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updated 24 Dec 2010, 19:40
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Sun, Jan 24, 2010
Urban, The Straits Times
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Beauty blooms
by Karen Tee

Here are four other gorgeous flowers that are more than mere ornaments.

Lavender

Lavender has long been used for its calming and relaxing powers, making it a common ingredient in bath and body products.

It also has antiseptic qualities that placate sensitive, irritated or inflamed skin and soothe migraines and headaches as well.

Try: L'Occitane Lavender Detangling Conditioner ($32), which makes working out the knots in your hair a cinch.

Rose

The rose is a highly popular skincare ingredient rich in antioxidants.

Its petals are known for their soothing properties on dry, sensitive or ageing skin.

Rose water is a traditional beauty aid that is spritzed onto the face to rejuvenate and tone skin.

Plus, the irresistible scent of roses is sure to put you in the mood for love - a failproof way to get a natural glowing complexion.

Try: Dior HydraLife Youth Essential Hydrating Essence-In-Gel ($110), a two-in-one serum and moisturiser with a lightweight gel texture for those who like their skincare regimen pared down and fuss-free.

Snow lotus

This is the only flower that can be found in the snow-covered mountains of north China and the Himalayas.

Despite its unfavourable habitat of extreme cold and intense sunlight, the plant produces beautiful white blooms.

It is used in traditional Chinese medicine for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it an ideal whitening ingredient as it neutralises free radicals which contribute to pigmentation.

Try: Clarins Intensive Whitening Botanical Programme ($210),
a 21-day whitening regimen comprising two serums for dull and pigmented skin.

Calendula

This cheerful flower from the marigold family is known for its purifying properties and is often used in skin cleansers.

As it encourages the skin to heal with minimal scarring, the calendula benefits dry, damaged complexions as well as acne-prone skin.

Try: Jurlique Calendula Cream for face and body ($56), a soothing moisturiser for delicate skin.

This article was first published in Urban, The Straits Times.

 

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