As a new mother, Yong admits that she does not have time to do a multi-step skincare routine every night. Find out how she ensures her skin stays healthy and naturally glowing
‘Skinmalism’ has become all the rage within the beauty industry of late. This new skincare term can be defined as scaling back on your beauty routines and embracing your natural skin.
The ‘Skinmalism’ movement has inspired many to rethink their self-care rituals and simplify their skincare regimes. And one brand that is focused on encouraging minimalist skincare for better skin is Two Halves—a proudly Singaporean, vegan skincare label founded by mother-daughter duo Ashley and Jo Yong.
Formulated in Japan-based laboratories, Two Halves strives to bring balance to frazzled, confused and stressed-out skin with mindfully formulated products that contain plant-based skincare actives and high-quality ingredients that are infused into sensorial, easily absorbed textures.
Ashley wanted to use her own life experiences of being a young and busy working mother who is also a beauty junkie to create an effective skincare label that works in sync with the skin.
"As a new mum, I don't always have the time to do a multi-step skincare routine every night. Hence, I wanted to create a skincare line that is suited to our lifestyle and to our local climate," Ashley explained.
She used to spend her school holidays and term breaks working at Estee Lauder Companies, where her mother also worked from 2001 to 2015 and played a pivotal role in the launch of Tom Ford Beauty in 2012 in Singapore. After graduating from university, she worked in banking for a year before she decided to join forces with her mother to create their vegan-friendly skincare brand.
See also: Inspirational Quotes on Working With Mum
We speak to the young entrepreneur to find out more about her skincare routine and how she incorporates ‘Skinmalism’ into her lifestyle.
How long do you typically spend on your skincare routine?
I spend about 10 minutes in the morning prepping my skin for the day ahead. I usually take about 20 to 30 minutes on my night skincare routine depending on my energy levels for that day, and what other treatments I may be trying out as well.
What is your skincare routine like for the day?
I always start off by cleansing my face with warm water, and only use face wash in the morning if I used an overnight mask the day before. If I applied an overnight mask, I start off my day with the Fresh Soy Face Cleanser. Then, I use Two Halves’ Better Balance Soothing Hydration Essence and the Nutrients Networking Water Cream before applying sunscreen. I find that when I use a combination of Two Halves’ essence and water cream, it not only helps lock in moisture and hydration but controls oil build-up throughout the day. The last step, but super important step, is always sunscreen!
See also: 10 Best Non-Greasy Sunscreens For Everyday Use—Especially in Singapore's Weather
What is your skincare routine for the night?
I always ensure that I double cleanse if I’m wearing makeup. Otherwise, I start with the Bioderma Sensibio H2O and then followed by my facial wash. I currently use either Neutrogena Salicylic Acid Cleanser or when I’m wearing makeup, the Estee Lauder Nutritious Cleansing Foam. After cleansing, I apply the same Better Balance Soothing Hydration Essence before using my Curicare LED face mask. I love that it gets everything done in eight minutes. I then complete my routine with either the Better Balance Nutrients Networking Water Cream or Lancome’s Visionnaire Correcting Polishing Cream. I love taking my time with my skincare routine at night as it helps me wind down and get prepped for a good night’s rest. It’s helpful in recharging my skin and prepping it for the next day.
See also: Double Cleansing: Why it’s an Important Skincare Step and the Best Ways to Do it
What was the last skincare product that you bought?
Caudalie’s Beauty Elixir. I love both the benefits and the application method. It’s everything a face mist should be. It’s a fine-mist spray that doesn’t apply the product too aggressively.