beauty – Page 8 – Regina Chow

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Hair Tutorial: How To Style An Updo In 5 Minutes!

November 24, 2013 by Regina Chow No Comments

I love experimenting with new hairstyles and am constantly on the lookout for new styles that are easy to pick up and don’t take up too much of my time since I’m always on-the-go. This twist updo that you see here is one of my favourite go-to hairdos as it is a breeze to style and takes all but 5 minutes!

This updo is so versatile, it can easily take you from day to night. I personally think it would make a fantastic hairstyle for bridesmaids too.

Step 1

Separate your hair into 2 parts down the middle.

Step 2

Separate each part further into 2 sections. You will end up with 4 sections in total.

Step 3

Twist each section, starting with the outermost section.

Step 4

Roll the twisted section into a little bun.

Step 5

Secure the ends of the bun with bobby pins. I prefer to use brown bobby pins (as opposed to the black ones) as they blend in much better with my hair colour. If you’re interested, I got mine from Watsons.

Step 6

Repeat steps 3-5 until all your hair is twisted and bunned up!

Steps 7 & 8

Accessorize with a flower pin or a cute bow of your choice to complete the look!

Here’s a pictorial recap of all the steps:

Hope you found this tutorial useful!

I’ll be sharing more hair tutorials here, so do keep a lookout for them!

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Shopping in Seoul – Best Places to Shop!

November 9, 2013 by Regina Chow No Comments

Shopping in Seoul is a fantastic experience, to say the least. Korean beauty brands and the latest K-pop streetwear can be found in every nook and cranny at affordable prices. If you are thinking of emulating your favourite K-pop idols’ fashion sense, you definitely ought to shop in Seoul!

1) Myeongdong

Shopping in Seoul inevitably conjures up images of Korean beauty brands such as Laneige, The Face Shop, Etude House, Innisfree, and my favourite Nature Republic (love their aloe vera gel!), among others. While most of these brands can be easily found in Singapore, there’s something different about these shops in Korea that makes the shopping experience more appealing to shopaholics like me!

If you’re looking for beauty products, Myeongdong is the place to go!

Credits: www.korea.net

My most recent trip to Seoul was in July this year, together with Alvin and Grace to catch the Asian Premiere of Wolverine. Grace and I stayed at Skypark Myeongdong, an excellent hotel right smack in the heart of Myeongdong. The minute we stepped out of our hotel, we could see Innisfree across the road and a myriad of other beauty brands just a stone’s throw away.

The exciting part about shopping for beauty products in Seoul is that every shopper is entitled to freebies! The sales assistants hand out free masks or product samples the minute you step into the shop, before any purchase is made. Everyday without fail, Grace and I would receive a handful of beauty products free-of-charge.

Now, I’m going to share with you an important shopping tip to ensure that you secure the best buys. All the beauty brands have at least 2-3 branches in Myeongdong but the items on promotion may vary from branch to branch. So, remember to check out at least 2 branches first before making a purchase!

Just to give you an example, the Innisfree branch directly opposite Skypark Myeongdong offers hotel guests an additional 10% discount. Some of the sheet masks were also on sale when I was there in July, but we soon realized that the other Innisfree branches were selling the masks at full-price.

2) Express Bus Terminal Underground Shopping Mall

Seoul’s Express Bus Terminal is a subway station that houses a huge underground shopping mall lined with rows and rows of shops that seem to go on forever. You can reach this station via Line 3, Line 7 and Line 9.

There are two levels of shopping here. The first level, which is where you will exit when you get out of the subway, is home to a variety of stores selling footwear, accessories and luggage bags.

First level of shopping – with Grace and Alvin

Take a walk right to the end of the stretch and you will find stairs that lead down to the second level, or should I say basement. That’s when the real shopping begins!

2nd level of shopping, also where the real shopping begins!

As you can tell, local Koreans make up the bulk of the shopping crowd here. When it comes to shopping overseas, I am a firm believer of shopping at places that are popular with locals as the prices are less likely to be inflated and you’ll usually get better deals!

Over at the underground shopping mall, you’ll find many apparel shops with the latest Korean fashion on display. The trend now veers more towards edgier and funkier street wear, unlike in previous years when feminine dresses and lace tops were all the rage.

The pricing is very reasonable as well. You can even get tops and dresses for as low as S$5. Honestly, all the best bargains can be found here. In fact, we visited Dongdaemun the next day, where we saw identical items at much higher prices!

Are there any other places that you would go for shopping?

Do feel free to share them with me!

Read my other overseas shopping guides below:

1) Shopping in Taipei

2) Shopping in Hong Kong

3) Shopping in Hong Kong: Japanese Fashion Labels

4) Shopping in Hong Kong: Factory Outlets for Designer Goods

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Vichy Normaderm Review

October 23, 2013 by Regina Chow 1 Comment

I was invited to try out the Vichy Normaderm range recently and I was so excited when the products arrived in a classic vintage style tin box. The packaging alone was enough to take my breath away and make me fall head over heels in love. I absolutely adore how it exudes elegance with a touch of quirkiness.

