This November, beauty brands are once again striking a balance between skincare and makeup.
To guide you through the month’s beauty drops, have a look at the products and services we tried and tested.
What is it: A liquid-to-powder foundation that provides light to medium coverage. It comes in 40 shades.
Why I like it: I can apply this using my fingers, which is convenient. When I’m wearing this foundation, I don’t feel it on my face. The matte finish lasts on my oily skin too, and the silky formula helps to prevent my T-zone from getting greasy.
What I don’t like about it: The tip of my nose gets really dry, so the matte foundation draws attention to that. The formula separates easily in the tube, you have to shake the tube really well before dispensing it.
Rating: 3/5
What is it: An essence formulated for sensitive skin. It’s made with 10 ingredients to moisturise and repair the skin barrier.
Why I like it: The unscented essence dials down the redness on my cheeks, and it doesn’t irritate my skin. Even after applying a few layers, the watery texture doesn’t feel sticky. It preps my skin well for moisturiser.
What I don’t like about it: It didn’t impart much hydration to my skin, so it felt more like a toner than an essence.
Rating: 4/5
What is it: A lightweight, buildable matte lipstick with a square bullet. It comes in 10 shades.
Why I like it: Just like the full coverage version, The Slim Sheer Matte has a velvety texture that sits comfortably on the lips. Its sharp bullet makes for precise application, so I can create clean edges without using a lip liner first.
What I don’t like about it: The formula clings on to dry patches and accentuates them. The fruity scent is a little overwhelming too.
Rating: 2.5/5
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What is it: A simple moisturiser made with only 9 ingredients to suit all skin types.
Why I like it: Thanks to the oat extract in the formula, this refreshing gel cream calmed the red patches on my cheeks within minutes. The oil-free moisturiser contains squalane, so it’s safe for those struggling with fungal acne too.
What I don’t like about it: It’s rather expensive for a moisturiser made with less than 10 ingredients.
Rating: 4.5/5
What is it: An oil-free makeup primer that promises to refine pores and hydrate the skin.
Why I like it: The primer has a gel texture, which leaves a cooling feeling on the skin. It works well as a lightweight daytime moisturiser too.
What I don’t like about it: As soon as it comes into contact with sweat, the primer slips. It also doesn’t have much hold on my undereye concealer, which started to crease after a couple of hours.
Rating: 2/5
What is it: A non-surgical body shaping treatment that uses low-wave laser energy to shrink fat cells.
Why I like it: The LipoSculpt treatment was performed on my tummy, where a belt with laser pads was strapped around. When activated, the pads lit up and I was left to chill for half an hour. There’s practically no discomfort, so if you have a low pain threshold, this is a good body sculpting option.
What I don’t like about it: There weren’t any visible results after the treatment, but I was informed that it may take a few sessions to see a difference.
Rating: 3.5/5
What is it: CIVASAN, a Korean skincare brand used by dermatologists and hospitals, recently opened at Mandarin Gallery. It offers a customised facial using its line of products.
Why I like it: The facial therapist tailored the treatment to suit my skin concerns. Centella asiatica and hyaluronic acid were 2 key ingredients that were used to soothe, strengthen and moisturise my sensitive skin.
What I don’t like about it: My skin felt really greasy after the treatment, so I had to blot some of the serum and moisturiser off my face before going about my day.
Rating: 4/5
November’s skincare, makeup and body treatment launches are here to help you look your best. Soothe sensitive skin with hydrating skincare essentials and add a touch of colour with a brighter shade of lipstick.
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