Essential N05

Kingdom of Heaven The Latin words sanum per aqua are synonymous with health.

Modern SPAS may not differ in essence from those created centuries ago - society simply supplemented the healing powers of water with skincare and the smell of essential oils. What are the best SPAS in town offering?

The ESSENTIAL team went in search of the answer, it was a tough a job but someone had to do it.

Hair care We speak to a professional and tease out his secrets…

Doctor’s orders Why oily skins should be washed away…

How to buy Beauty You can stick to over-the-counter products or go for diamond, platinum and lava solutions

by the numbers Yes, all stats were dug up from a range of obscure websites, including those of the Macau Government and Macau Business

40,320

minutes of using “Peau Magnifique” from Revive to achieve brand new skin

MOP 86,000

price paid by a millionaire to have celebrity hairstylist Stuart Phillips engaged for a day

MOP 17,000

Creme de La Mer’s ‘The Essence’ serum for a 21-day treatment

100,000

average number of hairs on a person’s head

13

number of facial muscles used to produce a smile

132cm

length of the world’s longest pair of legs – Proud owner: Svetlana Pankratova

MOP 10,300

Cost of a 40-gram jar of Shisheido’s Creme Synergique

110,000 sq ft

size of Macau’s DFS Galleria selling makeup, creams and perfumes

10,000

average number of blinks per day

Beauty lies is the eye of the beholder – or so they say – but there’s nothing wrong with trying to enhance your natural features and your state of mind, or keeping clean and healthy in body and spirit.Today’s concept of beauty does fade into minimalist influences compared to the extravagances of the Victorian age. Back then, She had to suffer to be beautiful. Today – maybe She still does but – for the most part, she indulges in Nobel prized mascara brews, the spiritual cleansings of aromatherapy, and other popular urban rites such as diamond dust creams, kohl eyeliners and anti-ageing herbal extracts. Even He can’t escape the social trends and must sport good grooming. Horse-smelling, pheromone-pumping, body hair-boasting, males are dinosaurs of a distant chauvinist past. To get you in the know, and to help you master that trendy, healthy, look, we search high and low for the most exquisite goodies to add to your vanity desk. Check out what to do, what to get, and where to find it – you’ll have to swim an ocean to get some things...

Sure enough we also indulge in the quest for the most revitalising experiences available in town - we weren’t disappointed, and you won’t be either. On a more vital note, we take a scientific/ medical approach to all that ‘junk’ we collect to make us (feel) beautiful (because we know we already are, but as human beings we crave reassurance). Is it all really worth it? A practicing dermatologist tells his tale. Ever had one of those catastrophic bad hair days? We have some suggestions to ensure it doesn’t happen to you again, ever... well, maybe less often, nothing’s perfect.

Next month we’ll talk about fashion, the Haute Couture way - Paris, New York, London, Milan.... We comb through the lead designers’ collections and let you in on the season’s trends - what’s hot, what’s not, will you have to unearth your wardrobe from three seasons ago? We’ll be sure to let you know. As always, accessories are ‘the deal breaker’ when selecting an outfit, and there’s that fetish that they can never get enough of... shoes!

We always crave your feedback. The first issues of ESSENTIAL were met with enthusiasm from many a reader and we thank you for your encouragement and suggestions. If you have something to share please keep it clean and write to us at ESSENTIAL@macaubusiness.com. Go ahead, indulge yourself in the best the city has to offer and enjoy!

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Classic Nivea Creme Affordable creams which hydrate just fine,

say dermatologists

Nivea is improving on its product’s ‘looks’, but they still reminds us of grandma…

To be used all over the body, best for rough spots

such as knees, feet, elbows and hands Doesn’t make much of a statement

it in your bathroom…

Giselle models for the brand. It cannot be bad…

Less than MOP 50

Exquisite La Prairie Unusual ingredients like caviar or platinum aren’t necessarily more effective

Much of the outlay on cosmetics is on packaging and advertising

Each jar has a specific function. Don’t skip steps!

Be sure to keep the jar in your bathroom, even when it is empty.

No need for celebrity endorsement… it speaks for itself

More than MOP 3,000

Pride – Deliberately taking your La Mer hand cream to work just so your co-workers know…

Envy – Telling your girlfriend she looks very tired just days after she told you she started using luxury skincare you can not afford...

Greed – Constantly asking your colleague for her La Mer hand cream knowing how much it costs…

Wrath – That homicidal feeling when you discover that your boyfriend is using your favourite MOP 1,000 jar of face cream to moisture his hands.

Lust – Spending as much as you want on luxurious skincare and paying your house helper much less Gluttony – Using more than the prescribed amount of eye cream or serum. Those lines won’t be mended any quicker by piling on the product…

Sloth – Going to sleep without properly going through all the necessary cleansing steps. iii

feature A little something to ignite your senses

Almost a decade has passed since Clive Christian, a well established designer, acquired one of the oldest perfumeries in Britain which was honoured by Queen Victoria in 1872 when she granted the company the image of her crown.

