SKINCARE
BEST TEXTURE
TATCHA
THE INDIGO OVERNIGHT REPAIR
Indigo, as a colour, is soothing to the eyes. As an ingredient, it visibly calms irritation. This serum and moisturiser hybrid has a cushiony texture that glides onto your skin like a dream. As you sink into a deep sleep, it strengthens your skin’s barrier and cultivates good bacteria, so you wake up to skin that looks as rested and radiant as you feel.
BURO BEAUTY COUNCIL’S COMMENTS
Syaqira, Beauty Enthusiast: This glides on like butter but it’s very lightweight. My skin feels silky smooth and soft after applying it!
Emma, Beauty Enthusiast: The Indigo Overnight Repair by Tatcha has one of the silkiest cream textures I’ve ever had on my face. I woke up the next morning with soft and hydrated skin. Might I add that it doubles as both a serum and moisturiser, so if you’d like to skip a step, you may! Suitable for those with sensitive skin (thus far), it didn’t irritate but actually restored my skin’s moisture barrier. It’s simply like silk on the face.
Redzhanna, Beauty Writer: I love the rich, luxurious, and thick consistency of this night cream—it’s soothing, moisturising, and nourishing all at once. If you ever want to wake up with plump, glowing skin, all you need is a little pea-sized amount of this stuff. A little goes a really long way!
SKINCARE
MOST INNOVATIVE
DR.JART+
CICAPAIR RE-COVER SPF 40/PA++ CC CREAM
This all-in-one colour correcting cream is good at multitasking. Its chameleon-like ability to match fair to medium skin tones, of all skin types, covers blemishes and neutralises redness. At the same time, it heals and shields skin from environmental stressors, boosting vitality—all under the cover of SPF 40 protection.
BURO BEAUTY COUNCIL’S COMMENTS
Emma, Beauty Enthusiast: I thought the idea of combining cream, sunscreen and colour correction is genius! This cream may look intimidating at first (it’s green in colour with a strong scent of herbs), but it easily blends into the skin and hides the reddish undertones on my face. It has a paste-like consistency and does not require you to scoop up a lot. However, I am aware that this may not work on someone with warmer or darker skin tones, or for those who want full coverage. This is also meant to be used after a moisturiser. Nevertheless, I find this multi-use product super interesting and promising for future Dr Jart+ products.
Noriana, Makeup Artist: It goes on green and changes into your skin tone. I love that it helps to even out my complexion while fixing my skin!
Redzhanna, Beauty Writer: Admittedly, this product was made with light skin tones in mind, and it’s definitely not for everyone. That said, I happen to be in the ideal shade range for it to work, and it has been a lifesaver on no-makeup makeup days. It cancels out redness, soothes irritation, and provides an extra layer of protection against UV rays—yay!
SKINCARE
BEST YOUTH ELIXIR
ELEMIS
PRO-COLLAGEN MARINE CREAM
Harnessing powerful ingredients from land and sea, this gel cream from Elemis manages to be super moisturising yet ultra-lightweight in texture. Feed it to thirsty and ageing skin to plump, lift and firm. It boosts radiance too, in addition to smoothing out signs of time (and one too many late nights).
BURO BEAUTY COUNCIL’S COMMENTS
Emma, Beauty Enthusiast: Not only is the texture super creamy, this moisturiser also left my skin feeling smooth and supple quite immediately. Even after it gets absorbed, it still leaves a soft sensation that isn’t sticky. I can imagine using this for the long-term. As someone with sensitive skin, the ingredients seem suitable and calming. Personally, the cream looks rich but it doesn’t seem to have the same prolonged hydration as overnight creams do so it’s great as a day cream.
Adelina, Deputy Editor: My skin feels so soft and calm right after using this, I have to consciously hold back from stroking my face. Although it looks like a cream, it melts quickly into my skin like a gel, without leaving any sticky or greasy residue. It’s delicate right down to the subtle scent, yet delivers powerful results.