Within the box was a thoughtful, personalized message from the Vichy team, all wrapped up in a pretty green ribbon. Honestly, I was pretty much sold before I even tried the products.

Vichy’s skincare range is
especially popular among people with sensitive skin as their products
are hypoallergenic, paraben free and alcohol free. All Vichy
products also contain Vichy Thermal Spa Water to soothe intolerant and
sensitive skin, protect the skin against ageing and free radicals from
the sun, as well as regenerate skin cells by stimulating cell metabolism
and epidermal repair.

I had a bout of
eczema about 2 months back and although only the skin on body was affected, it
served as a wake-up call for me to start paying attention to the
products that I put on my skin, including my face. Since then, I have been
trying to cut down on products with too many chemicals in them and
I was very grateful that Vichy’s Normaderm range came just in time.

The Vichy Normaderm range is specially developed for imperfection-prone skin. While I generally
don’t have blemish prone skin, I do experience a greater incidence of
whiteheads and pimples during that time of the month. When I travel, my skin also tends to secrete more oil due to climate and environmental changes. While we tend to think that pimple cream alone is sufficient for blemish-prone skin, the truth is, pimple creams are not formulated to treat excess sebum production, which is the root of the problem. That is why a comprehensive skincare regime that consists of cleansing, toning, moisturizing and a spot treatment is absolutely essential to regulate oil production and rebalance our skin.

1) Deep Cleansing Purifying Gel

The Deep Cleansing Purifying Gel cleanses well without drying out my skin. A little goes a long way and one pump is all I need. I also like the refreshing fruity scent, which is a wonderful pick-me-up for those early weekday mornings.

2) Vichy Normaderm Imperfection Prone Skin Lotion

I used to think that toning is a redundant step in my skincare routine, but I have come to realize that it is one of the most important steps to maintaining healthy, glowing skin.

Toning removes remaining traces of make-up and prevents the build-up of dead skin cells on your skin surface. It also tightens your pores and refines your skin texture. More importantly, it prepares your skin for better absorption of the nutrients in your skincare products. My skin feels much cleaner after using the Vichy Normaderm Imperfection Prone Skin Lotion. It contains salicylic acid to gently lift impurities and the best part is, it does not dry out your skin as Vichy products are all alcohol-free.

3) Vichy Normaderm Tri-Activ Anti-imperfection Hydrating Care

One common misconception is that those of us with oily skin do not require moisturizer, but did you know that excess oil secretion, which causes clogged pores, is actually a result of dehydrated skin? A good moisturizer is the key to restoring your skin’s balance and treating imperfections.

Vichy Normaderm’s Tri-active Imperfection Hydrating Care does just that. It is the no. 1 oil control moisturizer in the derma skincare category and it is not hard to see why. Besides it hydrating properties, this moisturizer also fights against 6 different skin imperfections, including blemishes, pores, redness, shine, pimples and uneven complexion! I really love the lightweight texture as it glides onto your skin effortlessly and is instantly absorbed. It is amazing how your skin can feel hydrated yet matte at the same time.

4) Vichy Normaderm Hyaluspot

I am always tempted to squeeze my
whiteheads and pimples but I have learnt through the hard way
that touching your pimples with your fingers only transfers more
bacteria to your skin, which further aggravates pimples. Now, I try my best to keep my hands away from my face!

Cleansing alone is insufficient to prevent pimples from bacteria contamination. It is also important to isolate pimples on the surface as well. To combat pimples effectively, Vichy Normaderm Hyaluspot combines Hyaluronic acid with salicylic acid and LHA.

I know that Hyaluronic acid is a natural skin moisturizer, but I only just found out that it has anti-inflammatory and healing properties too. Not only does it leave an invisible film on your skin, it also isolates the pimple from bacterial contamination and eliminates 99.9% of the bacteria that causes pimples in just 2 hours!

This spot treatment comes in a gel form and it does not cause my skin to peel like most of the other pimple treatments that I have used. I use it on little bumps on my forehead and they miraculously clear up overnight without a trace. For embedded pimples however, more time is required for visible results, but always remember that patience and discipline is all you need for those nasty zits to disappear.

I would highly recommend the Vichy Normaderm range to those of you who have sensitive, blemish-prone skin. I have been using the Normaderm range for only a week now but I can already see that my whiteheads have reduced and my pores are less clogged. Many of my friends swear by Vichy products and now, I finally understand why!

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Laneige BB Cushion Party

October 21, 2013 by Regina Chow No Comments

I was invited to the Laneige BB Cushion Party a while back at
My Art Space. For those of you who are familiar with Laneige’s products, you
would probably know that the BB cushion is not a new product and thanks to the
generous team at Laneige Singapore, I have been using the BB cushion for some time prior
to the event. While I only use sunblock without any foundation on a daily
basis, there are times when I feel I need just that extra hint of coverage.
That’s when I turn to Laneige BB cushion.

