LADY@LXG: Discovers the Power of Light

"Recently my eczema went a little mental, and decided that it needed to spread all over my arms and legs, leaving me looking like I was suffering from chicken pox".

With two bouts of steroids not doing much, I even opted for TCM treatments, which helped, but didn't cure the itching and disgusting bumps and lumps and the food restrictions that were imposed on me during the treatment (no meat, no poultry, no eggs - which meant no cake, no pastries, no nothing with eggs, no shell fish and no spices) left me so hungry. The only bright light at the end of this dismal tunnel was the fact that I managed to finally lose 3 kilos (yay!). 

EHA Clinic at Shaw Centre in Orchard is located on level #15-01 

It was during my severe mutant stage when I bumped into Dr. Elias Tam from EHA Clinic in orchard  and he was kind enough to not shudder at the sight of my grotesqueness. 

In fact, Dr.Tam even touched and examined my yucky bumps and suggested I try his Omega Light Machine. The clinic called me later that day and scheduled a weekly 20-minute session using yellow light to heal my red, itchy and inflamed skin. 

Its been 3-weeks and the eczema on my face is almost all gone. Apart from very faint redness, the itching and weeping wounds have completely healed. 

This is what inspired me to stick my arms into the machine today in the hope of trying to get my arms to look less hideous. I would have stuck my legs in, but it would require some contortion, so maybe another day perhaps.

The Omega Light machine has 4 different types of lights, each with its own benefits, from wound healing, collagen boosting and fading of pigmentation. I honestly cannot imagine how something so simple as light could have so many benefits, but does and I can see and feel the improvement. 

Each session of Omega light is currently priced at $150 but if its your first time, the trial price is only $90. To find out more, call EHA Clinic at 6235 3325 or visit them at www.ehaclinic.sg

LADY@LXG: Introducing Sothys Sun Protection with Brightening Care

I actually received this fabulous product a few months ago, but because I very cleverly got eczema all over my face, I was unable to use anything, including sunscreen, which made me very paranoid, because if you have been following my inconsistent ranting, you would know that I absolutely adore sunscreen and feel naked, not to mention unprotected, without it.

While most of my girlfriends spend hundreds of dollars on anti-aging skin care, my weapon against  the signs of premature aging is a good tube of sunscreen. 

When I say “good” I mean that it should be from a brand that I trust to take care of my skin, and I am willing to pay for that protection, rather than to use some generic drug store brand that may not give me the protection that I require.

I have been a huge fan of Sothys since I started working in magazines almost 14 years ago. I trust the brand and have great confidence in their products. 

In fact, one of my absolute favourite night creams is their Energizing Night Cream Just one dab on a zit and its gone the next morning and I wake up looking refreshed even though I would have only clocked in around five-to-six hours of zzzz. 

SOTHYS [W.]™+ Ultra-protective Sun Shield SPF 50 not only shields your skin from the three main causes of premature aging– UVA, UVB and Infrared Radiation (IR), it also prevents pigmentation by reducing melanin synthesis. 

This is definitely a MUST-HAVE for all who aim for translucent and radiant complexions!

With Calcified Algae (Sea Origin), which is rich in minerals to fight against Infrared Radiation and Chemical Filters to ensure a broad spectrum of protection against UVA & UVB radiation. Sunflower Extract acts as an anti-oxidant to reduce the spread of free radicals generated by UVA, UVB and IR. It helps reduce the number of sunburn cells up to 54%.  Celligent™ a plant-based ingredient with synergistic combination of active molecules from rice, rosemary, sugar beet and sugar cane, protects epidermal stem cells from free radicals. 

The [W.]™+ Complex which consist of Azeloglycine + vitamin PP + vectorized and stabilized vitamin C helps to optimize cell renewal, reduce melanin synthesis, limit melanin transfer and create an equilibrium between light scattering and reflection.

And for all you sticky sunscreen haters, the Galenic Formulation in this product helps for quick penetration without the sticky and dehydrated touch we have come to associate with regular sunscreens. This means it goes on smoothly without any icky after-feel! 

How do I apply it?

Simply apply to your face and neck before sun exposure. Reapply frequently during sun exposure. Avoid eye contour and contact with clothes. Personally I like to tap my sunscreen in, to ensure thorough coverage.

This wonder in a tube retails at only $119 (30 ml) and is available at appointed SOTHYS Salons.

LADY@LXG: Achieving flawless luminosity with NUXE WHITE

“ Like a diamond, the skin’s beauty comes from its transparency. To maintain the skin’s full transparency, it is not enough to simply focus on whiteness. We also need to provide the skin with hydration and rosy luminosity. NUXE has achieved this in its own inimitable style, incorporating high-performance flowers and Vitamin C at the heart of a range that delivers exceptional results, demonstrated by objective clinical tests, proven and approved by women”. Aliza Jabès, NUXE’s CEO. 

