Liv - November 2015

All-Out

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NEWS | Editor’s Note

PARTY PREP

N ovember already? Can someone tell me where the time’s gone? As if life in Singapore wasn’t different enough from the UK with its year-round heat and ultra-safe streets, the months here seems to flash by at lightning speed. The end of the year brings parties, celebrations and other get-togethers with friends old and new – so you need to be prepared. Whether you’re looking for a new outfit for a Christmas shindig, or some professional help in the beauty department (perhaps something a bit more intensive than usual?), we’ve got you covered: see our festive shopping spread on page 43 for inspiration on what to wear, and our comprehensive annual feature on clinical treatments for face and body, which starts on page 30. We know you love our special LIV offers, so as usual we have giveaways and generous beauty discounts on treatments around town for hair and body (page 51). Time to book in for some me-time – you’ve earned it. Our cover star this month is Amanda Dyer, who had us hooked with her go-getting attitude, entrepreneurial spirit and kind personality – and she knows how to rock a dress too! Amanda talks about her experience of starting up a lifestyle company in Singapore and her advice for other aspiring mumpreneurs (page 22). Women supporting women – positive vibes only!

Happy reading,

Susannah Jaffer LIV Editor Expat Living Publications susannah.jaffer@expatliving.sg

Behind the scenes: November cover shoot

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NEWS | Editor’s Note

TAKE US WITH YOU ON THE GO

Editor-in-Chief REBECCA BISSET Group Editor SHAMUS SILLAR LIV Editor

SUSANNAH JAFFER Executive Editor VERNE MAREE Regional Online Editor MICHELLE CASTILLO Online Editors AZLINDA SAID | CATHERINE WILLINGHAM | EMILY FINCH Client Services & Production LEANDA RATHMELL | LIANA TALIB NUR HANANI KAMAL LUDDIN Senior Graphic Designers MICHAEL BERNABE | BEATRICE NG | JEANNE WONG Circulation & Subscriptions ANNA TSERLINGAS Regional Sales & Marketing KATIE PEACE Partnerships & Events NATALIE WHITTELL Contributors KELLY BILIMORIA | MADISON DANIELS SAM BLAKEY | KEN TAN Printed by HO PRINTING SINGAPORE PTE LTD HOPRINTING.COM

SUBSCRIBE FOR FREE TO OUR DIGITAL EDITIONS OF EXPAT LIVING AND LIV

For all advertising and editorial enquiries, please contact DANIELLE ROSSETTI danielle.rossetti@expatliving.sg

Cover Photography by Michael Bernabe Makeup by Kelly Bilimoria, kellybilimoria.com Amanda wears dress by Aijek and cuff bracelet by Brosh, available at Accent Boutique, #02-08 Mandarin Gallery

Scan the QR code or visit expatliving.sg/digital

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CONTENTS

46

5

22

UPFRONT FASHION BEAUTY

41

10 Beauty News 16 Fashion News 46 Social Events:

30 Clinical Treatments:

The latest innovations for face and body

19

Snaps from around town

30

50 In the Next Issue

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38

19 Closet Spy:

Our monthly peek into a reader’s wardrobe

43 Get Glam:

Our shopping picks for the holiday season

38 Revamp Your Base Brand new foundation formulas and reader recommendations

22 Cover Feature:

Mumpreneur Amanda Dyer gives her social media and career tips

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NEW FINDS -- TRENDS -- PEOPLE -- IDEAS

On our wishlist this month...

We love these simple yet eye-catching leather wrap bracelets from Fervor Montreal’s collection, a Canadian designer we discovered at Embrace Jewellery boutique. Perfect for casual or dressy occasions and stacking-friendly!

Available to shop now at Embrace Jewellery, #01-15 Orchard Gateway or Takashimaya Level 3 embracejewellery.com

Picture credit: Embrace Jewellery

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Beauty News

UPFRONT | Beauty News

Products, treatments and trends to try now

Who knew such amazing skincare results could come from bees? Matakana Botanicals has just released its Great Barrier Island Bee Co. range, which uses bee milk and Manuka honey to boost and protect tired complexions – even for those with sensitive skin. Available at Sephora ION Orchard, Robinsons, John Little and BHG. Honey Hello,

Trying to lose a few stubborn inches before the Christmas parties? Treat yourself to a 90-minute session of Le Petit Spa’s Ice Wrap system, which targets all areas of the body. The treatment starts with radiofrequency energy, which delivers intense heat deep into the dermis to break down fat cells, yet feels cool and comfortable on the surface of the skin. As a final touch, a bandage wrap is applied to the body to aid in the drainage process. Here’s to slipping into that little black dress with ease! For LIV Readers! EXCLUSIVEOFFER

The details: Pay just $150 for the 90-minute session when

you quote “EXPAT LIV” upon booking (usual price, $350), plus you’ll receive a complimentary anti- cellulite serum. Call 6733 7117 to book your appointment. #02-01/04 Tudor Court Shopping

Heaven Sent

Smooth away fine lines and wrinkles with this intensely moisturising face cream from L’Occitane, which doubles as a

Gallery. Offer valid until 30 November 2015.

mask and has a new formula for rejuvenating dehydrated,

mature skin. Say hello to younger skin in minutes! $194

You can now experience the benefit of beauty secrets from far-off lands, all in the comfort of your bathroom! The Spa of the World line from The Body Shop includes bath milks, creams, massage Home Spa

oils and exfoliants for proper at-home pampering. Our must- try is the African Ximenia Scrub – in Namibia,

the Ximenia is dubbed the “Tree of Life” – which left our skin feeling thoroughly polished and renewed. $55.90, The Body Shop.

