Empowering women is about recognising and celebrating the unique strength and brilliance that each woman brings to the world.”
— Melissa Fann, Founder of The Wellness Insider
Now, why did I start off this article with a quote? From me, nonetheless! Well, it is not for my ego but it is because as we celebrate Women’s Equality Day on 26 August, I would like us women to just take a breath and celebrate ourselves. Being equal means that we are empowered to have equal rights and freedom to do what we want to do, without society telling us that we cannot simply because we are women.
Women’s equality, to me, is about allowing women to achieve their full potential, regardless of their background, environment and circumstances, ensuring that every female has the opportunity to thrive.”
– Evelyn Teo, Group Head, Marketing & Digital of LAC Global Group
As echoed by Evelyn, we women need to allow ourselves to reach our full potential and sometimes, we also need to remember to prioritise one’s well being. Especially women, who tend to focus on their loved ones but we have to take care of ourselves in order to be able to give to others from a place of fullness.
Thus, we have come up with a list of ways to practice some self-care and celebrate ourselves!
Prioritise Restful Sleep
Creating a calming bedtime routine can significantly improve sleep quality. Investing in sleep aids promotes restorative stress, which is crucial for mental and physical health. A good night’s sleep transforms days from “I can’t” to “I’ve got this!”
People don’t normally associate sleep issues with liver health. However, studies have shown that sleep disturbance is a common precursor of chronic liver disease (CLD); a whopping 60–80% of patients with CLD report subjective poor sleep; frequent presentations of sleep disturbance include insomnia.
With sleep quality closely linked to liver health, enhanced liver function can lead to more restful nights. LAC ACTIVATED® Liver Protector™ is crafted with a blend of Traditional Chinese Medicinal herbs, including Sanchi, Turmeric, and Dodder Seed, that work synergistically to support liver functions, aid in preventing and relieving fatty liver, and promote healthier sleep cycles, making it easier for consumers to fall asleep.
As liver function improves, sleep patterns and behaviours are better regulated, contributing to overall wellness.
Getting the facts right on Feminine Washes
In honour of Women’s Equality Day this August, it’s important to celebrate not only the strides we’ve made but also the care we take in looking after ourselves. Just as we carefully select products for our skin, hair, and body, it’s essential to consider how we care for our intimate areas as well. But what about your vulva? How should it be cleaned? You may have come across feminine washes, such as intimate cleansers, wipes, and douches (a quick note: douching is best avoided). But do you really understand what these products do, how to use them properly, and if they’re truly needed?
Let’s first understand the key distinction:
Vulva: The external area, where dirt, oil, sweat, and traces of urine build up. This is where washing, exfoliation, and products such as feminine washes and wipes can be applied.
Vagina: The internal canal that connects to the uterus. It’s self-cleaning and should not be washed, as disrupting its natural balance can lead to issues.
Most importantly, never use cleansing products inside the vagina. These products are meant for the vulva and should not be used internally. Also, it’s important to know that using a feminine wash is not essential—and many experts actually advise against it. According to experts, the vagina has natural mechanisms to maintain its pH balance and keep itself clean. However, there are situations—like post-workout, or during your period— where a feminine wash could be beneficial when used properly and with the right product choice.
When selecting a feminine wash, opt for products that are gentle and free of harsh chemicals. Foxy Affairs, for instance, offers products like the Kitty Rinse, which users have found highly effective. According to feedback, 97% of users reported no longer experiencing unpleasant itch and 91% of users reported no longer experiencing infections near the vaginal opening, underscoring its benefits. Co-founded by Amelia Lim & Jerome Soog, Foxy Affairs is dedicated to providing high-quality, safe solutions for intimate care and consist of premium, natural and organic ingredients which assist in maintaining an ideal pH level for the vulva (not inside of the vagina) to promote good bacteria balances and moisturise the area as dryness is common issue with many women.
Celebrating scents beyond gender
Fragrance marketing has always possessed a certain je ne sais quoi about it, with ads often appealing to a delicate and petite woman or an athletic and muscular man to embody the duality of smell.
