Mask Force: Turning on the treatment lights at home for an extra-bright-looking skin

Ever-evolving beauty product trends have led to a level-up version of an item that has been a skincare regimen staple for decades – face masks. What was once a simple sticky sheet that we all struggled to put on straight is now a much grander light-powered device. Welcome to the up-to-the-minute world of LED light therapy masks.

LED (Light-Emitting Diodes) light therapy is well known for its effectiveness in tackling a variety of skin issues, and as a hands-free treatment, it is a particularly practical proposition. Considered the most effective supplement to a comprehensive regimen, LED-infused facial masks are as good as, if not better than, visiting a trusted beauty clinic.

One of the core targets of this new advanced beauty treatment is acne-prone skin. Bacteria-killing blue-light treatment can now be incorporated into a blemish-fighting skincare routine that already includes procedures like washing, toning and applying acne-fighting serums made with retinol or AHAs/BHAs.

While it has been scientifically proven that acne-prone individuals benefit from blue light, red-light therapy may suit those more concerned with anti-ageing or psoriasis and a green light appears a promising remedy for hyperpigmentation or minor scarring. Hence, careful consideration of what you are looking to treat is the order of the day before investing in an LED face mask to light up your complexion.

Angela Caglia Crystal LED Face Mask

Renowned aesthetician Angela Caglia is a trailblazer in the development of cutting-edge tools that enable users to achieve a youthful, radiant glow from the comfort of their homes. This first-of-its-kind face mask combines gemstone healing benefits with cutting-edge LED light therapy technology. Rose quartz crystals have been carefully placed to harness Eastern acupressure techniques, and together, they stimulate collagen and elastin production.

CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Mask

CurrentBody’s LED facial mask is designed to deliver the maximum amount of light for deep penetration. The mask’s flexibility allows the perfect dose of dual LED light to hit the lower layers of the skin for both instant and long-lasting results. Judged to be 100% safe – and 100% pain-free – there is never a risk of having too much exposure. For people who are sensitive to light, the pack comes with comfort goggles for handy optional eye protection.

DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro LED

Light Therapy Device Blue LED lights are the main components of the Dr Dennis Gross DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro LED Light Therapy Device and are strategically placed along the T-zone and jawline areas. It can be used without protective eye goggles; light chips rest directly on the top of the skin surface and conform to all contours of the face. This patented design includes a combination of 100 LED lights in red mode and 62 LED lights in blue mode working together to smooth wrinkles, firm skin, diminish discolouration and clear acne for a beautiful, youthful complexion.

HigherDose Red Light Therapeutic Face Mask

With an array of 62 LED bulbs emitting a combination of red and near-infrared wavelengths that mimic the rejuvenating wavelengths of natural sunlight, this LEDpowered face mask allows users to achieve that instant glow. It also features far-infrared heat that promotes relaxation of both mind and body and stimulates an anti-inflammatory response to help rebuild skin tissue. And because the mask is cordless, users can give their skin a boost while on the go around the house.

MZ Skin Light-Therapy Golden Facial Treatment Device

Suitable for all skin types, MZ Skin’s mask offers not just one, but five coloured light settings to achieve different benefits and results for an overall radiant complexion. Red lights stimulate the production of collagen and elastin and reduce inflammation and signs of ageing; blue lights minimise bacteria to balance and clarify blemish-prone skin; green lights target and restore discolouration, including broken capillaries and dark spots; and yellow lights reduce redness and boost circulation. Its white infrared lights, meanwhile, minimise inflammation and sensitivity, revealing healthy, clear skin.

Priori Skincare UnveiLED Mask

Promising instant results in just 10 minutes, the lightweight and silicon-based UnveiLED mask from Priori Skincare allows medical-grade technology-infused treatment in the comfort of one’s home. It features adaptive skincare that adjusts to the user’s specific skin needs while contouring the whole face with red and near-infrared lights for reduced facial lines and wrinkles.

Shani Darden by Déesse Pro LED Light Mask
Taking care of the face is just as important as taking care of the neck. Shani Darden’s take on the trending LED-powered face mask comes with not only the facial device but also a custom neckpiece and even a handheld controller to personalise a regimen to the user’s liking. It offers red-, blue and near-infrared light therapy to address acne, fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation and redness.