I adore its dewy, brightening effect, and I absolutely love
that it comes with SPF50+ PA+++, which is great for touch-ups during the
day. Unlike the typical BB creams in the
market, you’ll also feel a cooling sensation upon application, which makes your
skin feel instantly refreshed amidst the sweltering heat.

Here’re 5 benefits of Laneige BB Cushion that you should
know about:

1)
Brightening Effect

2)
Daily protection against harmful UV rays and sun
damage (SPF 50+ PA+++)

3)
Cooling effect that cools down your skin

4)
Tone correction and medium coverage; and

5)
Long-lasting, sweat-proof coverage

Since its launch earlier this year, the Laneige BB Cushion
has become such a popular product that it was completely out of stock when I
visited Korea in July! To cater to
ladies of all skin tones, the BB cushion now comes in 5 shades, namely 13 True
Beige, 21 Natural Beige, 23 Sand Beige, 31 Brown Beige and 33 Coffee. The
latest shade, 33 Coffee was launched in Sephora in September 2013.

Also, Laneige BB cushion now comes with a DIY kit that includes an assortment of embellishments, crystals and stickers so you can
beautify your bb cushion to reflect your personality. How very thoughtful!

I attended the event with Karen and we were also introduced
to some new Laneige make-up items, including 6 New Shades for the Silk Intense
Lipstick range as well as Artplay Eyeliners which feature dual colours in
complementary shades to suit every occasion.

Both of us were fascinated with
the artplay eyeliners as they come in such a wide array of colours, ranging
from subtle, neutral hues to bright, bold hues which are versatile enough for
both day and night looks.

A live make-up demonstration was conducted to give us a
better idea of how Korean style make-up can be done with these new products.

I loved the dramatic transformation that was
achieved with just a touch of BB cushion, artplay eyeliner and a dash of
lipstick. The model looked radiant and effortlessly chic in a matter of
minutes!

Next on the agenda was a hands-on painting session for all
the bloggers. We were told to express through art what we felt about the BB cushion
and its benefits.

The last time I painted was in secondary school, and I have
never worked with acrylic paint, so you can imagine how daunting this task was
for me!

Karen and I hesitated a little initially, but we eventually took the
plunge and two hours later, our masterpieces were born.

My amateurish painting was characterized by bold brush
strokes as I thought this was probably the easiest way to fill up the entire
canvas. The painting depicts how Laniege
BB cushion could dispel the darkness of dull skin (shown through the black and
grey brush strokes) and brighten up our skin, making us radiant, cheerful and
glowy, just like the rays of the sun.

I also loved Karen’s painting of a beautiful
eye surrounded by a myriad of colours.

Here are the paintings done by the other beauty bloggers:

Thank you Laneige Singapore for having us! We each received a BB cushion, Artplay Eyeliner and Silk Intense Lipstick at the event and I will be doing a review of these products soon.

Meanwhile, I’ll be rounding up this post with some outfit shots. It was such a coincidence that Karen and I both came in blue and white, which are classic Laneige colours!

Dress from Rosebullet

Shoes from Miu Miu

Bag from Hermes

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Tokyo Bust Express

October 16, 2013 by Regina Chow No Comments

Tokyo Bust Express kindly extended an invitation to me to experience their bust treatments at City Square Mall recently, to which I readily agreed as I have heard from fellow bloggers who have undergone Tokyo Bust Express treatments that only natural ingredients are used and the results are instantaneous, even with just one treatment! It sounded so miraculous that I thought I ought to try it for myself.

What struck me the moment I arrived at the Tokyo Bust Express branch at City Square Mall was how thoughtful the company is. The name of the shop was discreetly etched behind the reception counter against a neutral backdrop to protect the privacy of its customers and prevent curious stares from passersby, a very telling gesture that speaks volumes about how customer oriented the company is.

Upon stepping into their branch at City Square Mall, I was greeted by the warm and affable staff who made me a cup of delicious fruit tea while I waited for my consultation to begin. I also loved the cozy ambience which put me at ease immediately.

As I sipped on my tea, I couldn’t help but notice the pictures of models with enviable figures that every lady would aspire towards.

Truth be told, I am not particularly well endowed and although plastic surgery may seem tempting, I can never bring myself to go under the knife.

Some years back, I discovered lumps in my breasts and that caused alarm bells to ring because breast cancer is the number 1 cancer among women in Singapore! Thankfully, after consulting a specialist and undergoing a couple of tests, I was told that the lumps are fibroids (unlike cancerous lumps which are hard nodules, these are tender and move about within the breast) and there wasn’t any cause for concern.

