L'Officiel Singapore Beauty Awards 2022: Winning Skincare Products
Here, we cut through the clutter and determine the best products for every skin type and concern
By far the biggest category in our Beauty Awards, with 10 broad skincare subcategories and three specialised ones tailored for mature, acne-prone, and sensitive skin. Here, we cut through the clutter and determine the best products for every skin type and concern.
Cleansers
CLARIFYING
DIOR BEAUTY, LA MOUSSE OFF/ON FOAMING CLEANSER
Survive in the urban jungle with this purifying facial cleanser. Producing a cloud-like and detoxifying foam, this product thoroughly cleanses the skin, as well as hydrates and soothes it with components like water lily and cornflower floral water. “It is formulated with tocopherol — a class of natural-origin compounds that exhibit vitamin E activity, which protects the skin from free radical damage,” says Dr Teo.
HYDRATING
RATIONALE, #4 THE CLEANSER
For sensitive and acne-prone skin, #4 The Cleanser is designed to restore skin balance. Boasting a luxurious crème formula packed with antioxidant vitamins, it improves the skin barrier and promotes luminous skin through its calming ingredients, all the while boosting hydration, firmness, and elasticity in the skin.
SOOTHING
DERMA LAB, AMINO GENTLE CLEANSER
A formulation created to penetrate the skin without stripping away its natural protective oils. This gentle cleanser helps to nourish the skin with barrier-fortifying ingredients like amino and glycerin. “I love using this product on days when I have makeup on for a whole day as it cleanses my skin thoroughly without leaving a drying after-feel,” says Melissa Mae.
BRIGHTENING
SISLEY, PHYTO BLANC LA MOUSSE CLEANSER
Treat dull-looking skin with this cleansing mousse. Bursting with the formula’s key ingredients such as marshmallow polysaccharides and vitamin B3, this product aids in ridding the skin of leftover grime while promoting brightness and radiance. “My skin looked brighter and felt comfortable post-cleanse,” says Dipna Lim.
MULTITASKING
TATCHA, THE CAMELLIA CLEANSING OIL
Take your skincare routine up a notch with this moisturising two-in-one makeup remover and oil-based cleanser. Packed with Japanese camellia oil, this product gently removes makeup and excess oils, leaving the skin feeling nourished and restored after a long day out.
Toners
CLARIFYING
GLOW RECIPE, WATERMELON GLOW PHA + BHA PORE-TIGHT TONER
Achieve buttery soft skin and a glow with this innovative blend of hydrating and pore-tightening actives. Powered by watermelon extract, this rich tightening toner hydrates and exfoliates the skin all at once, with efficacy in reducing pore size in as little as two weeks.
HYDRATING
DIOR BEAUTY, PRESTIGE LA MICRO-LOTION DE ROSE
For the Prestige La Micro-Lotion De Rose, Dior extracts soothing minerals from its very own rose garden in Normandy. Formulated with 92 per cent natural origin ingredients, prepare for intense hydration with millions of rose micro-droplets plumping and purifying the skin for hours after use.
SOOTHING
LAVIEN, CENTELLA CREAMING TONER
Infused with Centella leaf extract, triple cica ingredients and other soothing properties, apply this gentle exfoliating toner on your face before using a serum or moisturiser to get even skin texture and tone, and to give your skin a natural, healthy glow.
BRIGHTENING
CODEX BEAUTY LABS, ANTÜ TONING RADIANCE MIST
What better way to rehydrate your skin than with Codex Beauty Labs’ toning mist? This product reduces the appearance of discolouration and pores when sprayed twice daily for two weeks.
MULTITASKING
PAULA’S CHOICE, SKIN BALANCING PORE-REDUCING TONER
Thanks to its weightless formula filled with antioxidants and hydrating ceramides, this product helps to tackle oily skin, while pulling triple duty as a cleanser, makeup remover, and hydrating toner.
Essences
HYDRATING ESSENCE
BSKIN, VITA ADVANCED NATURAL BALANCE ESSENCE
This lightweight and alcohol-free essence is a refreshing pick-me-up for normal, combination, or oily skin. Gently pat onto cleansed skin to hydrate and restore its natural pH balance. “It is well formulated with different types of bee extracts,” says Dr Teo. “Honey, royal jelly, and propolis are ingredients with dermatological benefits and with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects.”
