Regina Chow - Singapore Fashion, Beauty & Travel Blog
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About Me
Fashion
Travel
Beauty
Lifestyle
Personal Thoughts
Regina Chow - Singapore Fashion, Beauty & Travel Blog
  • About Me
  • Fashion
  • Travel
  • Beauty
  • Lifestyle
  • Personal Thoughts
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L’Oreal EverStrong Hair & Scalp System: 30-Day Hair Challenge

March 15, 2014 by Regina Chow No Comments
 L’Oreal Hair Expertise recently developed its EverStrong Hair and Scalp System, which promises stronger, thicker hair in 30 days. If you follow me on instagram (@reginachow_sg), you may have read that I gamely took up L’Oreal’s 30-Day Hair Challenge.

It is important to condition your hair ends, which is what we all tend to focus our efforts on to achieve silky smooth hair, but did you know that the scalp is just like our skin and needs just as much tender loving care? Fertile soil is necessary for plants to thrive and flourish. Similarly, a healthy scalp promotes hair growth and is the key to having healthy, beautiful hair.

 What causes scalp problems? Excess sebum production and using the wrong hair products without clarifying the scalp will clog pores and hair follicles over time, leading to scalp problems and hair loss. Our hot and humid weather doesn’t help either as it only makes our scalp oilier.

Well, the good news is, hair thinning and hair fall issues can be easily prevented with the use of proper scalp care products such as L’Oreal’s EverStrong Hair and Scalp System. The use of scalp care products on a regular basis will also help to strengthen hair strands, leading to healthier, more beautiful hair! 

In a day and age where we encounter chemical substances in practically every facet of our daily lives, responsible brands and products that cut down on the usage of chemicals are definitely a breath of fresh air.  

I am sure that many of us are no stranger to L’Oreal Hair Expertise’s range of hair products, which are 100% sulphate-free, silicone-free and paraben-free. The complete suite of L’Oreal
Hair Expertise products includes EverSleek for frizzy, rebellious hair,
EverPure for colour-treated hair, EverCreme for dry to very dry hair and
finally, the latest addition to the family – EverStrong for scalp care
and hair fall control.

 Frequent colouring has rendered my scalp sensitive and somewhat irritable, hence I often turn to in-salon scalp treatments to maintain my scalp health. On days when I don’t have time to head to the salon, L’Oreal’s EverStrong Hair and Scalp System is the most comprehensive sulphate-free scalp care system that I can rely on to care for my sensitive scalp.  These products are also infused with nourishing botanical oils to energize and invigorate the senses.  

The EverStrong range consists of a set of 1) shampoo, 2) conditioner and 3) hair tonic.
When it comes to
maintaining a healthy scalp, you have to be conscientious and patient
because it takes time for you to see results and these results take
place over time.  30 days is just about right for you to see some visible results. Although I have only reached the 1 week mark when this post is published, there are already significant improvements in my scalp condition based on my scalp scan results which you will see later on in this post.


I love shampoos that lather well as I personally feel that my scalp and hair feel cleaner, hence I was initially a little apprehensive when I first tried the L’Oreal EverStrong Thickening Shampoo as I thought it wouldn’t produce much lather, like most sulphate-free shampoos or other conventional scalp shampoos in the market. Surprisingly, it lathers like a dream. Not only does my scalp feel
much cleaner, my hair also feels softer and silkier immediately after
shampooing, which is impressive given that most of the scalp shampoos
that I have tried tend to leave my hair dry and entangled. I also love the fresh minty scent which appeals to both sexes.

If you have a sensitive scalp
like me, it is absolutely important for you to steer clear of hair care
products that include sulphates. Sulphates are typically used in hair
care products to create foam but these chemicals are so harsh, they
strip your scalp of moisture and causes it to be even more irritable
than it already is. L’Oreal understands what is needed to promote a
healthy scalp, hence its EverStrong series is completely sulphate-free and is specially enriched with Rosemary and Mint oils to soothe dry sensitive scalp and regulate sebum production. The formula also includes amino acid complex to strengthen and fortify hair strands.

I use conditioner on a daily basis to keep my hair well moisturized and I have always been told not to apply any conditioner to your scalp as it weighs down the hair at the crown and could also make your scalp oilier. 
You can imagine how shocked I was when I read the instructions behind L’Oreal’s EverStrong Thickening Conditioner and realized that this conditioner can actually be massaged into your scalp. Again, I was quite skeptical. What if it weighs down my hair and causes my scalp to itch? 
Nonetheless, I followed the instructions and dutifully massaged the conditioner into my scalp and hair strands before rinsing. To my utter amazement, there was no greasy after feel. On the contrary, I felt that it gave my roots a natural lift, which contributes to fuller-looking hair. In fact, a couple of my friends commented that my hair looks fuller and thicker recently, and some new acquaintances even thought that I was born with naturally thick hair. I have never received such compliments in the past as my hair is naturally thin and fine, hence I strongly believe the L’Oreal EverStrong Hair and Scalp System certainly has a role to play in this!   
The L’Oreal EverStrong Hair and Scalp System also includes a Thickening Tonic to be sprayed onto your roots directly and massaged into the scalp. No rinsing is required.  I have been using this religiously everyday after shampoo and conditioner and I absolutely love the cooling sensation and minty after feel.  
I can go on waxing lyrical about how wonderful this entire series is, but nothing beats actual evidence to prove that the EverStrong Hair and Scalp System really works. 

Before I embarked on this 30-day Hair Challenge, a few other bloggers and I popped by L’Oreal’s office for a scalp scan. We also did another scan midway through the challenge. Please note that the images that follow may be rather disturbing, but do read on if you are interested to find out exactly how effective the EverStrong products were on my scalp.

