Vera Tries - Review of The Chelsea Clinic Picosure Laser Facial

I have tried a number of various lasers such as the Duo Yellow laser, CO2 fractional laser and also rejuvenation laser. Thus far, the one I prefer the most is the Duo Yellow laser, as there is no down time and your complexion gets progressively brighter over time, together with a smoother skin texture as well. However, with all these lasers, you have to go for 5-6 sessions in order to see a visible effect.

When I was recommended Picosure, it was introduced to me as the “Bentley” of all laser machines. Picosure is one of the few lasers to pulse at a trillionth of a second, versus traditional lasers that utilize nanosecond technology. Hence, instead of building up heat like traditional lasers, Picosure can deliver energy to the tiny particles that make up pigmentation or tattoo ink and cause them to vibrate and shatter, without burning or hurting surrounding skin tissue.

Vera Tries - Resurrecting my brows with Browhaus

Some people like Cara Delevigne, just have perfect brows. But unfortunately most of us mere mortals don't. I, for one, have uneven brows - My left brow is higher than my right brow, and the hair is quite sparse, so I cannot live without brow powder.

 So I was really looking forward to try the new Brow Resurrection menu offered by Browhaus -- The new menu takes into consideration your skin type, brow concerns and brow preferences. They will design a brow shape suitable for your face type and your area of concern, to come up with natural looking semi-permanent brows best suited for you. There are now 2 more types of brows you can choose from besides Classic (previously Define) and Soft (aka Natural) – BR Ombre and BR Full.

 Note: Scroll to end for discount code

Vera Tries - IPL Hair Removal at EstheClinic

I first did IPL when I was 17 years old - I did IPL on my arms and legs as I used to be a very hairy kid (true story). It was impacting on my self confidence and myself and mom made the decision to do permanent hair removal. It was a painful 6 - 7 months process - There were multiple times when my skin got burnt, as the IPL light was really strong and it was delivered in "shots" one area by area.

Rexults Clinic Review & Morning Skincare Regime

My morning routine usually comprises of me putting on some happy music first and then the first thing I get done is to wash my face and put skincare, so I thought I'd share with you some of the products which has helped me in refining my skin texture and keeping my combination skin in check.

My skin is Oily in the T-zone and slightly dryer on the cheeks area, so like most people, I have combination skin. The annoying thing is that my T-zone is so oily that I regularly get oil clogs and small comedones on my forehead, and also lots of blackheads on my nose. Because of this and sometimes slight outbreaks, my forehead skin texture is quite rough and coloration is uneven.

Since using Rexults Skincare, I've seen a marked improvement in my skin condition, in terms of keeping the oiliness of my T-zone under control and this helps to prevent comedones from forming.

Above photo - Shot without makeup except for brow powder.

From L to R: X-folia, Moisture Lock and Redefine Ultra

Here's a step by step of the products I use:

1. Rexults Clear Cleanse for Combination Skin. This is a gel cleanser that foams slightly to gently cleanse your skin without stripping it of natural oils. 
2. X-Folia Exfoliating Serum - This serum is a chemical exfoliation instead of the usual mechanical exfoliation that is common (by using microbeads or polishing sugar etc). It contains active ingredients to remove old surface cells and allows for better product penetration subsequently.
3. Redefine Ultra Retinol Serum - The second serum contains retinol to reduce oil production and regulate epidermal cell turnover. In addition, this multi-tasker also boosts skin repair, neutralizes free radicals and stimulate collagen production. I've definitely noticed decreased oil production after using this serum for some time.
4. Moisture Lock Hydrator - This super hydrating serum helps to plump skin cells and retain moisture. 

Regular use of all these products definitely saw an improvement in my skin texture - my forehead was not baby bottom soft, but it definitely kept the comedones away. My cheeks however, are less dry and appear to have a more softer, smoother texture. 

One thing I really like about Rexults Clinic is that besides the 1-1 doctor consultation you get, the service staff are also really attentive. Welcome tea is served before and after consultation, and the staff are very patient in explaining to you product use, and will make followup calls to check on your skin condition over the next few weeks.

For those who have faced persistent skin problems, I would definitely recommend you to give Rexults Clinic a go!

Rexults Clinic is located at -
Rexults Clinic is located at 302 Orchard Road, #17-01 Tong Building (Beside Paragon). 
Dial +65 66532908 for more info. 

Vera Tries - Chez Vous Triology Hair Review

As someone who gets bored really fast, I am always making changes to my hair – color, highlights, low lights, bleaching, perm… I’ve tried it all. As a result, my hair has become more fragile and prone to breakage over the years and dried ends/ frizz is a common issue on bad hair days.