SKINCARE
MOST FUTURE-READY DEVICE
SKIN INC
OPTIMIZER VOYAGE TRI-LIGHT GLASSES FOR BRIGHT EYES
Developed with NASA-inspired LED chromotherapy, the Optimizer’s three different LED lights help with minimising puffiness, brightening dark circles, and boosting the suppleness and radiance of the delicate skin around your eyes. It’s comfortable to wear and you’ll only need 10 minutes in a day to perk up your peepers.
BURO BEAUTY COUNCIL’S COMMENTS
Noriana, Makeup Artist: It looks futuristic! For me, I personally need help with my dark circles. I’m glad there’s a tool that concentrates on this particular problem.
Venice, Digital Creator & Personality: This Skin Inc Optimizer Voyage Tri-Light Glasses is a next-level home beauty device that you should own too! It’s effective, revolutionary, and easy to use! I like how it can help to reduce the appearance of dark circles and reduce puffiness just by wearing it.
Adelina, Deputy Editor: Long hours of staring at a screen, be it my work laptop or mobile phone, leaves my eyes dry and puffy. Add in late nights and not even concealer can help to hide the thick eye bags, lines and dark circles. However, since I’ve started using this device, I’ve noticed a difference—my eyes now look brighter and more youthful. There’s a strap to hold the glasses in place, so I don’t have to worry it’ll slip off my nose.
SKINCARE
BEST NEWCOMER
CHUCK’S
SELF LOVE FOR ALL HONEY CREAM
Self-love is taking care of yourself, including your skin. Chuck’s Self Love for All Honey Cream contains 42 per cent royal jelly extract, the highest in any product currently available. Niacinamide and Malaysian red palm oil are the other star ingredients added to make your skin feel like it’s on vacation, all day and every day.
BURO BEAUTY COUNCIL’S COMMENTS
Venice, Digital Creator & Personality: I like the whole packaging and texture of this cream. It is truly lightweight, without leaving a sticky feeling after applying. Moisturising and nourishing, it’s definitely one of my favourite products now!
Redzhanna, Beauty Writer: If you know me, you’ll know that I’m a sucker for pretty packaging, so the Chuck’s lineup already has my heart in that respect. Throw in the fact that this product *actually* delivers on its claims of boosted hydration? I’m sold! I love how the whipped gel texture glides onto my skin, and how weightless it feels when it’s on. After using it for two weeks, I’ve worked out that it works best as a night cream for me—a little too waxy for the daytime, it fares well in my airconditioned room and prevents me from waking up with dry, dehydrated skin.
SKINCARE
BEST GLOW-UP
FRESH
VITAMIN NECTAR GLOW JUICE ANTIOXIDANT FACE SERUM
You could think of this serum as a vial of fruit juice for your skin! Enriched with vitamins C, E and B5, minerals, antioxidants and hydration—it brightens, smoothes and hydrates while diminishing signs of tiredness. Light in texture and quickly absorbed, you’ll notice the difference it makes to your skin instantly, with better results to come over time.
BURO BEAUTY COUNCIL’S COMMENTS
Emma, Beauty Enthusiast: I have been looking to add vitamin C into my daytime skincare routine and I’ve finally found it. Previously, a couple of vitamin C products made my skin slightly irritated. However, this serum by Fresh has been good thus far. It has a lightweight texture that’s still slightly thicker than an average serum. One drop goes a long way.
Noriana, Makeup Artist: This rich water-oil serum is amazing! Wear it under makeup to achieve that summer glow complexion all year round.
Venice, Digital Creator & Personality: To me, this serum is the best glow-up product because I like how it’s formulated with lots of vitamins, minerals, and fruits, giving my skin a boost in nutrition and a healthy-looking glow.
MAKEUP
BEST ALL-DAY COVERAGE
LANEIGE
NEO CUSHION MATTE
Are you looking for a matte finish cushion foundation that boasts buildable and weightless coverage, true-tocolour shade, and sweat-resistant wear that lasts all day long? You’ve found it. In addition to offering a beautiful finish, the best-selling complexion product comes in a chic and practical case that is perfect for on-the-go touch-ups.
