Top Japanese Beauty & Skincare Finds Under S$35

Japanese skincare has long held a reputation for being both effective and gentle. Growing up, I remember my grandmother swearing by Shiseido, and that’s when I knew Japan had something special going on in the beauty world.

While beauty trends come and go, Japan consistently delivers products that remain popular for years. So whether you’re planning a trip to Japan or browsing in Singapore, these budget-friendly products will level up your beauty and skincare routine without making you broke.

#1. BIORE UV AQUA RICH SUNSCREEN

If you’re on the hunt for a lightweight sunscreen packed with hydrating ingredients, Biore UV Aqua Rich is the one. It’s enriched with hyaluronic acid, royal jelly extract, and butylene glycol, which provide ample moisture. Its water-resistant formula works wonders during hot, humid days and yet is easily removed with soap. Plus, it’s non-sticky, making it perfect for everyday wear.

Image Credits: facebook.com/HANDSofficialSingapore

Price: S$20.30 at Watsons or Hands Singapore

#2: CANMAKE MERMAID SKIN GEL UV

Another sunscreen making waves is CANMAKE’s Mermaid Skin Gel UV. Serving as both a sunscreen and a primer, this product’s smooth, gel-like texture glides on effortlessly. What’s fantastic is its SPF 50+ protection, giving your skin a defense shield without feeling greasy. Plus, it doubles up as a makeup base, so you’re protected and primed in one go!

Price: S$19.30 at Watsons

#3: HEROINE MAKE MASCARA: VOLUME & CURL ADVANCED FILM

When it comes to mascaras, Heroine Make is practically unbeatable. Known for its strong waterproof formula, this mascara not only volumizes but also curls your lashes beautifully. Its added lash serum ensures your lashes remain healthy even with daily wear. If you need a mascara that can survive tears and Singapore’s humidity, this one’s a must-try.

Price: S$22.50 at Watsons

#4: ANESSA PERFECT UV SUNSCREEN

From the makers of Shiseido, the Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen has a loyal following for a reason. It doubles as a makeup primer while offering all-day protection. Suitable for all skin types, it’s particularly recommended for areas prone to sun damage, such as around the eyes. This multitasking sunscreen is a reliable staple in any skincare routine.

Price: S$15.50 for 20ml at Watsons, S$34.15 for 60ml at Guardian

#5: GATSBY FACIAL WIPES

For a quick refresh during the day, Gatsby Facial Wipes are a lifesaver. These wipes cleanse your face of dirt and oil while helping to control shine. They’re perfect for wiping away sweat after a workout or freshening up during humid days, making them a staple in any bag.

Price: S$2.80 at Hands Singapore (previously known as Tokyo Hands)

#6: SHISEIDO FINO PREMIUM TOUCH HAIR MASK

Is your hair looking a little dull? Shiseido’s FINO Premium Touch Hair Mask is just what you need. Designed to treat dry, damaged hair, this mask works wonders after exposure to UV rays or chemical treatments. Its rich formula deeply conditions and revives your hair, leaving it soft and smooth. I can’t wait to try this when my sister returns from Japan!

Price: S$14 for a 230g jar at Don Don Donki or on sale at Watsons for S$11.92

Image Credits: facebook.com/nurunnahar1984

These tried-and-true Japanese products offer quality at a price that’s easy on the wallet. Whether you’re exploring the beauty aisles in Japan or shopping locally, they’re worth every dollar!

Read More...

Singapore launches a FREE comprehensive genetic screening program for couples planning for parenthood

pregnancy test kits

KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH) has launched a new genetic screening program with Temasek Foundation to help couples planning or expecting children.

The free pilot from 2024 to 2027 identifies carriers of severe genetic disorders passed to children and helps with family planning decisions.

Called the first in Asia, the Temasek PREDICT (PaREnthood Genetic Disease Carrier Test) program screens over 80 disorders relevant to Asians.

Public carrier screening in Singapore usually tests specific disorders, as such, all pregnancies get screened for the Thalassemia major.