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UPFRONT | Beauty News

Struggling to create a smoky eye? Confused about your daily makeup routine? If that sounds a bit like you, why not invest in some expert help? The Big Blow’s Ellie Sakrzewski is now conducting private makeup lessons at the salon or in the privacy of your own home. You’ll learn all the hints, tips and easy-to-replicate looks you need for any occasion, day or night. Priced from $250 to $400. Book an appointment by calling 6465 4836 or via thebigblow.com. Beauty Lesson

Add one of these new floral fragrances to your beauty arsenal – we can’t resist good perfume! SMELLING SWEET

Caudalie Rose de Vigne, $58

Capturing the delicate scent of fresh roses with accents of tangy grapefruit and amber wood, this quiet fragrance from Caudalie’s Fresh Fragrance Collection will take you to a romantic wood at the beginning of spring. Rose de Vigne’s subtle fragrance is never overpowering, always fresh.

Feel like you’re lying in a meadow of blooming flowers, when you spray on this airy, natural perfume from Lanvin. The floral-inspired bottle captures the essence of the Lanvin Éclat de Fleurs, $90

Shanghai Tang Gold Lily, $155

Taken from its first fragrance range, The Silk Road Fragrance Collection, Shanghai Tang’s feminine yet sensual fragrance combines lily with accents of jasmine, zesty orange flower, patchouli and musk.

scent’s fruity and floral fragrance, which has notes of violet leaves and pear,

and a hint of sandalwood.

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UPFRONT | Promotion

PLANT

By Susannah Jaffer POWER

Shampooing is part of our routine, but how many of us pay close attention to the state of our scalps? We should, according to TEAM SALON: a scalp that’s in good condition is vital for hair growth. To diagnose and treat yours, the Aveda Botanical Scalp Therapy is just the ticket.

The scalp analysis: an enlightening experience!

A healthy scalp equals healthy hair, but would you be able to tell the state of yours if you were asked on the spot? Quietly confident? Well, you might be surprised, as I was. When Team Salon’s Star Vista stylist asked what I thought about my scalp condition, I assertively answered, “Maybe a bit dry, but pretty normal.” I’ve never suffered from dandruff or the like, so how bad could it be? Upon analysis with their diagnostic machine, which gives you an extremely interesting close-up view of your scalp’s surface, I was taken aback at just how dry, congested and sensitive parts of my poor scalp really were. Their stylist explained the results and the remedial treatment programme he would prepare for me. The botanical scalp cleanser would remove any build-up of dead skin and sebum, and gently exfoliate with wintergreen-derived salicylic acid, stimulating healthier cell turnover. Before we began, I was invited to play a little chakra game to discover which oil blend should be applied. (In Indian philosophy, the chakras are the seven centres of spiritual thought in the human body.) To balance yourself, the chakra blend you should use is the scent you’re instinctively drawn to. Mine turned out to be the Third Eye Chakra, which relates to wisdom.

Terms and conditions: Not to be used together with any other promotion. Appointment times: Monday to Thursday, between 11am and 4pm, not including public holidays or the day preceding. Not for manager or director services. (Outlets at VivoCity, S tar Vista, Parkway Parade, Upper East Coast Road, Bukit Timah Plaza and JEM mall) For full contact details, visit teamsalon.com.sg. SPECIAL OFFER Team Salon is offering LIV readers 25 percent off Aveda Hair & Scalp treatments. Make your appointment in advance at any of the salons, and quote “EXPAT LIV” to receive the promotional price. Valid until 30 November. Next, to soften my colour-damaged hair, Aveda’s Damage Remedy Daily Hair Repair was massaged into my damp locks and left to soak in. After this was rinsed out, it was into the chair one final time for the blow-dry of my choice. Three hours later, I emerged feeling pampered, rejuvenated and refreshed, which isn’t usually how I feel when leaving a hairdresser – from start to finish, the experience felt more in line with a spa than a salon. I felt a notable difference in my scalp and I’m now more mindful of how I treat it – on second thoughts, perhaps I won’t be too mindful, so I have an excuse to go back for a second round!

What followed was a blissful back and neck massage, which stimulates blood circulation for the best absorption of the oil’s natural ingredients. Once the detoxifying liquid had been applied (it contains organic peppermint oil, which has a minty cooling sensation) my hair was washed, then a second revitalising serum applied.

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Peppermint oil contained in the treatment really refreshes the senses

UPFRONT | Promotion

You Glow, Girl by

Vetia Floris Super Radiance Elixir, $398 This super serum will help rejuvenate tired- looking skin before makeup application. It contains high concentrations of Rovisome HA to firm up and freshen your complexion. The bonus? The formula includes a gold tint to amp up the glow-factor. Wi t h end - o f - yea r ho l i day s f a s t approaching, prep your skin to shine along with the festivities. No matter what your age or skin type, you can achieve a glowing complexion with effective, science-based Swiss skincare from Haute Swiss Cosmetics . From revolutionary masks to miracle serums, you’ll be sure to find something that’s just right for you.