BURO BEAUTY COUNCIL’S COMMENTS
Emma, Beauty Enthusiast: I don’t usually exercise with makeup on but I once did a 3km run with the Laneige Neo Cushion Matte because I wanted some protection from the late afternoon sun. Though I really worked up a sweat, I found that quite a fair amount of foundation did manage to stay on and there was no patchiness, except for on the tip of the nose. I was rather impressed. It is not fully transfer- or mask-proof but it certainly lasts, even under the hot and humid Malaysian weather. Light touch-ups and blotting are required during the day but, overall, it’s my go-to product for daily wear.
Syaqira, Beauty Enthusiast: It’s easy to reapply and carry around with you. I love the lightweight formula and medium coverage it gives to my skin.
MAKEUP
MADE FOR ZOOM
HUDA BEAUTY
GLOWISH MULTI DEW SKIN TINT
Dewy skin is all the rage, and it doesn’t get better than this. This brightening and blurring skin tint is formulated with hydrating goodies like Damascus rose oil, red bell pepper extract, and plant-derived squalene to soothe, protect, and hydrate the skin while offering sheer coverage in 13 versatile shades. Wear it alone or mix-and-match it for a dewy boost.
BURO BEAUTY COUNCIL’S COMMENTS
Syaqira, Beauty Enthusiast: This definitely wins my heart! It’s a full-coverage skin tint which definitely makes your skin glow all day.
Venice, Digital Creator & Personality: I usually go for products that are easy to use, and can help to enhance my skin so it doesn’t look dull. Hence, I selected Huda Beauty GloWish Multi Dew Skin Tint because it does just that—it’s also lightweight and gives my skin an instant boost!
MAKEUP
BEST FOR EYES
NARS
TAJ MAHAL QUAD EYESHADOW PALETTE
This stunning four-pan palette features instant-classic shades in a variety of finishes—from glitter to matte and shimmer. Each eyeshadow delivers intense pigmentation in a luxurious, creamy texture, so you’ll be set for any occasion. Plus, its compact size makes it the perfect travel companion (whenever you should need one, that is).
BURO BEAUTY COUNCIL’S COMMENTS
Syaqira, Beauty Enthusiast: The shades are suitable for everyday wear and they’re so easy to blend. This palette enhances my eyes and makes them pop even more!
Venice, Digital Creator & Personality: The shades in Nars’ Taj Mahal Quad Eyeshadow Palette are perfect to enhance your eyes and give them that 3D look. I like the pigmented colours that did not smear even after hours of wear! It’s compact and easy to bring along everywhere too.
Adelina, Deputy Editor: The four warm shades in this palette are very wearable. You have the option of playing it safe during the day with the one matte and two shimmery eyeshadows—keeping the stunning (and very shimmery) yellow gold shade for when work is done and it’s time to have fun. They’re easy to blend, buttery smooth and incredibly pigmented!
MAKEUP
MOST MASK-FRIENDLY LIPSTICK
MAC COSMETICS
POWDER KISS LIQUID LIPCOLOUR
This matte liquid lipstick is unlike any other—it has a whipped, mousse-like texture that glides on beautifully. The high colour payoff and blurred finish endures with up to ten hours of hydration, so you can feel confident in your smooth, kissable lips all day long. An unexpected bonus? It’s surprisingly transfer-resistant, making it the perfect companion for the mask mandate!
BURO BEAUTY COUNCIL’S COMMENTS
Syaqira, Beauty Enthusiast: This liquid lipstick feels light on the lips and has a satin matte finish. It doesn’t even budge or smear onto my mask.
Noriana, Makeup Artist: Most comfortable airy matte lip formula with minimal transfer. Love it.
Adelina, Deputy Editor: Matte lipsticks and I don’t always go well together as I’m prone to having dry, chapped lips. This—thankfully—provides a beautiful, soft-focus finish with a touch of hydration. It stays put under a mask and keeps my lips from feeling like the Sahara desert by the end of the day.
