Our Top Picks From The Winners Of This Year’s Guardian Health & Beauty Awards 2024

May 8, 2024May 8, 2024

Drugstore beauty just isn’t the same anymore — at least, that’s what we realised when we stepped into a Guardian store recently. Gone are the stark white lighting and almost clinical shelves; in its place, warm lighting that best showcase the wide array of health and beauty products in store, many of which represent the best-in-class and most trendy products from around the world.

Think toner pads and juicy k-beauty lip tints; the most high-tech suncare, skincare and hair care technology; and supplements that boost everything from our gut health to healthy hair and good sleep, all conveniently available at the one-stop shop that’s Guardian.

Every year, the retailer also plays host to a highly-anticipated signature event: the Guardian Health & Beauty Awards. It aims to spotlight — and crown — the best in the health and beauty industry, with bestselling brands and raved-about items in each category specifically hand-picked by a team of experts in the field. Guardian also makes sure to update the award categories yearly as well, in order to stay current to evolving trends and preferences.

Alongside the awards, Guardian will be running an exclusive ‘3 for 2 Mix & Match‘ promotion, both in stores and online, where you get to choose from over 3,000 top picks, including some of this year’s award-winning products. The promotion will be running for a limited time only, from now till 5 June 2024. And if you’re wondering what ought to be on your shopping list, look ahead to Guardian’s e-catalogue, or read on for some of our curated picks for the season.

BEST NEWCOMERS

BEAUTY
[Multi Balm]
KAHI Wrinkle Bounce Multi Balm

KAHI Wrinkle Bounce Multi Balm, $34.60 (U.P. $46.30, 25% off)

This k-beauty phenomenon is one of those that took the world by storm when it first launched, and comes highly recommended mostly because it gives the most enviable dewy skin effect in a convenient stick format. KAHI’s Wrinkle Bounce Multi-Balm, as the name implies, is more than a hydrating stick though — the balm boasts potent anti-ageing benefits and helps stimulate collagen production in our skin too, thanks to a Triple Salmon Complex that boosts skin elasticity. Feel free to apply it on dry areas of the skin, anywhere with fine lines and wrinkles, and even over makeup on places that need that extra lustre and glow.

BEAUTY
[Hydrating Mask]
Torriden Dive-IN HA Sheet Masks Pack

Torriden Dive-IN HA Sheet Masks Pack, $30.30 [3 for 2]

Part of hyped-about Korean skincare brand Torriden’s flagship range, the Dive-IN Line, these HA Sheet Masks capitalise on their beloved, skin-quenching 5D-Complex Hyaluronic Acid technology, which boosts and conditions skin with plenty of moisture, while providing long-lasting hydration. Each sheet mask is made of soft and flexible bio-cellulose that’s soaked with the signature Dive-IN serum, with the material ensuring that the mask retains and effectively delivers the hyaluronic acid essence to our skin, resulting in a smooth, dewy and plumped-up complexion.

BEAUTY
[Derma Serum, Anti-Ageing]
Avène Hyaluron Activ B3 Concentrated Plumping Serum

Avène Hyaluron Activ B3 Concentrated Plumping Serum, $109.90 [3 for 2]

In a category set aside for derma-skincare brands, which produce derma-grade products that contain superior active ingredients that are usually safe for sensitive skin, this Avène Hyaluron Activ B3 serum stands out in the highly-competitive category, mainly because it contains high concentrations of 6% Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) and 1.5% Hyaluronic Acid. These two actives, present in a minimalist formula of just 8 ingredients of 94% natural origin, go a long way in acting on the cause of ageing itself so we can see firm skin with smoother fine lines and wrinkles. There’s even an immediate tightening effect after use, while the fragrance-free product has been tested on sensitive skin, and is suitable for all areas of the face, even the eye area.

BEAUTY
[Derma Moisturiser Gel]
SKINTIFIC 5X Ceramide Moisturizer Gel

SKINTIFIC 5X Ceramide Moisturizer Gel, $20.20 [3 for 2]

Developed and formulated by scientists in Canada, SKINTIFIC’s skincare chooses to focus on specific active ingredients that work wonders on skin, such as the trio of Ceramide, Hyaluronic Acid, and Centella Asiatica, all of which are present in this 5X Ceramide Moisturizer Gel. The lightweight cream further contains five types of Ceramides to deeply moisturise and most importantly, repair, protect and strengthen our skin barrier, which helps in our skin being able to retain moisture and be well-protected against external factors; it can also improve damaged skin problems such as acne, redness, and texturised skin, in a safe and science-backed formula.