13 Promo For LIV Readers! Present this page from your copy of LIV from now until 30 November to get 25 percent off any of these listed products in the store, as well as a free mySkin analysis to determine your skin type and needs. Haute Swiss Cosmetics boutiques are located at #02-23 Cluny Court and #03-30 Wisma Atria. For more information, visit hauteswisscosmetics.com. Karin Herzog Essential Mask, $92 This effective mask will help create the ideal canvas for your makeup, mimicking rested, healthy skin in a jiffy. Its Vitamin A and oxygen-enriched formula – something Karin Herzog is famous for – energises, tightens and clarifies in just ten minutes. Swisscode Radiant Elixir, $245 This serum’s formula contains stem-cell extracts that are effective at smoothing and beautifying your face, neck and décolleté – all areas that are vulnerable to ageing and that we often neglect!

Cholley Creme Anti- Cernes, $98 Late nights and early mor nings equal tired and lacklustre peepers. Thankfully, you can beat dark circles and puffiness with this decongestant cream from Cholley. To enjoy an extra treat in the mornings and keep yours in the fridge for a wonderful cooling effect.

Hormeta Gold Shining Mask Hormeflash, $158

This luxe, hardworking face mask is perfect to prep skin for special events or to boost a dull, tired complexion. It illuminates and softens for a more luminous visage in minutes.

BEAUTY | Spotlight

Scarlet Ambition MADISON DANIELS undergoes a mega hair makeover at Trimmings&Spa – and loves the outcome! Read on for her review .

Before

After

Experimenting with every shade from chocolate brown to platinum blonde and even a few shades of purple, I change my hair colour more often than most – so often, in fact, that I think I’m addicted! Leading up to my appointment at Trimmings, I knew I wanted something I’d never tried before: red. Think somewhere between Sophie Turner and Jessica Chastain, and a dramatic change from the blonde balayage I was previously sporting. Taking me from blonde to a vibrant, coppery shade was no simple feat, but Ivan from Trimmings took on my unusual request and easily transformed me into a fierce redhead. Before making a start, he explained the process thoroughly, which for me is an important step in any appointment, especially because years ago I had my hair abruptly chopped off by a “well meaning” stylist. Before colouring, the darker parts of my hair had to be lightened to match my blonde ends. Then came the colour in two steps: a pre-colour followed by the final copper tone (called Strawberry Caramel, if anyone wants

to try it). As a finishing touch, a toner was applied to add shine and moisture. After years of repeatedly lightening and dyeing my hair, I often worry about inflicting further damage. However, the use of a mild lightening shampoo did little or no harm. Now, my hair feels and looks healthier than ever! The transformation took about three hours. I have to say, I love my new vibrant red hair, and I can’t wait to rock it for the coming months and maybe beyond. Thanks Trimmings and LIV magazine for satisfying my latest hair obsession! The Details: Achieve a similar shade for $320. From start to finish, the lightener and pre-colour service is $100, whole head colour is $170 and the glossing toner is $50. Red hair fades fast, but with the help of Goldwell’s colour shampoo ($26) and Kerasilk Rich Keratin Care daily mask ($40), your colour will stay vibrant. To restore moisture to your hair, use Moroccan Oil Treatment ($75).

Visit Trimmings & Spa at 75B Loewen Road or at #02-17 Robertson Walk, 11 Unity Street, or call 6471 1922 for more information. trimmings.com.sg

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FashionNews What to covet, buy and wear this month

UPFRONT | Fashion News

Our favourite type of fashion? Clothes we can wear again and again, without dishing out too much cash! From affordable basics to trendy bohemian dresses, the arrival of Marks & Spencer’s latest collection, The Art of British Style, has us (and will have you!) falling head over heels. On our wish list? A nonchalantly feminine blouse that you can dress up with smart black trousers or down with denim. Autograph Round Neck Lace Boho Blouse, $149.90. marksandspencers.com.sg BEST OF BRITISH

From chunky heels to slipper-cut loafers, this autumn Clarks and Orla Kiely are bringing back the seventies shoe. With a keen eye for detail, the British designer presents classic, preppy shoes with a twist – and her signature floral prints, of course! Stop by Clarks’ new store in ION Orchard to check out these stunning shoes now. Find them at Clarks at ION Orchard, and also at Tangs Orchard and VivoCity. CLASSY COLLAB

Luxe For Kids

With the end of the year approaching, it’s time for our favourite kind of holiday shopping: finding the perfect outfit for the festivities. If you’ve got little ones, though, you won’t just be thinking of yourself! For something extra-snazzy, head for Marina Bay Sands, where you’ll find new Dolce & Gabbana Junior, Armani Junior and Bonpoint stores. marinabaysands.com/theshoppes.

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UPFRONT | Fashion News

HELLO, Shoe Heaven!

SHOP FOR TWO

With the right shoes, you can conquer the world, not so? Of course! Which is why we strongly suggest you hotfoot it down to the footwear mecca that is On Pedder’s brand new store at Scotts Square – or should we say brand new floor ? The 20,000-square-foot space takes up almost the entire second floor of the mall! It’s divided into seven different sections including men’s, women’s, kids’ and sports, and stocks swoon-worthy labels such as Christian Louboutin, Chloé and Nicholas Kirkwood, along with high street names like Vans and Birkenstock. Scotts Square Mall, Level 2.

Known for its kitsch and bright children’s wear, Dutch brand Oilily has just set up shop in Great World City – and it carries a full range of women’s clothing, too! Inspired by nature, the arts and the sea, the new Winter Garden collection has lots of beautiful prints and patterns to

choose from. We’ve got our eye on the useful folding backpacks, pouches and wallets in etched f loral

prints. #02-20 A / B G r e a t Wo r l d Ci t y.