MAKEUP
BEST FOR KEEPING IT TOGETHER
BENEFIT COSMETICS
THE POREFESSIONAL SUPER SETTER MAKEUP SETTING SPRAY
A setting spray that blurs pores and holds makeup for up to 16 hours straight? Sign us up! The Porefessional Super Setter’s water-based formula contains poreblurring powders that scatter light and reduce shine for an IRL blurring effect. The micro-fine mist ensures even application, with no pesky droplets or sticky spots in sight.
BURO BEAUTY COUNCIL’S COMMENTS
Emma, Beauty Enthusiast: I have been seeing a lot of TikTok hacks featuring The Porefessional Super Setter such as using it with a beauty sponge as a primer and how it can prevent concealer from creasing when applying loose pigments. Overall, this setting spray seems to be able to keep my makeup together! I think it certainly does the job and it takes a hard rub to shift the powders I’ve put on.
Noriana, Makeup Artist: This literally sets your face. Under layers of masks, you can afford to skip the primer but a well-set face will prevent your masks from becoming makeup-stained and icky. This spray helps for sure.
Venice, Digital Creator & Personality: I believe that if you want your makeup to last longer, it’s important to apply a layer of loose powder and then protect it with a makeup spray! Benefit Cosmetics’ The Professional Super Setter Makeup Setting Spray sets your makeup for hours, and it does not leave any uncomfortable feeling after.
MAKEUP
MOST IG-WORTHY
GUCCI BEAUTY
ROUGE DE BEAUTÉ BRILLANT
This hybrid lip colour fills the gaps between a sheer and satin lipstick. Its long-lasting, dual-action formula includes a blend of oils and Karité butter to provide lips with 24 hours of moisture, in addition to a creamy and pigmented glow. It’s beautiful to wear and with a slim case inspired by vintage brooches, it’s also gorgeous to look at, thus elevating it to an object of desire for the ‘gram too.
BURO BEAUTY COUNCIL’S COMMENTS
Syaqira, Beauty Enthusiast: It feels silky smooth on my lips and gives the right amount of hydration, making it very comfortable to wear.
Emma, Beauty Enthusiast: The packaging alone is super IG-worthy! If anything, the box looks like a mini perfume bottle with a beautiful black and pastel pink colour combination. Overall, it’s super eye-catching, fancy and elegant for any Instagram content. The lipstick itself has a soft, balmy texture with a shiny finish, which would definitely look good for those selfies too.
Venice, Digital Creator & Personality: Super pretty design! It’s also one of my favourite products for adding a glow to my lips!
HAIR
BEST SCALP CARE
BRIOGEO
CHARCOAL + COCONUT OIL MICRO-EXFOLIATING SHAMPOO
Haven’t you heard? Scalp care is the new haircare. This sulfate-free shampoo is formulated with Binchotan charcoal and plant-based exfoliators to gently scrub and unclog pores, while peppermint, spearmint, tea tree, and coconut oils work to revitalise and condition the scalp. Overall, your scalp is left perfectly clean and prepped to yield long-term hair health benefits.
BURO BEAUTY COUNCIL’S COMMENTS
Noriana, Makeup Artist: My scalp feels light, nice, and clean after using this. PS: It smells amazing too.
Redzhanna, Beauty Writer: To say that I love this scalp scrub is an understatement. It smells exactly like mint chocolate chip ice cream. Really, I could just stop there but on top of smelling like a dream, it also foams beautifully, cleanses wonderfully, and exfoliates thoroughly. What’s not to love? It really is just that good.
HAIR
BEST FOR DAMAGED HAIR
HAIR RITUEL BY SISLEY
PRECIOUS HAIR CARE OIL GLOSSINESS AND NUTRITION
Four oils come together in this exquisite hair oil to nourish and soften your hair. The first—shea oil— smoothes the cuticle; thus, improving shine and preventing dehydration. Passionfruit and cottonseed oils then work to nourish and soften the hair, while moringa oil coats it in a protective sheath. The result? A lightweight formula that packs a punch!