I was told to give Trilogy System by Chez Vous a try – I was skeptical of the results initially but now I’m really sold! It’s been 2 weeks since I’ve had my treatment and my hair is still as soft and shiny as when I have just stepped out of the salon. Trilogy System is an exclusive treatment developed by the folks at Chez Vous, comprising of 3 services to work in synergy to achieve healthy and shiny hair.

Phase 1: Synchronized Advanced Hair Rebuilder

Phase 1 seeks to rebuild and strengthen damaged and chemically treated hair from within the hair shaft to give results that can’t be washed away. Instead of usual treatments would targets the hair with active ingredients on the surface, the bond rebuilder elements repair broken bonds in the hair shaft and added amino acids seals the repaired protein bonds for long lasting strengthening. Wearing this "hat" for the products to penetrate more deeply into the hair.

Phase 2:  Resculpting Supreme

Phase 2 transform unmanageable hair into soft, natural, healthy looking tresses with keratin and silk proteins. The unique thing about this retexturising service is that it helps to resculpt and re-texturize the hair to suit the contouring based on your facial shape and so you can just point a hair dryer at your hair and it will fall in place nicely.

Phase 3: Express Revitalizing Supreme

Chez Vous worked together with skincare specialists to come up with this first-ever hair treatment inspired by advanced skincare – it incorporates ingredients typically found in skincare like hyaluronic acid, peptides and amino acid and applies that to the treatment together with an ultrasonic machine.

You know how sometimes after you’ve dyed your hair too many times or have bleached it and the hair feels coarse to touch and tangles at the ends? That was me before but now I can run my hand through my hair smoothly. As for the shine, my hair was really shampoo ad ready after I stepped out from the salon, but even after 2 weeks now it was still retained some of the original shine and in general I now have zero frizz, smooth hair and bouncy curls!

Can’t be more pleased. Thank you Chez Vous!

Disclosure: Vera was invited by Chez Vous for a media trial.

Prices: Starting from $155 per session of the Synchronized Advanced Hair Rebuilder, $375 for a session of the Resculpting Supreme and $185 for a session of the Express Revitalizing Supreme. A complete series of the Trilogy System is recommended for optimum results.

Chez Vous is located at #05-05 Ngee Ann City.

How to Create Your Own Home Spa

A new year resolution this year which I set out to achieve was to live more mindfully. That involves meditation and yoga, which helps your body to pay more attention to breathing and being present. I was also introduced to aromatherapy during my yoga sessions and I’m now convinced that scent is just as important in regulating your state of mind and in aiding your breathing practice.

I was recently introduced to Aromatherapy Associates, which was established in 1958 and specializes in using high grade essential oils to encourage radiant, healthy skin, and also improve our physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. Aromatherapy Associates originally started out in the luxury spa sector, and is used by therapists in over 700 luxury spas worldwide, including those in hotels such as Mandarin Oriental and Fullerton Hotel, which was where I had my virgin Aromatherapy Associates experience.

At the Fullerton Spa, I was introduced to Lyndsey, the SEA Region Manager of Aromatherapy Associates. I was asked to fill out a profiling card to determine my present emotional state, to in turn narrow down the essential oil to be used for my massage.

  Relax – Slow down and induce a good night’s sleep

De-Stress – Clear your mind and ease physical stresses and strains

Revive – Invigorates and energises a weary mind and body

Support – Takes care of you at your lowest emotional states

I picked Equilibrium which came like a hug in a bottle – with scents of geranium, rose and frankincense, it was a very comforting scent to emotionally balance yourself and let your mind relax a little.

The great thing about essential oils is their multi-tasking capabilities – besides the physical benefits it brings, it is also able to transform our emotional states and move us from one state of mind to another.

How to Use Essential Oils

1.          As a treatment for scars and scabs
2.          As a moisturizer for dry or irritated skin
3.          Suitable for sensitive skin and people with eczema
4.          Massage oil to improve blood circulation and muscular aches
5.          Include in your breathing practice during meditation and yoga
6.          Add a few drops to your diffuser for a scented room
7.          Home spa: simply add half a mini bottle of essential oil depending on your emotional state into your bath and soak for 10 – 15 minutes. No bathtub? No problem – apply half a mini bottle of essential oil onto your skin and leave on for a few minutes. Shower off – the hot water creates a natural steamroom and releases the scents of the oil for a relaxing shower experience.

Aromatherapy Associates is available at Sephora for you to DIY your Home Spa experience. 

How to Create a No Makeup Look with Tarte Cosmetics

I first fell in love with Tarte cosmetics after I tried their 12 Hour Amazonian Clay foundation. The foundation provided really good coverage and was effective in controlling sebum and didn’t give me that shiny, oxidised foundation look even after a whole day out. And the second best part was that Tarte includes skinvigoriating ingredients like plant extracts, essential oils and other naturally derived ingredients, and none of that nasty chemicals like parabens.