Simple Sarong

We all have those days when we just want to throw on something that’s relaxed but not shapeless or frumpy. Cue the reliable sarong that melds comfort and style – and a newly launched site, founded by Chris Vidal, which specialises in just that item of clothing. Simple to wear, easily adjustable and eliminating the need to fuss over zips, buttons, hooks or belts (hurrah!), bright and colourful designs start from an affordable $30 on the site. It also stocks a range of gorgeous kaftans for you to float around in indoors, on the beach or by the pool. thesarongdress.com

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UPFRONT | Style Hunter

Sometimes, the best place to look for your next outfit inspiration is out on the street. Hunte

Katerina Giannouka Hotel Developer

We love Kristina’s comfy yet fashionable weekend style. She shows us an easy way to dress up simple denim shorts and a white blouse – by wearing them with comfy block-heel boots, a statement tote bag and accessories. The key to elevating your basic wardrobe staples is to find good materials like chiffon, suede and leather, all of which will add a touch of luxe to your outfit. What’s more, those ankle boots could just as easily be worn with a summer dress for a nod to festival chic.

Watch: Chanel Bag: Hermes Boots: Zara Shorts: From Bali Top: Esprit Sunglasses: Gucci

GET THE LOOK

Top, Mango

Watch, Brietling

Bag, Longchamp

Sunglasses, Dior

Boots, Topshop

Shorts, Zara

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UPFRONT | Closet Spy

We ask a LIV reader what makes her work wardrobe tick... Shareen Wong, founder of Kai Life and Embrace Jewellery, embracejewellery.com

Warehouse

Her daily routine…

I start my day with answering emails, followed by visits to our stores. During work hours, I juggle multiple roles: I could be displaying a new collection, or serving and chatting to customers to assist them in finding great-looking accessories to match their lifestyle.

Her dress code…

I’m a denim kind of girl – always have been, always will. Casual chic for me is a pair of jeans, a nice top or shirt and a structured blazer. Also, I’m often asked to model accessories for customers – they tend to show up better on plainer clothing, so it’s become a habit!

Her personal style…

I like to stick to classic pieces that don’t go out of style, so that I can play up my accessories. Like many women, I’m guilty of wearing too much black, but I do try to incorporate colours into my outfits – solid colours, rather than prints.

Her fashion sense…

If I had to pick a theme to describe my look, I would say “rock chic”. I still have a soft spot for leather and studs that I’ve never seemed to grow out of!

Her wardrobe staples…

I like to shop at Karen Millen for dresses, Zara and Warehouse for basics, and True Religion and Zara for jeans and denim.

Where she shops…

Ying yang sterling silver and rose gold-plated earrings from Embrace Jewellery Italian Collection

I love visiting Nine West for shoes. For bags, I’m very into Alexander McQueen and J. Keyer, which has a gorgeous range of the softest python- skin bags in a range of modern colours – we also stock them now in our boutiques!

Embrace 925 silver ring

J. Keyer

Zara

Black-and-gold raw crystal choker

NineWest

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UPFRONT | Style Steals

MORE DASH THAN CASH This month’s stylish buys for under $200

Compiled by Madison Daniels

Find your perfectly matched foundation without having to take home numerous swatches. L’Oréal’s True Match has a new and improved formulation and comes in a range of shades for darker skin tones. $30.90

To refresh and improve your skin tone, a good, regular mask can work wonders. Lush’s new mask contains ground coffee beans and caffeine to revive tired complexions and lend a radiant glow. $26

Though it won’t magically transform us into a Victoria’s Secret model, a spritz of Forever Sexy perfume may just draw the attention of that special someone! $149

This cold-shoulder dress from Zara is a nod to chic sixties style. Pair it with ankle boots or a fringed vest to nail the bohemian luxe trend. $69.90

There’s nothing like a good soak to soothe body andmind. The EgyptianMilk andHoney Bath from The Body Shop will leave your skin silky, hydrated and smooth too. $32.90

From the gym to the street, these sleek white trainers from Puma are the perfect finish to a monochromatic outfit or for a quick workout. $199

From pigmented neutrals to bolder shades, this nifty eye-shadow palette from Urban Decay has all the colours you need to create classic and glamorous holiday looks. $88

These suede-tie sandals from Topshop have a comfy block heel, no back (no blisters!) and easy ties at the ankle – ideal for dressing up or down. $156, available at topshop.com.

We love this new designer collaboration – these lacquers from Nails Inc. capture the fun and flirty vibe of Alice & Olivia’s holiday collection. $30 each.

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UPFRONT | Celeb Trend

Timeless Appeal Along with impressive acting skills, Natalie Portman always manages to look effortlessly glam on the red carpet, and her polished look at the 2015 Toronto International Film Festival was no exception. Here are a few tips and tricks to help you achieve the 34-year-old’s classic Hollywood style. 1

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GET THE LOOK 1 Start by creating a flawless base as your canvas. Too Faced’s Born This Way Foundation glides on to skin smoothly for a photo- ready finish. We also love the fact that the formula is oil-free, which is ideal for sensitive skins, or those prone to breakouts. 2 Next, create a light, bronzed g l ow by dus t i ng Urban Decay’s Naked Illuminated in new shade, “Lit”, all over your face, concentrating it on your cheekbones.