 

The whitish, cloudy residue at the roots depicts sebum (or oil) and as you can tell from my ‘before’ and ‘after’ scalp scan results, my scalp is less oily than when I first embarked on this challenge. 

I am so heartened to see these encouraging results and I can totally envision how clean and healthy my scalp will look after 30 days. I will do a final wrap-up of the challenge on my instagram account (@reginachow_sg) after 30 days, so do follow me if you would like to track my progress!

Meanwhile, I am basking in the joy that my hair already looks and feels healthier!

 If you want to have lustrous hair and a healthier scalp, do join me in L’Oreal’s 30-day hair challenge too. 

Here’s what you have to do:
L’Oreal 30-Day Hair Challenge 
(From 15th March 2014)
1. Purchase L’Oreal EverStrong Thickening Tonic and receive a free 59ml set of Everstrong shampoo + conditioner

2. Register your particulars for the Challenge here. L’Oreal will contact you shortly on how to redeem at L’Oreal office. (A ‘before’ shot must be provided.)

3. After redemption, use regime for 30 days. At the end of 30 days, return to L’Oreal office to retrieve $50 hamper incentive, in exchange for a testimonial and after shot. 

For more details on L’Oreal’s EverStrong Hair and Scalp System, remember to ‘Like’ L’Oreal’s Facebook Page here!

Now, you can also purchase L’Oreal’s EverStrong Hair and Scalp System online at Luxola!

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Allure Beauty Signature Eyebrow Embroidery

March 9, 2014 by Regina Chow 4 Comments

Eyebrow embroidery is a beauty service that I’ve been thinking of trying out as it is getting immensely popular these days and many of my girlfriends have experienced wonderful results. I have previously read rave reviews about Allure Beauty from forums and blogs, hence when Mistical from Absolute PR contacted me on behalf of the saloon for an eyebrow embroidery session, I agreed right away.

Established in April 2002 by founder Ms Angela Tnee, Allure Beauty has since expanded and includes 3 outlets conveniently located in Tiong Bahru Plaza, West Mall and City Square Mall respectively. I couldn’t be happier when Mistical suggested that I visit their West Mall branch as it is just a stone’s throw from my home.
What is Eyebrow Embroidery?  How is it different from Eyebrow Tattoo? 

Eyebrow
embroidery involves the application of pigments to the outermost
epidermis layer of your skin. This is different from eyebrow tattoo,
where the pigments penetrate deep into the dermis layer and gets
absorbed deeper into the skin as time progresses. Unlike eyebrow tattoo which is permanent, eyebrow embroidery is only semi-permanent and can last up to 2 years or longer with frequent touch-ups.

  Founder of Allure Beauty, Ms Angela Tnee, picked up eyebrow embroidery in 1994 from an eyebrow specialist in Hong Kong and was the first to introduce creative eyebrow embroidery skills using the stroke-by-stroke technique in Singapore. This technique is now known as Allure’s Signature Eyebrow Technique and that was exactly what I was going to try out that very day.

Kelly, the Principal Trainer at West Mall, gave me a detailed overview of the different types of eyebrow embroidery services offered by Allure Beauty.  
Allure Beauty believes in upholding the highest standards of professionalism, hence the Allure Signature Eyebrow Technique is only performed by senior consultants who have undergone years of training and are personally certified by founder Ms Angela Tnee. This particular technique incorporates nano-technology to achieve natural-looking strokes that mimic the appearance of real hair.
Before I give you the lowdown on the eyebrow embroidery process, here’s an embarrasing  photo of my brows before embroidery for your reference. As you can see, my brows are relatively thick (thanks to my mum who painstakingly applied alcohol on them when I was a baby), but they are extremely untidy, undefined and completely out of shape. 
I used to get them plucked and trimmed professionally but in recent years, laziness got the better of me as my bangs covered most of my unruly brows anyway. I couldn’t wait to get started on the eyebrow embroidery session after Kelly clipped up my bangs and revealed my horrible brows!

What is the eyebrow embroidery process like?
Step 1: Neatening the brows
 The first step is to neaten your brows by shaving off the stray hairs.This makes it easier for the therapist to shape and design your brows later on.
 
Step 2: Numbing Cream Application

Most beauty saloons would apply numbing cream after shaping and designing your brows, but over at Allure Beauty, numbing cream is applied at the onset so that your brows are sufficiently numbed. This is an important step to ensure that the whole process is painless and comfortable.
This step takes about half an hour. During the wait, Kelly and I discussed any possible concerns that I had about my brow shape and colour. We both agreed that a dark brown shade would be used for my brows to match my light hair colour.
 

 Kelly also shared with me that Allure Beauty offers a comprehensive
range of beauty services, including facials, eyelash extensions,
eyeliner embroidery and lip embroidery. She noticed my eyelash
extensions and recommended that I try their Wonder Lash extensions from
Korea next time. Time to book another appointment soon! 
Step 3: Shaping and designing the brows
At
Allure Beauty, your facial features will first be assessed based on the
Golden Ratio to determine the best brow shape to suit your facial
proportions.
Kelly
shared that my facial features generally conformed to the Golden Ratio,
but the space between my eyes and eyebrows was too narrow. Hence, she
suggested that my brow had to be moved up a little higher to bring more
definition to my eyes.
She then proceeded to fill in my brows to the desired shape and thickness.

I loved how meticulous Kelly was. As my left brow was naturally higher than the right, she took pains to check that they were symmetrical from every angle, every step of the way.