The Light Salon Boost LED Mask

Modelled with medical-device directives, this portable mask offers the same clinically proven wavelengths as the brand’s professional salon machines for the promise of salon-grade LED treatment in the comfortable surroundings of a home. With regular 10-minute sessions, the skin is re-energised with a healthy, youthful glow. The award-winning mask works wonders on all skin tones and types

(Text: Joseff Musa)

Face Moisturisers 101: The Best Face Creams According to Different Skin Concerns

Face moisturisers have always been an essential part of skincare. Even if we were to skip the other steps in the skincare routine on a lazy day, we ensure not to forget the moisturising ritual. For some, it is essentially the only step in their skincare regime following cleansing and exfoliation.

As a matter of fact, face moisturisers have proven to improve the skin’s texture and are necessary to tackle dermatology issues like fine lines, wrinkles, dryness and more. They are said to be a replacement for our dermis layer’s natural moisturiser – oil-producing glands – that function less effectively as we age.

Recommended that we start moisturising from our teen years and start opting for anti-ageing ones in our twenties, Gafencu has found the best face moisturisers depending on the different common skincare concerns.

Best for Skin Ageing – LA MER The Moisturising Soft Cream

Infused with the extremely effective ingredient called the Miracle Broth – discovered by La Mer’s research team – this moisturising soft cream works wonders in removing fine lines and improving your skin’s elasticity. It is packed with billions of moisture spheres making sure that the cream works its magic on every part of the skin. When the product was clinically tested on about 30 Asian women, there were visible signs of improvement within four weeks of using the moisturiser twice every day.

Best for Dull Skin – Dr Dennis Gross Oil-Free Radiant Moisturiser

If you are prone to blackheads then the Dr Dennis Gross Oil-Free Radiant Moisturiser is possibly the best face cream for you because it is non-comedogenic – as in it does not clog the skin’s pores. Instead, it improves your dermis layer by hydrating and diminishing sun damage which eventually results in even and glowing skin. This dermatologist-approved product does so with its power-packed ingredients like lactic acid, vitamin C, niacinamide and more.

Best for Damaged Skin – L’Occitane Immortelle Divine Cream

The Immortelle flowers have been considered a nature’s gift to the skincare industry for their anti-ageing properties and moisturising benefits so it is not surprising to see that L’Occitane has developed an entire face care line that uses the exotic flower as one of the primary ingredients. One product in this collection is the Immortelle Divine Cream which repairs the dermis layer by visibly removing wrinkles while also making the skin soft and firm by hydrating it.

Best for Hyperpigmentation – Natura Bisse Luminous Brightening Rejuvenating Moisturiser

Even skin with no blemishes is typically seen as aesthetically appealing and most of our skincare routines are catered in expectation of such an outcome, and Natura Bisse’s rejuvenating moisturiser promises similar results as it helps enhance the skin by fully reducing hyperpigmentation, blemishes and other signs of sun damage and ageing. It also helps with hydration and gives the skin a brighter appearance thanks to the hyaluronic acid and aloe vera in it.

Best for Dryness – Laneige Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Cream

Given its numerous benefits, hyaluronic acid has become a ubiquitous skincare ingredient found in almost every hydrating moisturiser which also includes the Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Cream by Laneige. This Laneige product is ingrained with many micro-sized blue hyaluronic acid particles that get deeply into the skin thus helping with hydration and dealing with redness and roughness on the skin. The face cream comes in two renditions – one which is suitable for dry skin and another which is perfect for combination to oily skin.

Best for Sensitive Skin – Giorgio Armani Crema Nera Supreme Reviving Light Cream

Boasting a very silk texture, this light cream from Giorgio Armani allows for easy application while also deeply penetrating the skin to work the power of its primarily-ingrained ingredients such as the brand’s trademarked Reviscentalis and Mediterranean caper. The Giorgio Armani cream helps to achieve glowing and supple skin, and its light texture makes it the perfect moisturiser if you have sensitive skin.

