TVs, laptops and routers continue to draw power even in standby mode. Turning them off properly could save you about S$25 a year.

On top of that, try to limit the use of your electric water heater on hot days. These small adjustments quickly add up.

#5: SWITCH OFF YOUR STORAGE WATER HEATER

Leaving your storage water heater switched on around the clock consumes unnecessary electricity. By simply turning it off after use, you could save up to S$124 per year. It’s a small habit shift with a big payoff.

#6: USE YOUR AIR-CONDITIONER WISELY

Air-conditioning is a lifesaver in Singapore’s heat, but it can also be a major electricity hog. Set your unit to 25 degrees Celsius, which strikes a good balance between comfort and energy efficiency.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Use fans to circulate cool air more effectively and open windows during the cooler parts of the day for natural ventilation. Most air-conditioners have a timer function too, so you can set them to turn off after a few hours rather than running all night.

IN A NUTSHELL

Saving on your electricity bill doesn’t require a complete lifestyle overhaul. The key is to start small and stay consistent. Over time, those small changes will lead to bigger savings.

Sources: 1,2,3,4,5,& 6

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5 eye creams $55 & under to buy & apply to the windows of your soul before it’s too late

Eye Cream Effect

The eyes are often hailed as the windows to the soul and as delicate as they are expressive, the skin around your eyes deserves a little extra TLC to keep those telltale signs of aging at bay.

So why not consider these top-performing eye creams $55 and under, to help you protect your most expressive feature before it’s too late?

The Inkey List Caffeine Under-Eye Cream

Caffeine Under-Eye Cream

Price: $18

Greet tired eyes with this undereye cream powered by caffeine that acts as a diuretic to reduce undereye puffiness.

This lightweight hydrator also employs a peptide complex to minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Meanwhile, a silky-smooth texture blurs imperfections to create a nice canvas for your makeup application.

Plus, the fatigue-fighting Albizia extract revives even the most sleep-deprived peepers, reducing signs of undereye strain for a brighter, alert look.

Sephora Collection Lift & Firm Smoothing & Firming Eye Cream

Lift & Firm Smoothing & Firming Eye Cream

Price: $28

Wipe those signs of aging from your eyes with this smoothing eye cream.

Peptides and hyaluronic acid work in tandem to diminish fine lines, wrinkles, and under-eye discoloration—three major giveaways of collagen loss.

The rich yet fast-absorbing formula replenishes moisture reserves and revitalizes the eye area with firming actives.

With diligent morning and evening application, you will look tighter and more wide awake.

Sephora Collection Brightening Eye Cream

Brightening Eye Cream

Price: $28

The signs of fatigue can take a major toll on your fresh-faced glow.

That’s where this Sephora Collection eye cream steps in brimming with a 96% natural blend of skin-nourishing botanicals.

Hyaluronic acid from wheat quenches parched under-eye zones, while caffeine’s kick works to depuff and brighten.

Dr.Jart+ Ceramidin™ Eye Cream

Ceramidin™ Eye Cream

Price: $49

Waking up to dryness, puffiness, and fine lines around your eyes?

The struggle ends here with Dr.Jart+ Ceramidin Eye Cream.

This opthalmologist-tested formula tackles multiple eye concerns at once—from relieving dehydration to diminishing the look of those under-eye lines and bags.

Packed with barrier-fortifying ceramides and moisture-locking Panthenol, it strengthens eye-area skin to help seal in hydration.

A concentrated Cocoa Seed Extract blend further smoothes the appearance of fine, dry creases.

Despite its buttery texture that melts right in, the cream leaves zero greasy residue behind.

Philosophy Dose Of Wisdom Dark Circle Brightening Eye Cream

Dose Of Wisdom Dark Circle Brightening Eye Cream

Price: $55

Your eyes could use a nap…

Or maybe just this Philosophy eye cream.

Dose of Wisdom tackles dark circles with a patented, oxygen-boosting technology that revives tired-looking under-eye areas.

Its vitamin C-enriched formula banishes shadows while boosting collagen production.

Hyaluronic acid provides hydration, smoothing fine lines and depuffing.

And thanks to extracts like horse chestnut and rosemary, this cream pampers even folks with sensitive eyes.

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7 Ways to Earn Extra Cash During the Holidays

The holiday season in SG is more than just Orchard Road lights and year-end parties. It is also a golden window to earn some extra cash.

Whether you’re a student on break, a side hustler looking to boost your income, or someone wanting to make the most of the festive buzz, the opportunities are everywhere. You can turn the holiday cheer into a money-making moment.

#1: SELL FESTIVE TREATS

Singaporeans love food, especially during celebrations. If you have a knack for baking pineapple tarts, making easter sugar cookies, or crafting handmade ornaments, consider selling them online or at pop-up markets.