Step 4: Eyebrow Embroidery
Once I was satisfied with my brows, Kelly invited me into a private room for the eyebrow embroidery session.
Personal hygiene is of utmost importance to Allure Beauty, hence a fresh new blade is used for every customer to eliminate the possibility of infection. The colour used is also specially customized based on your personal preferences.
Is the process painful? How did I feel? 
I could feel the blades brushing against my skin with each stroke but to my pleasant surprise, it was relatively painless if you were to compare it to eyebrow plucking.

 Kelly then sat me up to check on my brows. Please excuse my sleepy look here as I was about to drift to slumberland in the private room.

A few more strokes added the finishing touch and I was done!

And now for the final look. My skin was slightly red as I have sensitive skin but the redness went away in less than half an hour.

Here’s a closer look at my transformation, complete with before and after photos for a better comparison. I was absolutely amazed by the remarkable difference before and after eyebrow embroidery! 
My new brows frame my face better and soften my features too, giving me an even more feminine appearance.

Before and after pictures of my left brows:

Before and after pictures of my right brows:

From the pictures, you can also tell that the individual strokes look just like my own natural eyebrow hair. I really love my new brows and how they pull my features together.
Thank you Kelly for a job well done! Kelly is very pretty, with silky smooth poreless skin to boot. I was so tempted to try out Allure Beauty’s facials after seeing her gorgeous skin.


Are there any after care tips for Eyebrow Embroidery?
  I was given a card with after care tips and a tube of soothing cream (Retails at S$48) to be applied 5 times daily with a clean cotton bud for a period of 1 week.
Remember to ensure that your eyebrows do not have any contact with water for a week. Not only does this prevent infection, it also ensures that the colour lasts much longer. 

To prevent any contact with water, Kelly suggested that I use these 3M Tegaderm Films which feel just like clingwrap-like stickers on my brows when I shower. You can get them from any Watsons outlet.
Instead of facial wash, I also switched to a tissue-off cleanser (Avene’s Extremely Gentle Cleanser No Rinse Tissue-Off Formula) for a week.
My Healing Process
 I also took some pictures following my eyebrow embroidery session so that you will have a better idea of what to expect.
Day 1 – Without Make-up

Day 3 – With Make-up
1 Month Later – With Light Make-up
The colour fades by about 50-70% after the 1st month, hence a touch-up is necessary for maintenance. I love how natural it looks after a month though, and now, I no longer have to hide my brows behind my bangs!
One of my girlfriends saw me with my new brows the next day after my eyebrow embroidery and was so impressed she immediately booked herself an appointment at her nearest Allure Beauty Saloon for the Allure Signature Eyebrow Embroidery session. Now, we both have beautiful brows!

******
Special Discount for Blog Readers:
All readers of ‘Shopping Queen’s Haven’ will also be entitled to a 10% discount off the Allure Signature Eyebrow Embroidery session. Simply quote my blog name or my name “Regina Chow” to enjoy this offer!
 As Kelly is the principal trainer at West Mall outlet, an Allure Signature Eyebrow Embroidery session with her would cost S$1680 excluding GST. This includes 2 free touch-ups (after 1 month and another after 1 year).
*****
Allure Beauty Saloon
Website:
http://www.allurebeauty.com.sg/
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/allurebeautysg
Addresses, Contact Numbers and Opening Hours:

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Korean Style Make-up with Laneige

March 2, 2014 by Regina Chow No Comments

When we think about Korean style make-up, images of flawless, dewy complexion and barely there make-up always come to mind. If your complexion is less than perfect, which is the case for most of us, you can easily achieve the no make-up look with Laneige! 

While I only use sunblock on my skin on most days, there are times when my skin needs that extra boost and that’s when Laneige Snow BB Soothing Cushion comes to the rescue. It gives my skin a radiant, healthy glow immediately upon application. The effect is so natural, I look like I was born with naturally flawless skin. If you are interested, you can also read more about my review on BB cushion here.

 

Eyeliner is one of my make-up staples and if you follow Korean make-up trends, a common way of eyeliner application is to extend the eyeliner and wing it out so your eyes look bigger and more elongated. I personally love this style of eyeliner application as it really opens up my eyes.
I usually use black or brown eyeliner, but whenever I feel a little more adventurous, I would turn to Laneige ArtPlay Waterproof Eyeliner in Deep Green and Forest Green. It is dual sided, which gives you the flexibility to transform your look from day to night with the flick of an eyeliner. I have come to realize that green is actually a really versatile colour too.

When the rest of your face is fresh and nude, all it takes is a bold lip to brighten up your face. Orange lipstick was something I would never have considered in the past, but Laneige’s Silk Intense Lipstick in Spangle has since become my go-to lipstick shade.  Unlike red which gives off a mature vibe, orange actually exudes youthfulness and a tinge of playfulness.

The Laneige Silk Intense Lipstick in Spangle is highly pigmented and a little goes a long way. It glides on very smoothly and the hydrating formula which includes collagen peptides ensures that lips stay moisturized throughout the day. 

Here’s the final look that I created with these 3 products from Laneige:

And finally, here’s my outfit for the day. I went for a monochromatic look to bring attention to the bold orange lips. 
T-shirt from Dip Drops
Skirt and necklace from random shops in Singapore
Bag from Chanel
Cuff from Hermes
Hat from Venice
Shoes from Pazzion

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Dr Scalp Treatment with Naoki Yoshihara by Ash

February 28, 2014 by Regina Chow 2 Comments
Dry and brittle hair ends are probably the most common complaint among those of us who undergo chemical treatments on a regular basis. But did you know that healthy hair actually begins at the scalp? The root of many hair problems stem from poor scalp conditions and yet, many of us tend to neglect our scalp until hair problems begin to surface and hair loss becomes an issue. 
As the old saying goes, prevention is always better than cure, hence taking good care of my scalp has always been my top priority. I have tried various scalp treatments and one of the most effective scalp treatments that I have tried thus far is the Dr Scalp Treatment from Naoki Yoshihara by Ash.