Also Read: Face Serums 101: Get nourishing skin from Summer to Monsoons

Serum Secrets: Discover which specialist serum delivers the biggest win for your kind of skin

Maintaining radiant and healthy-looking skin is something pretty much everyone aspires to. It is, after all, one of the key aspects of ourselves we present to the wider world and something we can be unfairly judged on. Ensuring it passes such intrusive inspection requires diligence and adherence to a strict self-care regime, one that serums are playing ever more of a lead role within.

A well-chosen salicylic acid serum applied up to twice a week, for example, is a positive boon when it comes to banishing acne. By contrast, it’s a hyaluronic acid serum you should be calling on to help counter any dry skin problems, while a morning application of Vitamin C serum is all but sure to revive dull and weary skin. Intriguingly, all of these life-enhancing potions come packaged in miniature bottles, complete with droppers to ensure micro accurate deployment. As to which to opt for, well here are some of our tried and tested favourites…

Eadem Milk Marvel Dark Spot Serum

For the many blessed with a darker skin tone, reducing hyperpigmentation has always been something of a particular challenge. Thankfully, here to help is this fragrance-free serum which has been specially formulated for use on darker-coloured skin. In addition, its unique composition is also said to help reduce post-acne scarring without bleaching the skin’s natural tone, largely on account of its delicate infusion of niacinamide, liquorice root and amber algae.

Valmont V-Firm Eye Gel

Specifically engineered to help protect the sensitive area around the eyes, this hydrating optical serum contains collagen-enhancing peptides said to both keep your skin exceptionally tight and to ensure your eyes appear bright and maintain their twinkle. With its gel-like eye contour having thicker viscosity than comparable serums, it’s ideal for use in any environment likely to leech moisture from your skin.

Dr. Dennis Gross retinol ferulic serum

Containing such potent hydration as hyaluronic acid and squalane, as well as being rich in antioxidant ferulic acid, this new renewing serum also has a healthy level of both retinol and bakuchiol, its herbal, skin-smoothing counterpart. Apply it immediately before bedtime and you’ll supposedly awaken with a singularly smooth, taut and radiant complexion.

Dermalogica calming serum for sensitive skin

Favouring oats, botanical extracts, primrose oil, hyaluronic acid, collagen and peptides, this is the serum you need if you’re looking to accelerate the healing time of any recently damaged skin. It’s particularly recommended for use when you’ve maybe over-exposed your epidermis, possibly when that day in the sun dragged on just a little too long.

Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Serum

With a staying power that would be the envy of many, this legendary brand remains very much at the cutting edge when it comes to complexion care products. Proof – if proof was needed – comes courtesy of its seven-in-one Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Synchronised MultiRecovery Complex Serum, which is said to both eliminate the giveaway signs of aging and deliver a younger, more radiant, even-toned look.

(Text: Joseff Musa)

Read the full article in the March 2023 issue (pg: 44). Available on the Gafencu app on Android and Apple.

The Best Beauty Subscription Boxes Delivering To Hong Kong

Despite our different skin types, we all have one common dream – achieving that clear and glowing skin. Fortunately, there are beauty subscription boxes with carefully handpicked essentials – specially catered for each individual – that help us with our skin goals.

Each box is either suitable for all skin types or curated based on our profile. (Some brands make customers take a quiz to understand their skin needs better).

Besides, there are plant-based and non-toxic items, such eco-friendly options allow us to take care of our beauty regime while paying attention to our planet – a win-win. With so many beauty subscription boxes available in the market, here are five we absolutely love.

Bomibox

Obsessed with the sought-after glass skin, then, like us, you will also love this Korean beauty box. Each box has either full-size or travel-size items. For those not ready to commit to a monthly or quarterly subscription, without trying the Bomibox Korean Beauty Box, there is a three-month plan. (when going on a trial, remember to choose the gift option so that the subscription does not automatically renew after three months). Subscribe here.

Petit Vour

Whether it is its array of customized products, tailor-made based on personalized quiz responses for your skin goals or the fact that its selection of products is non-toxic and plant-based, it is no surprise that Petit Vour has become many beauty aficionados’ favourite when it comes to beauty subscription boxes. Each parcel consists of four or more beauty picks including treats for skin and hair; and cosmetics such as mascara, lip polish and more. Subscribe here.

