1) Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch SPF30+ (from Aus, but also available in HK)
Slip. Slop. Slap.
This original health campaign has infused into my blood and for years I've been used to slapping on layers and layers of thick sunscreen to protect myself from damaging sunrays. Stickyness was never a concern with the dry Australian climate, but in HK, I was keen to find an oil-free and non-sticky sunscreen that would still do the job. This sunscreen really does what its name suggests~ it applies like a thin film and absorbs quickly, leaving a matte finish on the skin. It's also suitable for use on the face as it's not sticky and won't clog pores. Also comes in SPF50 and SPF70, which would be suitable for those who do a lot of sports and/or out in the sun a lot. For daily use SPF30 would be enough.
I don't quite understand how the SPF system works, but as this meets the stringent requirements of the Skin & Cancer Foundation of Australia, I'm rest-assured that the product will protect me.
Price: $99.90 at Mannings (88ml/3oz)
2) Thursday Plantation Aloe Vera Gel (from Aus)
I've taken to soaking up as much sun as possible these days, though keeping in mind that I can't stay in the sun too long and need to constantly lather myself with sunscreen. After a day out in the sun, I'll also smooth on some aloe vera gel to cool my skin and replenish it with the moisture it needs. Made from Australian grown Aloe Vera, it contains 97.4% pure aloe gel so it's very natural and also great for soothing sunburns, though fingers crossed I won't have to use it for that purpose!
Price: AU$10.37, bought at Chemist Warehouse for AU$8.99(100ml)
3) Menard Fairlucent Day Cream White AD SPF40PA++
I recently bought this after hearing good reviews from friends and also on the net. I wasn't disappointed. Following my daily cleansing routine, I squeeze out a portion a bit larger that pea size on my hand. The sales assistant at the roadshow recommended that the cream should be applied by lightly patting onto the face as this way it provides the most even coverage. The cream is waterproof and I treat it like a base before applying make up so I get daily protection.
Price: $630, but got 15% off ($535.5) buying it at the Menard Roadshow at Apita (40g)
4) Evian Facial Spray
A cult favourite, and definately a favourite of mine. It's an instant refresher; especially since I've got make up on during the day and can't splash water on my face whenever I feel flustered. I always keep the purse sized version with me, especially during summer. All it takes is a spray of mist, followed by lightly patting of my skin for a quick moisture boost. During winter, I still like to use it in the office to keep myself refreshed.
Price: $26 at Bonjour Cosmetics (50ml/1.5oz)
5) Pearl's Mosquitout
If only I had as many interests as the mossies that like my skin...haha just kidding. But I'm definately not kidding about the mossies. I can never repel myself enough from these insects, so I have to keep a bottle of repellant with me at all times. I've found Pearl's Mosquitout quite good and I've got the roll-on as well as the spray. It contains wild tomato extract and is DEET free, so it's safe for the skin.
The only downside is that the repellant has a very strong scent, even stronger than Citronella but without the sweetness. Which makes it quites unattractive. I use it outdoors, at the beach, bbq or on boat trips because the weeks following a bite are too painful for the scent to bother me. However, it's definately too strong for the office. If anyone has good recommendations, please let me know!