Masa-san from Naoki Yoshihara by Ash has been taking good care of my crowning glory for the past few months and I have to thank him for introducing me to this wonderful treatment. I love Japanese products and services because they are always at the forefront of technological advances and innovation.

Dr Scalp Treatment hails from Japan and it entails the use of a scalp care machine that combines light diode and gentle LED light to stimulate your scalp and support healthy hair growth without harming your skin. This unique, one-of-a-kind treatment incorporates the use of scramble pulse, radio frequency waves, EMS and electroporation technologies. As the skin on the scalp is twice as sensitive as the skin on our face, Dr Scalp ensures that only high frequency radio frequency waves that do not damage our skin are used.

 Dr Scalp is also incredibly effective in treating hair loss problems. Whether you are in your 30s and starting to experience thinning hair (see picture below) or in your 50s with visible bald patches (see picture above), Dr Scalp guarantees fantastic results in just a span of 3-6 months. As you can tell, these before and after photos certainly speak for themselves.

Hair essence is first sprayed evenly over your scalp, followed by a scalp massage using the Dr Scalp scalp care machine. The machine can also be used at the back of the neck for a gentle massage and also to stimulate circulation.
The hair essence has a refreshing, minty scent that invigorates your senses after a long day at work.

Here’s what the Dr Scalp scalp care machine looks like. The tips of the probes that come into contact with your scalp are coated with titanium, which is very gentle and works well with all skin types, even sensitive skin.

When the Dr Scalp scalp care machine is activated, it emits a bright red glow and a very therapeutic tingling sensation is felt when the probes come into direct contact with your scalp.
The scalp machine also enhances the permeability of the hair essence and stimulates hair growth. Indeed, my scalp felt instantly rejuvenated and well cleansed after the treatment as all the dirt and grime were lifted from my pores.

Masa-san then applied two other scalp treatment products, namely Sparkling Spa Shower and Sparkling Gelee, to top off the treatment.

Sparkling Spa Shower promotes blood circulation and has anti-inflammatory properties as well. I was particularly fascinated with Sparkling Spa Shower because instead of spraying the product directly onto your scalp or dispensing it onto your fingers, all you have to do is to press the sponge tip of the bottle onto your scalp slowly. 
A cooling sensation is felt every time you press the sponge tip on to your scalp as you can actually feel a burst of cold air being released. It is really refreshing and since this product contains only natural herbal ingredients, you can be assured that your scalp is in good hands!

 Sparkling Gelee on the other hand, works just like a leave-in conditioner to seal in the moisture in your hair. As it is made of 100% hyaluronic acid, it can be applied directly to the scalp, hair and even on your skin.


My scalp tends to be a little oily and itchy, especially if I choose to wash my hair on alternate days, but after undergoing 3 sessions of Dr Scalp Treatment, I can feel a great difference in my scalp condition. 
My scalp is no longer as oily as it used to be and there is more volume at the crown. My girlfriend
Karen has tried a few sessions of Dr Scalp Treatment too as her scalp
has become rather sensitive after her frequent overseas travels.  If you have a dry and sensitive scalp, it is recommended that you do the Dr Scalp treatment once a week for a start until your condition stabilizes.

I love how
Masa-san goes the extra mile to recommend suitable treatments for my hair every
time I visit the salon. And it is amazing how my hair always looks shiny
and smooth in spite of all the chemical treatments I do every month.
Thank you, Masa-san! All the credit goes to you!

I have been recommending Masa san to many of my friends as well, and all of them love what he did with their hair.  Masa-san currently shuttles between Japan and Singapore for work, but here comes the good news – he will be relocating to Singapore in April this year!
Naoki Yoshihara by Ash
Address: 
177 River Valley Road
Liang Court  #02-15/16
Singapore 179030
Tel:
6333 5662

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Tsubaki Out-of-Bath Series & Senka Skincare Launch

February 10, 2014 by Regina Chow No Comments
 I attended the launch of Tsubaki’s Out-of-Bath series and a new skincare brand called Senka at Butter Studio a while ago, thanks to DSPG and Shiseido. 
 
I have always loved Tsubaki’s affordable yet effective haircare range and it is not hard to see why Tsubaki has been the leading haircare brand in Japan since its inception in 2006.
Tsubaki haircare products contain 3 key ingredients, namely:
1) Melanin Hole Repair Ingredient (Arginine) – This repairs the melanin holes and restores the inner structure of our hair fibre to bring out the shine and lustre in our tresses.

2) UV Protective Ingredient – UV protection is essential for lustrous locks as it protects hair from UV radiation and damage.
3) Selected Camellia Oil – An oil that is known for its ability to repair hair cuticles while retaining shine and elasticity. It also softens and smoothens our hair fibres.
(L-R): Damage Care Hair Water, Shining Hair Water and Damage Care Hair Emulsion