3 Time to tame and define those brows. Use the angled brush and brow powder from 3CE’s Eye Brow Kit to fill in any sparse areas and shape your ideal arc. The wax will hold even the most unruly hairs in place. 4 Emphasise your eyes with cream shadow in a vibrant gold tone. Lancôme’s version won’t crease or wear away during the night. 5 After your usual black or brown mascara, complete your eye area with a swipe of Lancôme’s Hypnôse

Stardust – it has a clear, light formula enriched with gold sparkle. 6 Add final touches with a bold berry lip: we recommend Dior Addict Lipstick in Be Dior. 7 Open up your eyes with a few coats of Clinique’s Chubby Lash mascara to add volume and length. 8 To set your look and make it last, lightly spritz your face with Urban Decay’s All Nighter Makeup Setting Spray.

Photo credit: George Pimentel, Wire Image

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UPFRONT | Cover Star

Serial entrepreneur, in-demand model and owner of multiple lifestyle businesses in both physical and digital spaces: on paper, Amanda Dyer seems to have it all. Yet, behind the glitz and glamour, she’s a devoted mother and wife who still puts her children and family first. How does she manage? By planning ahead, and embracing life’s lessons positively. In this exclusive LIV interview, she shares networking and business advice for her fellow mumpreneurs and other women. IT ALL DOING

Styling, Words & Direction: Susannah Jaffer Photography: Michael Bernabe Wardrobe Assistance: Madison Daniels Hair and Makeup: Kelly Bilimoria

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UPFRONT | Cover Star

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UPFRONT | Cover Star

To grow your network online, the secret is definitely to be nice and, more importantly, be helpful

24 Shikari black dress, available at Gnossem, gnossem.com, boots, $99, by Kandee, and ring, $35.90, by Brosh, both available at Accent Boutique, Mandarin Gallery

UPFRONT | Cover Star

You’ve lived and worked all over the world. What first brought you to Singapore, and what do you appreciate most about it? I came to Singapore nearly 10 years ago on a modelling contract. I was living between Tokyo and Paris at the time and was sent here for a one-month stint to do a few jobs. I was instantly captivated by the energy and vibrancy of the city and was immediately drawn in. Singapore offers a wide variety of lifestyle options that rival those of any modern city in the world. It is designed for entrepreneurs to get set up quickly without much red tape, and that has been very important to me. I’m constantly surrounded by creative and talented people who inspire me on a daily basis to do well in my businesses. You’re a social media butterfly! What would be your top online networking tips for newbies? I get asked this question a lot, and one of the answers is simply to be nice! In some ways, people nowadays live two lives – physical and virtual. Many of us meet people online and become good friends without ever meeting in the real world. This is what the internet offers, and to grow your digital network, the secret is definitely to be nice and – more importantly – be helpful! I run a series of social media platforms that serve the needs of both expats and locals alike. I’m constantly uploading to these pages and groups with useful and interesting information, and continually connecting people with each other – helping them with their queries about different things. This has made me a trusted source for many, and along the way I’ve forged great friendships. Last year you launched your lifestyle brand, Maison by Amanda Dyer. Tell us what inspired you. Simply put, I love candles. I also love the way a certain scent can trigger particular memories from the past; this connection of the senses makes me feel good. So I decided to create some scents of my own, and to bring them to life through my passion for candles.

We worked with a French fragrance house to develop three scents based on three concepts – Calm, Focus and Play. We worked with aromatic science to create our signature line, Collection Privée, which is now stocked by over 20 retailers in Singapore, with international distribution coming soon to the US, the UK and the Middle East. What’s been your favourite part of starting the business, and what’s been the hardest? My favourite part has been seeing my dreams come true. I’m a creative type, so to extract the vision from my noisy head and bring it to life as a finished product on the shelves was very cool! The hardest has been the admin, and knowing what and how much to outsource. As entrepreneurs, we try to take on every facet of the business. My mentor told me to focus on the product (the magic!) and outsource the admin to those who enjoy it. I listened. Do you have any other projects on the horizon? I do. We’re working on some line extensions for Maison by Amanda Dyer. Our limited edition candles will be on sale soon, just in time for Christmas. We’re also working on some cool concepts around my Living 360 brand of online magazines, potentially to bring out a Living 360 TV show. Watch this space! Busy, busy! What do you do in your spare time? Any recommendations for shopping, eating or unwinding in the city? I’m not a huge shopper, so I tend to do a yearly blowout when we go away on holiday to the States or Europe. I get it all out of my system then, and that typically lasts me the year. But a few stores that I do love in Singapore include Gnossem, Inverted Edge, Accent, Keepers and Mythology Boutique. When it comes to eating, that’s a whole other story. A few of our favourites are Long Chim (Marina Bay Sands), Meat Liquor (Duxton) and, for a great steak, Bistecca (Robertson Quay). For hanging out with some delicious cocktails and small plates, you’ll find me at Neon Pigeon (Keong Saik Road).

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UPFRONT | Cover Star

With failure come the best lessons

How do you juggle your career with kids and home life? My children come first, always. I work from home and have become very good at planning my work schedule around homework times, play dates and morning regimens. As mumpreneurs, you organically learn that the best time to work is when the kids go to sleep and when they are at school. Hold your meetings at home and have a system in place for meal preparation and so on. It’s all just planning – after some trial and error, you work it out. So, what's your advice to fellow or aspiring mumpreneurs? I live by the saying, “The best way to predict the future is to create it.” I speak to hundreds of women who are so passionate about their ideas but simply never see them through due to the fear of failure. I want them all to understand that failure is good (as crazy as that sounds), because with failure come the best lessons. Don’t be afraid – just start. Ask for help, collaborate with mentors, do what you need to do, but make that first step – today!