Laurel & Reed

Laurel & Reed is another ethical brand that delivers all-natural skincare essentials to you. The products are also non-toxic and cruelty-free. Each pack comes with more than three full-sized products. If you wish to try a box before subscribing, there is a one-time plan that does not renew. Subscribe here.

The Detox Market

The Detox Market brings you sustainable skin treats that are tested and loved by skincare experts. Like most subscription boxes, you will receive different products each month from The Detox Market’s select brands like Biophile, Pai, Kora Organics and more. Subscribe here.

Nourish Beauty

The four products in the Nourish Beauty Box are specially curated for each month. For instance, the March 2023 package features products like an eyeshadow palette, hair colour care essentials and more that match the Spring-Summer beauty needs. Also, Nourish Beauty lets you either buy the already-curated boxes or customise your box by choosing from the list of available products. Subscribe here.

Also Read: Wake up & Makeup: Beauty essentials for a dazzling party look

6 Lip Care Products For An Ultra-Smooth and Plumpy Lips

Showing off ultra smooth and plumpy lips is definitely something everyone longs for, and now that masks are no longer compulsory in Hong Kong, the need to have soft-looking lips is more desirable. So, here are six lip care products to help you with it.

Pure Colour Envy Sugar Scrub by Estee Lauder

Estee Lauder’s Pure Colour Envy Sugar Scrub is infused with tiny sugar crystals that eliminate your dried skin by smoothly exfoliating the lips. The scrub’s hyaluronic acid particles will do their miracle and leave your lips moisturised and hydrated for the day while also smelling pleasant, thanks to the vanilla and mint extracts in the product. Available at Estee Lauder.

Lip Sleeping Mask by Laneige

This lip mask is so far one of the most popular lip care products on social media, and it has proved to be worth the hype. It is loaded with natural ingredients such as shea butter, coconut oil, and murumuru seed butter that work their magic overnight to give softness while the antioxidant elements repair the lips. Available at Laneige.

Also Read: Viral beauty products that are defining the real and digital world we live in

The Lip Polish by La Mer

Promising immediate results that are visible from the very first application is this lip polish by luxury skincare brand, La Mer. The product removes all the flaky skin giving a smooth finish while also having your lips rejuvenated. It has been favoured by beauty enthusiasts for keeping the lips moisturised for a long period of time. Available at La Mer.

Sugar Lip Polish by Fresh

Sugar Lip Polish’s technique to achieve supple lips is quite straightforward and effective. The minute brown sugar crystals scrub off dryness and flakiness, and the jojoba oil and shea butter in it moisturises the lips. It also gives you plumped-up lips to which you can either apply lipstick or leave it as it is. Available at Fresh.

270 Lip Scrub by L:A Bruket

If you are looking for something eco-friendly, then opt for this lip scrub with a cosmos natural certification. The product is full of natural ingredients that are powerful enough to exfoliate every morsel of dead skin, and have you boasting ultra-smooth lips that feel super hydrated. It is vegan too. Available at K11 Musea.

Also Read: Algica: The Next Super Ingredient Entering The Skincare Game

Balmy Night Lip Exfoliator by Ilia

Packaged just like a lip balm, this exfoliator by Ilia is very convenient to use and mess-free too. Its organic ingredients as well as the micro volcanic stone powder soften the lips through exfoliation that is complete with the balm’s moisturising benefits. It is recommended that you follow it up with a lip balm for seeing double the results. Available at The Makeup Room.

Rose Lip Polish by French Girl

Described as a lip polish that will make your lips as soft as rose petals, this lip polish by French Girl has received so many positive reviews for its effectiveness and being a total game changer. A quick and gentle massage of the product during your skincare regime will ensure that your lips look soft and pouty. Available at Revolve.

Also Read: Sun Kissed: Broad spectrum Summer skincare essentials for a healthy glow

Viral beauty products that are defining the real and digital world we live in

In the beauty world, social media plays a big role in influencing consumers and dictating what’s trending, what’s hot and what’s not. Viral beauty product videos are often so persuasive that they will entice you to buy even though you hardly ever wear makeup or convince you to order a perfume without ever having smelled it. The internet saw a multitude of beauty trends.