I have been a loyal fan of Nuxe products for years. A definite must-have for me is their huile prodigieuse which I use twice a day on my entire body. This silky dry oil keeps my skin velvety smooth and beautifully scented, but more about this wonder product another time. This post is all about their very latest range of whitening skin care; NUXE WHITE.

Nuxe believes that in order to make the skin as transparent as possible, light needs to pass through a crystalline structure, similar to passing through a diamond. When saturated with water, the cells of the horny layer are 

more cohesive. The skin is smoother, reflecting light more effectively thus appearing more transparent.

By exploring the heart of Prodigious flowers; White Crocus, Stargazer Lily, Porcelain Rose and Cherry Blossom, Nuxe has identified these high-performance molecules which work in synergy with Vitamin C on the three key factors of skin transparency: whiteness, luminosity and hydration. 

The new Nuxe White range has been proven to reduce the appearance of dark spots, improve the transparency and clarify of the complexion and the rosy appearance if the skin.

The NUXE WHITENING range comes in:

Clean and Purify your skin with the BRIGHTENING PURIFYING FOAM $38  

This very gentle sulfate-free yet foaming cleanser smells absolutely divine. In fact, the entire range of products smell like lilies, fresh, pure and delicate. The added derivatives of Coconut, Corn and Sunflower to compensate for the drying effect of cleansing, so skin does not feel tight or itchy, but soft and moist.

Moisturize and Smooth your skin with the BRIGHTENING MOISTURIZING LOTION $55

This alcohol free toner is a definite must-have. My skin was immediately infused with moisture as soon as I slapped this lotion on thanks to the fact that hyaluronic acid is one of its main ingredients. My open pores and fine-lines were instantly plumped and the effect stays with you most of the day. In fact, if I have a long day out, I saturate my skin with this lotion twice. The lotion has a gentle micro-exfoliating effect  thanks to Extract of Hibiscus Flower which has a high concentrated in pyruvic acid, which is as effective as AHA but less irritating. I absolutely love and recommend this product, as it leaves skin looking more refreshed! 

Correct skin imperfections with the INTENSIVE WHITENING DARK SPOT CORRECTING SERUM $88

This super lightweight, watery milk type serum is a highly concentrated formula of brightening active ingredients. Its extract of cherry blossom leaves with its strong moisturizing powers keeps skin hydrated and protected without looking greasy.

Diminish dark spots and moisturize with the BRIGHTENING MOISTURIZING EMULSION $65

This lotion is so light its more like a skin-milk than your run-of-the-mill moisturizer. It absorbs instantly and leaves your face looking hydrated (thanks to being chock full of hyaluronic acid) while rice powder absorbs excess sebum, leaving skin instantly matified without blocking the pores. 

Protect your skin from UV damage with the DAILY UV PROTECTOR SPF 30 PA +++ $45

Since receiving this product, I have been religiously using it every single day. Not just because it smells awesome and has a high SPF 30 protection against both UVA and UVB rays but mostly because it leaves my skin matte and velvety smooth, which in our humid climate is a huge plus!

With cocoa extract to reduce melanin and tyrosinase activity. Jasmine extract  to boost our skin's defense against free radicals. Vitamin E to protect the cells’ integrity and shea polyphenols to neutralize any aggression from heavy metals while detoxifying the cells, this sunscreen, offers great protection in a handy little bottle that can be slipped into even the smallest makeup pouch.

  

Nuxe White is available at all Beauty By Nature stores (VivoCity #01-06/07, Parkway Parade #B1-75/76, ION Orchard #B3-49/50)

We are giving away 10 products from the NUXE WHITE range. All you need to do is to decide which one you would love to try and let us know as well as follow these simple instructions:

1. Post your comment with your name and email address on this blog. Tell us which product you would like to win and why.
2. Like this post 
3. Like our FB page TheLXGers so you can stay tuned to all our giveaways and promotions
4. Share this post with your 7 friends, family, colleagues, you name it, keep sharing it on your personal FB page. The more you share the greater your chance of winning. 

LADY@LXG: Talika harneses the healing power of light

Talika introduces the Light Duo+

The first signs of aging is the appearance of wrinkles that deepen over time. 

Skin aging is always accompanied with an inflammatory effect, which causes discomfort and redness. 

In order to fight against the multiple factors of aging, Talika has created and developed a 

multi-action skincare technology to combat the signs of time on all fronts: LIGHT DUO+®, the new Talika Light, to act on deep wrinkles and dark spots while soothing the skin. 