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UPFRONT | Cover Star

Dress, Amanda’s own. Shoes, $190, by Kandee, and bracelet, $58, by Hadacity, both available

at Accent Boutique, Mandarin Gallery

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CLINICAL FACIAL TREATMENTS – NEW FOUNDATIONS FOR A PERFECT BASE

When regular lotions and potions just don’t cut it anymore, you need an expert touch. Aesthetic facial treatments offer minimally invasive solutions too – here’s what’s available around town now >>> FACING THE FACTS

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BEAUTY | Clinical Treatments

– clinical treatments for your holiday wish-list Seven Wonders Whatever your beauty woe – and most of us have at least one – there’s a high-tech clinical treatment out there to help fix it. Here’s a roundup of some of our favourites, including four that the LIV team has had the great good fortune to personally review. So, we’re all set for the year-end festivities… how about you ? #1 Boosting Beauty

although it has helped prevent the frown lines from becoming deeper. Fillers are another option: she says they would give me the overall plumping effect I need and help strengthen my thin skin, but I’m not loving the sound of that either. Botox helps to soften lines, but does not do much to stimulate collagen. Solution: Restylane Skinbooster, to hydrate the skin from within, providing lasting moisture and also stimulating collagen production. It also helps to reduce the look of scars, fade any discolouration, and improve overall skin tone to prevent that dried- out, shrivelled look. How it works: The multiple-injection device pierces the skin with five tiny needles, like a miniature staple gun, causing a degree of trauma that shocks the area into producing more collagen. At the same time, as the micro- needles penetrate the skin, they release hyaluronic acid into the dermis to restore hydration, improving elasticity while strengthening and thickening the skin. Procedure: I’m a bit nervous as the treatment sounds rather fierce, but I reckon I should manage to get through it with the topical anaesthetic they’ve promised to apply beforehand. The forehead has quite a number of nerves, and because there’s less padding there, it’s likely to hurt more – even after the numbing cream. But the discomfort is manageable, and there’s

only a glimmer of tears. Dr Komathy also shows me how it works on the back of my hand, and I can hardly feel it at all. She tells me it’s really effective for fine lines and rings on the neck, where it also tends not to be painful – I think I’ll try that next time. Aftermath: I’ve been pre-warned to expect some downtime in the form of redness for a couple of days, and possibly some bruising. After the treatment, my forehead does look a bit pinpricked, but by the next day it just looks like a rash, and this can be easily covered with foundation. Luckily, I don’t experience any bruising, and two days later when I’m visiting my daughter in Melbourne, nobody notices anything – even when I point it out. Thereafter: A week later, I can already feel the difference, although it will take time for my newly boosted collagen to form, plumping up the skin and continuing to improve its structural health. Cost: $2,800. It’s recommended to do three sessions at monthly intervals.

We Review

Restylane Skinbooster

Lucky reviewer: Rebecca Bisset, British After spending a fair bit of time working in both Melbourne and Sydney, DR KOMATHY RAJARATNAM returned home to Singapore. She became one of the early aestheticians at Camden Medical Centre, having joined a large aesthetics company there in early 2004 and then going on at the end of 2007 to establish her own aesthetics centre with a holistic approach to beauty and wellness – The Lifestyle Clinic . I find her easy to talk to. Problem: All the fat on my face seems to be dropping to my jawline! (It’s an age thing, apparently). So my forehead feels boney, lined and needs some plumping, and I don’t have a fringe to hide it. As we mull through the options on her extensive menu of treatments, I tell Dr Komathy that I’m not keen on Botox, as it tends to make my eyebrows go a bit saggy,

The Lifestyle Clinic 1 Orchard Boulevard

#16-03 Camden Medical Centre 6733 0788 | lifestyleclinic.sg

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#2 Single-Stitch Thread Lift Another anti-ageing, anti-sagging therapy, this US FDA-approved, minimally invasive treatment is just one of a wide range of beauty fixes in DR YVONNE GOH’S armament. She likes its dual-action effect: firstly, the threads immediately and noticeably lift and re-contour the treated area; and secondly, they continue to firm and tauten the skin during the months that follow by boosting collagen production. It’s designed to address any problematic sagging in areas such as the brow, the mid- face, the jowl area and the neck.

The technology: Thread-lifts aren’t new, but this one is. Thanks to special cone technology, the threads are anchored into the tissue – so they don’t have to be attached to anchor points. The result? A more natural result, and no risk of the threads snapping. In addition, these threads regenerate tissue and restore volume to the face. They’re also biochemically neutral and bio- absorbable, appealing to those of us who don’t like the idea of having something that will remain in our faces permanently. The procedure: It takes only about 20 minutes, so you can literally have it done during your lunchtime. After a small local anaesthetic,

a micro-needle is used to thread the soft threads through the skin of the treatment area – no incisions, no chance of scarring. It can be done as a stand-alone treatment, or together with fillers or Botox.

Cost: From $1,600

Dr Yvonne Goh Aesthetics #09-05 Camden Medical Centre 1 Orchard Boulevard 6462 2559 | dryvonnegoh.com

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#3 Starting Over

Procedure: I’m grateful for the effective numbing cream left on for half an hour before Dr Soosay starts treatment, because it really does reduce the discomfort to no more than a series of tiny ant-bites. (I’ve also taken a couple of precautionary Panadols.) For safety’s sake, and because different skins can react differently, she delivers my first session of laser at a gentler power level. In retrospect, I feel it was perfectly judged. You don’t want your treatment to be too light, remember: higher levels may mean a few days’ longer downtime, but also tend to give a better result. The laser session takes about 15 minutes. Anita starts with one general pass over the entire face, then comes back to pay more attention to particular problem areas: lines, sun spots, open pores, acne scars and so on. For a few minutes after that, her assistant Amy applies icy towels to cool and soothe, then I doze for another 15 minutes while a mask works its magic. I’m

inflicted on myself in my teens and twenties. Next morning, it’s just slightly pink, nothing that ordinary foundation can’t hide. A fine crust develops as my skin heals, invisibly flaking off after five or six days. She usually recommends a monthly treatment for four to six months, says Anita. As for me, I believe in having a laser treatment now and then – once a year, say. Start early and do it regularly – don’t wait till those fine lines are deeply entrenched and your collagen is all but depleted. Total face transplants may have become common by then, but I wouldn’t count on it!