Regardless of what the response was to certain trends, what we do know is that these beauty products are often sold out in rapid quick time. The internet, social media in particular, has everyone looking to try out these beauty products for themselves. Truly, the greatest benefit of online shopping is its convenience and the power it holds to help anyone make a more informed purchasing decision. It’s never too late to try out these viral beauty products.

Chanel Les Beiges Water-fresh Tint

The lightweight and glow skin tint effect that Chanel’s Les Beiges Water-fresh Tint formula is promising has made great strides with its sales on social media apps alone and raised a celebrity following with the likes of Natalia Bryant and Hilary Duff. The fashion house claim that this trending beauty product is an update to their 2022 popular cream bronzer and its tint pairs skin-condition ingredients like glycerine, castor oil and jasmine stem extract with pigmented droplets to treat the skin while expertly providing weightless coverage – making it one of the favourite online skincare-makeup hybrids.

Kosas Revealer Concealer

With the Kosas Revealer Concealer, you can finally say goodbye to dry under-eyes. This product, which the company describes as “concealer meets eye cream”, appears to combine the greatest features of skincare and makeup in one convenient container. Through a blend of caffeine, arnica Montana, pink algae extract, hyaluronic acid and peptides, the clean concealer looks to brighten, soothe, and plump the skin while delivering medium coverage and improving skin over time.

Also Read: Algica: The Next Super Ingredient Entering The Skincare Game

Haus Labs Triclone Skin Tech Medium

Coverage Foundation with Fermented Arnica When we hear the name Lady Gaga it automatically transliterates to a huge fan following. The Triclone Skin Tech Medium Coverage Foundation from Lady Gaga’s Haus Labs line undoubtedly made the biggest effect on social media fans, with the hashtag #hauslabsfoundation amassing nearly 9 billion views to date. Known for its lightweight feel, radiant finish and ability to seamlessly cover redness and dark spots, the Triclone Skin Tech can be applied with a brush, sponge or your fingertips. Powered by fermented arnica, an antioxidant complex and medicinal herbs, this promises to soothe even acne-prone and sensitive skin types.

Dior Backstage Rosy Glow Blush

You may be sure that the popular product will be worthwhile as there are so many blushes to pick from. In addition to dominating the online world, Hailey Bieber shares a testimonial as a fan of Dior Backstage Rosy Glow Blush. Pigmented and vibrant, this head-turning pink blush is said to add an instant flush of colour that even reacts to the skin’s moisture levels for an optimized rosy and glowing finish.

Saie Hydrabeam Sheer Brightening Concealer

Much like what beauty filters of many social media apps do to our photos, Saie Hydrabeam Sheer Brightening Concealer does the Photoshop edit effect in real life. With fans signing up to get their hands on this trending item, this Saie option is so worthwhile for its hydrating properties with squalene, glycerine, and tomato extract, brightening abilities and weightless finish. An online superstar like Mikayla Nogueira confesses her love for the product.

Valentino Twin Liner Gel & Liquid Eyeliner

A forefront to the best eyeliner marketplace is Valentino’s dual-ended pick, known to make a perfectly etched cat eye easy. To help achieve any look, the Twin Liner gel & Liquid Eyeliner has a semi-matte and ultra-fine liquid on one end and a gel in four colours such as classic black, deep red, navy blue, and mocha brown on the other. Not to mention that it sets to the skin smoothly and does not budge during the day.

Also Read: Best smudge-proof makeup to wear under your mask

Rare Beauty Warm Wishes Effortless Bronzer Sticks

Another celebrity-owned and founded make-up brand is Rare Beauty by Selena Gomez. Claimed to be the beauty companion to everyday women, Warm Wishes Effortless Bronzer Sticks understands the importance of most makeup items simply sticking to daily regimens to allow pigment to impart quickly and easily. Designed to blend and go, this creamy number delivers a sun-kissed warmth able to wake the skin up in seconds.

(Text: Joseff Musa)

Read the full version of the article in the February 2023 issue (pg: 38). Available on the Gafencu app on Android and Apple.