Christian credits the move to his eldest daughter Victoria’s passion for perfume, combined with his own relentless pursuit of timeless luxury and British excellence.

Inspired by the original values of the perfumery from the 1800’s, Christian released a definitive collection of Pure Perfumes for men and for women – no colognes or eau de toilettes.

At the pinnacle of this definitive collection is ‘No.1 Perfume’, which as a consequence of the desire to create a perfume with no reference to cost or limitations, became ‘The World’s Most Expensive Perfume’.

This marked a moment in British perfume history which was recognised by the Guinness World Records.

Limited by the rarity of the precious ingredients which make up each ounce, such as aged Indian sandalwood and crystallised Tahitian vanilla, every bottle of No.1 Perfume is studded with a single brilliant cut diamond to symbolize the delicate facets of the complex perfume when worn on the skin.

In 2006 Christian released a limited edition bottle of No.1, fittingly called Imperial Majesty. Cut in Baccarat crystal and valued at over MOP$1 million, it is designed to celebrate every aspect of No.1 The World’s Most Expensive Perfume.

A unique bottle of No.1 Perfume was commissioned for Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee in the shape of a diamondstudded crystal tiara and the perfume has graced the gardens of Sir Elton John’s White Tie & Tiara Ball in honour of the Elton John Aids Foundation.

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Acetic Acid Sometimes used as a caustic or astringent, it helps close pores.

Astringent - Toner helpful in controlling surface oils and in lowering the pH after cleansing.

Age Spots - A darkly pigmented (colored) area on the skin that occurs with age.

Almond Oil - Vegetable oil derived from almonds with softening properties.

Blackheads - A term used to describe the skin’s pores clogged by natural oils and impurities.

Botox - Trade name for botulinum toxin. Used in tiny amounts, it can temporarily paralyze a muscle and reduce or eliminate wrinkles or frown lines without harm.

Collagen - A natural substance within body tissues. It can be injected into the skin to plump up particular areas.

Dermabrasion - A procedure in which the skin is sanded to improve its texture. Microdermabrasion uses a special type of sand and the process is usually carried out by an esthetician or a cosmetic doctor. Cosmetic physicians can perform a deeper type of dermabrasion using small burrs or wires to remove the outer layers of the skin.

Eau de Parfum - The most concentrated fragrance, usually more costly as a result.

Eau de Toilette - A less-concentrated fragrance.

Ginseng - Considered to be a tonic.

Believed to be nourishing due to its vitamin and hormone content. It is taken orally and is also believed to have energy boosting capabilities.

Glycerin - Used in moisturisers due to its water binding capabilities.

Jojoba - A tonic, emollient and moisturiser. Treats dry skin, wrinkles and stretch marks.

Lanolin - An emollient with moisturising properties and an emulsifier with high water absorption capabilities.

Melanoma - A type of skin cancer characterised by a black or dark brown pigmented tumor.

PABA - Para-aminobenzoic acid. Found in the vitamin B complex. Used as an ingredient in some sunscreen products.

Paraffin - A beeswax substitute derived from petroleum. pH - Percentage of hydrogen. Used to measure acidity in cosmetic preparations Retinol - A vitamin A acid. The main ingredient in Retin-A and Renova.

These products are used to treat fine wrinkles and acne.

Tea Tree Oil - A natural preservative with antiseptic and germicidal properties used in soaps, shampoos, and skin-care products.

Toner - Product used after cleansing to help return skin to its natural pH. Removes any remaining trace of dirt or debris.

UVA - Ultraviolet light, type A. The invisible rays of light from the sun which can cause damage to the skin.

Zinc Oxide - Used to protect, soothe and heal the skin. Also provides good sun protection. v

Interview Dermatology specialist Dr Hu Li Wen believes slick spin and flashy advertising are luring people into buying a name, rather than the skincare product which best tackles their problems

The skinny on Which are better, expensive, well known face creams or traditional, reasonably-priced products we can buy over the counter?

If you are looking for a simple moisturiser, almost any well-known brand, expensive or not, will do. For other treatments, like anti-wrinkle or lifting, this depends on your skin type. Spending thousands on a face cream that is inappropriate for your skin is a waste of time and money.

For treatments like anti-wrinkle or lifting, should one trust the brand or the ingredients?

You have to bear in mind the more exclusive the brand is, the more expensive the product will be.

The most important thing is to evaluate how your skin reacts and, bottom line, the amount of money you are willing to spend. There are no guarantees that very expensive anti-wrinkle treatment will work on your skin. Cheaper alternatives might very well suffice given you have a balanced diet and are using the right type of product.

Natural beauty products versus chemical products.

Which do you prefer?

I always prefer natural products, but often the difference between both types is in the price.

To produce the same amount of cream only with natural products will increase the price of the product. It is a matter, again, of how your skin reacts to it…

Are whitening skin creams dangerous for your health?

Some studies suggest they can cause cancer.