Besides its In-Bath series (i.e. shampoos and conditioners), Tsubaki has also launched its latest Out-of-Bath series in Jan 2014 to provide a comprehensive range of haircare products for all ladies. The Out-of-Bath series includes the Damage Care Hair Water (S$13.50), Shining Hair Water (S$16.90) and Damage Care Hair Emulsion (S$16.90).
I have a soft spot for hair products and was absolutely thrilled to have had the privilege of trying out both the Tsubaki Damage Care Hair Emulsion and Shining Hair Water. I have been using both products together for close to a month now.
Tsubaki’s Damage Care Hair Emulsion is a leave-in treatment that boasts a new, highly penetrative boost formula. It consists of 5 ingredients, including selected Camellia oil, Tsubaki Amino, Camellia Repair Butter, Melanin Hole Repair Ingredient and Penetrative Essence. This new formula ensures that all the goodness of these 5 ingredients penetrate deep into the core of each hair shaft to repair and restore damaged hair. 
I have been using this product on both semi-dry and dry hair. What I love most about it is that it doesn’t leave a sticky residue and it instantly tames any frizziness.
How To Use This Product Effectively?
The trick to applying this hair emulsion is to pump an appropriate amount onto your palm (2-3 pumps for my long hair) and then spread them all over your palm before gently rubbing the product into your hair ends. If you have soft and fine hair like me, you should start applying the product from the hair ends and gradually work upwards towards the middle section of your hair. To prevent flat hair, I prefer to apply less product nearer the roots.
As its name suggests, Tsubaki’s Shining Hair Water instantly adds shine and replenishes moisture to the hair. I spray this on after using the Damage Care Emulsion everyday, before heading out under the sun because it protects my hair against UV exposure.
What I love about this product is its lingering floral scent which makes your hair smell absolutely divine. Like the other products in the Tsubaki series, Selected Camellia Oil is a key ingredient in this product and is supplemented by Camellia Leaf Essence and Hyaluronic Derivative to seal in moisture, leaving your locks smooth, sleek and manageable.
Senka is another Japanese brand that we were introduced to during the launch. Created only recently in the autumn of 2010, Senka is an up and coming brand that focuses on simple yet effective skincare. It aims to develop safe, allergy-free products that are environmentally friendly.
Senka has a comprehensive range of skincare that covers 4 essential aspects, namely Cleansing, Moisturizing, Whitening and Sunscreen. As you can see from the picture below, there are 5 different types of cleansers to cater to various skin types.
The moisturizing range features a lightweight lotion that is just as nourishing as a rich moisturizer, while the whitening range contains Vitamin C to prevent the appearance of sunspots. Senka’s sunscreen is made using 100% mineral water from Mount Fuji and does not leave any sticky after-feel.
 Speedy Perfect Whip (S$13.90) is the latest member in Senka’s range of cleansers. I have come across several cleansers that require the use of a sponge to create thick, foamy lather, which I found rather inconvenient. Now, with Speedy Perfect Whip, a quick pump is all you need to dispense a creamy rich lather that covers your skin in a “lather cushion”. A fuss-free cleanser like this is perfect for those of us who have a busy schedule!
Developed to be gentle on the skin without compromising on efficacy, the Speedy Perfect Whip cleanses very well, removing oil and dirt effortlessly, while retaining the skin’s moisture. All I need is two pumps to deliver a rich, luxurious foam that cleanses effectively. I especially adore its lovely rose scent, which makes the cleansing process all the more enjoyable. This is definitely one cleanser that I would repurchase.
Besides the Speedy Perfect Whip, I also received a few other skincare samples from Senka. Having experienced the excellent results delivered by Senka’s mousse cleanser, I can’t wait to try out all the other products in the skincare range!

Tsubaki’s Out of Bath Series and Senka Skincare are now available at selected Watsons stores!

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Niu Nails: Gelish Manicures In The Comfort Of Your Home

January 4, 2014 by Regina Chow No Comments
www.facebook.com/niunails
Home-based nail salons are a dime and dozen in Singapore, but what sets Niu Nails apart is the owner’s willingness to go the extra mile, literally, for her customers.  Yes, Serene, the owner of Niu Nails, is able to travel all the way to your home to give you a pampering gelish manicure session.
I have only heard of customers travelling to home-based salons and not the other way around, hence when Serene contacted me to offer me a gelish manicure in the comfort of my home, I knew I had to say yes.
www.facebook.com/niunails
I decided on the
nail design prior to the session so that Serene could bring along all
the necessary nail polishes, tools and equipment, including the LED Light for gelish manicures. Serene came well prepared as she actually carted a luggage full of nail polishes and tools from her home-based salon in Hougang over to my place, which is right at the other end of Singapore.
Tools aside, all she needed was a chair and a suitable spot with good lighting to work her magic on my nails. 

www.facebook.com/niunails

Serene picked up her skills from The Pink Room International Nail Academy, one of the most reputable and established nail schools in Singapore. Her prices are very reasonable (the design I chose only cost about S$45 including nail art) but more importantly, she makes you feel at ease immediately with her warm and friendly personality.
One of the reasons why I hardly get my nails done is the time required (1-2 hours on average) and how boring it is to have to sit down for such a long period of time, but Serene was so engaging that everything was over in the blink of an eye! Time flies when you are enjoying yourself, and I certainly had a good time. 

www.facebook.com/niunails
I chose a simple yet elegant design to complement the different fashion styles that I like to experiment with. My name
initial (the letter ‘R’) was incorporated into the design, together with a touch of crystals, ribbons and glitter.

www.facebook.com/niunails
If you value
convenience and privacy, or simply do not have the time to venture out
to get your nails done, Niu Nails could well be your saviour. 
Now that Chinese New Year is just around the corner, remember to give Serene a call soon to book your appointment!
To find out more about Niu Nails and Serene, you can also visit their social media platforms:

Facebook: 
www.facebook.com/niunails
 
Website:  
www.niunails.com
 
Instagram: @Niunails
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Naoki Yoshihara by Ash: Ammonia-Free and Bleach-Free Purple Highlights

December 31, 2013 by Regina Chow No Comments
https://www.facebook.com/NaokiYoshiharaByAsh?fref=ts

I decided to add purple highlights to my hair on my second visit to Naoki Yoshihara by Ash. I tried purple highlights earlier
this year when I was holidaying in Taipei and I was yearning to recreate the look once again.

