Dramatic skin-evening results from Clinique

Blame it on the sun, genes or lack of moisture from the winter season that just passed us. Women are at high risk of developing dark spots on the skin, a notoriously stubborn problem.

But before you seek out a brightening procedure with your doctor, try Clinique's Derma White Clinical Brightening Essence, US$86. Designed exclusively for Asian skin based on Clinique's rich dermatological expertise, this ground-breaking innovation uses Clinique's most advanced technology to deliver clear, even-toned and translucent skin in as quick as four weeks.

Powered by CL-302 complex 
 The secret behind Derma White Clinical Brightening Essence lies in its top-notch formula that's powered by the breakthrough CL-302 complex with vitamin C and other ingredients that is clinically proven to improve evenness of skin tone, radiance and clarity.

It consists of five synergistic brightening ingredients, including:

• A rare botanical extract derived from Dianella ensifolia (Border Silver) - fights free radicals, reduces and prevents the appearance of uneven, pigmented skin and contains anti-irritant properties to soothe sensitive skin.
• Ascorbyl glucoside - a potent vitamin C derivative to even out existing and emerging dark spots.
• Blackout yeast extract - breaks up large clusters of pigment at the skin's surface intro microscopic particles that are eventually diffused.
• Acetyl glucosamine and salicylic acid - regulate cell turnover and help to shed pigmented skin cells for renewed clarity and brightness.

Not all sunscreens are made equal
Did you know that other than UV rays, harmful pollutants can also penetrate and irritate the skin, causing excess melanin production? To keep your skin dark spot-free, even-toned and radiant, step up on your current Derma White regimen and shield your skin against environmental aggressors with Derma White City Block SPF40/PA+++, US$45.

Also, dermatologist-produced and proven, fragrance-free and allergy tested, this new formula contains an invisible pollution filter, potent antioxidants and brighteners to help skin appear more even-toned. The subtly tinted, lightweight oil-free cream, which is suitable for all skin types, also imparts a flawless protective base that primes skin for makeup application.

Like many women, I've suffered from uneven skin tone and other than using foundation to give the appearance of a smooth complexion, I wasn't sure how to solve the problem until I started using these two products. After two weeks of daily application, I witness a subtle yet obvious brightening in my skin and even without makeup, my complexion is fresh and more even toned!

How to Make Lipstick Last

1. Go for sheen. Many "long-lasting" lipsticks are matte and can dry out your lips. We prefer to use a satin-finish, pearlescent lipstick such as Chanel Rouge Coco Lip Colours (US$39). Because the the shine is created by pearl pigments and not by the texture, it's not as moist as a creamy lipstick and will therefore stay on longer.

 

2. Be strong. Go for a bright or dark shade; they tend to last longer than soft ones because they have more pigment. For example, this Chanel Rouge Allure Luminous Satin Lip Colour in 33 Fabulous (US$39).

3. Prep your lips. Lipstick holds up best on a smooth surface, so gently buff your lips with a damp washcloth. Pat on a clear lip balm (check out our bestseller, Burt's Bees Beeswax Lip Balm, US$7) and give it a few minutes to sink in, then blot with a tissue.

4. Pencil it in. Lip pencil adds a layer of pigment and helps your colour last. Choose one that matches your lipstick - unless it's very dark, in which case, go one shade lighter. Lightly trace the pencil along the inside edge of your lips, then fill in your mouth and blot.

5. Swipe it on. Don't use a brush - you'll get richer colour if you apply your lipstick straight from the tube. Blot the first coat with a tissue then add another layer.

6. Finish with powder. Women think powdering their lips will dry them out but if you don't need much. Close your mouth, smile and then dust a little face powder (try SK-II Facial Treatment Advance Protect Loose Powder UV, US$84, for additional skincare and UV protection) on your lips with a fluffy brush. Don't reapply lipstick or it could get cakey.

Hope these tips are useful!

Spring colours!

As the temperature rises to a comfortable weather, get ready for Spring and bring out the colours already! Here at Cosme-de.com, we have some wonderful makeup palettes and sets to share with you so you can beautify yourself conveniently and without fuss!


Jill Stuart Secret Tease Collection, US$97

We just LOVE this Jill Stuart Secret Tease Collection! It looks so princess-y which never disappoints the little girl in us. Packed in a pink beauty pouch that evokes a delicate lingerie bag are:

• Blush Blossom 5g 101 Sensual Dahlia 5g
• Night Jewel Perfumed Body Powder 3g
• Jelly Lip Gloss 102 Silky Pink 9g
• False Eyelashes with Glue 1pair
• Jelly Eye Color N 104 Satin Lingerie 6g

Christian Dior Cannage Couture Eyelook Makeup Palette (Limited Edition) in 001 Dawn Grey, US$68

Smoky greys are not what you’d expect in Spring, but their cool elegance means you can wear them for any occasion and any season. A touch of pink on lips makes the look modern, not washed-out. Paying tribute to the iconic Dior bag, the Dior Cannage Couture Eyelook Makeup Palette features such couture-like details as the quilted leather exterior and Dior letter charms, D-i-o-r.