Skin cancer is more common among fair skin types. Caucasians vi

in Asia should be more careful than local people. They should always use sun protection. I cannot say that whitening skin care products are dangerous, nevertheless when using them we are exposing the skin to chemical processes…

How should we care for our skin in a climate like Macau’s?

In such a humid environment, oily skins become prone to aggressions by all sorts of bacteria. Normal to dry skins are not of great concern – apply some moisturizer and you should be fine. During wet months, for those with oily skin I would recommend a face wash at least three times a day with a mild cleansing lotion or milk in the morning, afternoon and at night. The idea is to keep the pores clean to avoid blackheads and congested pores, the ideal place for bacteria to grow.

Which is the best diet for our skin?

Lots of vegetables and fruits and at least one litre of water a day.

Beauty, grooming

& sex

Spring brush up, for free!

Not that you need it, but it never hurts to get a few maquillage tips and find out what new goodies are coming out this year. If you have a Saturday spare to gear up for the season, try to make your way to The Grand Canal Shoppes at the Venetian and enroll in one of their Beauty and Cosmetics Workshops. Every Saturday afternoon, between April 4th and May 9th, beauty advisors from selected cosmetics brands will introduce you to their latest beauty and makeup trends at the Vergnano Italian Restaurant - gives you a chance to test the stuff before you surrender your hard earned cash, plus you get to discuss directly with the pros about their ‘tried-and-tested’ make-up techniques. The first and last weeks of the workshops are hosted

by Marjorie Bertagne, and the topic is their Platinum Skincare Series. Natural Beauty Mix’s session will focus on “Luminous Beauty”, while Sulwhasoo will cover “SNOWISE Extraordinary Whitening Journey.” Clarins’ is geared towards specific Spring/ Summer make-up. And the best part... did we mention it’s free? You can stuff your face with all the cosmetics and skin care products you can lay your hands on. How can we resist...

When all else fails, it might be worth taking a scientific look at how to attract that special someone to your bed.

But first, you’ll need some essential oils, warm hands and a good nose. The idea is to create an olfactory ride that will end in a nirvana of pleasure for both parties because the more ‘feel good’ endorphins that are released into the brain, the more turned-on he or she will be. The rest, as they say, is up to you…

Scents have been used for centuries for the purpose of sexual arousement. To awaken these erotic endorphins there are scents believed to be aphrodisiacs for women like lavender, rose, clary sage, ylang ylang and rosewood oils. Scents able to arouse ‘him’ are said to be lavender (the number one arouser), pumpkin (number two), then sandalwood, patchouli, jasmine, coriander and cinnamon oils. This is the reason many feminine perfumes are filled with such scents…and for sure, they work!

Never forget, your body must be clean in order to experience the full effects of scented oils massaged into your lover’s body, and he or she must be sensitive to smell. An oil lamp filled with scented oil is perfect for setting the tone and if you put it in the bathroom while you are taking a shower or bath the humidity will help a lot in doing the rest.

Some studies into the effects of aromas and their ability to attract the opposite sex say women tend to prefer the smell of men whose genetics are similar to their own (although not too similar) and men are attracted (proven by an increase of blood flow) by a woman’s body odour during the time of the month when she is fertile.

It’s worth remembering the story about Napoleon. Ahead of his return home from one of his many wars he sent a letter to Josephine asking her not to shower three days prior to his arrival… Mmmmmm...nature has its own particular - or is that peculiar - way of working!

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Split ends

There is an often ignored ‘scientific’ approach to hair care which means it needn’t neccessarily be hair today and gone tomorrow. Hairstylist and make-up artist Rui Carreiro shares a hirsute world of do’s and don’ts with Essential

His job was to make the most tired of models or actresses look great on screen. As a hairstylist and make-up artist working in the Portuguese movie and television industry, Azores-born Rui Carreiro also produced two of Portugal’s major fashion events, Portugal Fashion and Moda Lisboa. If you’re lazy about the way you treat your skin and hair, this will either kill you or cure you.

The best haircare products are not enough to guarantee that healthy look you are longing for. Products considered by Rui Carreiro as among the best in the market are Tigi, Redken, Joico and Sebastian, but if you don’t know how to use them, you are wasting your time.

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Hair-wash: You should not wash your hair everyday. On average it takes 72

hours for the hair bulb to dry completely. Even when blow-drying your hair the internal roots remain humid. They need time to dry. If you are the sporty type or spend much of your day in a swimming pool there is not much you can do. In this case, NEVER tie your hair into ponytails when it is wet. Ideally, one’s hair should be washed two or three times a week. To maintain a healthy and shiny look, leave-in conditioners can and often are better choices when compared to cream conditioners. After a night out, some odour eliminating conditioners can be applied. There are also some products that dry-clean hair and they are very reliable.