PLUMPING ESSENCE
THE SKIN FIRM, YOUTHTHERAPY CONCENTRATED ESSENCE
Bid farewell to signs of ageing with this potent essence. Containing over 90 per cent of yeast-derived galactomyces, this product aids in skin cell regeneration, hydration, and wrinkle resistance. All you need is a couple of drops to reduce stubborn fine lines and to notice plumper and brighter skin.
MULTITASKING ESSENCE
THE HISTORY OF WHOO, BICHUP FIRST CARE MOISTURE ANTI-AGING ESSENCE
Suitable for all skin types, The History of Whoo’s powerful blend of modern science and oriental medicine brings together an efficacious formula that gives the skin a radiant appearance by enhancing blood circulation and improving skin penetration for optimal skin renewal. “Beautiful in its packaging, this product helped to firm my skin,” says Dr Rajaratnam.
FACIAL MIST
GLOW RECIPE, WATERMELON GLOW ULTRA-FINE MIST
A refreshing and hydrating mist that gets the job done in one spritz. Envelop your skin in a blanket of 84 per cent watermelon extract, hyaluronic acid, and other dewy skin-inducing ingredients for a glistening glow. “My skin felt more hydrated and less tight,” says Dipna Lim. “It is a good travel companion too.”
Serums
CLARIFYING
DRUNK ELEPHANT, PROTINI POWERPEPTIDE RESURF SERUM
With 11 skin-fortifying peptides and multi-amino acid concentrate, this daily-use serum works hard to boost moisture levels in the skin with its antioxidative and soothing benefits, and improves skin texture and reduces the appearance of blemishes.
HYDRATING
CAUDALIE, VINOSOURCE-HYDRA S.O.S THIRST QUENCHING SERUM
A swift solution for those with dry and dehydrated skin comes in the form of this restorative hyaluronic acid serum. Its low molecular weight allows efficient absorption, letting the skin instantly lock in moisture while reducing the appearance of visible lines.
SOOTHING
DR.JART+, CICAPAIR SERUM
The Cicapair Serum is a holy grail for those with sensitive skin. The secret to calm skin and a reduction in redness is in this concoction’s soothing centella asiatica complex (otherwise known as tiger grass), which targets sensitivity and irritation. “Its ingredients are particularly beneficial against signs of inflammation,” says Dr Teo.
BRIGHTENING
DR. DENNIS GROSS, VITAMINC LACTIC 15% VITAMIN C FIRM & BRIGHT SERUM
Resulting in stronger and brighter skin, this vitamin C serum can eliminate hyperpigmentation and dark spots for an even-toned complexion. Once absorbed, this skin cocktail not only improves your skin tone but also helps to lift sagging skin.
MULTITASKING
L’OCCITANE, IMMORTELLE RESET SERUM
Give your skin an overnight reset with this high-performing and lightweight gel serum, supercharged with antioxidant-rich immortelle bubbles that provide a shield against dullness. “It was not greasy and my skin felt nourished afterwards,” says Zara Zhuang.
Eye Treatments
EYE SERUM
CLARINS, DOUBLE SERUM EYE
If you aren’t a fan of rich eye creams, this anti-ageing serum is a lighter alternative that still reduces puffiness on the under eyes, smoothing over wrinkles and improving elasticity in the skin around the eyes. “This eye serum has a nice smell and after-feel,” says Dr Rajaratnam.“It added instant radiance to my eye area.”
SOOTHING
DERMA LAB, OLIGOPEPTIDE EYE CREAM-GEL
Free from parabens and fragrances, this soothing eye treatment is enriched with a triple peptide blend, which boosts natural collagen production to banish dark under eyes and fine lines.
HYDRATING
BIO-ESSENCE, BIO-AGE’LUXE PRO-INTENSIVE EYE+ THERAPY
They say good things come in pairs, and this set is no exception. With golden-grade retinol, the Bio-Age’Luxe Pro-Intensive Eye+ Therapy delivers an intense boost of hydration while reducing the appearance of wrinkles. The product is accompanied by the Duo-LED applicator device, which is a handy massage tool that helps to relieve strain and fatigue around the eye.