You can imagine how relieved I was, but that episode also served as a reminder that my health should never be taken for granted, which is why I would never put myself at unnecessary risk for the sake of beauty. Honestly, I never thought that I would share this piece of information on my blog, but I wanted to let those of you who have the same issue know that you are not alone!

Well, then why did I decide to visit Tokyo Bust Express? Tokyo Bust Express is the largest bust enhancement centre in Singapore and its treatments
are not just for enhancement purposes. I had a very candid discussion with my consultant regarding my fibrocystic breasts and was told that one of the causes of breast
fibroids is the lack of circulation in the lymph nodes which limits lymphatic flow.

Massage
is one possible way to enhance lymphatic drainage and promote better breast health. Similarly, Tokyo Bust Express treatments are able to boost
circulation and help in lymphatic drainage as well as detoxification to promote better breast
health and reduce the risk of cancer, which addresses my concerns.

If bust enhancement is your main concern, here’s what you need to know. A common misconception is that breasts are made up of fats. In reality, breasts are made up of both fats and mammary glands. If your bust size decreases when you lose weight, which is a common complaint among many ladies, chances are your breasts are made up of more fats than mammary glands as fats are the first to go during weight loss. This is the reason why Tokyo Bust Express focuses on the stimulation of mammary glands for bust enhancement instead.

Of course, it also helps that natural ingredients are used in all Tokyo Bust Express treatments. The key ingredients include:

1) Fenugreek Seed Extract: A unique herb that is rich in phyto-estrogens, active plant cells with estrogen-like properties (estrogen is the female hormone) that promote breast health and lower your risk of cancer.

2) Mexican Wild Yam Root: This is an excellent source of beta-carotene and diosgenin, which are powerful phyto-estrogens to aid in breast development.

3) Dang Gui Root: This is probably no stranger to most Asians. Used to treat menopausal symptoms and also typically taken after each menstrual cycle for iron replacement, Dang Gui Root is able to effectively balance women’s hormone levels.

4) Humulu Lupulus: Also known as Hops Flower, this is a Eurasian shrub which is rich in flavonoids and highly valued for its anti-oxidant and anti-cancer properties. It also promotes the development of mammary glands.

After the very detailed consultation, I changed into a robe and had my measurements taken. A personalized bust analysis was conducted and it revealed that one of my breasts was higher than the other and there were some initial signs of sagging (sob!). Fortunately, all that was about to change as I was led to the treatment room.

The treatment room was tastefully decorated in neutral hues, complemented with feminine shades of red and pink. The sprinkle of rose petals on the bed added a nice touch too. I was all ready to kick back, relax and begin my customized treatment!

Here’s what my treatment included:

1) Firming Scrub

2) TT Push Up Machine (with Bust Toning Essence)

3) Bust Up Therapy

4) Bust Suction Therapy

The treatment started off with a firming scrub. We all know how important exfoliation is in enhancing the absorption of nutrients, don’t we?

Next up was the TT Push Up Machine, where two flat, circular plates were placed on each breast to stimulate my mammary glands through the use of electric currents. You will feel a light, pulsating sensation during this treatment. Before the treatment started, I was half expecting to be shocked by the current, but it turned out to be pretty comfortable and I even dozed off for a while.

My favourite step was the manual massage (Bust Up Therapy), where my therapist expertly massaged my bust with her deft hands to unclog the lymph nodes and boost blood circulation. My bust area felt rejuvenated and I could also feel an immediate difference in terms of fullness and softness. The therapist warned that this was the most painful step out of the routine, but my high pain threshold made the process rather pleasurable.

The last step, Bust Suction Therapy, entailed the use of two pumps with suction pressure to lift and enhance the overall shape of the bust.

The results of the treatment were nothing short of amazing. I experienced fullness, firmness and softness immediately. There was also a noticeable lifting effect which was further proven with measurements. I was impressed!

The effects after 1 treatment generally lasts a few days (it lasted about a week for me!), which is why it is important to follow up with regular sessions (at least 5-10 sessions) for maintenance and longer lasting results.

In line with Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Tokyo Bust Express is pleased to offer an October Pink Ribbon Special to all my readers.

You’ll get to enjoy:

1 Complimentary Bust Customised Health Treatment + 1 Bust Collagen Volumizer (U.P S$1,266)

To enjoy your free treatment,

1.
Participate now by clicking on the link HERE

2.
Call 6262 6161

Terms and Conditions Apply:

– Only for females aged 18 years old and above

– Strictly by appointment only

– Promotion is valid for 2 months

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Especially Escada Elixir

October 4, 2013 by Regina Chow 2 Comments

Especially Escada Elixir is a new fragrance in the Especially Escada family. I had the opportunity to try the Especially Escada perfume previously and I loved how it lends a touch of old-world 1920s, Great Gatsby glamour to any occasion. I have been using it regularly, even on my overseas trips, hence you can imagine my delight when Especially Escada Elixir was introduced.