BESTSELLERS

PERSONAL CARE
[Bestselling Anti-Grey Serum]
Trichoderm Black Series Anti-Grey Max Hair Serum

Trichoderm Black Series Anti-Grey Max Hair Serum, $91.60

Grey hair is perhaps an inevitable sign of ageing, though today’s advanced technology means there are more than a couple of ways to combat it. Take dedicated hair care brand Trichoderm, for instance, with their latest and most upgraded Anti-Grey Max Hair Serum that’s proven to reverse grey hair from the roots, and result in a decrease of grey hair density. Now with three times the concentration of active ingredients, it’s important to note that this is not a hair colourant and is free from silicone, paraben and SLS as well. Instead, the made-in Japan product contains three important ingredients — GreyVerse™ is a patented peptide that’s clinically proven to reverse grey hair by enriching the melanin content in the hair shaft; SilverFree™ helps with pigmentation and providing a shield against oxidative damage; while MelanoGray™, an anti-grey hair extract responsibly-sourced from Chios mandarins, further reduces grey hair frequency in both men and women.

PERSONAL CARE
[Shaving, Men]
GilletteLabs with Exfoliating Bar Razor

GilletteLabs with Exfoliating Bar Razor, $29.50 (U.P. $40.60, 27% off)

A razor by any another name… would still be a razor? Not this Gillette tool though. The GilletteLabs men’s razor stands out for being able to combine shaving and exfoliating in one effortless stroke, as it’s coupled with a built-in exfoliating bar that removes dirt and debris for a smooth and efficient shave. On top of that, 2DFlexDisc technology means the razor can adapt to the contours to your face, for a closer and more comfortable experience, while it also comes with five blades and a premium magnetic stand that keeps it clean and hygienic.

HEALTH CARE
[Relax & Sleep Aid, Non-Melatonin]
GO Healthy Magnesium Sleep

GO Healthy Magnesium Sleep, $59.10 [3 for 2]

A good night’s sleep is definitely necessary to one’s health, and there’s no harm in reaching for a sleep supplement should you require it, in order to support deep and restful sleep. Those sensitive to Melatonin, a common ingredient in supplements of this category, would be happy to note that New Zealand brand GO Healthy’s Magnesium Sleep is free of it, and instead, relies on two forms of Magnesium — the highly-absorbable Magnesium chelate, and natural marine Magnesium — which help relax muscles and ease nervous tension and stress. These are chosen to be easily absorbed as well, for the calming formula to be more effective when in use.

HEALTH CARE
[Beauty Enhancer Skin Supplement, Anti-Ageing]
GreenLife Derma Youth Deer Placenta

GreenLife Derma Youth Deer Placenta, $84.75 (U.P. $130.40, 35% off)

Luminous skin, a youthful complexion, improved cellular repair, and healthy energy levels — these are just some of the key benefits present in GreenLife’s Derma Youth Deer Placenta supplement, designed to do all the above by incorporating a prized Traditional Chinese Medicine ingredient, Deer Placenta. The latter is known in TCM circles to balance Yin and Yang energies within the body, though it’s also a rich source of amino acids that then helps with the aforementioned skin and health benefits; the brand also uses a specialised air-drying technology to retain high-quality nutrients from Australian Deer Placenta. The formula further contains Marine Collagen, Evening Primrose Oil, Avocado and Grape Seed Oils for even more multi benefits that support women’s well-being.

All items featured here are available at Guardian stores islandwide, and online at guardian.com.sg. More on the ‘3 for 2’ promotion here.

RIMOWA Unveils New Tropical-Inspired Seasonal Colours — Mint And Papaya

May 8, 2024May 8, 2024

Imagine being whisked away to a beach holiday, with the promise of sun, sand, and sea, or the carefree feeling of being on the open road in Summer — these feel-good vibes are perfectly captured by RIMOWA‘s latest seasonal Essential collection, which introduces two complementary pastel shades, Mint and Papaya, across their premium suitcases and accessories.