M.A.C 6 Mystic Cool Eye Shadows (Limited Edition), US$88

This fun palette includes six exciting colours of:

• Cool Incantation Opalescent white gold (Frost)
• Shhh, Don't Tell Pale neutral pink (Frost)
• Blue Enchantment Dark frosted turquoise (Satin)
• Rose Potion Mid-tone frosted rose (Veluxe)
• Deep Secret Deep frosted indigo (Frost)
• Violet Vow Deep cool brown (Satin)

Guerlain Ombre Eclat 4 Shades (Limited Edition), US$59

Four shades, two finishes, two palettes offering a variety of colour harmonies and contrasting effects. Eye make-up at its most sophisticated, inventive and adaptable. Each palette is designed and arranged to help you create the perfect look: subtle or dramatic, natural or bold, at a skilled of more artful stroke ... a mini beauty organiser for every woman.

Have a ‘scentsual’ Valentine's day!

It’s February and love is in the air. With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, you will be overwhelmed with gift options from the saccharine sweet chocolates, to the perennial favourite—flowers. Sure, they are expected and girls never seem to grow sick of them, but why go down the same old predictable route? Nothing shows your affection like a scent in a pretty bottle and instead of putting your nose to the test and sniffing out options in the fragrance section; here are two new additions you can pick from!

Harajuku Lovers Eau de Toilette, US$39 for 30ml

Created by the uber cool Gwen Stefani, these dolls are super cute and feminine and look great on your dressing table. There are different characters such as Lil' Angel, Love, Music and Baby. Our favourite is the sweet and girly Harajuku Lovers Baby Eau de Toilette with its powdery mush of sparkling bergamot, tiare flower, jasmine petals and soft white musk.

Gucci by Gucci Eau de Parfum, US$64 for 50ml

Gucci by Gucci is the signature fragrance for the modern day icon, a strong yet sensual woman driven by both her desire for achievement and her unmistakable feminine allure. The new Gucci fragrance falls into the Chypre floral scent family, with a top fruity citrus note and a woodsy base note.

Gucci by Gucci Eau de Parfum emerges with a unforgettable combination of pear Guava accord and rapsberry, over rich sensual heart of notes of Tiare flower, spider lily and orange blossom and deep, lingering base notes of musk and honey that add a new sensuality and warmth to the strength of patchouli.

Achieve the Au Naturel look!

We all wish we have perfect, flawless skin (I know I do!) and while achieving it is a slow work in progress (taking in mind your diet and skincare habits), you can attain it instantly – thanks to the magic of makeup!

Here are five easy steps to having the skin of your dreams:

Inner glow

The best way to begin is with a well-cleansed face that is prepped with a thin layer of moisturiser (try Covermark Day Nourish Fixer SPF 20 PA+, US$42). Tackle any dullness on your skin with an illuminator (try Dior Backstage Makeup Radiance Booster Pen, US$38).

Flawless skin

Try using a primer before foundation (try our favourite Laura Mercier Basic Makeup Trial Pack US$18. It contains a Foundation Primer and Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20), which will minimise unevenness in skin texture such as large pores and scars.

To attain the most natural effect, avoid matte foundations and liquid foundations because they tend to look too heavy and cakey. Apply foundation under natural light and only where needed. Be sure to blend thoroughly up till your hairline and jawline.

Next, dab little dots of concealer (try Kokuryudo Point Magic Pro Eye Concealer, US$12) under your eyes to hide those dark rings deftly with your fingertips. Be certain to dab gently and not drag your skin, as the area is extremely delicate and more prone to lines and wrinkles.

Set the foundation with a light dusting of loose powder using a powder brush. Your powder of choice should be translucent, not bronze-toned nor shimmery (try Benefit One Hot Minute, US$37).

Beautiful eyes

Keep your brows soft by using eyebrow powder (try Bare Escentuals Essential Brow Kit, US$35) instead of penciling and rim eyes with dark brown eyeliner (try Missha The Style Fit-in Eye Gel Eyeliner, US$15). Keep to gel and pencil texture as they set a more natural and softer tone, compared to liquid eyeliners.

Sweep a soft pink shadow (try Nars Cream Eyeshadow in Cosmic Girl 2810, US$24) across your lids and in the socket creases and smudge for a diffused effect. Finish with a coat of lengthening mascara (try our bestseller Imju Dejavu Fiberwig Paint-On False Lashes Extra Long Mascara, US$16) to open your eyes.

Blushing beauty

The most natural blusher (try Chanel Joues Contraste Powder Blush, US$38) is one that is a couple of tones darker than your natural skin tone but rosy blush also gives an equally flattering flushed look.

Apply the blush to your cheekbones (smile to locate the apples of your cheeks) using light sweeps and blend well.

Sheer lips

Prettify your pout with a peach-toned lip colour. However, apply nude lip gloss directly to your lips can give it a fake, muddy look. The fix: prep your lips with a thin layer of foundation to neutralise the pink tones in your lips before apply a shiny nude gloss for a luscious finish. (Try Nars Lip Gloss, US$26 – they have a long list of various nude shades!)