A Place In The Sun

For the multitude of differences that we ought to recognise and embrace, there are some things that Asian women in general share in common when it comes to discussing matters of the skin. For example, scientific studies have shown that the all-protective, outermost layer of the complexi0n known as the stratum corneum in asian women is thin. We also are more prone to pigmentation because of higher levels of melanocyte activity. At the same time, the region’s humidity means that our sebaceous glands – which asians tend to have more of – can overreact (hands up if oily skin bothers you) while UV rays and pollution levels have made sensitised skin a growing condition here. All launched this year, the products on the next two pages don’t claim to cover the skincare concerns of all Asian women, but they do help tackle some of the most common. And – in the spirit of this edition’s theme – they’re all created by brands with roots in asia. Sofia Kim reports.

- Sofia Kim

FOR OILY SKIN

BEIGIC CORRECTING EXFOLIATOR It’s crucial to remove dead skin cells and excess oils from the overproduction of sebum to prevent acne and clogged pores. This exfoliator by K-beauty brand Beigic does exactly that and even contains coffee bean powder that aids in getting rid of spots and marks caused by acne and sun damage while encouraging skin’s natural renewal process.

MELLOW NATURALS CLARIFYING FACE SERUM Mellow Naturals is a non-toxic brand from Thailand and this weightless, fast-absorbing serum is made with an oil-rebalancing blend of extracts including that of willow bark and sophora root to remove acne-causing bacteria, minimise breakout tendencies and encourage cell renewal for a balanced complexion.

THANN ASTRINGENT TONER Apart from removing excess sebum and dirt, this solution by the popular Thai label also helps to refine enlarged pores and tackle unevenly textured skin caused by the overproduction of oil and sebum. Antioxidant and vitamin-rich platinum colloid shiso extract protects and revives dull, tired-looking complexions.

SULWHASOO HERBAL CLAY PURIFYING MASK Muan clay – known to deeply penetrate pores to draw out impurities – works with a blend of herbs with natural microbial and antibacterial properties to prevent unwanted breakouts and treat clogged pores. Also in this formula by the South Korean beauty giant: a cocktail of gentle acids that removes dead skin cells for greater clarity and radiance.

FOR ENHANCED PROTECTION