Inspired by tropical destinations, we’re led to embrace colours beyond the brand’s signature aluminium and black models, with these two new pops of colours. Mint is a soft yet fresh shade of green that “draws inspiration from the pastel-hued buildings characteristic of tropical cities”, while Papaya is a vibrant orange that reminds us of a beachside sunset.

These are available in the Essential range, in suitcase styles that see the premium polycarbonate shell to the handle, zipper, and wheel housing crafted in a tone-on-tone monochromatic appearance. More specifically, the Cabin ($1,260), Check-In M ($1,460) and Trunk Plus ($2,010) are available in Papaya; and the Cabin, Check-In L ($1,590) and Trunk Plus sizes are available in Mint.

On top of that, RIMOWA’s popular Personal Polycarbonate Cross-Body Bag ($1,770) also arrives in White Gloss and Mint for a matching set, also helped by the grooved polycarbonate design. Daily bags such as the RIMOWA Signature Flap Backpack Large ($2,010) and RIMOWA Signature Duffle Bag ($2,070) also see mint iterations, while you can literally go for a full matching travel set with the Packing Cubes ($150 – $190) also arriving in the two new colours.

Additionally, the brand has also expanded their RIMOWA UNIQUE offerings, such that wheels, handles and tags will be unveiled in both Mint and Papaya as part of their customisation programme.

More campaign images, and the celebrities who attended the global launch event in Seoul here —

[CLICK ON THE IMAGES TO EXPAND.]

The RIMOWA Essential suitcase range, Personal range, Signature collection, and travel accessories, available at RIMOWA stores and online.

Tiffany Titan By Pharrell Williams Brings A Punk-Rock Edge To The Luxury Jewellery Brand

May 7, 2024May 8, 2024

We haven’t been this excited since Tiffany HardWear. Luxury jewellery brand Tiffany & Co. has recently brought in the always-stylish Pharrell Williams, also currently Louis Vuitton Men’s creative director, on board for a new collection that’s edgy, cool, and wonderfully unexpected for the brand.

The Tiffany Titan by Pharrell Williams collection takes on the mythological Poseidon’s trident, with those sharp, spear-like spikes taking over necklaces, earrings, bracelets and rings, thus bringing a defiant punk-rock aesthetic to traditionally dainty fine jewellery.

That said, we do see an element of elegance within these inventive designs; in 18k yellow gold and titanium, the spikes are juxtaposed by curved links that bring a balanced softness to the spunk and spikes, while there are also diamond iterations among the metal styles. Interestingly, these pavé pieces feature reverse-set diamonds, which emphasises their brilliance since the particular setting exposes the diamond’s pavilion.

The collection also features the use of titanium, as a dark and muted contrast to gleaming gold and the diamonds’ brilliance; here, Tiffany shows off their technical precision via a process that’s able to give us a deep black hue. Particular care is made to ensure each earring or necklace moves with the wearer as well, for designs that are dynamic and intuitive.

“I’m very inspired by the water, and the name of this collection “Titan” draws inspiration from Poseidon, ruler of the sea, King of Atlantis – “Atlantis” which is also the name of the community I grew up in Virginia Beach,” says Williams. “The detail in all of the jewelry pieces is very intentional, the use of black titanium…it’s a physical manifestation of beauty in blackness.”

See the full collection here —

[click on the images to expand.]

Tiffany Titan by Pharrell Williams will be available this May exclusively on Tiffany.com in the US and at The Landmark in New York City. The collection will be available globally at Tiffany & Co. stores and Tiffany.sg in June.

Swatch x VERDY Sees The Celebrated Japanese Graphic Artist’s Works On Watches And A Wall Clock

May 3, 2024May 3, 2024

Cute, colourful, and with a healthy dose of positive energy, Japanese graphic artist VERDY and his mood-lifting characters and art make their way to a unique Swatch collection, where we see some of his most iconic illustrations interpreted into a series of four watches, and even a watch-shaped wall clock.

The Swatch x VERDY collection is essentially a celebration of the artist, currently based in Tokyo, with his lighthearted message of the joy of life, and connection with our inner child, coming through across the designs. ‘VICK BY VERDY’, for instance, sees his signature panda-rabbit character, Vick, alongside an ‘A’ across the NEW GENT BIOSOURCED watch face as a nod to punk rock rebellion; the timepiece then sports a black-and-white colour that’s sleek and versatile.