BURO BEAUTY COUNCIL’S COMMENTS
Emma, Beauty Enthusiast: It definitely made my hair shinier and softer. It’s an added bonus considering I use it to maintain healthy hair. Not only does it have a pleasant smell but it doesn’t have that stickiness which I sometimes find in other hair oils. I also like that it’s light and absorbs quickly into the hair.
Redzhanna, Beauty Writer: I’ve been on the lookout for a new go-to hair serum ever since my last bottle ran dry, and I am thoroughly pleased to announce that my search is over. Aside from its stunning texture, this hair oil managed to tame the untamable mane (AKA my hair). Enough said.
HAIR
MUST-HAVE STYLING TOOL
DYSON
CORRALE STRAIGHTENER
This device needs no introduction… but we’re giving you one anyway. The Corrale Straightener offers salon-standard styling with less damage thanks to its revolutionary design. From the manganese copper alloy plates to the superior thermal interfaces and the integrated sensor system, you can rest easy knowing that the technology is on your side. Oh, and it’s cordless—enough said.
BURO BEAUTY COUNCIL’S COMMENTS
Syaqira, Beauty Enthusiast: The Corrale has made straightening or styling even easier than before. This innovative tool smoothes out my hair and gives it an extremely neat and shiny look.
Venice, Digital Creator & Personality: I’ve had Dyson’s Corrale Straightener for years now and, trust me, you’ll go “wow” when you use it. From curly and frizzy to smooth and silky straight hair, it’s super easy to use—you don’t even need a comb while straightening your hair with the Corrale. It’s a must-have hair tool!
Redzhanna, Beauty Writer: Styling my hair has never been easier—that I can say with total confidence. I was initially sceptical of the hype surrounding the Corrale (how good can a straightener really be, right?), but I have to say that I’ve been blown away by the results. Whether I’m curling or straightening, my hair effortlessly maintains a salon finish. From now on, whatever the style, this is the device I’ll be reaching for.
HAIR
BEST FOR COLOURED HAIR
SHISEIDO PROFESSIONAL
SUBLIMIC WONDER SHIELD
In our tropical climate, hair protection is as important as any other step in your beauty routine. Shiseido Professional’s Sublimic Wonder Shield protects against daily external stressors like heat, pollution, and UV by forming an invisible shield on each strand. It only needs to be used every three days and gives the added benefits of faster drying time and a smooth, salon finish.
BURO BEAUTY COUNCIL’S COMMENTS
Emma, Beauty Enthusiast: This leave-in serum left my hair feeling soft and bouncy almost immediately after my first use—and it lasts for days! It is unbelievable. Plus, it doesn’t have that typical strong chemical smell that tends to sting my nose. Honestly, I was pleasantly surprised.
Venice, Digital Creator & Personality: This is easy to apply and protects your hair like a shield, which is especially important when your hair is dyed! It also leaves a smooth texture after applying.
Redzhanna, Beauty Writer: The Sublimic Wonder Shield by Shiseido is a real multitasker as it offers heat protection, colour protection, and quicker drying time. I’m pleased to say that the rumours are true—my drying time has been cut in half, my frizz is far tamer, and my hairstyle stays put all day long.
BODY
BEST HOME SPA
TANAMERA
HIMALAYAN ROCK SALT SCRUB JAR
Skin feeling dry? This made-in-Malaysia scrub is the perfect remedy, using Himalayan rock salt to buff away dead skin cells and the like. Better yet, Tanamera’s aromatherapeutic body scrub effectively polishes the skin without ever leaving it dry, thanks to its blend of naturally-derived grape seed, jojoba, and coconut oils.
BURO BEAUTY COUNCIL’S COMMENTS
Adelina, Deputy Editor: With spas not yet able to reopen (at the time of writing), this salt scrub’s relaxing tropical scent is as close as I’ve come to smelling like a spa in a long time. The rich oil blend—and there’s plenty of it—ensures the tiny grains of salt don’t irritate my skin so long as I scrub gently. I love using it on my legs, which are prone to having ingrown hairs.
