WE ALL need a bout of pampering every now and then.
More so during the Great Singapore Sale, when after hours of pavement pounding in towering Louboutins, arms laden with shopping bags — not to mention overworked credit cards — sneaking in a mani/pedi or a back massage brings incalculable benefits to body and soul.
As always, my tired soles seek respite in one of the many spa havens along Orchard Road.
My recession-friendly favourite these days: True Spa's 30-minute back relief massage. At just $48, down from the usual $110, it sends you to savings nirvana, doesn't it?
Located at Level 16 Ngee Ann City Tower A, it is so easy to pop by for a quick perk-me-up. The promotion is on till July 26.
After that, it's off to Watsons to check out their latest discounts. With a rotating roster of promotions and innovative products from hard-to-find brands sourced from around the world, especially Japan, many beauty junkies (myself included) have a soft spot for this beauty wonderland.
Ah, I've just spotted one of my favourite affordable make-up brands, the oh-so-girly Majolica Majorca getting into the spirit of bargains. Its user-friend felt-tip liquid eyeliner, the Neo Automatic Liner is now $17.90 (usual: $20.90). That’s not much of a saving, but it is a start for a brand that has never gone on sale before.
Or, give yourself a DIY facial at home with ZA's True White Essence Mask, $21.35 for a pack of six from Watsons (usual: $30.50). Leave the sheet mask, which is soaked with a moisturising essence, on your face for about 20 minutes and when you're done, your skin will be baby soft and glowing.
Me likey.
From one scent lover to another, the Estee Lauder counter at Tangs Orchard will be giving away a miniature perfume bottle of your choice when you spend $120. These tiny bottles not only look dainty on your dresser, they can be easily stashed into a cosmetic pouch when you travel too.
Don’t fancy the throngs along Orchard Road?
Look east – to the cheekily titled Recessionista Relief 2009 Calendar at Polished Hand + Foot Spa (695A East Coast Road). It is a calendar of 20 great deals that are happening throughout this year (also downloadable at www.polished.com.sg).
From now until July 25, get a classic pedicure using perennial fave nail polish brand OPI at just $55 (usual: $80). The best part — OPI's formulae are chip-resistant, so your pedi will last longer.
Now, is that value for money or what?