More intense than its predecessor, Especially Escada Elixir features prominent rose notes fused with a unique blend of ingredients, resulting in a sensual, long-lasting scent that is perfect for an enchanting evening.

All it takes to capture that extra touch of mysterious, rosy scent is a little spritz during that magical hour at dusk, just when the day ends, and the evening begins.

Elixir embodies everything that an Escada woman should be – boldly elegant, radiating confident femininity and joie de vivre, the life of every party who lights up the room with her smile and positive energy. That was my source of inspiration for this feminine evening look.

Lace dresses have a special place in my heart and I love how this gorgeous lace dress from Dustbunny Vintage epitomizes glamour and femininity. Wearing lace always makes me happy and the positive vibes remind me of how Especially Escada Elixir embodies positivity and happiness.

Did you know that 4,000 kg of roses are needed to produce just 1 kilogram of rose oil? Damask roses from Turkey are one of the few roses that can produce rose oil for use in perfumes. These roses create a mysterious and sensual scent, which make them a wonderful base for the Especially Escada Elixir fragrance. The rose notes are further enhanced with ambrette seeds, which give off a woody and musky fragrance similar to Musk. Musk was originally sourced from the Musk Deer, which is now banned.

To balance the intensity of the base notes, Especially Escada Elixir is infused with oriental elements such as Vanilla and Ylang Ylang from Madagascar, both of which are known to calm nerves and aid relaxation. Finally, for that element of fun and surprise, which to me is what sets the Elixir apart from its counterparts, blood orange (my favourite fruit!) is used to add a clean, crisp and citrus scent to this luxurious fragrance.

Rouse your senses and add a touch of opulence and glamour with this sensual, evocative fragrance, the perfect accessory for your evening escapades!

Vintage Dress from Dustbunny Vintage

Vintage Tapestry bag from Sydney Glebe Market

Necklace from Mistress of Glam

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Celevenus Wellness & Aesthetics

October 1, 2013 by Regina Chow 2 Comments

I was invited by Celevenus Wellness & Aesthetics to try out their anti-ageing aesthetic treatments recently. Helmed by Dr Dylan Chau, who is able to blend science and artistry to bring out the best in his patients, Celevenus specializes in aesthetic treatments to reverse the effects of aging, achieve clearer, more radiant skin as well as improve facial contours and features.

I was certain that I was in good hands as Dr Dylan Chau has 9 years of experience in medical aesthetics and is well versed in resolving dermatological problems as well as administering anti-aging treatments. He is also a Sculptra trainer for doctors. Sculptra is one of the latest and most revolutionary treatments in the realm of anti-aging treatments.

Age has taken its toll on me now that I am past 30, and I can feel that my skin is beginning to lose elasticity and firmness. One of the most noticeable telltale signs of aging on my face has manifested in the form of more pronounced nasolabial folds, and I have been thinking of doing fillers for these deep lines.

Nasolabial folds are the lines that run from the sides of your nose to your lips, also more commonly known as smile lines. Did you know that
nasolabial folds deepen over time because our cheeks sag with age?
Smiling and facial expressions are contributing factors too, but they
are most certainly not the main cause.

Nasolabial folds
can make one look older than he or she actually is, and they are a pain
to get rid of because unlike wrinkles, topical creams or moisturizers
have no effect on these stubborn lines. The most common way to minimize
their appearance is through aesthetic procedures such as fillers.

I was a little nervous during my consultation session with Dr Chau as I have never done any aesthetics treatments previously, but Dr Chau put me at ease instantly as he listened patiently and attentively to my concerns about my deepening nasolabial folds before going on to explain how fillers could be used to plump up the folds and improve their appearance. I liked how consultative and informative the entire session was. He also gave a detailed explanation of what I could expect after the treatment. As my cheekbones are pretty high and I have rather full cheeks, Dr Chau candidly shared that my nasolabial folds would not go away completely. Nevertheless, there would still be a visible difference.

I also took the opportunity to ask Dr Chau for his expert opinion on my facial proportions. He felt that my features were generally fine, but if I wanted to, I could add some height to my nose bridge and sculpt the tip of my nose. In addition, I could also consider botox to reduce my slightly squarish jaw for a sharper face shape and Sculptra for my tear trough. I have to admit I was tempted to try out all these procedures, but given that I have never done any aesthetic treatments previously, I decided to take it slow and address my nasolabial folds first.

As I had an important event to attend shortly after my consultation, I scheduled another appointment for the procedure to be done on a separate day. If you like, you can go ahead with the procedure immediately after consultation.

This is a ‘before’ picture of myself on the day of the procedure, after the approachable and friendly staff at the clinic prepped my nasolabial folds with numbing cream.

Here I was, all numbed up and ready for the procedure.

Dr Chau used the latest Juvéderm® VOLUMA® Lidocaine for my treatment. The addition of Lidocaine reduces pain and provides additional comfort during and after treatment.