BRIGHTENING
SK-II, SKINPOWER EYE CREAM
The Skinpower Eye Cream acts like a dream in a pot when applied to tired and dull under eyes. It is bursting with SK-II’s revolutionary pitera, a unique yeast extract with brightening effects for refreshed and youthful-looking eyes. “The cream feels rich but absorbs well. It is the perfect companion for both day and night use,” says Dipna Lim.
DEPUFFING
PORCELAIN, REVITALEYES CONCENTRATE
The skin area around the eye is delicate. And so a unique two-in-one product like Porcelain’s Revitaleyes Concentrate can instantly transform tired eyes with its potent blend of peptides and multi-action botanical extracts. Its built-in smart massaging device also helps to stimulate circulation to lighten the appearance of dark eye circles.
Moisturisers & Facial Oils
HYDRATING MOISTURISER
GLOW RECIPE, PLUM PLUMP HYALURONIC CREAM
With a cocktail of skin-perfecting ingredients like polyglutamic acid, multi-weight hyaluronic acid, and plum extract, the Plum Plump Hyaluronic Cream will help you achieve bouncy and glass-like skin.
SOOTHING MOISTURISER
DR.JART+, CICAPAIR CALMING GEL CREAM
Fuss-free and lightweight, this cica gel cream is full of Centella asiatica (tiger grass), soothing sensitive skin and delivering a blanket of moisture to calm any redness. “It’s the perfect day moisturiser for tired and sensitive skin,” says Melissa Mae.
BRIGHTENING MOISTURISER
CAUDALIE, VINOPERFECT BRIGHTENING MOISTURISER
Here’s your ticket to a luminous complexion. Infused with viniferine, a brightener that is reportedly 62 times more effective than your regular vitamin C and niacinamide, this product helps to counteract dryness and diminish the appearance of dark spots caused by sun damage.
MULTITASKING MOISTURISER
PAULA’S CHOICE, RESIST SUPER-LIGHT DAILY WRINKLE DEFENSE SPF30
If you’re on the hunt for a universal product, Paula’s Choice’s mineral-based anti-ageing moisturiser with SPF protection could be the perfect match. This silky moisturiser has a sheer tint, and it leaves behind a soft matte canvas — meaning that the product effectively doubles as skin prep for makeup application.
FACIAL OIL
CLARINS, BLUE ORCHID FACE TREATMENT OIL
Clarins’ Treatment Oil could enhance your natural glow from within. Packed with plant extracts and essential oils, it gives your dehydrated skin a nourishing treat and a buttery soft after-feel. “This facial oil was moisturising, and made my skin feel and look good post-application,” says Dr Rajaratnam.
FACIAL OIL CAPSULE
ÉST.LAB, INTENSIVE YOUTH RESTORING CAPSULES
Anything but greasy, these oil capsules are encapsulated with the Nobel Prize-winning super antioxidant fullerene, which is reported to be 250 times more powerful than vitamin C. It boasts anti-wrinkle and collagen-boosting properties, and a unique fusion of squalane and ceramides that lead the charge towards supple and plump skin.
Sunscreen
HYDRATING
ELIXIR, DAILY UV PROTECTOR
Elixir’s multi-functional sunscreen can help you stay in rhythm with your daytime routine. This whitening skincare product serves three functions: It is an emulsion, a protector against UV, and a makeup base. Slather on top of your moisturiser for an instant rush of hydration.
BRIGHTENING
LACLAIRE, NATURECARE TONE UP UV DEFENCE LOTION SPF50 PA+++
Designed with hydrating and brightening ingredients, this supremely lightweight lotion not only leaves the skin protected from any harmful UV rays, it also reduces discolouration over time, giving the skin a balanced and even tone.
MATTIFYING
SUPERGOOP!, MINERAL MATTESCREEN SPF 40 PA+++
This cult-favourite product is oil-free and works to mattify shine on bare skin. Aside from shielding your skin barrier from sunbeams, this 100 per cent mineral sunscreen also provides a minimal blurring effect to evoke that skin-like finish we all love in a good sunscreen. “This is my favourite SPF product of all that I’ve tried so far,” says Melissa Mae.
MINERAL
ULTRA VIOLETTE, LEAN SCREEN MINERAL SPF 50+
A zinc-only mineral sunscreen that absorbs into the skin in a pinch, and without leaving a trace of white cast or a tacky finish. Striking a balance of having a rich texture and a lightweight feel, this fragrance-free sunscreen ticks all the boxes for those with oily or sensitive skin types — it is soothing, mattifying, and weightless.
