Doctor's orders
Skincare with a quasi-medical twist - think Dr Hauschka and Dermalogica - is booming. And now to Hong Kong's shores comes Murad. Conceived by dermatologist, chemist and professor Dr Howard Murad, who was the first in the traditional medical community to open a 'medical' day spa, the range is divided into three lines: Resurgence for menopausal and post-menopausal complexions; Vitalic, a daily energising regime complemented with supplements; and the classic brand Advanced Performance Skincare (APS). This third range combines glycolic acid-based treatments with advanced formulae to help to diminish signs of ageing and encourage healthy skin renewal. Tried and tested so far, Cellular Replenishing Serum ($420), one of the newest products in the APS line, is akin to giving your complexion a drink of water. This clear liquid feels a bit sticky after application, but seemed to plump up skin after several days' use. A select range of Murad products is available from Seibu Pacific Place (tel: 2918 1533) and Windsor House (tel: 2577 0050). Spa-style treatments for faces, eyes, necks and hands are also on offer at both venues; particularly brilliant for Asian skin is the Vitamin C Discoloration Treatment ($580 for 45 minutes) which visibly brightens and evens out the skin tone after one treatment.
Cool customers
New packaging and new products have recently been launched by Menthoderm. Sounding good enough to eat, Mint Gelato ($190) helps to zap zits and other pore-clogging impurities while simultaneously hydrating the skin. Available from branches of Joyce Beauty and the Menthoderm Skin Nursery (12/F, 4-6 On Lan Street, Central, tel: 2147 3298).
Caviar, anyone?
Mario Badescu's skin-saving products are fast becoming as popular here as they are in the United States, where they originate. The latest additions to the range, on sale at Seibu Pacific Place and Windsor House, include lightweight Collagen Moisturiser ($428), alcohol- and fragrance-free Aloe Vera Toner ($280) and Glycolic Foaming Cleanser ($328). If you are used to liquid eye make-up remover, it takes a while to get your head around the creamy Eye Make-up Remover Gel ($128), but it is as gentle and non-greasy as it claims. The Caviar Day Cream ($498) is as super rich as it sounds so is really only suitable for very dry and mature skin.