Juvéderm® VOLUMA® with Lidocaine is hyaluronic acid facial filler specifically made to restore lost facial volume in the cheeks, cheekbones and chin. It uses hyaluronic acid, a sugar that
occurs naturally in our skin, to add fullness to areas that need more support or enhancement. Developed to be smoother than other hyaluronic acid facial volumizers, it is also easier to inject during filler treatment. Juvéderm® VOLUMA® with Lidocaine was developed with VYCROSS™ technology to deliver a natural look and feel that can last up to 18 months.

Most importantly, Juvéderm® VOLUMA® is unlikely to result in lumpiness or product migration, both of which are common side effects of other facial fillers.

I was told that the nasolabial folds are one of the more painful areas for injection but Dr Chau administered the procedure expertly and skillfully with utmost precision, resulting in minimal pain. In fact, the filler injection felt more like tiny ant bites.

Dr Chau also chatted with me throughout the entire duration of the procedure, which was very reassuring and comforting.

The following pictures will give you a better idea of what to expect during the procedure. Essentially, the fillers were injected directly into my nasolabial folds at three different points on each side.

As I bleed easily, Dr Chau shared that I am likely to be more inclined to bruising. The key to reducing bruising is to apply pressure at the injection site immediately after injection.

And there, my right nasolabial fold was done in the blink of an eye. Can you tell that the fold is almost gone?

My left nasolabial fold is much deeper in comparison, partly due to the way my lips tend to curl up towards the left when I smile, hence a larger quantity of JUVÉDERM® VOLUMA™ was required to plump it up sufficiently.

Now, here are the final results. The photo on the left is my ‘before’ picture and the one on the right was taken immediately after the procedure.

I went out immediately for an event after the procedure as I did not experience any swelling or bruising till the end of the next day. The clinic called me the very next day to check on me as well, which I felt was a very thoughtful gesture. The bruising lasted a couple of days, but all I needed was a touch of foundation and concealer.

Here’s another comparison of my ‘before’ picture with the final results after 2 weeks:

Before

After

Pictures say a thousand words. I like how my cheeks look lifted now thanks
to my less obvious nasolabial folds, which also contributes to a more
youthful appearance.

What I really liked about the treatment was that it naturally enhanced my looks without drastically altering my overall appearance. My friends and
family could not tell that I had anything done to my face,
but many of them commented that I looked fresher and younger. Just so you know as well, the pictures in this post were not digitally enhanced.

I am very satisfied with the final results and I know I have Dr Dylan Chau to thank for reversing the effects of aging and restoring my youth. I would highly recommend Dr Chau for any of your dermatological or aesthetics concerns. In fact, as you are reading this, I have already made plans to head back to Celevenus for a round of laser treatments to address my skin pigmentation issues. 😉

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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Vanity Trove September 2013 Edition

September 19, 2013 by Regina Chow No Comments

Unboxing my Vanity Trove for the month of September was so much fun! I managed to snag a couple of full-sized items for my personalized Vanity Trove and I couldn’t wait to try out the products!

Here are the products that I received this month:

At just S$25 per month, these full-sized products make Vanity Trove such a value-for-money

subscription.

1) Canmake Eye Nuance 26 (Full Sized)

I only use brown eyeshadow palettes these days because it is so easy to create bigger, more deep set eyes with shades of brown. This Canmake Eye Nuance 26 eyeshadow trio is a nifty addition to my collection of brown eyeshadows. Not only is it highly pigmented, it also has just the right amount of glitter to achieve a subtle yet 3-D sparkle without looking like a disco ball.

The compact size makes it extremely handy for travelling too. I’ll be heading to China for a work trip next week and I’m definitely popping this in my suitcase!

2) Maybelline Pure BB Mineral 8-in-1 BB Mousse (Full Sized)

Priced at S$23.90 and available at Watsons stores, this Maybelline Pure BB Mineral 8-in-1 BB Mousse is yet another full sized item that I chose this month.

Its 8 key pure mineral ingredients promise to deliver 8 skin-improving benefits:

1. Healthier skin

2. Natural radiance
3. Poreless finish

4. Clarity

5. Reduced dullness
6. Reduced redness
7. Hydration
8. Increased elasticity

I like its light and airy texture which is a welcome departure from the creamy texture of most BB creams. Its matte, poreless finish is great for our humid weather too.

However, as it only comes in 1 shade, I find that the colour is a shade darker than my actual skin tone although it is supposed to oxidize to your skin colour. The pump dispenser is also a little difficult to control and tends to dispense more than what is required, which I feel is rather wasteful because a small dollop is all I need for my face.

3) Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser (Sample Size 118ml)

My first impression when I saw this bottle of Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser was that it is pretty generous for a sample size item. I have used Cetaphil previously and I like how gentle it is to the skin. I prefer to use it on bare skin when I wake up in the morning. If I use it at night, I use it together with my trusty Clarisonic to gently exfoliate all the grime and dirt away.