PHYSICAL
DR. DENNIS GROSS, ALL-PHYSICAL LIGHTWEIGHT WRINKLE DEFENSE SPF 30 PA ++++
Trust a board-certified dermatologist to formulate a physical defence that deflects sun-induced ageing of the skin. With antioxidants and scavenge free radicals, its non-greasy formula creates a seal of hydration without clogging the pores. “My skin felt hydrated and the product had a natural-looking finish. It’s also good for different skin tones, leaving behind no white cast,” says Dipna Lim.
Masks
CLARIFYING
GLOW RECIPE, WATERMELON GLOW HYALURONIC CLAY PORE-TIGHT FACIAL
The ultimate pampering experience in a jar, this decongesting mask is packed with hyaluronic acid-infused kaolin clay, which helps to minimise the look of pores and to fade dark spots, leading to smoother and softer skin. “My skin felt soft and cleansed after use,” says Airin Lee. “The product was also easy to wash off.”
HYDRATING
CAUDALIE, VINOSOURCE MOISTURIZING MASK
Get the most out of your self-care sessions with this ultra-moisturising mask that packs a hydrating punch thanks to its key ingredients: organic grape water, polyphenols, and organic Centella asiatica.
SOOTHING
DRGL, RESTORE GEL MASK
If you’re looking for a mask with anti-inflammatory benefits, look no further. This restorative mask contains healing botanicals that soothe the skin and draw out impurities and environmental pollutants for healthier-looking skin. “It had a nice smell and texture, and moisturised my skin well,” says Dr Rajaratnam.
OVERNIGHT
AESOP, SUBLIME REPLENISHING NIGHT MASQUE
Let this overnight mask work its magic while you catch up on a good night’s sleep. With vitamins B, C, E and F, this product is ideal for relieving dryness and replenishing hydration levels for parched skin.
DAILY-USE
SABORINO, MORNING MASK
Start your morning right with this refreshing mask. It helps to reduce your base preparation time by moisturising, cleansing, and priming your skin in just one minute. “The product is easy to use and leaves behind a slight minty after-feel,” says Airin Lee.
EYE
QUADHA, INTENSE COMPLEXION IMPROVEMENT EYE MASK
Crafted to calm the eye area, this innovative product combines the most effective ingredients from science and nature for a 5D hyaluronic acid revitalising eye mask that lifts and firms the skin. “The product is extremely hydrating and I liked that it came packaged with a mesh over it for easier application,” says Melissa Mae.
BRIGHTENING
FILORGA, MESO MASK
Unveil the radiance of your skin with this beauty treat. It tackles discolouration, while illuminating dull-looking complexion to really get that glow going. “I like that it’s a multi-use product,” says Dipna Lim. “It works well as an overnight mask.”
For Acne-Prone Skin
CHEMICAL EXFOLIATOR
FENTY SKIN, PRE-SHOW GLOW INSTANT RETEXTURIZING 10% AHA TREATMENT
Transform blemish-prone skin in just one step. This 10 per cent AHA treatment gently exfoliates dead cells on the skin’s surface and deeply cleanses for refined and clarified skin. Powerful antioxidants also leave the skin smooth and makeup-ready.
CLEANSER
KLYNN BEAUTY, REVIVE ME CENTELLA CLEANSER
With a unique jelly texture, this soothing cleanser lives up to its name by effortlessly eliminating dirt and excess sebum without clogging the pores. Its hero ingredient, Centella asiatica, is also known for its skin-soothing properties, reducing redness and rejuvenating the skin barrier.
TONER
ORBIS, CLEARFUL LOTION L
This lotion utilises a “deep delivery formula” to combat the underlying drivers of acne, clogged pores, and excessive oil production. It also works to increase hydration levels to prevent any uncomfortable dryness or irritation. “It has a light texture that applies easily,” says Zara Zhuang.
SERUM
IDS, BLEMISH CLEAR
With its active acne-fighting ingredients, niacinamide and bakuchiol (plant-derived retinol), this serum pulls double duty to eliminate acne and stimulate cell regeneration.