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One of the easiest
ways to change your look is to add highlights to your hair. Not only is
it less damaging than changing your base colour, it also adds interest
and dimension to your hairstyle. What I like most about highlights is
that you can experiment with bolder hues without compromising on
professionalism and style. 

 
If you follow me on my instagram account (@reginachow_sg), you would have seen a preview of my freshly done purple highlights by Naoki Yoshihara by Ash.
https://www.facebook.com/NaokiYoshiharaByAsh?fref=ts

   
Amazingly, Naoki Yoshihara by Ash did not use bleach to achieve the purple highlights I desired. The dye was ammonia-free too, which is impressive as most salons require the use of bleach or hair dyes with ammonia to achieve striking, vibrant colours.

https://www.facebook.com/NaokiYoshiharaByAsh?fref=ts

 
 The problem with having ammonia in hairdyes is that it is actually really harmful to your hair. Ammonia has adverse effects on a protein called Tyrosine which is found in hair shafts and Tyrosine produces the melanin pigments in your hair. Ammonia damages Tyrosine, which greatly affects your hair’s ability to absorb colour. 

If you realize that your hair colour seems to fade quickly, perhaps it is time to switch to ammonia-free hair dyes for longer lasting hair colour and stronger, healthier hair! 

https://www.facebook.com/NaokiYoshiharaByAsh?fref=ts

I love the trendier and fashion
forward vibes that the contrasting purple highlights lend to my overall
appearance. It also gives my hair more movement and makes my hair look
more voluminous than before.

https://www.facebook.com/NaokiYoshiharaByAsh?fref=ts


If you are thinking of heading down to Naoki Yoshihara by Ash during the upcoming festive season, do take note of these changes:

Here are some changes to their operation hours on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day:
31st Dec 2013: 10.30am to 6.30pm
1st Jan 2014: Closed
 
Also, do book your appointment early to avoid surcharges during the CNY period! 
Here are the surcharges that are applicable:
From 18th Jan 2014 to 28th Jan 2014: 30% surcharge.
From 29th Jan 2014 to 30th Jan 2014: 50% surcharge.
  
Naoki Yoshihara by Ash
Address: 
177 River Valley Road
Liang Court  #02-15/16
Singapore 179030
Tel:
6333 5662
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Celevenus Aesthetic & Wellness Clinic: All About Nose Fillers

December 27, 2013 by Regina Chow 5 Comments

http://www.celevenus.com.sg


After my nasolabial fold filler treatment, I visited Dr Dylan Chau from Celevenus Aesthetic Clinic again for nose fillers, a procedure that I was initially rather resistant to as I thought it would alter my appearance very drastically.

 I have seen how a higher nose bridge and sharper, more prominent nose shape can dramatically alter a person’s overall appearance. In fact, some end up looking like completely different people altogether or worse still, they end up looking like one another! 

I personally prefer subtle enhancements that preserve the individuality and unique characteristics of my original features. Thankfully, after consulting Dr Chau, I realized that nose fillers would actually fit the bill.

http://www.celevenus.com.sg

  
The pictures of me that you see above were taken before I had nose fillers. I looked exceptionally tired in the first picture taken at the clinic as I headed there after a long day at work. Nonetheless, from all the pictures, you can tell that my nose bridge was relatively low and the tip of my nose was somewhat wide.

If given a choice, I would prefer a higher nose bridge and a sharper tip. So, why did I choose fillers and what were some of my considerations?

Why did I choose fillers?

Filler treatments are probably one of the fastest and most natural ways to enhance your nose because the final look depends largely on the characteristics of your existing nose. Unlike, rhinoplasty, otherwise known as a surgical nose job, you can’t show your doctor a picture of your favourite celebrity’s nose and get him/her to recreate the exact same nose with fillers. I have no intentions of looking like anyone else, not even my favourite celebrity and since preserving my individuality is a key concern, I chose fillers.

What can you expect during the treatment?

The make-up on my nose area was thoroughly removed and a thick layer of numbing cream was applied to my nose. After about 30 minutes, my nose was completely numb.

http://www.celevenus.com.sg

Then, it was time for Dr Chau to work his magic. Juvéderm® VOLUMA® Lidocaine was used in the procedure. He started with the top of my nose bridge and slowly worked his way down to middle, followed by the tip. Dr Chau also ensured that the injection was administered gradually and carefully to reduce the likelihood of bruising.

http://www.celevenus.com.sg

After the injection, my nose was moulded to shape. Dr Chau shared that ideally, ladies should have button-like noses for a softer look, which helps to retain their femininity while men should have higher and straighter noses as it would enhance their masculinity.

http://www.celevenus.com.sg

Finally, here’s the side view of my new nose. As you can see, my nose bridge is significantly higher but the curvature is remarkably natural.

Here are some pictures of me about two hours after the procedure, taken at home without any make-up except for some eyeliner. My nose looked very prominent during the first 2 days, which was normal and expected due to swelling, but it settled in nicely thereafter.

3 days later 

If you follow me on my instagram account (@reginachow_sg), you may have spotted this picture which was taken 3 days after the procedure. I had some bruising then, but it was completely concealed by make-up. The swelling had gone down as well and my nose looked more natural.

For a better comparison, I also included my ‘before’ and ‘after’ pictures below. All the pictures in the post have not been digitally enhanced.

Side View 

http://www.celevenus.com.sg

Front View

http://www.celevenus.com.sg

If you observe the pictures carefully, you would probably realize that my eyes looked bigger in my ‘after’ picture. Well, that is actually one of the effects of nose fillers as well. Besides a sharper nose, your features, especially your eyes, will also look more defined.