Redzhanna, Beauty Writer: While it did leave a bit of a safety hazard in my bathtub (after using, you’ll want to be sure to thoroughly rinse your floors down), this body scrub is the definition of indulgence. The aromatherapeutic scent is enough to wow the senses, but this nourishing scrub packs a hydrating punch too. I scrubbed and I dubbed, but my skin was still left soft and supple thanks to the moisturising oil blend.
BODY
BEST FOR CLEAN HANDS
GROWN ALCHEMIST
HYDRA-GEL HAND SANITISER
Clean mitts don’t have to come at the cost of dry, cracked skin—this 70 per cent ethyl alcohol gel hand sanitiser is formulated to be highly effective at sanitising and yet, it’s non-drying to the skin. The magic ingredients? It’s fortified with hydrating hyaluronan and anti-ageing antioxidants to give you happy, germ-free hands.
BURO BEAUTY COUNCIL’S COMMENTS
Noriana, Makeup Artist: I’d have to go for the aesthetics with this one. This hand sanitiser looks too good with my house decor (laughs)!
Emma, Beauty Enthusiast: I often suffer from extremely dry hands, which can bleed from constant washing and sanitising. The Grown Alchemist’s hand sanitiser is promising because it has the minimum 70 per cent ethyl alcohol content and other added ingredients to ensure it’s non-drying. It claims to retain some moisture and safeguard against premature ageing but while I can’t speak for the latter, I can vouch for its moisturising properties. It doesn’t strip moisture from my hands and I noticed less peeling. It has a soft scent of almond oil, cedarwood, sage, orange, rosemary; overall, a nice mixture of herbs that is not overwhelming. It does have a very slight sticky finish but it definitely can’t be compared to other sanitiser gels which often leave some residue or flakiness behind.
Venice, Digital Creator & Personality: My hands feel very clean after using this water-based hand sanitiser! It smells refreshing too.
BODY
THE SMOOTHEST
SISLEY
BLACK ROSE BEAUTIFYING EMULSION
This body care essential takes the waiting game out of your self-care routine. Gone are the days of awkwardly waiting for your lotion to sink in before you put your clothes on—this emulsion absorbs instantly, leaving an ultra-hydrating yet uber-lightweight veil that moisturises and luminises your skin all at once.
BURO BEAUTY COUNCIL’S COMMENTS
Adelina, Deputy Editor: As someone who sweats easily, but also develops dry patches from spending long hours in an air-conditioned room, I’m fond of body moisturisers that hydrate without feeling sticky. This deeply nourishing emulsion has the smoothness of a balm, the silkiness of an oil, and the lightness of a water-based product despite being a cream.
Redzhanna, Beauty Writer: I often skip body moisturiser (unless it’s absolutely necessary) because I hate feeling sticky under my clothes, but this lotion-emulsion hybrid has shown me another way. It is a game-changer—lightweight, quick to sink in, and beautifully scented, I’m absolutely obsessed! My skin is hydrated, free of dry patches, and happier than ever.
BODY
BEST AGAINST UV
KIEHL’S
ULTRA LIGHT DAILY UV DEFENSE SPF 50 PA++++
SPF has never been quite so sophisticated: This weightless, broad spectrum SPF 50 sunscreen doubles as an active anti-ageing step. Simply put, it protects against UVA and UVB rays, as well as pollution, while simultaneously working to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, sun spots, and texture. Better yet, it leaves a beautiful matte finish on the skin that is perfect for humid Malaysia.
BURO BEAUTY COUNCIL’S COMMENTS
Syaqira, Beauty Enthusiast: I’m in love with this sunscreen because it doesn’t feel oily on my skin. Instead, it’s very lightweight and hydrating.
Emma, Beauty Enthusiast: I love this ultra-lightweight formula. It is fast-absorbing and leaves a non-greasy texture—and without a white cast too, making it suitable for any skin tone. It does not irritate my sensitive skin and works as a base for my makeup. This is certainly one I’d repurchase.