SPOT TREATMENT
BSKIN, ANTI-ACNE 3C SPOT TREATMENT
Banish unwanted zits and blackheads for good with this pimple-reducing treatment that is tailored to calm inflamed skin and clear trapped impurities while diminishing the appearance of blemishes. “Your skin will feel smoother post-application,” says Dr Rajaratnam.
ALL-OVER TREATMENT
DERMA LAB, CICA ACNE TREATMENT GEL
Zero in on problematic acne breakouts with a multipurpose treatment that helps to penetrate deep into the pores and take pesky dead skin cells down. It also accelerates the skin regenerative process to improve the overall lustre and vitality of the skin.
For Mature Skin
ESSENCE
CLARINS, EXTRA-FIRMING TREATMENT ESSENCE
A rich, age-specific cocktail of botanicals and hyaluronic acid complex helps firm and plump mature skin, targeting issues like sagging skin and fine lines, all while boosting hydration. “Its silky formulation combines hyaluronic acid with botanical ingredients such as panax ginseng root extract to provide moisturising and antioxidant effects,” says Dr Teo.
SERUM
DIOR BEAUTY, CAPTURE TOTALE C.E.L.L. ENERGY SUPER POTENT SERUM
Reverse the signs of ageing with this wonder in a bottle. Apply religiously for a week and notice the quality, elasticity and firmness of your skin improve. “My skin felt hydrated and looked brighter almost immediately after application,” says Dipna Lim.
OVERNIGHT SERUM
DR. DENNIS GROSS, ADVANCED RETINOL+FERULIC OVERNIGHT WRINKLE TREATMENT
Fortify your skin barrier while you sleep with this hydrating overnight treatment. It visibly firms your skin and jumpstarts your skin renewal process with its Phyto-Retinol Blend™ that smooths wrinkles and lifts the skin. “The product contains a blend of botanical retinol alternatives such as bakuchiol, combined with retinol and ferulic acid, to stimulate cell turnover,” says Dr Teo.
MULTITASKING SERUM
DIOR BEAUTY, PRESTIGE LA MICRO-HUILE DE ROSE ADVANCED SERUM
Dior’s first serum boasts a double rose concentration that is meant to visibly repair and rejuvenate the skin twice as fast. This serum deeply hydrates, enhances the appearance of facial contours, and makes your skin look younger.
EYE CREAM
DIOR BEAUTY, PRESTIGE LE MICRO-SÉRUM YEUX ADVANCED
This micro-nutritive eye serum features a highly concentrated formula that reduces the appearance of crow’s feet, sagging skin, and puffiness. Experience the illuminating and restorative power of rosehip and rose sap, and expect a firmer-looking under-eye area.
MOISTURISER
N°1 DE CHANEL REVITALIZING CREAM
Harnessing the power of the red camellia flower that is at the heart of N°1 De Chanel, this product interferes with the rapid skin ageing process and corrects the appearance of wrinkles for an overall dewy complexion.
ALL-ROUNDER
NOR SKEN, RESTORE™ CRT FACIAL CREAM
The three key protein components of the skin, collagen, elastin, and fibronectin, are the key to good skin from within. This ultra-potent cream works on the production of the aforementioned skin-building proteins to fade dark spots and lighten hyperpigmentation.
LIFTING MASK
CHANTECAILLE, BIO LIFTING+ MASK
Here’s a formula with a proprietary complex of essential youth-extending ingredients. The lifting agents in this cocktail form an invisible flexible film on the skin for a firmer, tighter effect. “My skin felt moisturised and tighter after using this product,” says Dr Rajaratnam.
For Sensitive Skin
CLEANSER
LUSH, FRESH FARMACY
Finding an irritant-free formula that gently sweeps away dirt and grime is the most critical step in any skincare regime. Lush’s gentle and soothing cleanser bar has you covered with a blend of chamomile extract, rose, and lavender essentials, as well as tea tree to help ease troubled skin without stripping away moisture.
TONER
PORCELAIN, BOTANICAL SENSITIVE CARE TONER
With a restorative blend of medicinal herbs like Korean mint and honeysuckle flower extract, this toner can calm inflammation on the skin and work quickly to remove impurities to restore the skin’s balance.
SERUM
LACLAIRE, MEDIREPAIR TRANSDERMAL HEALING SERUM
This water-based healing serum blends glyceryl glucoside, erythritol, and schizophyllan to instantly hydrate and plump the skin. “It is calming and soothes redness well,” says Airin Lee.
