Barbara Sturm Molecular Cosmetics now on Net-a-Porter.com

German luxury skincare line Dr Barbara Sturm is now available to Asian consumers via NET-A-PORTER.com. Sturm, an aesthetics doctor, roots her line around the idea that world-class skincare should protect, strengthen and detoxify without overburdening the skin, and that it should yield maximum results with a minimum number of products.

And for those who have overflowing cabinets, stressed skin, busy lifestyles, and a thirst for skin-pampering products that cut through the Marketing mambo-jumbo and do just what they say, this is a line to look into.

To allow skincare aficionados in Singapore a chance to sample her line, NET-A-PORTER is collaborating with The Landing Point at Fullerton Bay Hotel to offer a thematic Afternoon Tea experience. For SGD 48++, guests will enjoy a gourmet tearoom experience overlooking the panoramic Marina Bay waterfront, as well as receive a luxe gift set of Dr Barbara Sturm travel-size products worth SGD188 from NET-A-PORTER.

(For reservations and enquiries, call Dining Reservations at +65 6877 8911 / 8912)

I have been trying out a few of their products and I'll say they put their money where their mouth is. They don't skimp on active ingredients, minimize usage of cheap fillers and bulking agents, and also quietly throw in skin-nurturing "extras" that are not immediately obvious when looking at the product names.

The one word of warning is don't expect pretty fragrances and masking agents. These products are completely unscented and hence a great option to explore for those with more sensitive skins, but many will smell of raw ingredients. For me, as long as it works well, I can forget how it smells.

Hyaluronic Serum (S$273.79)

Not all hyaluronic acid serums are the same, and this one uses different molecular sizes to ensure effectiveness and better penetration into the skin. Besides just hydration, the formula also contains a lactobacillus ferment and radish root ferment to provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties for extra protection and regeneration. What you get is a serum that gives an almost instant plumped glow, as well as longer-term soothing and anti-aging benefits.

A small con is the ferments do give this a slight curd/cheese scent when just applied, which might affect some people. But if you're familiar with some SK-II products, you won't be a stranger to this sort of smell.

Sun Drops SPF50 (S$119.87)

I am ALWAYS on the lookout for great suncare since we can't completely avoid the searing sun in Singapore. This UVA + UVB blocking "sun serum" feels super light and smooth, but not slippery or silicone-y, so makeup doesn't slide around or pill up. This one went STRAIGHT onto my vanity after I tried it once.

And it is really a serum of sorts as it contains an anti-aging complex filled with Cassia extract, vitamins and arginine to prevent and repair photo-damaged cells. It also claims to be suitable for sensitive skin.

The price might be a bit high compared to the average sun protection product but I would see this as an additional serum if you are in the market for something luxe and effective at the same time.

Face Mask / Deep Hydrating Mask (S$134.93)

This smooth creamy mask uses a water-based humectant (glycerin) and a lightweight oil (sweet almond) to replenish and retain skin's moisture reserves without . It also contains the same antioxidant complex (called Purslane) which includes lactobacillus and radish ferments, along with soothing aloe, chamomile and vitamin E. 

You smooth a layer on the face and neck, leave for 10-15 mins, and rinse with lukewarm water. This is actually a nice smoothing, soothing skin-prep before a big day/night, and you can apply your face cream, primer and move on to makeup after rinsing it off. It doesn't feel greasy and I did not see any white cast from the clay however, so I actually forgot to rinse it off the other day.

I would however consider this better suited for normal to dry and generally non-acnegenic skins that don't have any known issues with sweet almond oil.

A couple of things I'm curious to try next are probably the Calming Serum, as well as the Super Anti-aging Serum, which looks like a powerhouse of anti-inflammatory ingredients.

As always, NET-A-PORTER ships free to Singapore with any purchase over S$300, and as always they have a 28-day free returns policy if something isn't satisfactory.