We Review

Laser Resurfacing

Lucky reviewer:

Verne Maree, South African Problem: Getting older, losing

Cost: $800. The Aesthetics Centre

#03-15 Great World City 1 Kim Seng Promenade 6820 3308 | anitasoosay.com

collagen and generally falling apart. More specifically, I’m bothered by the pores on my nose and T-zone, fine lines around the eyes and mouth, and pigmentation patches on the cheeks, and looking for some overall skin rejuvenation. Solution: Pixel CO2 is a fractional laser system that improves skin texture and tone, reduces fine lines and minimises pore size. Not only is it an effective skin rejuvenator, but it can also target specific worries such as acne scars and other blemishes. How it works: Like the traditional CO2 laser, the Pixel CO2 one is ablative – it removes a layer of skin to reveal a new layer that has a more refined texture and better appearance. Unlike traditional CO2, however, which would keep you at home for two weeks, this fractional version doesn’t remove the entire skin layer at once. By delivering laser in pixels, it promises rapid healing and minimal downtime. “People like it because they can get back to their usual activities right away,” says Dr Soosay. That doesn’t include noon-time tennis, of course; as with any light-based therapy, you need to strictly avoid any sunlight for at least the first 48 hours, and preferably up to two weeks.

sent off with a smile, a reminder about the sun, and a small jar of antibacterial cream to apply for just two days. Aftermath: My face is a bit red for the rest of the day and evening, like one of the sunburns I stupidly

Start early and do it regularly – don’t wait till those fine lines are deeply entrenched and your collagen is all but depleted.

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#4 TailoredBody Contouring

Sick and tired of those recalcitrant lumps, bumps and muffin-tops that stubbornly resist even your best efforts in the gym? Plastic s u r g e o n DR ANDREW KHOO takes us through a

range of procedures aimed at achieving a contoured physique, from non- invasive therapies to surgical therapies. It’s best to see a plastic

surgeon who has a c c e s s t o t h e f u l l r a n g e o f treatments, so as to determine which therapy will best achieve your goals.

N o n - i n v a s i v e therapies are used for minor adjustments to the body contours. They include cooling devices such as CoolSculpting by Zeltiq, and high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) devices such as Liposonix. To be successful, says Dr Khoo, CoolSculpting requires an area of fat that can be pinched between the cooling plates. “I

assisted liposuction. Dr Khoo prefers VASER LipoSelection because the internal ultrasound treatment gives better skin contraction. This p r o c e d u r e u s u a l l y requires intravenous sedation or g eneral a n a e s t h e s i a a nd i s an invasive surgical procedure, he explains – “but, in the right hands, it can dramatically re- contour an area, and with acceptable risk”. He also sees patients who have an issue of lax

and fat in the arms is called brachyplasty ; in the thighs it’s called thighplasty . Finally, live fat cells can be harvested and transplanted from one area to another in the body. This is done with low-pressure liposuction to keep the cells alive. The cells are then concentrated and injected into the face, breasts or other parts of the body. In larger fat transfers, the Lipokit is used to select younger fat cells for injection, giving a better success rate. Of course, he stresses, all these treatments should be coupled with a sensible diet and exercise programme to maintain your results.

prefer Liposonix for its better skin c on t r a c t i on ,” he adds, “but i t ’ s a l i t t l e uncomfortable f o r p a t i e n t s , and requires a collection of fat that is at least 3cm thick.” L a r g e r a d j u s tme n t s t o t h e b o d y c o n t o u r s a r e achieved using l i p o s u c t i o n either alone or

See a plastic surgeon who has access to the full range of treatments, so as to determine which therapy will best achieve your goals.

skin and fat collections . “Occasionally, when these are combined with defects in the abdominal wall called hernias, they require a repair of the hernia and abdominoplasty.” Removal of loose skin

together with resection of the fat – abdominoplasty, for example. Types of liposuction include traditional liposuction, power-assisted liposuction, water-jet- assisted liposuction and ultrasound-

Aesthetic & Reconstructive Surgery #13-08 Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre 3 Mount Elizabeth 6733 3712 | andrewkhoo.com