4) Goldwell Style Sign Full Rebel Fluid Paste (Full Sized)

Priced at $36 in stores, the Goldwell Style Sign Full Rebel Fluid Paste is another value-for-money item in my Vanity Trove this month. I got this for my hubby to try as he uses hair mud to style his hair and this seemed like the perfect alternative as it promises to combine the lightness of fluid with the strength of paste to deliver excellent hold without weighing down your hair.

My hubby liked the soft and dry texture but above all, he liked how he was able to achieve different looks without weighing his hair down.

5) Storyderm Coenzyme Q10 Silk Mask and Fancl Aging Care Mask

If you have been reading my blog for some time, you would have realized that I love sheet masks. This time round, I decided to try Storyderm’s Coenzyme Q10 Silk Mask and Fancl’s Aging Care Mask.

Storyderm’s Coenzyme Q10 Silk Mask is a great hydration mask. My face felt instantly moisturized but it would be best to follow up with a facial moisturizer thereafter if you sleep in an air-conditioned room like I do, as the effects do not last through the night.

I really liked Fancl’s Aging Care Mask as the entire mask is soaked in essence. I usually don’t fancy masks that leave a stick after feel, but this mask is an exception because I could see that my skin looked more hydrated, plumped up and radiant after just one usage. I used it at night before bed without using any skincare after that and my skin still felt very moisturized when I woke up the next morning. It is a challenge for my skin to remain hydrated throughout the night, especially when I sleep in an air-conditioned room, hence I would give this two thumbs up for its amazing moisturizing properties!

6) Kerastase Elixir Ultime (Sample Size)

This is not the first time that I am using Kerastase Elixir Ultime but this time, it came as a surprise item in my Vanity Trove! I love the fragrant scent of this luxurious hair serum, which effectively tames frizziness without any oily after feel. A little goes a long way, and I like how I can just pop this into my cosmetic pouch when I go travelling. How convenient! This is yet another item that I’m taking with me on my trip next week.

And that’s all I have for this month’s Vanity Trove!

Do follow me on Vanity Trove’s website to read more of my product reviews too!

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Vanity Trove August 2013 Edition

August 22, 2013 by Regina Chow No Comments

I was brimming with excitement when I received my first personalized Vanity Trove some weeks back. Everything in this trove was handpicked by me and I knew that I would definitely put each and every item to good use because they’re tailored to my beauty profile and preferences.

Did I also mention that the delivery was extremely swift? I received my trove the day right after my order was placed. How very efficient!

Here’s a glimpse at what I chose for my first personalized trove! I received a mystery gift too, and it came in the form of two fruity lite drink sachets, which I will review in detail at the end of the post.

Now, let’s check out the other products that I’ve been wanting to try out.

I am sure Dr Georgia Lee needs no introduction as she is a familiar face in Singapore’s beauty scene. DrGL is Dr Lee’s custom range of skincare specially formulated for Asian skin. I’ve been thinking of trying the DrGL Collagen Essence as it is one of the most highly raved products in this skincare range.

The collagen essence works well as a moisturizer and suits all skin types, including sensitive skin. It is extremely lightweight and easily absorbed by my skin, which makes it a great moisturizer for our humid weather. The best part is, it doesn’t leave any sticky residue or film on your face. It feels just like water but it is incredibly effective in keeping my skin hydrated.

I always like to keep a tube of aloe vera with me when I travel because temperature and climate changes cause my eczema-prone skin to flare up. I love the cooling sensation of the Jorubi Aloe Vera Gel when it is first applied as it soothes and calms my inflamed skin instantly. I use this on my body and the handy size of this sample makes it the perfect travel companion.

Did you know that this multi-purpose gel can be used on your face too? I’ve yet to try it for myself but it can be used to treat a variety of ailments ranging from sunburn, rashes, bruises and even insect bites!

I’ve heard many rave reviews about Avance Dou Demaquillant Super Eye-Makeup Remover and have been tempted to buy it on several occasions. Thanks to Vanity Trove, I could try this at just a fraction of the original price. 😉 I chose the sample size for my trove, but this is available in full size too! It is a pity that my fingers were too slow and it ran out by the time I placed my order.

This bi-phase make-up remover makes it a breeze to remove waterproof eye-makeup. My waterproof liquid eyeliner and waterproof eyelash glue residue came off with just one swipe without causing any irritation to my eyes. I’m definitely going to buy the full sized item when this runs out!

I have tried GO60’s Go Hydrate Masque in my May Vanity Trove previously and was delighted by how hydrated and plump my skin was. If you are interested in my previous review, click here.

This time, I decided to try their Go Spot-Free Treatment Masque . It would be too onerous to expect the mask to fade away my pigmentation because that just wouldn’t be possible. However, this mask was effective in brightening my complexion without any sticky after feel. Not only did my skin look more radiant, it also felt smoother and more hydrated. Having only used it once, I can’t say much about its spot-free treatment. But this is definitely a great hydrating and brightening mask.

