There’s something deeply satisfying about discovering products that not only look good on your shelf but feel amazing in use – especially when they actually deliver on their promises. In this edition of IN FOCUS, we’ve put some buzzworthy new arrivals to the test, from glow-boosting skincare and cooling facial treatments to a chocolate bar that’s pure joy in every bite.
Whether you’re looking to revive tired skin, streamline your night routine, or indulge in a moment of sweet escape, these picks are all about elevating the everyday. Here’s what we loved – and what we’ll definitely be reaching for again.
KIT: COLD THERAPY FACIAL TREATMENT
Inspired by the invigorating Wim Hof movement and the awakening power of cold water, the KIT: Cold Therapy Facial Treatment delivers an icy refresh for tired, stressed-out skin. This Melbourne-born skincare brand captures the sensation of an ice bath – right on your face.
The gel-based formula is packed with barrier-supporting and hydrating ingredients that replenish moisture, reduce puffiness, and improve skin tone. After just two minutes, it leaves skin visibly refreshed and tighter, with a lingering cooling sensation that lasts up to half an hour. It’s like a morning plunge for your face – cool, calm, and totally unexpected.
Jessie: “The cooling sensation is incredibly soothing, especially after a long day. My skin felt firmer, my pores looked smaller, and I had this fresh-faced glow that lasted well into the evening. It’s like a reset button for your skin – I’m officially obsessed!”
Dee: “Whether you’re dealing with puffiness, dullness, or just need a revitalising ritual, this treatment brings serious chill to your skincare routine – in the best way possible.”
Available at MECCA stores or online.
MEDIK8 CRYSTAL RETINAL CERAMIDE EYE
Breaking new ground in targeted eye care, Medik8 Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye is the world’s first clinical-strength retinal designed specifically for the delicate under-eye area. Leveraging Medik8’s hero ingredient, retinaldehyde, this powerhouse product is combined with barrier-strengthening ceramides and plumping hyaluronic acid filling spheres to visibly rejuvenate tired eyes – fast.
Available in three progressive strengths – 3, 6 and 10 – it delivers noticeable results while remaining gentle enough for nightly use. This all-in-one formula tackles crow’s feet, wrinkles, crepiness, and puffiness in a single PM step, making it perfect for those seeking real results without a 10-step routine.
For anyone battling signs of dryness or ageing around the eyes – or simply wanting to wake up looking more refreshed – this retinal eye cream delivers next-level results with minimal effort.
Carol: “After just a few nights, I noticed a smoother, more lifted look around my eyes. It feels rich but not heavy, and I love knowing it’s working overnight. It’s now a non-negotiable part of my night-time routine.”
SHISEIDO ULTIMUNE – POWER INFUSING SERUM
If you’re looking for a universal serum that elevates your entire routine and delivers real results, Shiseido’s Ultimune Power Infusing Serum might just be the skin saviour you didn’t know you needed.
A hero product from one of Japan’s most trusted beauty houses, this lightweight, fast-absorbing formula is designed to strengthen the skin’s natural defenses, boost hydration, and visibly reduce signs of aging – leaving skin radiant, smooth, and supple.
Formulated with a powerhouse blend of antioxidants and active ingredients delivered in micro-sized molecules, it penetrates deeply to nourish from within. Suitable for all skin types, it layers seamlessly into your routine, gliding on like silk and absorbing in seconds.
If you’re looking for a universal serum that elevates your entire routine and delivers real results, Shiseido’s Ultimune Power Infusing Serum might just be the skin saviour you didn’t know you needed.
A hero product from one of Japan’s most trusted beauty houses, this lightweight, fast-absorbing formula is designed to strengthen the skin’s natural defenses, boost hydration, and visibly reduce signs of aging – leaving skin radiant, smooth, and supple.
Formulated with a powerhouse blend of antioxidants and active ingredients delivered in micro-sized molecules, it penetrates deeply to nourish from within. Suitable for all skin types, it layers seamlessly into your routine, gliding on like silk and absorbing in seconds.
BONDI SANDS ULTRA EXPRESS SELF TANNING FOAM
We love a good self-tan moment – but the sticky, transfer-prone wait time? Not so much. That’s why we’re completely sold on Bondi Sands Ultra Express Self Tanning Foam. This clever formula gives you a full, rich tan in just one hour, so you can bronze up without blocking out half your day.
What makes it stand out? The red base – a refreshing shift from the usual olive tones –creates a deep, natural-looking glow that flatters all skin types without any hint of green. The result is a warm, sun-kissed finish that develops fast and fades beautifully.
If you’re short on time but still want that fresh-from-the-beach glow, this express foam is a total game-changer. Fast, flawless, and furniture-safe – what more could we ask for?
WHITTAKER’S PEANUT CARAMEL BRITTLE
If you love nuts in your chocolate then stop everything – Whittaker’s has done it again, and this time they’ve outdone themselves with the Peanut & Caramel Brittle Bar. Imagine their famously smooth 5 Roll Refined Creamy Milk chocolate (already a dream), now stuffed with freshly batch-roasted peanuts and shards of buttery, salty caramel brittle.
You get that creamy melt-in-your-mouth chocolate, the satisfying crunch of roasted peanuts, and then – bam! – a hit of that golden, salted caramel brittle that’s rich, buttery, and perfectly balanced.
And in true Whittaker’s style, this bar is made from bean to bar in their one-and-only factory in Porirua, New Zealand. It’s palm oil-free (yay!), and made with 100% Rainforest Alliance Certified™ cocoa beans, so it tastes good and feels good.
This one’s not just a treat – it’s a full-blown obsession waiting to happen. Don’t say we didn’t warn you.
Available at all good supermarkets.
Nescafé Launches Mocha Inspired by KitKat
Okay, chocoholics and coffee lovers, get ready –because this one’s a match made in caffeinated heaven. NESCAFÉ and KitKat have joined forces to create the ultimate treat-yourself moment: the NEW NESCAFÉ Mocha inspired by KitKat. And yes, it’s every bit as dreamy as it sounds.
Imagine your favourite frothy NESCAFÉ coffee, now infused with that unmistakable rich chocolate and crispy wafer flavour of KitKat. It’s smooth, it’s chocolatey, it’s got just the right touch of indulgence – and it’s all wrapped up in a convenient single-serve sachet you can enjoy anywhere, anytime.
Whether you’re hitting that mid-afternoon slump or just craving something a little extra with your break, this mocha brings serious café vibes with zero effort. Just add hot water, stir, sip, and cue the happy sigh.
One sip and you’ll be hooked.
Available at all good supermarkets.