Conditioning: When using a hair conditioner you increase the molecular

weight carried by your hair. The more you put in, the heavier it gets. This goes against any intention to achieve soft and voluminous looking hair. In Macau’s climate, humid and polluted, the best results can be achieved with leave-in conditioners. And a little reminder: when applying the cream conditioner into your hair, more than half of it ends up down the drain…

Hair masks:

Only to be used if your hair is dry or very dry. An excess of moisture or nutrients contained in hair masks make your hair look and feel heavy. On the other hand, whatever your hair type, always use sun protection, specially during summer months. Also protect your your scalp because it is more sensitive than your face skin and often neglected. There are sprays for this. You don’t have to be on a beach or at the swimming pool to use it!

Deep moisturising mask:

Wash your hair and put on the mask of your choice. Literally cling wrap your head until your hair is completely covered then add a warm to hot towel and cover the wrapping. Let it stay for as many minutes as you like then rinse.

Specific shampoos: Products to fight dandruff or other capillary

conditions must not be used for very long periods and should be occasionally replaced by the use of sensitive scalp shampoos. These special treatment products are highly concentrated in active substances and work as if they are medicines. Your body will get used to them and such prolonged usage will irritate the scalp. If you are fighting dandruff use the specific shampoo two times in a row and change for a sensitive scalp shampoo before going back to the dandruff one. Often what we think of as dandruff ends up being an irritated scalp losing skin…not the same thing.

Add shine:

There are shampoos for natural, not coloured hair, specially created to enhance shine and colour, as well as shampoos for artificially coloured hair. Both should be used in accordance to their purpose. Meanwhile, if you are looking at some oils to control the frizz of your hair or to make it more shiny, please think twice. These oils only add weight to your hair and, once under the sun, have the same effect as cooking oil! Try some creamy alternatives. They smell better, are not oily and give a more natural look.

Colouring:

Thinking about a blond look for the summer? NEVER go for hair colouring products from the supermarket. They have high levels of ammonia that will surely damage your hair. A hairstylist can control the level of chemicals to be used in your hair when changing its colour. Trust a professional and you will avoid mistakes.

Being blond: If you are a natural blond, these few words won’t concern you.

But for those of you who dye your hair please bear in mind that the sun can turn your newly blond colour into orange and sometimes green! The same happens with fake blonds spending much of their time in swimming pools. Sun and chlorine are powerful oxidants that burn away the blond colour. To exert damage control, try tainted shampoos for blonds (fakes or not) and you will see your colour last longer.

The Neo-sexual revolution The androgynous look for men is long gone and the high-earning, high-octane metro-sexual man is soo yesterday. It’s time to meet neo-sexual man!

Macho-like yet feminine in the sensitivity stakes, he IS good looking. A potent combination of strong manhood and a caring human being. The makers of beauty products are increasingly turning to these guys for the development of a new market niche.

A neo-sexual man should be powerful, successful in his career and show a special sensitivity to his partner’s needs. Feminine looks are history. Men who spend too much time taking care of themselves with creams and masks and using too much make-up and perfume don’t encourage the image of a powerful decision maker able to attend wider needs and help achieve new sexual heights.

Some polls say women now want neo-sexuals to father their children and they’re big in the gay community too.

He works hard as well as leading a family or a relationship, while, at the same time, being sensible and sensitive and caring about the way he looks. He must also be knowledgeable about fashion trends though not a trendsetter.

We are not talking about Barbie doll’s boyfriend Ken. It is more like Brad Pitt. Or maybe just the new Superman, now where did I put that cape?

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review

Instead of splurging your hard-earned cash on diamond and platinum jewellery, why not apply these very, very special minerals to your face? Or perhaps reinvigorate your skin with a splash of volcanic lava. Think we’re mad? Read on...

Unbelievable novelties

for her

Natura Bissè *We love it!* Diamond Magnetic Top of the range Spanish company Natura Bissè is dedicated to exclusive cosmetic treatments and has created the The Diamond Magnetic - a formula enriched with diamond powder and micronized iron that is said to protect the face and body skin against the effects of electro-magnetic contaminants from cell phones, televisions or computers. Once the treatment is complete, Diamong Magnetic will leave the skin clean, purified and de-stressed. Once applied, the mixture should be removed with a magnetic tool by lightly touching the skin in circular motions. The remaining product should be massaged until complete absorption by the skin. Price: MOP 3,459 Where to buy: The Spa at Four Seasons Macao

Creme La Mer **Our favourite** EYE CONCENTRATE We love it! Always use the silver-tipped applicator when applying because it helps improve blood circulation under the eyes. Concentrated with hematite, white algae, and the company’s signature Miracle BrothTM, Eye Concentrate reduces the appearance of dark circles, evens skin tone and soothes and hydrates throughout the day. Apply tiny little quantities. For a mask like treatment, be generous during application.