Algica: The Next Super Ingredient Entering The Skincare Game

Rice water, snail mucin, green tea, and many more ingredients, the skincare industry has borrowed from nature for the benefits they can have on the dermis. Newly entering this lineup of organic materials is algica.

Said to have a chemical structure that cosmetology experts have been trying to mimic, the algica is built in a unique way allowing it to be an iconic addition to the skincare game.

For those interested in the science of it, algica is basically the outlet layer of algae called diatoms which scientists from the Swedish Algae Factory have discovered a technique to produce in an environmentally friendly and circular manner thus leaving no harmful chemicals in our ecosystem.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Swedish Algae Factory (@swedishalgaefactory)

This super ingredient is environmentally friendly and has an EcoCertification for being safe for the ocean and sea life.

In addition to being a more conscious choice, here are all the reasons why algica for the skin is a godsend for skincare enthusiasts.

Moisturising
One of the purposes of the algica in nature is to ensure enough water in the algae. Much like it, it will keep the dermis layer hydrated when included in moisturisers, serums or toners. It is even proven to be more effective than hyaluronic acid which has long been a game changer for its hydrating property. Besides, its light weight makes it easier to apply and the skin soaks it up much faster than hyaluronic acid.

Also Read: 6 must-have autumn skincare products for the drier season

Cleansing
It absorbs oil, dirt, sweat, and other impurities thus making algica an excellent cleanser.

In fact, it can take in nearly 20 times more impurities than any other chemically-engineered material and shows results three times faster.

Protecting
It is a perfect barrier for the skin as it not only blocks harmful UV rays but also stops air pollution from getting into a person’s skin.

Also Read: Sunscreen Sprays: Easy alternatives for ample SPF protection

In other words, algica is sure to take the dermatology industry by storm because it is going to make your skincare routine much quicker as this single ingredient guarantees multiple benefits.

Dermatology brands like L:A Bruket, Kari Gran, Lumi, Ecooking and more have already started infusing it into their products. The organic skincare brand L:A Bruket has even taken it a step further and launched a face care collection which has algica as one of the key ingredients.

Also Read: Jade Rollers – Cosmetic con or skincare secret?

Unorthodox Beauty- Beauty lines to revive the modern vibe Remix

Look 1

Clockwise from left:
1. Ambient Soft Glow Foundation by Hourglass
2. Phantom Volumizing Glossy Balm Duo by Hourglass
3. Voyeur Waterproof Gel Eyeliner #Cave by Hourglass
4. THREE Dimensional Vision Eye Palette Ally #04 by Three Cosmetics
5. THREE Arising Sprit Lip Glow #02 by Three Cosmetics
6. Translucent Loose Setting Powder (Anniversary Limited Edition) by Laura

Look 2

From top to bottom:
1. Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter by Fenty Beauty
2. Eaze Drop Lit by Fenty Beauty
3. Fenty Icon Refillable Lipstick by Fenty Beauty
4. Match Stix Contour by Fenty Beauty
5. Invisimatte 2.0 by Fenty Beauty
6. Fenty Icon Lipstick by Fenty Beauty

Look 3

Clockwise from left:
1. Liquid Lipstick by Byredo
2. Astronomical Mascara by Byredo
3. Flavoured Lip Balms by Byredo
4. Reunion Lipstick by Byredo
5. Eyeshadow 5 Colours in Metal Boots in the Snow by Byredo
6. Kajal Pencil by Byredo
7. Technical Black Eyeliner by Byredo
8. Colour Stick by Byredo

Look 4

From top to bottom:
1. Always Ready Brow Pencil by Benefit Cosmetics
2. They’re Real Xtreme Precision Liner by Benefit Cosmetics
3. Butterfly Golden Orange Blush by Benefit Cosmetics
4. The POREfessional: Lite Primer by Benefit Cosmetics
5. Benefit Multitasking Cheek Brush by Benefit Cosmetics

Look 5

From top to bottom:
1. Soleil Summer 2022 Ultra Lip Shine #04 Aphrodite by Tom Ford Beauty
2. Shade & Illuminate Blush Explicit Flush by Tom Ford Beauty
3. Soleil Summer 2022 Cheek Duo by Tom Ford Beauty
4. Soleil Summer 2022 Eye & Cheek Palette by Tom Ford Beauty
5. Lip Color Satin Matte #05 Adored by Tom Ford Beauty