Platforms like Carousell, Shopee, and Instagram can help you reach eager holiday shoppers. A simple way to stand out is by offering custom packaging for gifting.

#2: JOIN THE RETAIL RUSH

Holiday hiring peaks during this period. Retail stores and food and beverage outlets see a rise in demand and often need part-timers. With malls packed and events happening across the island, short-term gigs can pay well. You might even enjoy employee discounts.

Check job boards such as FastJobs, Jobstreet by SEEK, or MyCareersFuture to find seasonal opportunities.

#3: OFFER GIFT WRAPPING SERVICES

Not everyone has time (or skill) to wrap gifts or plan holiday events. That’s where you come in. Aesthetic gift wrapping, personal shopping, or helping organize Secret Santa exchanges for offices can all be monetized.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

If you have an eye for design or a talent for logistics, these services are in demand.

#4: HOST WORKSHOP SESSIONS

If you have a creative skill or unique hobby, consider hosting a workshop. Holiday wreath-making, baking classes, and digital illustration tutorials are popular.

You can run sessions online or rent a cozy space for an in-person experience. People are more open to trying new things and spending on creative experiences during the festive season.

#5: SELL PRELOVED ITEMS

As the year ends, many people start decluttering. This creates a great opportunity to sell preloved clothes, electronics, books, or home decor.

You can host a garage sale, set up a booth at a flea market, or list your items online through Carousell, Instagram, and Facebook Marketplace.

#6: OFFER PHOTOGRAPHY SERVICES

With parties, family gatherings, and romantic proposals happening during the holiday season, people want to capture the moment.

If you have a decent camera and editing skills, offer mini photo shoots or content creation services. Holiday-themed packages or branding ideas for social media can help you stand out.

#7: DELIVER ON DEMAND

The holidays bring a spike in deliveries for food, gifts, and groceries. If you own a vehicle or even a bicycle, you can sign up for platforms like Grab, Foodpanda, or Lalamove. The flexible hours and increased demand during peak times can lead to better earnings.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

IN A NUTSHELL

Instead of only spending during the holidays, why not use the season to build your income too?

Whether you’re selling, creating, or offering a service, there are plenty of ways to earn while enjoying the spirit of the season. These side hustles might even grow into something more long-term if you approach them strategically.

 

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The Best Acne Scar Treatments Available in Singapore: What Really Works?

Everywhere in the world is struggling with stubborn acne scars, but there are specific clinics in Singapore with advanced treatment choices. Most adults are dealing with self-esteem issues stemming from remnants of acne because breakouts are such a nuisance. The heavy-duty treatments for scar-remnant acne in Singapore are laser therapy, microneedling and chemical peels. The results depend on the type and severity of the scars.

When it comes to acne scar treatment Singapore, SL Clinic is one of the aesthetic clinics. All patient’s recovering timelines are optimized by customizing treatment techniques to accommodate different scar types and skin conditions.

Personalized recovery plans depend on skin type, budget and treatment options like number of sessions and duration of gaps between sessions. Most clinics offer consultations which are excellent for plotting a recovery strategy that is optimally tailored for everyone.

Understanding Acne Scars

Acne scars form after severe acne heals, leaving behind different types of marks on the skin. These scars vary in appearance and depth, with specific causes that determine how they develop and persist.

Types of Acne Scars

Acne scars typically fall into two main categories: atrophic (depressed) and hypertrophic (raised) scars.

Atrophic scars include:

  • Ice pick scars: Deep, narrow punctures that look like small holes
  • Boxcar scars: Wider depressions with defined edges
  • Rolling scars: Wave-like depressions that give skin an uneven appearance

Hypertrophic scars are raised bumps of extra tissue that form during healing. These are more common on the chest and back.

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) appears as dark spots after acne heals. While not true scars, these discolorations are often confused with scarring and are common concerns in Singapore’s diverse skin types.

Causes of Acne Scarring

Acne scarring results from inflammatory acne that damages deeper skin layers. Several factors influence scar formation:

  1. Inflammation plays a major role. When acne becomes inflamed, it can destroy skin tissue and collagen, leading to scars.
  2. Delayed or improper treatment increases scarring risk. Putting off acne treatment in Singapore allows inflammation to continue causing damage.
  3. Picking or squeezing pimples significantly worsens scarring by pushing bacteria deeper and causing more inflammation.
  4. Genetics also determine how your skin heals. Some people naturally produce less collagen or have skin that heals with more visible marks.
  5. Sun exposure can darken existing scars, making them more noticeable, especially in Singapore’s tropical climate.

Effective Acne Scar Treatments

Singapore offers several proven methods to treat acne scars, ranging from over-the-counter products to advanced medical procedures. These treatments vary in intensity, cost, and recovery time, allowing patients to choose options that suit their specific scar types and skin concerns.