MOISTURISER
EAU THERMALE AVENE, TOLÉRANCE CONTROL SOOTHING SKIN RECOVERY CREAM
Bringing immediate yet lasting relief to your skin, this soothing cream contains a newly-patented ingredient, ultra-calming D-Sensinose™, which reduces discomfort while guarding the skin against potential irritants.
SUNSCREEN
ULTRA VIOLETTE, CLEAN SCREEN SENSITIVE SPF 50+
This lightweight, fragrance-free gel sunscreen has achieved cult status for a reason. Its alcohol-free and clean formula contains titanium dioxide, an ultra-gentle UV filter that works well to protect reactive and sensitive skin from damaging UV rays, all while delivering soothing effects to the skin.
FACIAL MIST
CAUDALIE, GRAPE WATER
Here’s a refreshing treat in the day or even at night just before bed. Keep your skin cool and hydrated with this pleasant fine mist that reinforces and balances skin microbiota. “This product is formulated with mainly vitis vinifera grape seed extract, which is well tolerated and suitable for sensitive skin,” says Dr Teo.
MASK
LUSH, CATASTROPHE COSMETIC
Soothing on dry and sensitive skin, this beloved formula includes antioxidant-rich blueberries, calming calamine powder and cooling chamomile blue oil to soothe reactive skin and redness.
Body
BODY WASH
L’OCCITANE, ALMOND SHOWER OIL
Treat yourself to a spa-like shower experience with this shower oil, which lathers to cleanse and invigorate with its rich sweet almond and grape seed oil.
AGE-DEFYING NECK CREAM
SISLEY, NECK CREAM
Restore firmness for a youthful look with Sisley’s skin-firming actives like oat seed and rhatany extract. “This neck cream is formulated with botanical phytoceramides that mimic constituents of the skin barrier for restoration of healthy function,” says Dr Teo. “It was moisturising and comfortable on the skin.”
SOOTHING BODY LOTION
KENZOKI, NOURISHING FLOW SENSUAL BODY CREAM
A rich body moisturiser that doesn’t leave the skin feeling sticky in the day. With a concentrate of sacred lotus flower oily extract and rice peptides, this cream works to reduce signs of inflammation.
HYDRATING BODY LOTION
CAUDALIE, VINOTHERAPIST BODY LOTION
Get your body in on the hydrating action with this body lotion, which comes without a greasy post-application feel. With skin-softening ingredients like organic shea butter and polyphenols, this cream sinks in right away, regenerating the outer layers of your skin.
CHEMICAL BODY EXFOLIATOR
DR. DENNIS GROSS, ALPHA BETA® EXFOLIATING BODY TREATMENT
Slough your skin texture concerns away with this gentle yet effective exfoliating treatment. Alpha Beta® acids in the formula help to chemically lift dead skin cells and smoothen out bumps, leaving your skin with a silky afterglow.
PHYSICAL BODY EXFOLIATOR
TWO L(I)PS, SCRUBBS KONJAC JELLY SCRUB
Rid yourself of dead skin cells, excess oil, and keratin buildup with this superfood gel exfoliator. It contains biodegradable konjac jelly buffing beads and finely ground olive stone powder to polish the skin surface for a smoother and softer feel.
HAND LOTION AND CUTICLE CREAM
CAUDALIE, VINOTHERAPIST NAIL AND HAND CREAM
With a calming scent, this hand cream is enriched with 98 per cent natural ingredients and acts as a barrier against dehydration and external aggressors, promising to leave your hands and cuticles feeling soft and smelling good. “This cream is absent of citrus oils that are common in other hand creams, which can result in sensitivity and photosensitive reactions,” says Dr Teo.
FOOT CREAM
LUSH, REPEAT
Lush’s foot balm is here to kick cracked skin to the curb. Made using orange peel wax, this foot cream lets one wake up to a refreshing citrus scent and significantly softer feet. “It’s perfect for night time if you’re just walking around your home with socks over,” says Dipna Lim.
Photography JAYA KHIDIR
Styling GREGORY WOO & MELISSA MAE
Photography Assistant ZILHANZ AFFENDI
To read more about our Beauty Awards, click here.