We’re peering over the contents of this … It’s an Eye Cream (a play on ice cream with the ice replaced by an eye) that will brighten, moisturize and keep fine lines at bay (well, our baggage does crease a little every now and then) to promote youthful skin around the eye.

We both agree we like the way it feels (a cooling sensation) when Kenneth glides the stick over us. Great for all the constant computer staring (he refuses to blink sometimes, something about it gives us more lines). Leaves behind a slight dewy film, which he pats in to aid absorption. While it does keep us soothed and comfortable, this eye stick lacks that punch when it comes to keeping lines at bay.

Verdict:
Recommended for owners with younger eye areas, it keeps the eye area soft and moisturized while cooling the area for more visibly alert looking eyes. Glides on smoothly without tugging which is great as line formation is lessened during application.

Signing Off
The Grooming Editor’s Eyebags

Etude House Eye’s Cream Vanilla Moist retails for around S$35 at all Etude House Shops.

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A powder-type sunscreen with SPF 50 and PA+++, this lightweight sun powder deflects harmful UV rays and keeps skin looking bright all day long thanks to the Vitamin C and Comfrey Extracts. Lightweight and conveniently packaged, it’s great for midday touchups.

Now before I begin, I would like to say this pleasantly helps me look “lit from within” when I brush it over my BB cream to set it. I normally swirl my powder brush in circular motions to ensure the vitamin c (the yellow diamond center) mixes with the pink powder before brushing it over my face. I find that using a brush creates a more subtle shimmery matte effect compared to using the puff (which somehow leaves a more whiter shimmery powdery veil). Now this has absolutely no coverage of any kind so don’t expect it to cover your zits or blemishes. Very hygienically packaged, this duo layered compact prevents the usual puff on product contact storage (minimizing cross contamination) and comes with a mirror to aid in touch ups. As of now, I am truly in love with this product as it does keep my oily face matte and yes its true, I am indeed well preserved in terms of skin tone thanks to my frequent touchups with this.

Verdict:
Great for mattifying greasy faces and setting makeup (well…in this case, bb cream), This lightweight sun powder makes touching up sunscreen a breeze, as it does not mess up makeup.

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The Grooming Editor

Laneige Brightening Sun Powder retails at S$49 and is available at all Laneige Beauty Counters.

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Formulated to hydrate and brighten skin tone. It contains Pure Lemon Essence to help reset and restore skin’s full radiance, Japanese Scutellaria Extract act as an antioxidant to combat free radicals and Vitamin CG to locks in the moisture and help shield the skin from UV rays while inhibiting pigmentation causing enzymes.

So, my experience with this essence was rather nice. Rather cooling when applied onto my face, it  plumps out hydration lines and leaves the face looking visibly “alert” instead of the dull and glum look I spot whenever deadlines are near.  Goes on from a gel to dewy finish, it makes BB cream application so much easier and I am pleased to report no slipping or peeling occurred through the day while I used this. Now don’t get me wrong, this is not a whitening product but one that brightens (glows) the skin.

Verdict:
Recommended for those who need a good lightweight day moisturizer, this preps skin wonderfully for foundation and keeps skin feeling comfortable during the day without that tacky feel.

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The Grooming Editor

Garnier Aqua Defense Bright Essence retails at S$19.90 and is available at selected departmental stores and Watsons.

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Formulated with metallic particles, this nail polish uses magnetic forces to create a pattern over the nails and are available in three iridescent shades namely Houses of Parliament (metallic purple shade), Trafalgar Square (metallic chrome shade) and white hall (metallic teal shade).

To be honest, I am roleplaying as a manicurist today to escape the office stress hence may I present the technical guide to application of this magnetic polish, you may call me Nancy:

Step 1:
Apply a base coat (could be of any other brand but Nail Inc’s base coat is good) and apply one coat of the magnetic polish to all 10 fingers. Allow to dry.

Step 2:
Brush on another thick (generous! More is more!) amount of magnetic polish over the dried first layer of magnetic polish and hold the magnetic cap over your nails (the magnetic cap is actually the nail varnish cap) for a good 10-15 seconds before removing to reveal the wave effect.

Step 3:
Repeat (I sound so technical) step 2 to each nail till all 10 fingers are done. Allow to dry for 5 mins before setting it with a top coat (any top coat is fine but stick to Nail’s Inc to play safe).

If you are lazy or baffled by what I’ve written (it’s normal, I leave myself dumbfounded too all the time), here’s a link :

Verdict:
Very edgy and rocker chic, these metallic digits are easily achievable at home. Great for those in between the manicurist visits, Nail Inc’s Magnetic Nail Polishes looks set to jazz up any outfit.