I recently tried out a few of Tarte’s newly launched products and I would say my hero product from this launch was the Tarteist™ Creamy Matte Lip Paint. The packaging looks like that of a lip gloss but the finish is actually really matte – great for creating neutral looks. The formula is very creamy and glides on smoothly almost like butter on your lips and it actually has a slight minty/ cooling effect to it thanks to the ingredients. Wearing Tbt Mauve which matched my natural lipcolor to a T.

You can also create an ombre look and have your lip paint last longer with the Tarteist™ lip crayon. Simply use a darker shade to line your lips and blend from outwards in to create a gradual fade. Another big fav is the Tartelette in Bloom Clay Palette. This palette includes 12 shades – 9 mattes and 3 lusters to create natural, earthy smoky eyes look. I am usually not adventurous when it comes to eyeshadows and would usually keep to neutrals and some metallics like gold, copper and pearl etc so this palette is perfect. A bonus - It’s small enough to fit in a small handbag/clutch too! 

I would finish off my eye makeup look with Tarteist™ Clay Paint Liner & Brush. This eyeliner comes in a rather unique formula – it’s not quite gel, but rather matte and dries easily, but yet it retains the same blendable ease of a gel eyeliner. The product comes with a fine angled tip brush for easy application of product on the inner corner of your eyes.   

If you haven’t tried Tarte before, I would strongly recommend you to give it a go (especially that lip paint!) and it’s available on Sephora. 

All Natural Skincare with Botani

You know that I am very picky when it comes to skincare – I usually gravitate towards all-natural and organic products as I believe that they offer the best protection and effects for the skin in the long term, since they are free from harsh chemicals. Recently, I was introduced to Botani, a skincare brand from Melbourne. Botani was developed by a naturopath and herbalist who had treated so many patients with skin problems that she decided to create her own range using only natural and organic ingredients.  The brand was born in 1998 and is completely free of synthetic chemicals.

I especially love the Olive Skin Serum for night – I use it as a double moisturizer before my night cream moisturizer. This particular serum contains Squalene, which is a moisturizing component that is naturally found in our skin. Since our skin recognizes it as a native ingredient, it is very easily absorbed and has a non-greasy satin finish. Do not be shy of using oils even if you have combination or even oily skin, this particular one does not make your skin oilier as all will be absorbed – instead I use it for that healthy dewy glow!

The Acai Berry Active Antioxidant Serum is also a good accompaniment – this multitasker also comes in the form of natural oils. Packed with Amazonian Acai Berry Fruit Oil, Cranberry and Blackberry Seed Oils, and again Olive Squalene, this powerful serum provides a shield for the skin against free radicals, sun damage and environmental stress. On top of using this as a day moisturizer, I also pack this when I travel to dry, wintery climates. This was very useful in hydrating my dry heels when I was in Seoul, and it can also be used to calm inflamed skin caused by blisters and burns.

Another personal fave is the Exfoliating 2 in 1 Scrub & Mask. This one is made with Jojoba Spheres for its exfoliating properties, and supplemented with Oat Bran, Australian Bontonite Clay, Rice Flour and Olive Squalene. It feels really like food when applied – that’s how good it smells! The supporting ingredients exfoliates dead skin cells and impurities without stripping the skin of its natural oil, resulting in a more moisturized and radiant skin. This can also be left on longer as a mask, or just mixed with your usual gel cleanser for daily exfoliation.

Finally, I’d like to highlight on the Rescue Blemish Cream – I know a lot of people are used to using Oxy or other pimple creams to get rid of angry red swells, but the problem with these pimple creams is that they contain chemicals such as benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid which will shed the outer layer of skin and dry out the surrounding healthy skin. This all-natural blemish cream does not contain any of those harsh ingredients– it has been tested to kill acne-causing bacteria with a 99.99% kill factor rate in just 30 minutes!

Since Botani uses natural plant-based ingredients, its products are multi-tasking and suitable for babies, pregnant ladies, people with eczema and sensitive skin. For example, the moisturizers can be used on both body and face, and you can even use the Rescue Blemish Cream as an after-shave cream to relieve minor skin irritation, inflammation and dryness!

Together with Love Organic SG, I am urging everyone to reconnect with nature. Come join me in the #30DaysLiveGreen campaign this month, and develop some new green habits together!   All you have to do is to upload 1-2 photos per week on Instagram or Facebook on any changes you’re making in your life towards healthy living and caring for our environment. Using natural/organic skincare products is a positive start not just for your skin, but also for our environment.

3 winners will be selected at the end of April and will be rewarded with Botani skincare hampers and other prizes from participating partners! Some tips to start you off can be found on Love Organic’s Live Green page.