Photographer: Jack Law; Art Direction & Styling: Jhoshwa Ledesma; Videographer: Achilles Sparta

6 must-have autumn skincare products for the drier season

The drier season is on its way, and what better way to show yourself some much deserved self-love than to pamper your dermis with the most nourishing and sumptuous autumn skincare products that will rejuvenate, replenish and return you natural, youthful glow. Packed with hyaluronic acid, vitamins, minerals and active ingredients, these are the autumn skincare products Gafecnu we are loving this season…

Pure Gold Radiance Nocturnal Balm by La Prairie

Swiss luxury skincare brand La Prairie has perfected a night balm for skin recovery and rebuilding. Pure Gold Radiance Nocturnal Balm, a sumptuous and nourishing cream-like formulation, revitalises and restores radiance. Applied on clean, toned skin each night, it will aid in fortifying the skin, while improving its natural texture and promoting hydration, smoothness and firmness. Learn more here.

Super Anti-Aging Night Cream by Dr Barbara Sturm

Enabling you to switch up your evening autumn skincare routine for maximum nourishment during the drier winter season, Dr Barbara Sturm’s Super Anti-Aging Night Cream with an exclusive DBS Night System formula. It boasts the triple effects of anti-inflammatory repair, intensive detoxification and instant hydration, thanks to its hyaluronic acid, purslane, avocado peptides and polyglutamic acids. Wake up with a firmer, brighter and smoother-looking complexion. Available at Joyce Beauty.

The Lifting and Firming Mask by La Mer

Best suited for dry, normal and combination skin, the Lifting and Firming facial mask by La Mer permeates with its serum-strength sculpting power. Supporting the skin’s natural renewal process, thanks to its concentrated miracle broth – an elixir made with sea kelp and bio-fermentation processes that is renowned for its renewing energies and transformative results, you can apply this cream a clean and toned face before moisturising, then let it work its magic. Learn more here.

F-Balm Electrolyte Waterfacial Hydrating Mask by Drunk Elephant

Step your beauty game up a notch by adding Drunk Elephant’s new overnight cooling mask, F-balm Electrolyte Eaterfacial Hydrating Mask, to your bedtime autumn skincare routine. Boasting a cocktail of electrolytes and a blend of barrier-replenishing ingredients comprised of niacinamide, sodium PCA, omega fatty acids and five forms of ceramides, its deliciously powerful mix of antioxidants rehydrates overly parched skin, making it soft and supple — perfect for an autumn skincare regime. Apply the balm before bed, then leave it work on your face throughout the night while you get your much-deserved beauty sleep. Learn more here.

Cookies N’ Clean Face Mask by Fenty Skin

Keeping that oily shine at bay, Fenty Skin yet again does not disappoint with its Cookies N’ Clean Whipping Clay Detox Face Mask. Not only does its name sound delicious enough to eat, its formula is also composed of vegan- and gluten-free ingredients that are suitable for all skin types, especially those with sensitive skin. Unlike the usual clay masks, it reduces excess oil from epidermis without stripping its natural moisture, while also visibly tightening pores, thanks to its clay and charcoal formula. Removing impurities and detoxing the pores with salicylic acid. Organic extracts of rhubarb and ginger, meanwhile, condition and soothe the skin, leaving it smooth and supple. Learn more here.

Sleep Mask by Noble Panacea

This chronobiology sleep mask is indeed exceptional in what it does. From a brand devised by Nobel Laureate chemist Sir Fraser Stoddart, it synchronises to work with your skin’s natural overnight biorhythm of regeneration, so you can wake up to bright, firm, replenished skin. Infused with five natural oils, it intensely moisturises and illuminates your skin, while the powerful antioxidants and active ingredients inside help reduce trans-epidermal water loss and reset the skin’s natural sebum production. Available at Joyce Beauty.

Best boutique nail salons to visit in Hong Kong

If there is anything that changes faster than Hong Kong’s seasons, it’s a ladies’ nails. With summertime firmly set on the city, it’s time to pull out our favourite sundresses and slip into our best beach attire, but of course not without a fresh coat of nails to match.

