Are you into clean beauty? Harmful chemicals and additives are often included in off-the-shelf beauty products, and that’s why it’s so important to read the label and ingredient list before purchasing something. Whether you’re on the hunt for natural beauty products or organic skincare in Singapore, here are some of our top picks!
Retern Balancing Shampoo, $49
“If you’re looking for a no-nasties shampoo that’s gentle on the scalp, this natural shampoo by hair and scalp specialist Retern is a great one to try. Suitable for all scalp types, including sensitive and combination scalps, the made-in-Australia shampoo contains pure aloe vera juice for healing and active plant ingredients like lavender, which has antiseptic properties.
While I love its calming, spa-like scent, I’d have preferred if it lathers up more. But there are no sulphates, parabens or artificial fragrances in the formula, so this is a small trade-off. It cleanses my scalp well and makes it feel more refreshed, but I have to use a second shampoo to nourish my bleached locks. It’s an extra step but my scalp doesn’t seem to itch like before, so I will continue using it! The trichology centre (#04-01 Shaw Centre) also provides free consultation by their certified hair specialist, for those with hair and scalp concerns. Contact them at 6363 5755 or WhatsApp 9272 3911 to find out more.”
– Anthia Chng
The Honey Collection Active Clear Acne Cream, $32.50
I’ve been searching for an effective yet affordable acne cream that doesn’t dry out my sensitive skin, and I think I’ve found a keeper. This natural skincare product contains botanical extracts like manuka honey and chamomile for anti-inflammatory and healing benefits. Made in New Zealand, this cruelty-free cream is certified 100 percent natural by BioGro.
The first few times I used this, I was impressed by its immediate effects. My active breakouts looked much calmer within a week, and even my husband noticed a difference in his complexion after applying the cream on his “maskne” spots. Sadly, I’m still not spared from my hormonal acne, but I’m happy with what the product has done so far. The ingredient list, while clean, includes a small amount of salicylic acid (great for acne-prone skin), which I know some are sensitive to – take note!
– Anthia Chng
Mira Wild Rose Body Soap, $13.50
Handmade with a blend of organic shea butter, unrefined coco butter and sweet almond oil, this soap bar is much firmer than most others I’ve tried, which tend to go soggy and begin to dissolve after a wash or two. The first time use took a bit of lathering to get some foam, but subsequent washes were lovely. This soap has a slight exfoliating texture with a subtle rose geranium scent.
My skin is soft and I can feel the protective barrier of the oils on my skin afterwards – not oily, just a squeaky-clean finish. I love knowing that there are no nasties in there, and apparently a bar should last for a month of regular use.
– Danielle Rossetti
Lilaroze Organic Orange Blossom Body Scrub, $48
If you’re looking for a gentle body scrub with a light and pleasant scent that doesn’t overpower, this French-made product is worth a try. Formulated with 94 percent natural ingredients like sugar, sunflower seed oil and sweet almond oil, the body scrub doesn’t contain nasties like parabens or sulphates.
Since sugar is used instead of salt, the grains are rather fine and melt easily with water. Personally, I prefer a rougher blend for a more intense scrubbing session, but I also like how this texture doesn’t over exfoliate my skin. After each use, I feel much cleaner and fresher from top to toe. I’ve been incorporating it into my shower regime twice a week and I’ve noticed that my parched skin is now looking more hydrated than before. If only the scent was stronger! For more organic skincare in Singapore, check out Beauty Closet’s website!
– Anthia Chng
Neal’s Yard Remedies Wild Rose collection, price varies
To enjoy this Wild Rose series, you do have to really love the rose scent! It’s fairly strong and I wouldn’t want to use it every day. I love the texture of the Shower Oil ($48), which contains organic wild rosehip seed oil and sweet almond oil. This is a good alternative to soap that can dry out skin when you’re having a couple of showers a day. I felt that the Body Polish ($46) was very oily and not abrasive enough for me. My favourite out of the collection is the Body Lotion ($52), which is certified organic. It has a nice texture and a deep, almost musky scent.
Neal’s Yard Remedies ’ organic skincare and body care collections are available at online retailer Simple Wellness.
– Rebecca Bisset
Zuii Certified Organic Lux Finishing Powder, $49
I love putting on a full face of makeup for a night out, but my skin tends to feel extra oily and congested afterwards. On top of that, many off-the-shelf makeup brands are known to sneak in harmful additives that can trigger my acne!
On the contrary, this silky-soft powder contains organic ingredients like rosa damascena flower (rose), witch hazel extract and camellia seed oil to nourish the skin while setting makeup and controlling shine. On first use, I noticed that the powder has a strong floral scent, which isn’t what I’m used to. Thankfully, it dissipates within seconds of applying. You only need a small amount to set your makeup; anything more and you can look “cakey”. It does a fine job in keeping my face matte, and I love how it adds a bit of coverage by evening out my skin tone. I think I’ve found a new favourite, as it doesn’t break me out either! The Min List stocks a wide range of natural and organic skincare in Singapore; check out their website for more!
– Anthia Chng
Luxe Botanics Kigelia Corrective Moisturiser, $115
“Given that the heat and humidity in Singapore have really picked up lately, I’ve had to make slight adjustments to my day-to-day regimes to stay comfortable and hydrated. Just like I tweak my wardrobe for toastier days, I also opt for more breathable moisturisers that don’t suffocate my skin. For my body, that means trading in thick body butters and balms for light and fast-absorbing alternatives. Likewise, for my face, I try to stick to non-greasy, natural serums and gels.
This moisturiser by luxury skincare brand Luxe Botanics is an ideal choice for the heat! Packed with the vitamins and antioxidants of Kigelia africana (a fruit native to tropical African regions, traditionally used to heal and soothe skin concerns), this lightweight gel aims to calm and renew skin with anti-inflammatory properties and natural peptides that encourage cellular regeneration.”
– Leanda Rathmell
This article first appeared in the June 2021 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe, so you never miss a copy!
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