Price: MOP 1,500. Where to buy: New Yaohan Department Store Macau and DFS, Four Seasons, Macao

Estèe Lauder Re-NUTRIV This cream is said to be rich in emollients, exotic lipids and promises a more lifted look. It takes time to be completely absorbed. Price: More than MOP 1,300 Where to buy: New Yaohan Department Store Macau and DFS, Four Seasons, Macao

La Prairie *Amazing!* Sisley GLOBAL ANTI-AGE We love Sisley’s skin care products. They smell great and offer a fine creamy texture. The global anti-age cream is said to powerfully renew skin and looks by stimulating and retexturizing cell and intercellular exchange, thanks to a complex of plant extracts, vitamins and trace elements essential to efficient metabolism. The downside of such a product: it is quite a thick a cream not ideal for a quick absorption. Price: MOP 2,650 Where to buy: New Yaohan Department Store Macau and Shop No. 2630a, The Venetian Macao

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Cellular Cream Platinum Rare The Asian launch of La Prairie’s new Cellular Cream Platinum Rare on April 7 will create a new benchmark in skincare products. It’s main claim is that it is a skin-transforming formula that recharges the skin’s electrical balance with pure platinum, protects the skin’s DNA and moisturises continuously. It is also said to actively reduce the effects of time on your skin. Price: More than MOP 8,000.

Where to buy: La Prairie counter at DFS, Four Seasons, Macao

Practical and sure bets

for him

Lancôme ENERGIZER TOTAL This anti-fatigue moisturizing and revitalizing concentrate can be used on all types of skin and is easily absorbed. We found it perfect for men with little time to waste in the bathroom. To be applied day and night. It is not greasy at all and has a wonderfully discreet smell.

Price: MOP 400 Where to buy: New Yaohan Department Store Macau and DFS, Four Seasons, Macao

Giorgio Armani *NEW* CREMA NERA obsidian mineral reviving eye cream Available in Macau from April 23, Armani’s new Crema Nera reviving eye cream is the newest of GA’s lava skin treatments – after the face cream and the serum. Based on volcanic minerals, the eye cream was designed to ‘rejuvenate’ the eyes’ contours. Its obsidian minerals are said to be able to correct wrinkles, bags and dark circles. Price: MOP 1,300.

Where to buy: New Yaohan Department Store Macau

Cle de Peau LA CREME Shiseido’s high-end brand Cle de Peau claims to have discovered “the key to a flawless complexion” through its Enzyme Management Technology. This is an extremely rich cream with anti-aging properties to be used especially at night. Let it dry before joining your bed sheets! On very humid days, apply in a dry area. Price: MOP 4,020 Where to buy: New Yaohan Department Store Macau

Kiehl’s FACIAL FUEL This is an energizing moisture treatment with a vitamin-enriched and non-oily moisturiser that ‘wakes’ and ‘uplifts’ dull and fatigued skin. It is said to be a facial recovery accelerator. One thing we know – its creamy yet fresh texture makes it easily absorbed by skin. Price: MOP 320 Where to buy: New Yaohan Department Store Macau and DFS Four Seasons, Macao

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Show Off

Sometimes the ordinary is just not good enough.

We went in search of that little bit extra and look what we found...

Brush that brush Military Style Mixture Hair Brush British Mason Pearson is a brand name dating back to 1860. Hand made, these brushes are designed according to original models from 1885 and with the improvements of the fully developed models from the early 1920’s.

Each brush comes with a cleaning tool and maintenance instructions. You can choose from Boar bristles, nylon bristles or a combination of both. The military style brush is generally used for normal hair and the men’s military style hairbrush incorporates the same exclusive features as the ladies’ hairbrushes - spired tufts and a pneumatic pad. Online retail price starts at MOP 1,700. You can visit their website: www.masonpearson. com and for further inquiries please contact: sales@masonpearson.com

A dream razor…

Damascene Razor From the Parisian Hommage purveyor of luxury goods, this is a platinum-sheathed straight razor (the production process uses the same technique developed in ancient times by the Crusaders) handforged with 128 layers of Damascene steel.

Its resists tarnish with gusto.

Price: MOP 235,000. Hommage is a company dedicated to men, focusing on SPA protocols at the Carlyle Hotel in New York City.

For further inquiries and purchase service: www. hommage.com or e-mail: customersupport@hommage.com

Nobel prize winning cream

Wider look Kohl Eyeliner Serge Lutens, Dior and later Shiseido’s image director for over 20 years, is known for his unique style and approach to beauty, and his adventure into the world of scents with his Serge Luten perfumes, added strength to a name well known in the fashion elite circles. His Kohl Eyeliner is a reference, although for about MOP 600 it is hardly a must have item. You can find Serge Lutens in Harvey Nichols, The Landmark, 15 Queen’s Road Central, Central, Hong Kong or visit their site for futher information and purchase orders: www.sergelutens.com

Revive Peau Magnifique This is a serum that apparently rebuilds the skin cells from the inside - its ‘magic’ ingredient – the enzyme telomerase, is said to activate a ‘dormant’ skin cell recovering the strength of cellular activity inherent to younger people. The brand claims to use Nobel Prize winning technology. Plastic surgeon Gregory Bays Brown created the Revive line and it is very popular among Hollywood stars.