Botáni is currently available at Eat Organic Singapore, Mums.sg, Naiise, NatureLova, and Love Organic SG’s e-store.

Let's Talk Skincare - DRx Clinic Review Part 1

It's been just 1 month since I've had my first visit to DRx Clinic and my skin condition has already improved tremendously. I've had pretty OK skin all along - no major blemishes or breakouts, but I did have the problem of enlarged pores on my nose and along the sides of my nose, as well as a really oily T-zone. Nothing major.

But in the second half of last year, due to lack of sleep and the onslaught of stress, I started having really bad breakouts all over my T-zone and even around my cheek area. My skin was also a lot more dull and parts of it was peeling. I started to lose self-confidence and covered the blemishes up with heavier makeup - but everyone knows I hate wearing too much foundation or makeup for that matter. So that's when I decided I really need to see an aesthetic physician. 

With the use of products and some oral medicine, my skin is now almost blemish free and my blackheads have all be eliminated as well! Now I follow a strict regime as such:

1. Cleanser
2. Toner
3. Comedone formula - To help clear clogged pores; extremely effective.
4. Blemish formula - To help control oil secretion on T-zone
5. Maxi-C - A high concentration of Vitamin C to help renewal of skin cells.
6. Hydrator - A lightweight moisturiser which turns from gel to water when applied and spread on the skin!
7. Never forget the SUNSCREEN.

At the reception of DRx - Bright and welcoming!

Describing to Dr Tsu my skincare concerns and past history

Look at how glowing Dr's skin is vs mine (no makeup)

Getting acquainted with my daily essential six step skincare

This photo does the talking. Before was taken in Sep 2014, and After was taken recently in Feb 2015. You can tell the immediate difference between the two and I didn't do any editing to the After photo.

I liked how Dr Tsu did not immediately prescribe me with the usual two drugs used to treat acne which is Tretinoin and Accutane (high concentration of Vit A), although my previous derm did prescribe me with those two drugs. Please, please do ask your doctor if those two drugs are really necessary for you because:

1. They will make your skin react initially with lots of peeling, fluffiness, redness and irritation. This is expected from the treatment with those two drugs to "purge" your skin initially.
2. Tretinoin works to reveal new skin cells and hence your face would look shiny, almost oily, due to new skin emerging constantly. Note - I was told that I looked oily, not glowy.
3. Accutane has quite a few side effects, notably the risk of contacting Hep A and you need to have a blood test to have your liver tested before going on the treatment. 

That was based upon my previous experience with my first derm. It did the trick for me but then once I stopped taking Accutane, bit by bit my skin seemed to develop clogged pores again. Now, I'm on an antibiotics course, as well as Spironolactone. Dr Tsu told me he will gradually move me off those drugs upon improvement of my skin texture and he recommends me not to go on Accutane unless if my skin condition does not improve.

I would eventually want to reach the perfection of my Dr's skin - look at how his pores are all invisible and how his skin has a natural glow! But for now, I'm just really extremely thankful towards DRx for curing me of my skin woes.

Home Spa DIY with Spa Ceylon

Sleep.

I guess that's the one thing that most Singaporeans or people living in cities lack. I recently got introduced to Spa Ceylon's signature Sleep Therapy range, which is designed to give you a night of deep, restful sleep. The entire range comes in the form of Bath & Shower Gel, Massage Oil, Hand and Body Milk, Body Soak (bath salts), Body & Pillow Mist and a Body Soap.

I never had any problems falling asleep, but I do have problems getting enough sleep, or rather quality sleep. So here are the steps towards getting quality, dreamless sleep:

1. Wash down the body with the Bath & Shower Gel, which lets off a faint scent of Lavender and Ylang Ylang in the bathroom, while the citrusy essential oils lifts the spirits. 
2. Let out the running water and added a generous scoop of the Body Soak bath salt into the bath and just, relax. 
3. After bath, just gently massage a few drops of the Massage Oil on tense parts of the body such as the shoulders, followed by Body Lotion on the dry parts (for me it was my calves). 
4. A spray of Body & Pillow Mist onto the pillow and I was immediately lured to sleep.

Being the proponent of all-natural beauty skincare and bodycare products, I have looked through the ingredient list and can really vouch that its products are made from 100% vegetarian - No alcohol, No parraffins and parabens - plus it works with Sri Lankan farmers and workers to extract the essential oils from the products they manufacture.

Other than the Sleep Therapy range, Spa Ceylon also carries a whole other range of body, face and haircare products - all naturally derived and organized by dosha, a Sri Lankan term for your body type. I can picture myself visiting the shop again soon to grab some Sandalwood candles for home.