Venice, Digital Creator & Personality: I think the Kiehl’s Ultra Light Daily UV Defense SPF 50 PA++++ is not like any typical sunscreen. The dermatologist-approved formula helps to protect the skin but it has other anti-ageing benefits too, so it’s definitely my top pick! Besides, I really like the lightweight texture as it doesn’t leave my skin feeling uncomfortable.
FRAGRANCE
BEST FOR HER
CHLOÉ
ATELIER DES FLEURS COLLECTION
Much like how you’re able to personalise a bouquet at the florist’s, Chloé’s Atelier des Fleurs collection presents you with a selection of 12 single-note fragrances. Each of these celebrates a flower or foliage, ranging from delicate magnolia to earthy papyrus. Wear them in pairs or in threes to create your signature scent.
BURO BEAUTY COUNCIL’S COMMENTS
Venice, Digital Creator & Personality: I like the floral scent which is very feminine with a touch of elegance. It’s neither too heavy nor masculine.
Adelina, Deputy Editor: I’ve found myself constantly reaching for the Magnolia Alba fragrance in this collection, since being introduced to it in March. It’s fresh and has a delicate sweetness that isn’t overwhelming, whether I’m getting groceries on a hot day or working from home. It layers beautifully, too, with the Cedrus and Neroli fragrances from the same collection.
FRAGRANCE
BEST FOR HOME
JO MALONE
ENGLISH PEAR & FREESIA HOME CANDLE
The next best thing to actually experiencing autumn, this candle brings the season’s earthy warmth and sensuality into your home. Light it up to scent your room with the mellow fragrance of just-ripe pears, cool white freesias, amber, and woody patchouli. Make a cup of tea and be transported, in mind and spirit, to a luxurious English cottage with a crackling fireplace.
BURO BEAUTY COUNCIL’S COMMENTS
Syaqira, Beauty Enthusiast: It has a very clean, floral and warming scent which is suitable for the home.
Noriana, Makeup Artist: This scent is comforting. I’ve been a long-time fan of it.
Redzhanna, Beauty Writer: I have long been a fan of Jo Malone’s English Pear and Freesia Cologne (it’s one of the staples on my vanity), so it’s no surprise that this candle ticks all of my boxes. It burns beautifully, with the scent diffusing quickly and the candle lasting for ages.
FRAGRANCE
BEST FOR HIM
HUGO BOSS
BOSS BOTTLED EAU DE TOILETTE
While this fragrance is a timeless classic, make no mistake—it’s as confident and contemporary as the man who’d wear it as part of his daily armour. Starting fresh and fruity, it’s sensuous at heart with warm, spicy-floral notes balanced by the woody harmony of sandalwood, cedar and vetiver. Primed to succeed, indeed.
BURO BEAUTY COUNCIL’S COMMENTS
Syaqira, Beauty Enthusiast: This scent is not too strong. It’s very balanced, charming, and nice to have around you.
Emma, Beauty Enthusiast: The Boss Bottled EDT is a fresh (apple) and woody (cinnamon plus geranium) scent that is subtle and not overpowering. It has some slightly spicy and floral notes, which makes it a good summer or spring fragrance. If I had to describe it as a picture, I’d say it’s like a British summer picnic with some Pimm’s on the side.
FRAGRANCE
MOST ICONIC
CHANEL
N°5
Turning 100 this year, Chanel’s N°5 is a timeless and legendary ode to the very essence of femininity. Iconic for its visionary and groundbreaking composition, the parfum’s distinctive aldehyde floral bouquet is still instantly recognisable—along with its minimalist bottle and signature white label.
BURO BEAUTY COUNCIL’S COMMENTS
Noriana, Makeup Artist: Need I say more? The history that comes with this perfume is undeniable. Strong and always lingering, you can sniff it from a mile away!