To be used only twice a day over four weeks – the brand guarantees results immediately and on a longterm basis. All this comes at a price, it is so exclusive it costs MOP 12,000.

Now that’s scary… if you dare, take a look at its website for more information and for orders: www.reviveskincare.com. You can also find Revive at Joyce Beauty, 232 pacific Place, HK Island. Hong Kong.

Going straight…

Limited Edition C2 Crystal Hair Straightener Corioliss were surely going for the Paris Hilton market when they decided to make a flat iron and cover it with 2553 Swarovski crystals. The hair straightener was produced as part of a limited edition, and the asking price of MOP 4,400 will probably make your hair curl. More information and purchase at: www.corioliss.com

Super soap Jade Beauty Bar The Nephria soap - Jade Beauty Bar - contains an expensive and special form of Jade, which is said to have unique healing properties.

This particular Jade emits “Far-Infrared Rays (FIR)” which are similar to the radiant and warming electromagnetic rays of the sun. The human body absorbs FIR as they penetrate deep into the tissue where they transform from light energy into heat energy, assisting the skin in expelling harmful toxins and metabolic waste. This improves blood circulation and the regeneration of cellular tissue. Interested?

Each 120g bar costs MOP 280. For additional information and online purchase: www.newbertrevolution.com

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Wise spender

Foot massage at affordable prices Nirvana Spa

Avenida da Praia Grande, no 403, China Law Building, R/C, Macau Forty-five minutes costs MOP 210

Wong Chio Massage Centre

Alameda Dr. Carlos D’Assumpção, 264 R/C. Edf. Kin Heng Long, Macau Forty-five minutes massage costs MOP$98

Chang Chun Massage center (open from 9 am to midnight) Rua Coelho Amaral, 1 D, Edf. Lai Hou phase 2, 1L, Macau One hour massage costs MOP$89

Su Sek Massage Centre

Macau Stadium roundabout, in Taipa, Mei lai Kok building.

Forty-five minutes massage costs MOP$88

Tända Skincare **new age order** Anti-Aging Light Therapy Treatment Forget nutrient filled creams, and miracle broths. That stuff’s been around since the Middle Ages! Time to get acquainted with 21st century technology. Vibes, waves, and lights are the new thing. Check out Tända’s Regenerate Anti-Aging delivery system for photorejuvenation, AKA light therapy. It uses Light Emitting Diodes (LED) combined with microprocessor control and proprietary optics to deliver clinical levels of light to treat and prevent acne, and enhance skin feel and appearance. Just light (or torch) away those fine lines and wrinkles and banish blemishes. Price: MOP 2,000 up. Where to buy: order online at tandaskincare.com

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Induldge So near, so Spa ...ahhhhh

Do you know where the word SPA comes from? We’ll tell you. It’s from the Latin Sanum Per Aqua, which roughly means to be healed by water. Given that some of the region’s best SPA’s operate in Macau, we thought we’d give you a rundown on the rubdowns

Six Senses Spa at MGM Grand Macau As one of the world’s most renowned Spa’s, everything is designed to make you think somehow you will leave boosted with health. We believe that if you can make it at least once a week, this could very well happen. We chose a fusion of body massages that lasted for 90 minutes. Try to arrive early, you won’t regret it. The MGM Grand’s flotation pool, with its soft light changing every few seconds and under-water music makes it one of the most incredible places to be – like in the Dead Sea, perhaps. Next to it, the vitality infinity pool opens to a sea view and offers massage style in-pool seats.

These are a must. These are mixed-gender facilities, great for a few hours of escape with a loved one.

Just for ladies, you can find the herbs infused steam room – with a strong smell of herbs, very relaxing; and the Laconium room – the signature sauna equipped with a soft light that changes imperceptibly. There’s also a snow room – if you’ve never seen real snow, they say it looks and feels just like the real thing! We did leave invigorated and slept through most of the treatment.

Comments: The unique Snow Room was out of order. Perhaps a discount was in order but apart from at the reception, the staff hardly spoke any English. They did however have a great attitude which kind of negated the need for words. Once taken to change into the Spa robe, a few floors under the reception area, where the pools are, you have to go back to the reception area in order to enter the massage rooms. That could be uncomfortable given the fact that men and women in ‘civilian’ clothing are either hanging around or seated waiting for their treatment to start while your head is already wrapped in a towl and the rest just covered by a robe.

Massage prices range from MOP 1,950 for an 80 minute ‘Sensory Journey’ to MOP 900 for a 50 minute ‘Swedish Massage’

The SPA at Wynn Macau Once in the ‘hands’ of the SPA hostess we felt we had been transported inside a cocoon of warmth. This place is all about smiles and noiseless steps. Invited to take a bath before the treatment and encouraged to ease our muscles in the steam room or relaxation pool, we found ourselves in the treatment room and seconds later inside a heated massage station. It all started with a warm cotton cloth on both feet and a warmed under-the-neck pillow.