This has reduced cases by over 90%.

According to a joint press release with the KKH-led SingHealth Duke-NUS Maternal and Child Health Research Institute (MCHRI), children with Thalassemia major face lifelong health challenges.

Meanwhile, antenatal screening is available for all pregnancies checking for Down syndrome and common chromosomal disorders.

High-risk pregnancies also get screened based on family history or the mother’s age.

genetic disorders

Image Credits: kkh.com.sg

The new program screens a wider panel of over 80 relevant disorders that may cause shortened life and severe disability, which occurs in 1 in 1,000 people in Singapore. 

All screenings will be done at KKH at the moment with plans to expand to selected clinics.

KKH will assess scaling it up by 2027 based on the pilot.

Identifying risks of inherited disorders

This new genetic screening program addresses gaps in existing tests since most panels miss over 25% of common severe recessive disorders in Asians.

This means many Singapore couples are unaware of the risks of passing on conditions.

Three in 100 babies born each year have rare disorders or defects.

Carriers (parents) may not have issues themselves but could have affected children without knowing those risks beforehand; up to one in 250 couples risks being carriers of the same disorder.

The program thus allows informed decisions for managing pregnancies to understand inheritance risks.

How to sign yourself and your spouse up

As mentioned earlier, KKH is piloting the voluntary carrier screening program for couples planning pregnancy.

Testing involves a simple blood test or cheek swab so it’s nothing too scary.

Couples identified as carriers will receive counseling to understand results and options like family planning.

The pilot aims to screen 40,000 couples and KKH will assess feedback and technology before potentially expanding the program. 

Carrier screening empowers couples with knowledge and choices aligned with their family goals and values, helping them plan for parenthood and be well-prepared for the challenges of raising a child.

The program screens eligible couples for genetic conditions before or during pregnancy and couples interested can self-refer by emailing [email protected] or Whatsapping 6394 3998 for more info.

Read More...

3 top-rated postnatal massage services in Singapore to sign yourself up for after-pregnancy

a pregnant belly

Welcoming a newborn is a joyous experience, but it also brings physical and emotional changes for new mothers and that’s where postnatal massages can be that step in aiding recovery, helping to relieve muscle pain, reduce swelling, and enhance overall well-being.

If you believe in that, we’ve got several top-rated massage services that stand out for their expertise you can consider to restore your body after pregnancy.

Read on!

Pamper Me Jamu Wellness Pte Ltd

Website: pampermejamuwellness.com

Google Rating: 5 (800+ reviews)

Ancient Balinese healing awaits new moms craving rejuvenation: the Signature Balinese Jamu Postnatal Massage rooted in the timeless traditions of Bali where soothing therapy combines massage techniques and acupressure to target meridian points while a custom natural herb blend (no chemical additives!) is applied to your abdomen.

Emerge feeling renewed as the treatment culminates with binding in cozy cotton batik binders.

It’s the most worthwhile “Mother’s Day” gift to yourself—a postnatal care experience to soothe the body and spirit in those early months of motherhood.

Pamper yourself with a restorative 5-session package starting from $628.

MummyCare Therapy Postnatal Massage

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by MummyCare (@mummycaretherapy)

Website: mummycaretherapy.com.sg

Google Rating: 5 (230+ reviews)

MummyCare Therapy Postnatal Massage is a pioneer in 100% natural post-partum care, blending time-honored techniques for slimming and recovery.

Their signature blend melds traditional Malay abdomen binding with meridian massage, an ancient method primed to blast away stubborn baby weight while restoring your body’s balance.

90 minutes across 7 luxurious sessions (packages start at $1190), this ritual stimulates lymphatic drainage and tones core muscles for a restored, pre-baby silhouette.

No harsh chemicals, odors, or itchiness guaranteed.

After months of nurturing a new life, you deserve to feel restored in your own skin.