With the concept of gender neutrality increasing, gone are the days when perfumes were strictly categorised for man or woman.
Offering more diverse olfactory experiences with scents that defy traditional gender norms, Kenzo Parfums’ La Collection Memori is embracing this shift with a fragrance collection that celebrates authenticity and individuality – regardless of gender identities.
First introduced in 2022, La Collection Memori invites individuals on a fragrant journey through the imagined memories of Kenzo Takada.
Inspired by the founder’s youth in Japan, this collection blends the whimsical and the real, capturing the essence of a creator who never lost his childlike wonder.
Transcending traditional gender boundaries, each scent evokes the rich tapestry of Kenzo’s past, merging dreams with reality in a celebration of life’s joyful moments.
Priced at S$162 and available in one size (75ml), Kenzo Parfums’ La Collection Memori is available for purchase on Sephora online and Metro Paragon.
Create a spa-like experience at home
Taking time to indulge in self-care rituals can boost those spirits! Setting aside moments for relaxation with soothing baths and pampering treatments provides a much-needed escape from stressors.
Repair your crowning glory
Don’t know about you but I know a lot of women who have permed/rebonded and blown-dry their hair to a crisp and we are left with damaged tresses. Wouldn’t you be thrilled to know that L’Oréal Professionnel has come up with a revolutionary breakthrough in hair repair technology – Absolut Repair Molecular. This pioneering haircare line, developed in collaboration with leading scientists and hair experts, tackles hair damage at the molecular level, marking a significant leap forward in the industry.
Over 65% of consumers in Singapore and Malaysia grapple with damaged hair, experiencing dryness, split ends, breakage, and dullness. Online searches for hair damage solutions have surged by 8.3%, reflecting the growing demand for effective repair.
Absolut Repair Molecular offers a powerful solution utilising cutting-edge technology to repair up to two years of damage in one use. By synergising key ingredients, Absolut Repair Molecular works at the molecular level, restoring hair’s strength, elasticity, and movement. The result is visibly transformed hair with a healthy texture, restored ends, and brilliant shine.
Absolut Repair Molecular is available in partner hair salons as well as online at Lazada Malaysia, Shopee Malaysia and Lazada Singapore.
Don’t forget to consume healthy fats like Omega 3, 6 and 9 which help maintain moisture and elasticity, promoting a youthful glow and strong, lustrous locks. Intake of these omega fatty acids supports natural beauty while benefiting cardiovascular health.
Balance those hormones
LAC MoodRX is formulated with a blend of herbal extracts and nutrients. Specifically, the Ashwagandha and Rhodiola are key adaptogens that can aid in reducing the negative effects of stress on our bodies not only by improving overall mood, but also enhancing mental performance and easing emotional tension.
In addition to these benefits, LAC MoodRX supports hormonal balance, helping to mitigate the negative effects of hormonal fluctuations on one’s mood. LAC MoodRX is proven to manage stress, improve mental focus, and keep emotions balanced, leading to a calmer and more peaceful state of mind.
Another product is Cool Beauty by QN Wellness, which is scientifically formulated to delay the onset of menopause by supporting hormonal balance. No more mood swings, more energy! And while maintaining healthy oestrogen levels, it also helps support bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
Stay active
No matter what age you are at, it is important to keep active for all the various health reasons and also, simply to just feel energised throughout the day! If you’re looking to kickstart your fitness journey, check out gyms such as True Fitness and TFX.
True Fitness is offering a two-week pass for S$59, providing unlimited access to gym equipment and group classes, as well as a comprehensive fitness assessment, while TFX has a two-week pass for S$59, allowing access to their gym floor and group classes. These promotions are available at all their clubs until 31 August.
You can find out more information and to sign up here.
Images: Breathe Essentials, Envato, Foxy Affairs, LAC, L’Oréal, Kenzo, The Wellness Insider
Header image is generated by AI.