Adelina, Deputy Editor: I really can’t think of any other fragrance that is as iconic as N°5. I grew up aspiring to wear it once I could carry its sensual and powerful scent, which I’d associated with the images I had seen of Mademoiselle Chanel, who seemed to personify the style and grace of womanhood. To this day, it has a special place in my heart.
EXPERIENCE
BEST DIGITAL DETOX
THE RUMA HOTEL AND RESIDENCES
UR VITAL
Integrating modern science wth traditional healing, UR Spa beckons urbanites to step away from staring at a screen with its full-body UR Vital treatment. Your skin will glow from being cleansed, scrubbed and hydrated with organic formulations from [ Comfort Zone ]—while the deft fingers of your therapist stimulate circulation and eliminate excess fluids from within your body.
BURO BEAUTY COUNCIL’S COMMENTS
Redzhanna, Beauty Writer: If there is one place I’d like to be right now, it’s the spa at The RuMa Hotel and Residences. The tranquil atmosphere of UR Spa is enough to win anyone over, but when you throw in the stunning treatment plan, there is absolutely no competition. The UR Vital treatment starts off with an invigorating papaya and kiwi scrub that smells like a dream, followed by a fluid-draining massage that leaves you feeling revitalised. Finally, it ends with a whole-body mud mask that somehow makes you feel like a newborn baby.
EXPERIENCE
MOST LUXURIOUS FACIAL
SULWHASOO
TIMETREASURE INVIGORATING TREATMENT
Experience the beauty rituals enjoyed by Korea’s Joseon dynasty royals when you book Sulwhasoo’s sensorial facials. Using products from the brand’s Timetreasure Invigorating line, which are formulated with revitalising Korean red pine and applied with a red amber applicator, this treatment builds your skin’s resilience so it stays youthful and vibrant.
BURO BEAUTY COUNCIL’S COMMENTS
Redzhanna, Beauty Writer: If you’re looking for 80 minutes of bliss, this anti-ageing facial is the one for you. Using Sulwhasoo’s iconic Timetreasure Invigorating Line, the treatment is curated to target long-term anti-ageing concerns. Personally, I most enjoyed the precious stone face massage—talk about relaxation!
EXPERIENCE
BEST HAIR SALON
KIMARIE SALONS
FUSIO-DOSE RITUALS
With various locations across the Klang Valley, Kimarie was first established in 1982 and has gone on to build a well-respected reputation. Offered in partnership with L’Oréal Professional and Kérastase, the Fusio-Dose Rituals is a mix of various concentrates and boosters— selected based on your hair type and concern— providing instant and lasting results.
BURO BEAUTY COUNCIL’S COMMENTS
Adelina, Deputy Editor: The Fusio-Dose treatment works because it isn’t one-for-all. The friendly staff at Kimarie first diagnosed my hair, to determine which combination of boosters and concentrates would work best for repairing my coloured hair that’s prone to frizziness and split ends. As promised, I could see the difference right after while still seated in my chair at the salon!
EXPERIENCE
BEST BODY RITUAL
THE RITZ-CARLTON, KUALA LUMPUR
CHINESE PERANAKAN TREATMENT
This unique three-hour treatment blends Malay and Chinese beauty rituals. Beginning with a calming Milk Nectar Meditation, you’ll step out glowing from the Pearl and Rice Facial, Mulberry Leaf Eye Treatment, rebalancing Moxa Naval Activation, Rattan Tapping Qi-Gong, and an oil massage incorporating Chinese acupressure and Malay massage techniques.
BURO BEAUTY COUNCIL’S COMMENTS
Adelina, Deputy Editor: Right from the moment I stepped into the treatment room at The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur’s Spa Village, I felt transported to another era—but with all the comforts of modern living. I experienced a few firsts here, such as the Pearl and Rice Facial where two warm hard-boiled eggs were rolled over my skin. As strange as it sounds, this felt very pleasant. Likewise for the Rattan Tapping Qi-Gong, which involved my skilful therapist tapping specific pressure points on my body with rattan sticks. I left with my mind and body feeling much lighter.