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#5 Lifting Us Up … where we belong

bones and my hollowed-out temples. That look, explains Dr Sylvia, is caused by an age-related loss of volume – not only in the natural fat-pockets that plump up a younger face, but also a loss of bone mass. Interestingly, she says, we lose volume first around the eyes and temples and only later on the cheeks; the lower cheeks and around the mouth are the last to go. Losing volume and structure in the mid-face has another unpleasant effect: the cheeks descend flabbily to the jawline. It’s a bit like hanging a garment over a too-narrow hanger, Sylvia explains – the underlying structure can’t fully support what it’s carrying. Solution: The Liquid Lift, an individually tailored treatment using fillers of different densities to restore lost volume and hike the whole face up. “We don’t chase lines,” emphasises Sylvia Ramirez. “That’s the old way of doing things. Instead, we replace volume in areas of loss.” How it works: Injectable fillers can be made from a variety of materials, but for me Sylvia recommends hyaluronic acid (HA) – a dissolvable substance that is found naturally in our skins. “The goal is for you to still look like you, just several years younger.” Filler has to be injected fairly deep, through the epidermis, the dermis and the subcutaneous fat layer into the facial fat compartments right next to the bone. As these deep fat pads are separated by muscle, the injected HA cannot move from one area to another. For the upper face, she’ll use Juvéderm Voluma, a denser compound with a greater capacity to lift, and which is believed to have a good lasting effect; for the lower face, Juvéderm Volift, which is a softer compound. (Lips would call for an even lighter formulation.) Procedure: After thorough physical and photographic analysis and her usual extensive consultation with me, Dr Sylvia draws up my treatment plan. For starters, I must avoid fish oil, St John’s wort, ibuprofen and other NSAIDs for two weeks before

and after treatment, to lessen the risk of swelling and bruising. You could have a Liquid Lift done in one go. But mine is to be divided between two 90-minute sessions; both to make it more comfortable for me and to let the upper face settle before addressing the lower face. In Round One , she injects Juvéderm Voluma into the hollows of my temples and along my cheekbones, while kind Fann and Vicky apply ice to minimise pain and bruising. Two small, smudgy bruises have all but disappeared by the time I return, five days later. In Round Two , a lighter formulation, Juvéderm Volift, is used for the lower face. Mainly the sides – the peri-auricular areas – are to be filled. As the mid-cheeks are the last to shrink with age, explains Sylvia, the trick is to concentrate on the sides of the face, from where it tends to flee first. Does it hurt? Some of the pricks start off a bit painful, but quickly become less so as the lidocain in the formulation takes effect. And they’re really no more uncomfortable than the couple of minutes’ worth of Botox injections that follow. Dr Sylvia asks me to first frown heavily, then lift my brows in surprise, then shut my eyes tightly and finally smile widely – all the while furiously scribbling little notes to herself. Botox is all about balance, she reminds me: by temporarily paralysing muscles that pull the face down, it allows those muscles that lift the face to do their job a bit better. The idea is not to get rid of every line; at my age that would be odd and look unnatural. Aftermath: It can take two weeks for the dermal filler to integrate fully with the surrounding tissues. You can expect swelling for a few days, and bruising is possible. I get away with just one tender and noticeable bruise – on the right, happily near the hairline – which uses up my stock of concealer and fades gradually over a couple of weeks. (So avoid having fillers less than two weeks before a special event.) Botox kicks in after two or three days, slightly lifting the brow and opening up the eye area in a way that I’ve come to love; it gives me room to play with eye- shadow, and stops me looking tired and grumpy when I’m actually neither.

We Review

Liquid Lift

Lucky reviewer: Verne Maree, South African We don’t advocate lying to husbands as a general rule – especially if he has an inconveniently long memory like my Roy’s – but I confess to some initial fibbing about my recent experience at Cutis Laser Clinics with DR SYLVIA RAMIREZ. Eight years ago, I had an iffy encounter with a dermal filler and loudly declared “never again!” Fortunately, it’s a woman’s prerogative to change her mind – and I’m so glad I did! Problem: I star ted noticing the change in photographs: when I grinned, small cheeks bulged madly against their own

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The goal is for you to still look like you, just several years younger.

I should mention that the lovely Cutis team WhatApps me regularly over the next few days to check how I’m feeling and monitor my progress. Remarkably, they do this for every patient. Longer-term effect: Even once the filler has been reabsorbed after 18 months or so, studies show, the effect is more than a temporary aesthetic one. Fillers are shown to improve collagen production and skin tone over the longer term, too. How do I feel about the result? In some ways, I’d been rather enjoying the Bambi effect of bigger-looking eyes in an increasingly hollow bone structure – a bit like a twenties flapper after a tapeworm diet. Now, with fuller temples and cheeks, and re-contoured cheekbones, I look like myself again – and yes, that has to be a good thing. Cost: Depends on the number of areas treated, the amount of filler, and the number of Botox units required.

Cutis Laser Clinics #08-02 Pacific Plaza Medical Suites Scotts Road 6810 4000 | cutislaserclinics.com

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#6 Laser Touch One of DR VALENTIN LOW’s most popular treatments, he says, Laser Touch is one of the latest and most promising advances in dermatology for the elimination of signs of ageing. How it works: A controlled amount of microscopic laser beam is delivered to heat the collagen and new skin cells in the underlying layers, bringing about smoother, younger, healthier-looking skin. Most patients notice changes in the tone and condition of their skin immediately following Laser Touch. However, because the technology stimulates the natural growth of collagen, it may take up to a few weeks for the patient to see optimal results. Procedure: Laser Touch is a quick treatment, and a session takes only 15 to 20 minutes. Discomfort is minimal; patients may feel a warm sensation at the site of treatment, but it’s easily tolerable. As the procedure isn’t associated with any sort of downtime, you’ll be able to resume your lifestyle immediately. Dr Low generally recommends a series of three treatments, depending on the condition of your skin and the results you’re hoping more radiant skin toned, firmer skin smaller pores reduced acne scars a rejuvenated complexion Dr Valentin Low Aesthetic & Laser Clinic #08-03 Paragon 290 Orchard Road 6720 3323 drvalentin.com.sg to achieve. Benefits: fewer lines and wrinkles

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