For those into colour, ‘VISTY BY VERDY’ features the character Visty, meant to cheer one up during tough times, across a multi-coloured watch design in yellow, green, pink, and blue. Created to represent the artist’s love for punk and skate culture, ‘WASTED YOUTH BY VERDY’ is a bold blue-and-white watch that reinterprets the Wasted Youth logo in a graphic style, reinforced with the words ‘I can’t waste my time anymore’ written on the case below the dial.

Then there’s the unique transparent design of ‘GIRLS DON’T CRY BY VERDY’, which pays homage to a project VERDY created as a gift for his wife. A red heart, understandably, lies in the centre of the dial, one that also shows off the skeletal internals of the GENT watch, while there’s also white logo lettering across the matching transparent strap.

To up the fun factor, the collection introduces the most playful ‘MAXI VISTY BY VERDY’ supersized 2.1m wall watch, for Swatch collectors who’d love to deck their homes with the mischievous spirit of the collection.

See all the designs here —

[click on the images below to expand.]

Swatch x VERDY, available at Swatch stores and online.

Guerlain reinvents their iconic Météorites Pearls of Powder

May 1, 2024May 3, 2024

In 1987, Guerlain launched a revolutionary makeup product — little balls of iridescent powder in various complementing shades. It’s used just like regular loose powder; just swirl a brush over the pearls and sweep it over the face, or take a powder puff and then pat the product directly onto skin. For makeup lovers, it’s a sensorial experience that sets your makeup and gives the complexion a beautiful radiance.

What’s updated is a formula that is now composed of 95% naturally-derived ingredients. In each jar, there are two types of complementary mother-of-pearls: sparkling coloured mother-of-pearls that provide radiance to the skin, and silver light mother-of-pearls that radiate light naturally over time. The result is a longer-lasting radiant complexion that looks fresh and naturally glowy for up to 12 hours.

With this new version, there’s a hint of the original scent from the previous powder, but it’s subtler — I suppose to appeal to a wider audience who may not favour such a heavily-fragranced powder. Even the packaging has been updated from the silver jar to a far more vibrant and colourful golden case. There’s also an accompanying powder brush ($90) to apply this with if you want the full experience.

Guerlain Météorites Light-Revealing Powder Pearls, priced at $111 and available in four shades at all guerlain beauty counters.

All About The Gentle Monster x JENNIE “Jentle Salon” Collection — Including A Special Pop-Up In Singapore

Apr 25, 2024Apr 26, 2024

Imagine our elation when we opened up Instagram to a video of none other than Miss It-Girl Jennie Kim, unboxing a giant pink-and-white box that unveiled the fluffiest of unicorns — and her latest Gentle Monster collaboration.

That’s right, the world collectively sighed in envy as we watched more and more teasers about the BLACKPINK member’s latest tie-up with the South Korean eyewear brand, so it’s about time we got a proper low-down on the Gentle Monster and JENNIE collection.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by GENTLE MONSTER (@gentlemonster)

Launching 1 May, this is definitely a highly-anticipated collaboration and the third project between them, where we’ve been, no doubt, charmed by Jennie’s superstar status. The ‘JENTLE SALON’ collection stands out for its sleek and chic eyewear, that can now be embellished with a series of eye-catching charms such as bows, crystal hearts, dangling pearls, and a cute capybara called ‘Cooing’.

The series comprises of eight frame silhouettes in total, where you’ll find trendy wraparound styles, as well as more classic acetate frames, including the angular cateye Baby Pony, soft oval Hush, and butterfly-style Fish Tail.

Silver metal frames such as the Barrette, a unique oval pair with a studded temple that resembles a hairpin, and Glitter, a rimless graduated sunglasses style, ups the cool factor of the collection, though we still love the coquette touches in the pastel choices and bows throughout — get a girl who can do both!

As for the charms, you’ll get to choose from a range of 11, though you may only opt for up to two charms per frame. Another cute touch — each pair of frames will arrive in a furry pink eyewear case, topped off with a matching pink bow.