Signing Off
The Grooming Editor

Nail Inc’s Magnetic Nail Polishes retails from S$21.90 at all “My Vanity Box” beauty shelves at selected Watson Outlets. ( I spotted some at Bugis Junction and Ngee Ann City)

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The grooming column

“L’amour is in the air this month of February. Hence here’s a bunch of “feel good” products and gadgets to get all cleaned out and prepped up for dates, romances and midnight shenanigans” – Kenneth, the grooming editor

1/ Clarisonic Mia Sonic Skin Cleansing System

Smaller then the Clarisonic pro, this one-button, one-speed brush cleanses skin six times more effectively than using your hands. With its patented Sonic Technology, the micro-massage motion effectively removes dirt and impurities in just 60 seconds to leave skin cleaner, softer and more refined in texture.

Clarisonic Mia Sonic Skin Cleansing System, available at all Sephora Outlets. KC

2/ Lierac Concentré Mésolift Toning Radiance Serum

Rich in vitamins, minerals and hyaluronic acid, this revitalizing serum helps erase signs of skin fatigue by improving the skin’s tonicity, radiance and hydration levels. Skin is kept at its peak condition too as microcirculation and cell metabolism are improved thanks to this invigorating concoction.

Lierac Concentré Mésolift Toning Radiance Serum, available at selected BHG outlets and Robinsons. KC

3/ Dermalogica Overnight Repair Serum

Mature skin can benefit from Dermalogica’s Overnight Repair Serum. Used at night prior to bedtime, key ingredients such as Argan Oil and Brown Seaweed help treat age related skin concerns such as collagen loss, lacklustre skin and broken capillaries by inhibiting enzymes and neutralizing free radicals that break down collagen. Skin restoration is further boosted as this serum also contains aromatic botanical oils , hyaluronic acid and an active peptide, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38, to nourish skin back to a firmer, more supple, and well hydrated state.

 Dermalogica Overnight Repair Serum, available from April 2012 at all AsterSpring Origin of Beauty Centres and Dermalogica-authorised skin care centres. KC

4/ L’Oréal Youth Code Youth Regenerating Pre-essence

With Advanced Pro-Gen Technology, this pre-essence boosts your skin’s recovery power and stirs skin back to its youthful state. Used on freshly cleansed skin, it also helps amplify the effects of any serum or skincare layered above it.

L’Oréal Youth Code Youth Regenerating
Pre-essence, available at all major department stores islandwide. KC 

5/ Maybelline Pure Mineral B.B. Mousse

Developed in Japan, this one-step, ultra-lightweight mousse uses micro air bubbles to disperse mineral pigments more evenly for a radiant, natural complexion with less visible pores, as it also imparts an instant pore-erasing effect on the skin. With a blend of skin-regenerating and soothing blend of B.B. ingredients, this B.B. mousse also nourishes skin and toughens up its natural protective barrier, all in a simple dollop of fluffy, airy mousse.

Maybelline Pure Mineral B.B Mousse, available at Watsons, Guardian, SASA and major supermarkets and selected departmental stores islandwide. KC

6/ Yves Saint Laurent L’HOMME LIBRE

Symbolizing the values of freedom and liberty and fronted by Benjamin Millepied (the famed choreographer of the cult film “Black Swan”), L’HOMME LIBRE is is a fresh spicy aquatic scent for the modern masculine male. With top notes of Star Anise, Basil and Violet Lead, middle notes of pink pepper, nutmeg and base notes of Patchouli and Vetiver, this masculine fragrance breaks away from the traditional sandalwood and musky offerings on the market.

Yves Saint Laurent L’HOMME LIBRE is available at all Major Department Stores. KC

7/ Ralph Lauren Romance Valentine’s Day 2012 Limited Edition

Nothing symbolizes romance like this fresh sparkling and iconic floral scent, and in celebration of Valentine’s Day, Ralph Lauren specially created this limited edition, the Heart Necklace edition. Lovingly encased within a pink-silver carton adorned with delicate metal-grey entwining flora and vines, the classic transparent silver-capped bottle also comes adorned with an exquisite pure silver necklace.

Ralph Lauren Romance Valentine’s Day 2012 Limited Edition is available at all Major Department Stores. CC

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 The letter in question…from Mr ******

With a 48 hour anti-perspirant effect (making it twice as effective compared to normal deodorants), The Men Expert Deodorant range contains the patented Sweat Captor® technology to actively absorb and eliminate any sensation of humidity on the skin.

The spray nozzle dispenses a very fine amount of the deodorant which makes layering it on easy. Neither sticky nor grimy, simply spray it on and give it a short moment to set in before donning your top. Scent wise, I would describe it as a powdery citrusy scent but goes on barely detectable and won’t really interfere (or confuse) the cologne you wear after it. I am quite stringent when it comes to deodorants but I am pleased to report that this does not stain clothing yellow and it lasted well through the day without the need to re-apply.

Verdict:
Industrial strength deodorant for hot-blooded males. It keeps moisture, weird odors at bay without the stickiness and leaves a man smelling fresh without the pansy tag.

On a side note:
Dear Mr ******, Do check your mail Sir, as I have decided (thanks to the kind PR people at Huntington and L’Oreal Paris Men Expert) to bestow you some fanmale / mail love with a free can of L’Oreal Paris Men Expert Spray Deodorant. Enjoy

Signing Off
The Grooming Editor

L’Oreal Paris Men Expert Spray Deodorants retails at S$10.90 and is available at all Major Department Stores.