For those of you who want bigger eyes and a sharper nose, fillers can help you to achieve your objectives! 

Is there downtime?

There is no downtime at all. I headed out to do Christmas shopping immediately after the procedure! This is an important factor for most of us who have to head back to office the next day or immediately after the procedure. 

I experienced some slight bruising for about a week, but with the help of foundation and concealer, nothing was visible to the naked eye.

Is it painful?

It  is a relatively painless procedure as numbing cream is applied and Juvéderm® VOLUMA® Lidocaine, the filler that was used in my procedure, contains Lidocaine, an anesthetic drug to minimize pain.

In fact, the procedure was absolutely painless for me, which left me pleasantly surprised. On a scale of 1-10, the pain factor was 0. 

Is the treatment reversible? 

Filler treatments are not permanent and yes, they are reversible. Fillers such as Juvéderm® VOLUMA® Lidocaine are made of hyaluronic acid, which occurs naturally in our body. If complications arise, which are generally uncommon with an experienced doctor, or you are dissatisfied with the results, the fillers can be easily dissolved and removed from your body. 

Of course, to reduce unnecessary risks, you should always do your research and engage a qualified, experienced doctor to ensure that more than half the battle is won! Dr Dylan Chau, for instance, has 9 years of experience in medical aesthetics and has a wealth of experience in administering filler treatments. 

How long will fillers last?

Fillers typically last between 12-18 months but it varies from individual to individual because everyone breaks down or metabolizes fillers at different rates.

Are there any other non-permanent aesthetic treatments for nose enhancements?

During my consultation, Dr Chau told me that I could try another procedure for nose enhancement, which involves injecting sutures (or threads, similar to stitches for patching up open wounds) into the nose. The results from this procedure is likely to last at least 2 years, which is slightly longer than fillers which are estimated to last between 12-18 months.

I was tempted to try this but I wanted to have the flexibility to assess if I preferred a higher nose bridge before deciding on a more permanent option. I would probably try this treatment after the fillers wear off.

For now, I am very satisfied with the results of my nose fillers. As always, I am awed by Dr Dylan Chau’s sense of beauty, aesthetic judgment and wonderful skills, and I would highly recommend him for all aesthetic treatments.  

I will be heading back to Celevenus in early January for a review, but meanwhile, here are some pictures of me 1 week after the procedure:

http://www.celevenus.com.sg

http://www.celevenus.com.sg
Celevenus Wellness & Aesthetics

Address: 
391B Orchard Road
#16-03/04 Ngee Ann City Tower B
Singapore 238874

Tel: 
+65 6410 9621 / +65 6410 9622
 

Email: 
beauty@celevenus.com.sg

Website:
http://www.celevenus.com.sg/

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myLIFE INC: Natural and Organic Beauty Products for a Healthier Lifestyle!

December 20, 2013 by Regina Chow No Comments
https://www.mylifeinc.me

my LIFE INC is a healthy lifestyle store that offers a curated selection of exclusive brands. A new subsidiary under Eu Yan Sang International Ltd, my LIFE INC is ahead of the curve when it comes to promoting socially responsible brands that manufacture healthy and fun products which are meaningful, functional and convenient.
We are constantly exposed to chemicals in our environment, in our food and in our personal care products. However, did you know that exposure to unnecessary chemicals can potentially have adverse effects on the human body and weaken our immune system?
 That is the reason why I have always preferred products that incorporate natural ingredients in their formula and I was absolutely delighted to try out Natural Alternative’s products. 
I tried Natural Alternative’s Natural Face Cleansing Gel and Natural Face Moisturizing Cream.
https://www.mylifeinc.me

Natural Alternative’s products contain quality natural ingredients including essential oils and herbal extracts which are great for your skin and the environment. 
For those of us who are more environmentally conscious, you would be pleased to know that Natural Alternative’s packaging is made of recyclable materials and the products are not tested on animals too. No artificial fragrance is used and all products are SLS and paraben free.

https://www.mylifeinc.me

https://www.mylifeinc.me
I used the Natural Face Cleansing Gel (S$16) during my recent staycation at Equarius Hotel, and I absolutely loved the refreshing citrus scent. 
Made with essential oils from sweet orange to promote collagen production and neroli to relieve tension and increase circulation, this is a gentle cleanser that is best used on days when you have little to no make-up on. 
This cleanser works very well for me as I only use powder sunscreen on my face these days. A little goes a long way, and at just S$16 for a bottle filled with natural goodness, I would say that this is definitely a worthwhile purchase. This cleanser was also voted the winner for Best Facial Cleanser (eco-friendly) in Women’s Weekly 2013!
https://www.mylifeinc.me
The Natural Face Moisturizing Cream (S$18) nourishes the skin without any greasy after feel. I massaged this into my skin after cleansing and was pleasantly surprised by how quickly it was absorbed despite its seemingly thick consistency. 
Again, this moisturizing cream packs a punch. Nourishing avocado oil permeates our pores, neroli supports blood flow, French geranium lends a delicate scent and sweet orange awakens our senses. I love it!

https://www.mylifeinc.me
Indulging in aromatherapy is my idea of relaxation after a long day and essential oils have been a huge part of my life for a few years now. Lavender oil is one of my favourite essential oils due to its calming and soothing properties, hence you can imagine how happy I was to receive this bottle of Natural Alternative Lavender Oil (S$18). 

https://www.mylifeinc.me

I love burning lavender oil at home using my oil diffuser while I sip on a cup of tea. Lavender is a natural remedy for relieving stress and depression. For those of you who have insomnia, you will be glad to know that lavender oil induces sleep too. Sometimes, I would also drip a few drops on to my pillow to lull me to sleep.