It restores the skin's natural defense by sending messages to the cells, helping them to reactivate and recharge.

LXG's Kristen Chen gives the new Talika Light DUO+ a test run

LIFESTYLE@LXG: Finally, A 24hr Sunscreen!

We covered EHA Clinic's Japan-made 24hr Sunshield a while back when it was first launched in Singapore. Today, we are giving it another shout out because its got itself a brand spanking new look and plus we really love this product!

Many of the high SPF sunscreens available on the market today use chemical filters to block UVA rays, but these have been shown to only offer marginal protection. That’s because commonly used UVA filters like avobenzone and Mexoryl, break down quickly and lose effectiveness in the sun unless stabilized. This stabilization process is difficult and few companies have been able to prove that they can do it.

Therefore in the past, the best way make sure you were protected throughout the day was to reapply sunscreen often – at least once every two hours. Even if it offered the best UVA protection, it’s efficacy soon disappeared.

EHA’s Sun Shield 24hr has been proven to block both UV-A and UV-B rays by 99%, for a period of 24 hours, with just one application. Even when applied thickly to the skin, the base - which is equivalent to an SPH factor of 30 - still appears transparent – giving a natural look without the feeling of any make-up application.   

The protecting ingredient also prevents spot generation, keeping the skin cool and resistant against sunburn. Sun Shield 24hr can also be used as foundation base before make-up application. I personally use it in place of foundation or concealer. I love the fact that its subtle tint evens out my otherwise patchy complexion and leaves my skin looking matte and clean.

EHA Sunshield 24 hr is available at EHA Clinic. 1 Scotts Road. #15-01 Shaw Centre.

Singapore 228208. Tel: 6235 3325

EHA Sunshield 24HR is priced at:

30 Ml bottle $98.00

5 ML travel size tube $38.00

STYLE@LXG: Karryl bids her freckles adieu!

Finally, a solution to freckles and dark spots 

I’ve always had a love-hate relationship with the sun. I loved being outdoors, sitting by the pool in my sexy bikini, basking in the sun and the admiring glances of the passing boys. I loved to tan. In my eyes, a tan looked healthy and radiant. Unfortunately my pasty white complexion doesn’t tan easily, and instead of getting that beautiful, glowing bronze hue I craved, I usually ended up, red (and raw – Ouch!).

It didn’t help that I wasn’t a fan of sunscreens either. I hated the sticky feel of lotion on my skin. And although I would get a smattering of freckles  after a day out in the sun, I thought they looked sort of cute. And so I carried on with my outdoor activities with nary a concern for something as dull as sun protection.

As I entered my thirties however, things changed. I spent less time under the sun, and started slathering on the SPF. I grew to love my fair skin and freckles no longer appealed to me. If anything, I found those tiny brown specks embarrassing - I’ve lost count of the number of times "helpful" people thought there was something on my face and tried to rub it off with an; "aiyah girl, you got something on your face lah, come I wipe it for you"

I tried various products to even out my skin-tone, but the results were dismal. Just when I was about to resign myself to the fact that those pesky brown spots were here to stay, I received a bottle of SkinCeuticals Advanced Pigment Corrector from the kind folks at L’Oreal.

For those not familiar with the brand, SkinCeuticals, they are known for their advanced scientific formulas and come highly recommended by dermatologists, cosmetic surgeons and aestheticians.

My sister has tried their antioxidant serum and it worked wonders for her skin, so you can imagine how excited I was to try out their pigmentation treatment.

The product itself is easy to use – after cleansing, I applied a small amount to the pigmented areas, followed by my usual skincare products - morning and night.

So did it work? I’d say yes. It’s been only 10 weeks since I started using the Advanced Pigment Corrector, and while the spots have not completely gone, they are much lighter. My mum has also commented that I look more radiant.

SkinCeuticals recommends using the Advanced Pigment Corrector for at least three months for the best results. I’ve been using it for only two and a half months but I’m already sold. There’s quite a fair bit of the product left, and I’m pretty optimistic that I would get to see further improvements in my skin by the time I’m done with the whole tube. Keeping my fingers crossed!

SkinCeuticals Advanced Pigment Corrector, $198 (inclusive of GST), is available at the following:

·       Freia Medical Aesthetics

Wisma Atria Office Tower #19-03, Tel: 6735 8180

·       Skin Physicians

Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre #11-08, Tel: 6733 6466

·       Spa Artisan

The Fullerton Hotel Singapore, Mezzanine Floor, Tel: 6423 1382

·       The Aesthetic Studio

Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre #12-08, Tel: 6836 8382

·       Cosmopolitan Clinic

25 Lorong Telok #01-01, Tel: 6327 3773

For more information, please visit www.skinceuticals.com.