The Macanese Massage, the Spa’s signature treatment, is a deep tissue palm pressure approach that gives you a sensation of floating. We started calculating how many of these we could afford in a month and dreaming about living a life of massages and spa treatments. Wouldn’t that be perfect? Oh yes, and one of the nicest details we came across in our, er, gruelling SPA sessions – after the 90 minute massage, the ever-silent therapist gave us the remaining oil in a little bottle. Ah, the little things in life...

Comments: It may not be as impressive as Six Senses Spa at MGM Grand, or as perfectly designed and decorated as Crown Macau’s SPA, but the SPA at Wynn’s is so very discreet and well balanced. It also offers the best quality-to-price ratio we found.

Macanese Massage – MOP 1,000

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The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel Macao While heading to the appointment we got to thinking about how all high-end spas all look very much the same these days. The crucial difference lies in the quality of the treatment. Once at the reception desk after a quick look at the Natura Bisse skincare products and at Aromatherapy essential oils and scents, a secret hope built up – this couldn’t be a waste of time.

Then the clock started to count – a change into one of Four Seasons bathrobes and a look at the spa facilities: an ice fountain to awake your senses after a steam or sauna (and close open pores), followed by a shower infused with mentholated scents.

The same is available in the men’s quarters. So far, so good. In the treatment suite, a hideaway for two, we bathe in the steam/ shower room and spend some time in the Jacuzzi tub. After reaching a state similar to that of a zombie, we thought we were ready: ‘Real Aromatherapy Experience’ massage (for him) and the Oxygen Booster Facial (for her) which consists of a deep cleansing treatment through the use of a blend of minerals and seaweed combined with oxygenated ampoules and a mask.

We lay down for a 75 minute oxygen booster treatment and a 90 minute massage, our voyage of pleasure had begun. While waiting for masks and creams to produce their effects on the oxygen booster side, arm and leg massages were performed.

On the aromatherapy side, a deep sleep took over the patron, not able to remember much of the treatment but able to recognize how wonderfully it smelled at the beginning...

Comments: The loud ringing phone we could hear while chilling in the relaxation room didn’t help. This was in contrast to the rest of the facilities, which were clean and modern and almost made us forget we owned phone and mail receiver devices too.

Oxygen Booster Facial – MOP 1,100 Real Aromatherapy Experience – MOP 980 Special treatment for her and for him: Exclusive Diamond Inhibit Facial - using Natura Bisse products, enriched with diamond powder and other anti-ageing active ingredients such as frozen DNA, it is said to increase cryogenic effects such as firming. Forty minute treatment – MOP 2,500

The Spa at Crown Macau Yes, you can leave your body in expert hands and return to find it supple, renewed, exuding a soft sweet fragrance and lighter than ever. Among other treatments, The Spa at Crown offers a 90 minute treatment involving massage, scrubs, wraps, a Vichy shower and a gold finish oil, all of it during a non-stop full body and facial massage that will take away the tiniest bit of stress one can accumulate. It all starts with a pomegranate oil, full body massage, followed by a body scrub and wrap. While the body wrap works its magic, a facial massage gets under way with products from SPA brand ELEMIS. Afterwards, it is time for a soothing Vichy shower. Sprinklers are placed just above the heated massage stone station where we lie.

Once cleaned, we are invited to an adjoining room for a light steam. This marks the beginning of the end of our voyage of pleasure. Finally, a last shower and massage with a golden oil that leaves the body gleaming. How hard it was to get back to reality…

Comments: A magnificent infinity pool on the 16th floor gives a breathtaking view of Macau - some consider it to be one of the 10 most beautiful swimming pools in the world. Despite such a claim, when swimming, try not to look right when facing the view of Macau, otherwise you’ll see a residential building rising a few metres next to the hotel. This is when you might find that your privacy has been invaded, despite the fact that the windows on our level were tinted. And don’t look down when leaning on the pool edge on the side of the windows: all you’ll see is wasteground covered in scrap.

Gold Scrub, Wrap with Vichy shower - MOP 1,288

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Next month look for

Enhancers

Fashion

for natural features & states of mind Wong Chio Massage Centre

Spas

Edf. Kin Heng Long 264 Alameda Dr. Carlos D’Assumpção, Macau (853) 2875 0332

Chang Chun Massage Centre

Rua Coelho Amaral, 1 D, Edf. Lai Hou phase 2, 1L, Macau (853) 2895 5822

The Spa @ Wynn Macau

Avenida de Kwong Tung, Taipa, Macau (853) 2886 8888

naturabisse.es (available @ The Four Seasons )

Cle de Peau / Shiseido

cledepeau-beaute.com (available @ New Yaohan, Canal Shoppes)

Estrada da N. Senhora da Baía, Taipa, Macau (853) 2881 8888

Six Senses Spa @ MGM Grand Macau

Crème de la Mer

Avenida Dr. Sun Yat Sen, Macau (853) 8802 3838

cremedelamer.co.uk (available @ New Yaohan, DFS)