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A new generation of cellulite treatment, SLIM.CODE targets both behavioral (that means cellulite as a result of diet, exercise and stress) and genetic cellulite (what your daddy and mommy gave you). With Phytosveltyl, it overrides the genetically programmed enzymes in skin and reprogrammes them to store and burn fat in a different manner. Working at 3 levels, it dislodges cellulite, slows down the entry of fat into the skin pouches and acts as a preventive measure by slowing down the formation of fat storing skin cells.

An orangey hued gel with shimmery particles, I overzealously knead this apricot/grapefruit-scented gel on problem areas such as the butt, the thighs, the hips and the belly (though not recommended but might as well right?). Has a very good slip for massage, it absorbs and melts into skin quickly with the Sephora Cellulite Massager. I suspect there is a high concentration of caffeine in this as I somehow felt more energetic (Pre-starbucks buzz as I term it) and found myself humming / vibrating with energy. Thighs and butt do feel firmer and tauter with an evened out glow around week 2, I am pleased to report this treatment is really effective in reducing the unsightly appearance of orange peel spongy skin. It’s like every stretch mark I had has taken prozac and looks more elevated and lightened up.

Verdict:
Potent against improving severe stretchmarks and cellulite orange spongy looking skin. I personally experienced a 60% improvement in cellulite (yes men get it too.) and a 50% improvement in firmness and tautness. As we still have a good 6 days to Valentine’s Day, perhaps invest in this as an insurance to ensure no wobbly bits peek out on that day.

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The Grooming Editor

Biotherm Celluli Laser SLIM.CODE retails at S$94 at all Biotherm Counters.

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Touted as a difference maker for skin, this lotion gently deflakes, sweeps away oil and grime while nudging fresher skin to the surface. Oily skins also benefit as daily exfoliation helps keep breakouts at bay. It also leaves skin prepped for serum and moisturizer.

 Very alcoholic smelling (Hello! Don’t judge me now), I normally tilt this twice on a cotton pad soaking it thoroughly before swiping it all over my face. Used twice a day, skin does tingle slightly but it does pick up what your cleanser (or in my case, my clarisonic) left behind. Now, it does feel a tad drying during the initial uses but oh how quickly my serums and moisturizers to soak into skin since I started using this. I also noticed that with repeated usage my acne scars and the odd mark I’ve had through the years seem to have lightened up a notch.

Verdict:
Great for those who desire gradual and milder forms of exfoliation without the need to sandpaper off your facial features, this keeps skin looking brighter and clearer. Get this if you suffer from skin blotchiness too as it seems to help even out mine.

Signing Off
The Grooming Editor

Clinique Clarifying lotion 3 retails at S$39.00 at all Clinique Counters

Described as a fresh sparkling floral, Romance sparkles with top notes of Juicy Ginger, Sungoddess Rose. It also has notes of Chamomile and Marigold to help boost and lend a fruity nuance to the scent. At its heart notes lies a feminine floralcy of velvety white violet, night blooming daylily and Violet Absolute with a touch of Paradisone for fluidity and volume before drying down to seductive basenotes of Patchouli Heart, Oakmoss for that sophisticated and mysterious “end the night” touch.

On a first whiff, I would describe this as a very fruity and “bright” clean scent that changes into a kind of vanilla candy floral bouquet (very very uber femme ) before settling into a musky yet powdery base scent. On a side note, for this Valentine’s day, the limited edition version of this fragrance comes with an exquisite silver necklace that’s draped over the silver clear bottle.

Verdict:

Romance is one of those scents that you can wear on any occasion be it to the beach or ballroom as it is clean, crisp and floral with a hint of fruitiness in it. Great staying power, I could still detect hints of it after a good 6 hours.

Signing Off
The Grooming Editor

Ralph Lauren Romance is available at all Major Department Stores.

 Delicious Strawberry Sorbet and Chocolate Ice Cream cake

Behold the darkest and ruddiest pic of me ever taken. (with cake)

Red Packet love from the Editor-in-Chief Justin.

Sexy box of SK II Skin Power Kit from the Playworks Team
(Thanks Gibson, Candice, Eugene, Samson, Weijie, Michael and Jill for the love)

Sexy box of Lancome Renergie Yeux Eyecream from my junior designer Joyce. Thank you!!! I feel your love!

Clarins Lotus Facial Treatment Oil from Candice! OMG THANK U!

Verdict:
Wonderful birthday celebrations and surprise from my fellow magazine colleagues! I really feel your love. Sure, one day my skin will not be as taut and perhaps life will slowly drain the glow out of me but I’ll always remember that true beauty comes with a smile and having a good heart to spread happiness and help to those around me who need it. One more time for the road! Thanks T3 Magazine and Playworks crew for making my birthday truly memorable! Oh not forgetting you too dear Groomie, here’s a big hug from me to you! Don’t worry normal reviews will resume soon, I’m in a celebratory “switch off” mood.

Signing Off
The Grooming Editor