Postnatal Massage Singapore Pte Ltd

Website: pnsingapore.com

Google Rating: 4.9 (1760+ reviews)

New moms, you’ve been through a lot and we know it.

So why not show yourself some postpartum love with an ancient Javanese therapy that does so much more than soothe sore muscles?

This holistic massage aids lactation, helps tone your body and eases water retention in those stubborn areas like your tummy and thighs and it doesn’t stop there—improved blood flow means you will burn fat faster while womb and pelvic massages aid recovery by repositioning organs and encouraging lochia discharge.

No more simply relieving back pains as these therapists are trained to heal your mind and body.

Invest in yourself with a comprehensive package from Singapore’s experts in postnatal massage.

Prices start from $678 for a 5-session course (each session includes 60 minutes of massage + 10 minutes of binding).

As you’ve seen above, each of these top-rated postnatal massage services in Singapore offers care designed to help new mothers heal and regain their strength. Whether it’s traditional techniques or modern approaches, these services provide the comfort you need during your postpartum period. Prioritize your well-being and consider signing up for one of these postnatal massage services today!

Read More...

Fragrance Hacks to Stretch Your Cents

When I first delved into the world of fragrances, I quickly realized that high-end perfumes tend to steal the spotlight. But as someone who wanted to smell fabulous without overspending, I made it my mission to find scents that worked for me, like Chanel’s Coco Mademoiselle and Bath & Body Works’ Into The Night, without breaking the bank.

Here are some tried-and-tested strategies I’ve discovered to keep smelling great without splurging on every bottle.

#1: DO YOUR RESEARCH

Before splashing out on a new fragrance, it is important to understand your skin type, as this directly affects how long a scent will last. Dry skin tends to absorb fragrance more quickly, leading to a shorter wear time. In contrast, oily skin holds onto fragrance longer because of its natural oils. By knowing whether your skin leans dry, oily, or somewhere in between, you will be better equipped to choose a perfume that lasts.

Once you understand your skin type, focus on finding scents that complement it. For dry skin, stronger, more concentrated fragrances like eau de parfum or parfum tend to have better staying power. If your skin is oily, lighter scents such as fresh bergamot or fruity perfumes may linger longer without being overpowering. Experimenting with different types will help you discover what works best for you.

#2: MASTER THE APPLICATION

Applying perfume correctly can make all the difference. To get the most out of your fragrance, focus on pulse points like the wrists, neck, and behind the ears, where heat helps diffuse the scent. Layering your fragrance with complementary lotions or oils can also enhance its depth and longevity, leaving you smelling delightful all day.

#3: EXPLORE LOCAL BRANDS

You do not always need to turn to luxury brands for quality scents. Local brands like BestPerfume.Store and Singapore Memories offer affordable alternatives that are just as impressive.

BestPerfume.Store specializes in affordable reimagining of high-end perfumes, with options like J’Adore by Dior, Eros by Versace, and Afternoon Swim by Louis Vuitton. Their 100ml bottles start at just S$59, often on sale for S$53. They are committed to high-quality, cruelty-free production, with all their processes being HSA-compliant.

Image Credits: singapore-memories.com

Singapore Memories also offers a variety of affordable scents inspired by local culture. Their Aranda 1965 blends bergamot and citrus with Tibetan amber, while Singapore Girl features soft citrus notes balanced by lotus and teakwood. Their perfumes start at S$28 for an 18ml EDT bottle and S$38 for a 10ml EDP bottle. Don’t get me started with its eye-catching packaging!

#4: CREATE YOUR SCENT

Feeling adventurous? Try creating your own fragrance. In Singapore, there are several workshops where you can craft a personalized scent. The Perfumery Workshop by Nefertum Fragrances offers sessions for S$59.90, while Perfume Play’s Fragrance Making Workshop is priced at S$60.

During these workshops, you will learn about fragrance accords, types of notes, and other fragrance facts. Plus, you will get hands-on experience blending scents to match your style. It is a fun, affordable way to design a one-of-a-kind perfume.