Offering bespoke manicures, pedicures and sassy nail art designs for the hands and feet, Hong Kong’s myriad nail salons can vary in price, design styles, products and services. If you’re anything like our resident beauty expert at Gafencu, then you’d find that the relaxing experience, artistic skill and quality of products trump all other factors when choosing a nail salon. We spotlight some of the best luxury nail salons for your visit – you’re welcome.

Eighty-Eight

To the delight of its many loyal clients, Eighty-Eight reopened this May after shutting its doors for remodeling. If its two-story structure isn’t impressive enough, its modern décor, propped with various artistic elements and installations, definitely stands out. Upon entering, customers are greeted by a gorgeous wall of eighty-eight nail polish bottles and fresh flowers that reflect the changing seasons, while mirrors glamourously stand between each area as partitions for privacy. Its second floor is dedicated to VIP suites for clients to enjoy an even more lavish experience.

As vibrant as its interiors, the salon offers a diverse collection of over 570 nail colours, 150 nail stickers, the latest tools and equipment, as well as top-notch aftercare products such as cuticle oil and special hand creams for longer lasting manicures and pedicures. It also highlights its non-toxic 5-free / 7-free nail polishes for pregnant women and those with sensitive skin.

Eighty-Eight prides itself for its hygienic and safe environment for both staff and customers. All equipment, tools, tables and chairs are disinfected before and after each service. Not to mention that their services that range from basic (HK$250) to intensive (HK$1280) are extremely affordable for the luxurious experience it offers.

The Nail Library

The Nail Library is a New York-inspired salon in Central. It first opened its doors in the summer of 2013 and immediately gained a huge following in the city for having the largest collection of nail polish brands and colours in the city (and possibly in the world). Among its arsenal of products are some of the best known brands, including Hermés, Christian Louboutin, Madam Gram and CND Shellac, to name just a few. It also stocks toxic-free and vegan options – basically something for everybody.

Its oeuvre of design options by its talented nail artists will have customers spoilt for choice with bespoke nail art, especially for those bold enough to get extra creative. It has seen many of the city’s most influencial personalities walk through its doors and has gained a reputation for the most visited nail salon by city’s most well-knwon beauty influencers, especially with prices ranging from HK$270 for basic manicures to HK$920 for signature treatments, the exchange for a relaxing day at the nail spa is undoubtedly one that will have you leaving happy and pampered.

The Chaless Wellness and Beauty

Another Central-set establishment is The Chaless Wellness and Beauty. Embodying the warmth and freshness of chalets in the mountains of Europe, one step into this serene boutique offers clients a fresh yet relaxing experience, putting busy bees’ minds at ease.

Beyond the basic mani-and-pedi, it also offers shellac nails, stylistic nail art, nail and skin strengthening, as well as smoothing treatments for its sophisticated clientele. Here, the focus is not just on the beauty of the nails, but also their health, strength and well-being.

Its signature Japanese manicure and pedicure treatments are the ultimate solution to treat your hands and feet to some tender, love and care. It works wonders for damaged, fragile and brittle nails because a natural paste is used comprised of health-giving ingredients like vitamins A and E, bee’s wax, keratin and silica from the Sea of Japan – providing the necessary nutrients for your skin and nails to stay healthy and restore their natural shine. Alternatively, its ‘Food for Your Sole’ pedicure helps relax the feet and reduce stress. Starting with a warm lavender-infused salt bath to soak your delicate hooves. Then, shaping and buffing the nails, before treating them to a cuticle care, callus removal and foot filing treatment. It also offers exfoliation for the feet to remove dead and coarse skin. If you think masks are only for the face, think again. The centre also provides a green tea mask with detoxifying properties for the feet – nourishing the skin with vital nutrients and rejuvenating them into great shape.

While a slew of OPI nail polish colours are available, Shellac Soft Gel polish is also a good option to consider if you want the coating to last longer. The blissful experience of hand-and-feet spa treatment starts at a mere HK$450, but we can be sure that you will be walking out its doors feeling like a million bucks!