Thursday November 26, 2009

Vanity Fare

Compiled by PATSY KAM and WONG LI ZA

Radiant skin

FAIR smooth skin means one that is well hydrated. To make this a reality, Kanebo Cosmetics presents a comprehensive brightening range with a focus on skincare and base make-up.

Blanchir Superior is designed to prevent the formation of “spot zones” even if the skin has already been damaged by UV rays, and aims to deliver radiant and hydrated skin.

The key ingredient is the Oriental botanical extract Ganhakusai, obtained from plants that grows in cold climates such as the Himalayan region. The result is a cream that offers high protection from UV rays, and hydrates and moisturises the skin while facilitating the process of exfoliation of old skin cells.

The Cream Cleansing is claimed to lift and remove unwanted keratin containing melanin to rid the skin of dullness while the Cream Soap removes impurities, and soothes and conditions the skin to facilitate the absorption of skincare products later.

The White Deep Clear Conditioner controls melanin production and prevents reddening caused by sunburn, and the White Deep Milky Conditioner controls melanin production and is touted to prevent spots and freckles, and seals in moisture for better skin hydration.

Available at Kanebo counters.

Vitality elixir

EVEN men are concerned about their eyes. Kiehl’s introduces Facial Fuel Eye De-Puffer, a treatment for men with tired, puffy eyes. This instantly cooling formula is packaged in a first-of-its-kind for Kiehl’s – a portable, compact stick that allows the treatment to be gently and easily applied to the under eye skin area.

Featuring energy boosting Arctic Root adaptogen plant, also known as “vitality elixir” for its ability to reduce signs of fatigue; caffeine to minimise puffiness; and hibiscus tea, touted to improve skin hydration, these natural ingredients work together to revive and awaken tired eyes.

Kiehl’s also has a collaboration with internationally renowned New York artist Brian Donnelly, professionally known as Kaws, with the aim of working towards creating a safer, more sustainable environment for children.

The partnership aims to raise awareness though the sales of its Limited Edition Crème de Corps Holiday Collection, where 100% of net profits from the sale of each product will be donated to children’s charities around the world. In addition to designing a colourful, optimistic label, KAWS designed the “Peace. Love. Kiehl’s” holiday window campaign.

The Crème de Corps is a hydrating, rich body moisturiser formulated with beta-carotene, squalane and nurturing oils derived from sesame seeds, soybeans, almonds and avocados. Proceeds of these limited edition bottles will go towards Yayasan Anak Warisan Alam.

Available at Kiehl’s outlets.

Look like a star

A RANGE of cosmetics popular with American celebrities, models and actresses is now within our reach.

Smashbox Cosmetics was founded by the great grandsons of make-up guru Max Factor, Dean and Davis Factor, in 1996. The brothers first started Smashbox Photo Studios in 1991 in Los Angeles, catering to starlets, celebrities and models. They were then asked to develop a make-up line that met the needs of a photo shoot and the rest, as they say, is history.

Today, the line’s star products are the Photo Finish Foundation Primer, High Definition Foundation, Halo Hydrating Perfecting Powder, Sheer Focus Tinted Moisturiser and O-Glow.

Available at Parkson Pavilion, Kuala Lumpur.

For better hydration

DEFINITE Cosmetics introduces its first skincare product with a formula that aims to preserve youthful-looking skin. The Hydra Swiss Spa Cosmetic Water is a lightweight concoction containing the extract from mallow flower, cultivated in the Swiss Alps. The extract is said to contain soothing, moisturising and anti-inflammatory properties.

Hydra Swiss also has biosaccharide gum-1, a naturally-derived moisturising agent, and sodium hyaluronate, said to give better hydration and moisturising effects.

The product is also touted to help oily-looking skin, and reduce spots and pore size.

Available at selected Parkson stores, AEON Bukit Indah, Johor Baru and Sunway Pyramid, Selangor.