#5: STORE FRAGRANCES WISELY

How you store your perfumes plays an important role in maintaining their quality. To preserve their potency, keep them in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and extreme heat. Avoid storing them in the bathroom, where fluctuating temperature and humidity can break down the fragrance molecules, causing them to degrade faster.

#6: BUY YOUR FAVORITES

To avoid buying fragrances you will not use, focus on scents that feature the notes you love. For me, those are jasmine, bergamot, sandalwood, amber, and vanilla. Knowing what works for your body chemistry and personal taste will help narrow your choices and prevent wasteful spending.

If you are unsure about a scent, start small by purchasing travel sizes or rollerballs. You can also test them in-store to see how they wear on your skin before committing to a full bottle.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

With a bit of research and savvy shopping, you will be smelling amazing while keeping your budget intact!

Sources:1,2, & 3

Read More...

Want to study in Korea for FREE? Application to the ‘2025 Global Korea Scholarship’ for undergraduate degrees has opened

2025 Global Korea Scholarship for Undergraduate Degrees

The National Institute for International Education (NIIED) under the Ministry of Education of the Republic of Korea has officially extended an invitation to talented Singaporean students for the ‘2025 Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) for Undergraduate Degrees.’

Comprehensive application guidelines, which include eligibility criteria, required documents, and other critical information are out, and here are some highlights for you:

Quota for Singaporean grantees under the embassy track

Only 1 person will be selected.

Scholarship Duration:

Bachelor’s Degree: 5 to 7 years (1 year of Korean language training + 4 to 6 years of academic program)

Selection Timeline:

Application Period: now till 30 September 2024

Announcement of Shortlisted Applicants for Interviews: 4 October 2024

Interview Date: Afternoon of 14 October 2024

Note: Interview dates are fixed and times will be individually communicated to those who pass the document review.

1st Selection Results Announced: 15 October 2024

2nd Round of Selection Results: By late November 2024

3rd Round of Selection Results: By December 2024

Final Selection Results: By early January 2025

The 2nd to the final round of selection results will be made known via studyinkorea.go.kr

Entry to Korea: February 2025

Eligibility:
  • Must hold Singaporean citizenship, with both parents holding non-Korean citizenship
  • Must be under 25 years of age (born after 1 March 2000)
  • Intended for applicants who graduated (or are expected to graduate) from JC/MI or Polytechnics. Bachelor’s degree holders are ineligible.
  • Applicants expected to graduate by 31 December 2024 must submit a certificate of expected graduation at the time of application by 31 December 2024, if they pass the first selection round.

For academic requirements, applicants must have a CGPA equivalent to or higher than:

  • 2.64 on a 4.0 scale
  • 2.80 on a 4.3 scale
  • 2.91 on a 4.5 scale
  • 3.23 on a 5.0 scale
  • 80% or above on a 100-point scale or ranked within the top 20% of their class

Additional eligibility criteria may apply as specified by individual universities/departments.

Applicants must select three different universities and fields of study from the list of 64 universities provided via overseas.mofa.go.kr.

The first choice must be from Type B universities.

GKS 2025 available universities

Application Submission:

Address:

Korean Government Scholarship Program 2025

Embassy of the Republic of Korea

47 Scotts Road, #08-00 Goldbell Towers, Singapore 228233

Embassy working hours: 9 am to 6 pm (Monday to Friday) but do avoid lunch break hours from 12.30 to 2 pm.

Document Submission:

  • Photocopies of all documents are acceptable for initial submission.
  • After the 1st selection results on 15 October 2024, the selected candidate and one backup candidate must submit one apostilled or consular-confirmed original document and three photocopies of the application documents by 21 October 2024.

Submission Deadline:

30 September 2024, 6 pm.

For more information, do direct your queries to [email protected] or call 6860 6261 to speak to a human.

Otherwise, all that you need to know is written in black and white via overseas.mofa.go.kr.

Best of luck to all applicants!

Read More...