Last week I attended the press launch of Closeup White Now. It’s supposed to be the first toothpaste that instantly whitens teeth—yes, with just one brush.
From the press launch, not only did I come home with a great product, but also a perfect Christmas gift—a kikay kit!
Personalized gifts are the best, and every person needs something different in his or her kikay kit. With my husband, the kit would have to have SPF, hair wax, a toothbrush and Closeup White Now.
Whitening treatments from the dentist won’t permanently keep your teeth white. It is really about choosing what you eat. Iced tea, Coke, cigarettes and most colored food will stain your teeth. So, it’s best to gargle after every meal. Of course, going to the dentist every six months for cleaning will also help.
To get the illusion of whiter teeth, red lipstick does the trick. The best way to pick the perfect red is really to try it out, but there are more than a dozen reds out there, so let me help you shorten the list with these recommendations:
MAC Matte Lipstick in Lady Danger. This is an amazingly vibrant color—a coral-orange red. It is, however, very bold, so it’s for the daring and adventurous. True to its name, whoever wears this shade is a sexy, confident woman.
Nars Dragon Girl. I first came across this shade after a talented makeup artist had me try it. I told him I wasn’t into red lipstick, and that I hadn’t found the right shade for me. But after he put it on me, I went straight to NARS to get a stick. I’m pretty light-skinned but even friends who are dark look great with this shade. I think it is more forgiving than the others. So for those who haven’t ventured into red lipstick, try this one.
Chanel Gabrielle. It’s creamy and long-lasting. I absolutely feel glamorous, like a ’50s movie star, when I have it on. Best of all, it doesn’t dry my lips, which some dark shades do. Perfect for the holidays!
More gift suggestions
La Prairie Skin Caviar Liquid Lift—This product gives an instant lift and long-term firmness to your skin. A must-have for women of all ages.—Jeanne F. Carpio, La Prairie brand manager
Perricone Cold Plasma. It restores the nutrients of your skin after all the Holiday rush and never-ending feasts.—Anne G. Santos, Perricone brand manager
The perfect Christmas gift is a facial treatment at the Clarins Skin Spa. Everyone deserves a luxurious pampering treat!—Aiem B. Ong, Clarins brand manager
A perfect Christmas gift for me would be Chanel No. 5; every woman should experience this scent.—Daphne S. Chua, Chanel brand manager