Nirvana Spa

Estèe Lauder

China Law Building 403 Avenida da Praia Grande, Macau (853) 2833 1521

esteelauder.com (available @ DFS, New Yaohan)

Su Sek Massage Centre

giorgioarmani.com (available @ New Yaohan)

Avenida da Amizade, Macau (853) 2872 5338 www.newyaohan.com

The Four Seasons Macau

(The Shoppes at, DFS) Estrada da Nossa Senhora da Baía, Taipa (853) 8117 7800

hommage.com (available @ Wynn Macau)

The Venetian Macao

Kiehl’s

Estrada da Nossa Senhora da Baía, Taipa, Macau (853) 2882 8882

sisley.com (available @ Canal Shoppes, New Yaohan)

New Yaohan Department Store

Hommage

V Spa @ The Venetian Macao

Sisley

Shops

Giorgio Armani

Mei lai Kok Building Macau Stadium Roundabout, Taipa, Macau (853) 2884 0039

La Prairie

Natura Bissè

Brands

The Spa @ The Four Seasons Macau

lancome.com (available @ New Yaohan, DFS) laprairie.com (available @ DFS)

Rua Cidade de Sintra, Macau (853) 8986 3228

The Spa @ Crown Macau

Lancôme

kiehls.com (available @ New Yaohan, Canal Shoppes)

(The Canal Shoppes) Estrada da Nossa Senhora da Baía, Taipa (853) 2882 8888

Blueprint | to the best in town Blue Bar (853) 2881 8888 Cubic (852) 2828 6696 Roka (853) 28825666

Rossio (853) 8802 3888 Veuve Clicquot Lounge (853) 8802 3888

Konstantin Bessmertny (852) 2548 2286 Dale Chihuly (1) 206 781 8707 Lines Lab (853) 2892 2159

Keith Pang akin_design@yahoo.com Nuno Soares nunosoares.mo@gmail.com

Dora Tam (853) 2825 6319 Keith Pang www.akindesign.com

Maseratti Italian Motors (852) 28739238 Maybach (852) 25948138 Mazda Motors (Macau) Ltd (853) 28316338

Mercedes- Benz Zung Fu Motors (Macau) Ltd (853) 28831283 Mini BMW (Macau) (853) 87976112

Porsche (852) 29262208 Volkswagen Prosperity Motors Ltd (853) 28703383 Volvo Xin Fu Hou Motors Ltd (853) 28703383

NaaM Thai Restaurant Mandarin Oriental (853) 8793 4818 New Furusato Hotel Lisboa (853) 2888 3888 Okada Wynn Macau (853) 8986 3668 Portas do Sol Hotel Lisboa (853) 2888 3888

Red 8 Wynn Macau (853) 8986 3663 Rossio MGM Grand Macau (853) 8802 8888 Square 8 MGM Grand Macau (853) 8802 8888 Tenmasa Crown Macau (853) 8803 6611 Tim’s Kitchen Grand Lisboa

(853) 2828 3838 The Eight Grand Lisboa (853) 2828 3838 Robuchon a Galera Hotel Lisboa (853) 2837 7666 ROKA The Venetian Macao (853) 2882 5666 Ying Crown Macau (853) 2888 0156

Rui Leão ruileao@vlbmacau.com João Ó joao_o@obsarquitectos.com

Cruise control | pick up sites for your next sweet ride Alfa Romeo Auto Sportiva Ltd (852) 23056128 Audi Prosperity Motors Ltd (853) 28703383

Bentley Prosperity Motors Ltd (853) 28703383 BMW (Macau) (853) 87976119 Ferrari Italian Motors (HK) (852) 28739233

Ford Hong Kong (852) 28147286 Harper Engineering Macau Ltd (853) 28768975 Jaguar Vang Iek Group (853) 28316338

à la carte | Rolodex of where-to-eat-and-spend Aux Beaux Arts MGM Grand Macau (853) 8802 8888 Camões Macau Fisherman’s Wharf (853) 2872 8818 Canton The Venetian Macao (853) 8118 9930 Clube Militar de Macau 975 Av. da Praia Grande (853) 2871 4000 Don Alfonso Macau 1890 Grand Lisboa (853) 8803 7722

Fernando’s Hac Sa Beach (853) 2888 2264 il Teatro Wynn Macau (853) 8986 3648 Imperial Court MGM Grand Macau (853) 8802 8888 Inagiku StarWorld (853) 2838 3838

Kira Crown Macau (853) 2886 8868 Kwun Hoi Heen The Westin Resort (853) 2887 1111 La Paloma Pousada de S. Tiago (853) 2837 8111 Morton’s of Chicago The Venetian (853) 8117 5000

Fashionista | listing of luxury shopping arcades The Shoppes at the Four Seasons (853) 8117 7800 www.shoppesatfourseasons.com

The Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian (853) 2882 8888 www.venetianmacao.com

Esplanade at Wynn (853) 2888 9966 www.wynnmacau.com

Mandarin Oriental (853) 8793 3261 www.mandarinoriental.com/macau