Topical Treatments and Serums

Retinoid creams stand out as first-line treatments for minor acne scarring. These vitamin A derivatives increase cell turnover and stimulate collagen production to gradually improve skin texture. Products containing alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) help exfoliate dead skin cells and reduce the appearance of superficial scars.

Vitamin C serums protect against further damage while brightening discoloration from post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. For best results, consistent application for 8-12 weeks is usually necessary.

Specialized silicone gels and sheets help flatten raised scars by regulating moisture and reducing inflammation. Many Singapore dermatologists recommend using these products after more intensive treatments to optimize healing.

Key ingredients to look for:

  • Retinol/Tretinoin
  • Glycolic acid
  • Lactic acid
  • Salicylic acid
  • Niacinamide
  • Vitamin C

Dermatological Procedures

Laser therapy remains among the most effective treatments for moderate to severe acne scars in Singapore. Fractional lasers create thousands of microscopic treatment zones that trigger the body’s natural healing process. Chemical peels use controlled chemical solutions to remove damaged outer layers of skin. Depths range from superficial to deep, depending on scar severity.

Microneedling creates tiny punctures in the skin to stimulate collagen production. When combined with radiofrequency (RF), this treatment delivers energy deep into the dermis for enhanced results.

Popular procedures at Singapore clinics:

  1. Fraxel laser resurfacing
  2. CO2 laser treatments
  3. TCA cross technique for ice pick scars
  4. Dermal fillers for depressed scars
  5. Subcision for tethered scars

Advancements in Acne Scar Removal

Recent advances of noninvasive devices like AGNES RF and INFINI have further optimized the reconstruction of acne scars. The opportunity to use the patient’s own tissues, such as in platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, which combines with other procedures to augment healing, is especially beneficial.

AGNES RF and INFINI utilize radio frequency (RF) energy to target scar tissue through insulated microneedles. This technique preserves the epidermis while ensuring maximum energy delivery to deeper tissues. Stem cell therapy is at the forefront of regenerative techniques for acne scars. Some Singapore clinics have begun offering services that use growth factors for cellular-level skin restoration.

 

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5 Common Money Traps Targeting Travelers Abroad

You’ve booked your flight, packed your passport, and counted down the days until your vacation. But have you really thought about your travel budget?

Ever noticed the number of people buying extra luggage in Japan? It’s practically a rite of passage and a clear sign that spending can spiral without a plan. Let’s unpack five common money mistakes travelers make when heading overseas and how you can avoid them.

#1: SKIPPING TRAVEL INSURANCE

From trip cancellations and medical emergencies to lost luggage and delayed flights, travel insurance can be a financial lifesaver. If you’re a frequent flyer, consider investing in an annual plan as it may cost less than insuring individual trips.

Traveling with expensive gear? Even more reason to be insured. But whether it’s compulsory or not, skipping travel insurance is like boarding a plane without a seatbelt.

#2: NOT PLANNING YOUR PAYMENT METHODS

Picture this: you land in Thailand, only to find that your credit card isn’t accepted anywhere. Each country has its own money culture. In South Korea, per my experience, most stores and restaurants prefer cards, while street food stalls still operate on a cash-only basis. In contrast, cash is king in countries like Vietnam and Thailand.

Always travel with a mix of local currency and a travel-friendly card. Better yet, check with your hotel before your trip. The staff can give you the lowdown on what works best locally.

#3: USING PUBLIC WI-FI FOR MONEY TRANSACTIONS

That free airport Wi-Fi? Not your friend. Public networks are breeding grounds for cybercrime, especially when it comes to banking or logging into sensitive apps. Even if you’re not actively checking your balance, background apps could leak personal info the moment you connect.

Use a VPN or switch to mobile data for anything financial. Better safe than hacked.

#4: LANDING WITHOUT A BUDGET PLAN

Winging it might work for sightseeing, but it won’t help your wallet. Many travelers make the mistake of figuring out their daily spending limit after they arrive. Not only is it stressful, but it can also lead to overspending (or unnecessary scrimping).

Know how much you want to spend each day, monitor currency exchange rates, and start saving early. A pre-planned budget lets you enjoy the journey without counting coins.

#5: IMPULSE BUYING DESIGNER GOODS

Is it actually cheaper overseas with the tax refund? Sometimes, yes.

For instance, I found Hermes Oasis sandals to be cheaper in South Korea than in Singapore. Same goes for a Louis Vuitton bracelet I picked up in Bangkok. Do your homework before splurging. Prices vary wildly depending on the country, taxes, and exchange rates.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

While no trip is entirely free of surprises, a little planning goes a long way when it comes to your finances abroad. Avoid these common traps, and your wallet will thank you when you get home!

Sources: 1 & 2

 

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