Besides personal care products from Natural Alternative, I also got my hands on some certified organic products from Intelligent Nutrients, another brand from myLIFE Inc. 

Intelligent Nutrients is the brainchild of Aveda pioneer Horst M. Rechelbacher, who wanted to make products so smart that they can be eaten. Intelligent Nutrients products contain a proprietary ingredient called Intellimune and are food grade, non-toxic, pesticide-free, gluten-free and vegan. In fact, the ingredients used are so natural that Intelligent Nutrients is now the highest rated natural and organic brand according to UK’s organic monitor. 

https://www.mylifeinc.me

I have a penchant for hair products and this Certified Organic Perfect Hold Hair Spray – Travel Size by Intelligent Nutrients (S$18) hit the spot for me. Certified organic personal care products are hard to come by in Singapore, much less a certified organic hairspray. 
In all honesty, I was truly amazed by its strong holding power despite the lack of chemicals used. Its refreshing citrus scent also makes it an invigorating treat for my tresses.
https://www.mylifeinc.me
The most interesting aspect about this product is that it is completely edible! I attended myLIFE INC’s blogger event with Karen recently (more details coming up in a separate blog post), and we were asked to spray a light spritz of this hairspray into our mouths as a challenge. We accepted the challenge and ended up pleasantly surprised! The hairspray had a refreshing taste and could well double up as a thirst-quencher or breath freshener. 
https://www.mylifeinc.me
The Certified Organic Lip Delivery Anti-oxidant Lipgloss in Pink Hibiscus by Intelligent Nutrients (S$29) is probably my favourite product out of the lot. I love using lip glosses, but it is no secret that lip products tend to have a high chemical content, which may take a toll on your health in the long run. Hence, as much as I adore my lippies, I tend to use them very sparingly and only on special occasions.

https://www.mylifeinc.me
With this certified organic lipgloss, I can add a dash of colour to my lips without having to worry about chemicals ruining my health. As with all other products by Intelligent Nutrients, this lipgloss is edible too. Its flavour is derived from organic ingredients such as agave, caramel, coconut, raspberry and vanilla, so don’t be afraid to lick your lips! I have tried it myself and yes, it is pretty tasty indeed.
https://www.mylifeinc.me
What about the colour? The Pink Hibiscus shade that I received is a flirty pink hue that delivers instant shine without compromising on colour intensity. It is very pigmented and a single swipe is all you need to add the finishing touch to your make-up. No wonder it was voted Best Lip Colour at Women’s Weekly 2013’s Best Beauty Buys!
https://www.mylifeinc.me
Fancy any of the products above? From now till 31st December, myLIFE INC is offering a 20% discount off orders above S$50. 
Just key in lovemylife20 upon checkout to enjoy this fantastic deal! If you need to do some last minute Christmas shopping, you know where to go!

For more updates on myLIFE INC, remember to like their facebook page here!

 


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Hair Tutorial: How to Style a Low Twisted Bun in 5 Minutes!

December 11, 2013 by Regina Chow No Comments

As promised, here’s another one of my 5-minute hair tutorials! 
My very thoughtful hubby booked a room at Equarius Hotel over the weekend in celebration of my birthday. We spent most of our time outdoors, either frolicking by the beach or queuing up for rides at Universal Studios. To beat the heat and humidity, the easiest and fastest way was to bun up my hair! Instead of the usual top knot bun, I went for a low bun accompanied by hair twists on both sides, a style which I personally feel is pretty Korean.
All you need to complete this hairstyle are a hair tie and a hair clip. It’s an incredibly easy way to get your hair off your face and yet look impeccably groomed.

 Step 1
Start twisting your hair on one side, beginning with the outer section and slowly working your way to the middle of your hairline.

Step 2
Once you’ve reached the middle, clip the twisted section with a bobby pin or hair clip. Then proceed to twist your hair on the other side, starting from the outer section.

Step 3 
Keep twisting your hair on the other side till you reach the middle of your hairline. Now you’ll have two beautifully twisted sections.

Step 4
Gather the twisted hair sections at the nape of your neck and start twisting the ponytail.

 Step 5
Twist the ponytail tightly as this would help to secure the twisted sections and prevent them from unraveling.

 Step 6
Twirl the twisted ponytail into a bun and secure it with a hair tie. I’m using a brown hair tie as it blends in with my hair colour.
Step 7
If you want to, you can use a couple of bobby pins to secure any loose strands. I chose to leave my bun as it is.
Step 8
Finally, add a pretty little bow in the middle to complete the look! Of course, you can also choose to omit this step if you prefer to do without hair accessories. 😉
Hope you enjoyed this tutorial! Have a great mid-week!
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About Me

Hi! My name is Regina and I am a style, beauty and travel enthusiast who enjoys writing, photography and letting my creative juices flow.

My blogging journey has been nothing short of exciting. I was recently named the winner of Her World Magazine’s Estee Lauder Style Superstar Awards 2016. My blog was also awarded Best Fashion Blog (Grand Winner) at the Singapore Blog Awards 2014. The year before that, it won Best Online Shopping Blog at the Singapore Blog Awards 2013.

Additionally, it is listed as one of the 10 interesting blogs on Singapore by AsiaWeb Direct (http://www-singapore.com/blogs.htm). I was also featured on both local and international mainstream media for my views on style, fashion and online shopping:

The Straits Times (14 Oct 2014)

The Business Times (14 Oct 2014)

My Paper (13 Oct 2014)

CNBC ("Pricey Singapore: Savvy shoppers go online" - 28 Dec 2014)

For advertorials/partnerships, feel free to contact me at regina.chow@gmail.com.

Thank you!

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