The other sheet mask that I tried was My Beauty Diary’s 2-Step Asia Brightening Pack . Unlike other sheet masks, this particular mask comes with a moisturizer to be applied after the mask. My skin felt thoroughly moisturized after masking, but it felt rather sticky too as the essence and moisturizer were both pretty rich. I personally prefer masks that do not leave a sticky after feel due to the humid climate here, hence I wouldn’t use this in Singapore. Instead, I think this would be a better choice for when I travel to colder climates and would require more hydration.

Vichy is another brand that I have been thinking of trying as its products do not contain soap, parabens or alcohol. Vichy’s Deep Cleansing Purifying Gel has a gel-like consistency that lathers well, resulting in squeaky clean skin immediately after usage. I also love its fruity fragrance!

Huiji Fruity Lite was a mystery gift that came along with my Vanity Trove August edition. Made from hawthorn fruit and honey, this drink is formulated with vitamin C and xylitol to promote a healthy digestive system. It dissolves readily in both hot and cold water, and is amazingly refreshing to the palate. While I can’t vouch for its effectiveness in aiding digestion, it definitely makes a delicious drink on a warm balmy day.

If you’re interested in trying these products or other products that suit your beauty profile, click here to sign up for your personalized Vanity Trove!

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Jean Yip Style of the Month Campaign

July 22, 2013 by Regina Chow 2 Comments

Jean Yip Hairdressing is a household name in Singapore and for many of us living on this sunny island, this is one reputable and established salon that certainly needs no introduction.

For those of you who are on my Facebook, you may have noticed that I was recently invited to be one of the 10 special guests for Jean Yip’s Style of the Month Campaign! It is a great honour to be able to participate in this 3-month long campaign and from now till September, Jean Yip will be working their magic on my hair. You’ll be getting regular updates on my experience too!

Before I share my first experience at Jean Yip with you, here’s some information on how you can participate in Jean Yip’s Style of the Month Contest and win some prizes!

So, I visited Jean
Yip’s branch at Plaza Singapura earlier this month, where my stylist
Andy, who is also the manager of the branch, gave my hair a fresh coat of colour, a trim and a variety of hair treatments. Before I take you through the entire hair transformation, here’s a picture of myself when I first stepped into the salon, taken by Andy.

Prior to colouring, Andy used a machine which showed the state of my scalp. As my scalp was rather oily, he recommended the Scalp Peel Treatment to remove dead skin and cleanse my hair follicles to restore optimal scalp health. This treatment also prepares your scalp for chemical treatments such as colouring, which may expose your scalp to sensitivity.

Andy then picked out a vibrant shade of blonde called Copper Golden Very Light Blond for my dye job. Thankfully for me, my hair colour is naturally brown and it absorbs colour very well, hence no bleaching is required to achieve lighter colours.

After colouring, my hair was treated to an Oxygen Mask. I always make it a point to do hair treatment after colouring as chemical treatments can be damaging in the long run. Given that I touch up my hair colour at least once every 2 months, it is important that the right steps are taken to maintain the condition of my hair and scalp.

Here, you’ll see how glossy and manageable my tresses are after a trim, colour and treatment. If you compare this to my before picture, you will notice that my hair definitely looks smoother, shinier and healthier!

Just when I thought that was the end, Andy surprised me with yet another type of hair treatment called Photo Biostimulation Hair Therapy.

Laser therapy is used in this case to revitalize and nourish hair follicles, with the aim of stimulating and accelerating hair growth. If you face hair loss issues, or even if you just prefer to have a fuller head of hair (like me!), this may just be the solution for you.

Finally, here’s the end result after about 2.5 hours at Jean Yip. I especially enjoyed the variety of hair treatments here, which sets it apart from its competitors.

Scalp treatments at most salons only involve a scalp cream without the
use of any machines to assess your scalp condition or to remove dead skin
which clogs hair follicles.

I personally feel that the scalp treatment here is more effective than most scalp treatments that I’ve tried. It left my scalp feeling squeaky clean and my hair felt lighter and more voluminous instantly. My bouncy, cascading curls are the best testament.

I would definitely opt for the scalp treatment again when I next visit Andy for my monthly hair indulgence. I also intend to continue with the Photo Biostimulation Hair Therapy, just to test out the results over time.

You know how
everyone leaves the salon looking fabulous, but after a day, your hair
ends up looking flat and lifeless again? Well, that certainly didn’t
happen for me. Look at how luscious my hair looks on Day 2, after a day
out in our terribly humid weather.

Do watch this space for more hair updates with Jean Yip!

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Vanity Trove September 2013 Edition

Vanity Trove August 2013 Edition

Jean Yip Style of the Month Campaign

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