And as if we’re not hyped up enough, we’re told that Gentle Monster will be debuting a series of special pop-ups in 13 cities, including Seoul, New York, Tokyo, Beijing — and yes, Singapore!

You’ll want to mark your calendars as the JENTLE SALON pop-up arrives 1 May to 30 May at Marina Bay Sands, where you might be able to spot a giant unicorn adorned with hairpins in a whimsical, fantastical dreamscape.

See all the eyewear designs in the Jentle Salon collection here —

[click on the images below to expand.]

Gentle Monster x JENNIE ‘Jentle Salon’ Collection, priced at $430 – $520 for the frames, and $30 – $100 for the charms. Each frame entitles you to two charms. Available at Gentle Monster stores from 1 May 2024.

The Jentle Salon pop-up in Singapore will be at Marina Bay Sands, #B2-103/104/105, from 1 May to 30 May 2024. Mon – Thu, 10.30am – 10pm; Fri – Sat, 10.30am – 11pm.

Sunscreen is one of the most important skincare you can invest in; and if you’re too lazy to use anything else, at least use sunscreen. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends one with an SPF of at least 30, which filters out about 97% of UVB rays. If you get an SPF of 50, it’ll block out 98% of these rays. You’ll also need to look for a sunscreen that has a broad-spectrum formula (look for the PA sign on the packaging), as this also protects the skin against UVA rays. The more + signs you see behind the PA, the higher the protection against UVA rays.

These are some of the best broad-spectrum sunscreens with SPF 50 that you can wear under (or even over) makeup.

DIORSNOW UV SHIELD TONE UP
SPF 50+ PA+++

Dior’s UV Shield is delightful; it feels beautifully light and fresh on the skin, and this tinted version envelops it in a rosy veil that makes the complexion more even and radiant. The key ingredient in the formula is Edelweiss, which Dior science has discovered could help diminish, correct and prevent the appearance of dark spots. There’s also Vitamin C, known for its brightening and antioxidant properties.

Diorsnow UV Shield Tone Up UV Protection for Face – Tinted Skin, $105 (30ML).

CHANEL UV ESSENTIEL
SPF 50/PA++++

This has a “skin strengthening” complex made with ginger extract from the CHANEL open-sky laboratory in Madagascar (this boosts the skin’s natural defenses) and Tahitian gardenia extract (which strengthens the skin barrier, helping to prevent premature ageing).

The formula was also designed to withstand hot and humid conditions (like Singapore’s climate) and to improve the look of makeup when used as a base.

CHANEL UV Essentiel, $94 (30ML).

LANCÔME UV EXPERT AQUA GEL
SPF 50 PA++++

We like the gel texture of this product that feels cooling on the skin, plus the brand hails this as a good primer as it can “grip makeup”. Similar to the Dior sunscreen, this formula includes the Edelweiss Flower that strengthens the skin’s barrier, with the addition of Rosa Gallica to calm skin and Moringa Seeds to protect against pollution.

LANCÔME UV EXPERT AQUA GEL, $88 (30ML).

TATCHA THE SILK SUNSCREEN
SPF 50 UVA

Everything about Tatcha’s fully mineral formula is lovely; it feels silky on skin, creates a smooth, even and semi-matte finish, and has a hydrating formula that includes hyaluronic acid and niacinamide.

TATCHA THE SILK SUNSCREEN, $105 (50ML).

ULTRA VIOLETTE PREEN SCREEN
SPF 50 BROAD SPECTRUM

Ultra Violette is famous for their Queen Screen Luminishing Sun Serum, which is always sold out; but the Preen Screen Mist is the product that we keep in our bags. It comes in two sizes (featured is the portable 30ml bottle), and has a spray that comes out light and even. And since we’re told to reapply sunscreen every few hours (especially if you’re out in the sun), this mist is as handy as it gets.

ULTRA VIOLETTE Preen Screen™ SPF 50 Reapplication Mist, $21 (30ML) / $45 (75ML).

CAUDALIE VINOSUN SPF 50 INVISIBLE HIGH PROTECTION STICK

Sunscreen in stick form is convenient to apply and bring around, especially when travelling; and Caudelie’s formula is water-resistant, invisible and fragrance-free, which makes it suitable for children and those with sensitive skin. Toss this one in the bag and bring it everywhere.