While some people still insist on using it as a derogatory term or deride women who wear makeup, we PV girls choose to own the term “kikay”. It’s just not about looking good for the sake of looking good; we’re serious about taking care of ourselves in the best ways we know how. Some of us got into makeup as young adults, while others have been finding ways to get our beauty fix while we were still kids!

So we asked a few women how they discovered their love for beauty and how this passion led some of them to where they are today. From teaching other women via video tutorials to building their own beauty empires, find your next beauty inspiration in their stories!

Rissa's cover photo by Eloisa Lopez for Entrepreneur Philippines

Rissa Mananquil Trillo, co-founder of Happy Skin Cosmetics, model and beauty columnist

When I was young, the dresser of my all-pink room was constantly filled with the latest moisturizers, eye creams, sunscreens, face masks, perfumes and other kinds of miracle lotions and potions. At thirteen, I was already slathering anti-cellulite cream on my thighs! Although I really didn’t need it, the thought of having my thighs look like orange peel didn’t exactly sound like a sweet idea to my adolescent mind. 

There was even one Christmas break I spent with a half-burnt face. One entire cheek was literally scabbed and burnt to crisp! I thought I could play derma doctor on myself and wipe away the miniscule whiteheads that seemed as big as the moon to an adolescent like me. That’s what I got for experimenting with products NOT meant for the face.

So yes, like other young girls at that age, I was curious and conscious about my body and appearance. But while my Povedan classmates were studying their ABCs in Spanish, I was understanding my AHAs as well. They collected Sweet Valley Twins books to read but I also had my face buried in Vogue’s Beauty Encyclopedia.

I was so kikay that I later bagged the role as host for a beauty TV show called “The Kikay Machine!”

Nybie Ng and Angela Nepomuceno

Nybie Ng, makeup artist

Honestly I was not considered as one of the kikays during my younger years. My siblings were all boys so I wasn’t immediately drawn to makeup but I was interested in the arts. In grade school, I joined a theater group where I first learned how to do makeup for performances. I became the go-to makeup person in my high school and even did my own face for graduation.

I ended up taking a college course that I wasn’t really passionate about but I finished it and got a job as a medical technologist. I saved up my salary to enroll myself in the Center for Aesthetics Studies, taking classes on weekends even as I also juggled work and school. I had a tough time but I was happy with what I was doing. After graduating from makeup school, I was lucky to find clients and did makeup stints between my shifts at the hospital. Sometimes I wouldn’t even get to sleep but the work made me happy.

As I got more gigs, I decided to leave my job and take risk to be a full-time makeup artist. It was hard to let go of the assurance of a monthly salary for work as a freelancer but I told myself that I didn’t want to be a 40 year-old wishing I had made the switch when I was younger. It was one of the best decisions I have ever made! It’s been six years since I took that crazy step, and I couldn’t be happier with the job I have now. My passion and love for my job now fuels me to do my best every day and with every client. I hope to empower women and to bring out their beauty and confidence through my makeup skills.

Angela Nepomuceno, model and beauty blogger

I grew up watching my mom apply her skincare regimen and do her makeup every day before going to the office, so I guess I was born to be kikay. My interest was intensified when I decided to enrol in a makeup school while I was still part of the corporate world. From there, I became a makeup artist and my blog turned into a beauty blog!

Joyce Sola and Sharmaine Reyes

Joyce Sola, makeup artist and beauty vlogger

While watching America’s Next Top Model, I told myself, “One day I’ll be famous, successful, and beautiful just like them.” I started collecting makeup, clothes, and accessories to create my own style. I went on to study photography and makeup artistry to pursue my passion. And now I’m a beauty vlogger and a professional makeup artist!

Sharmaine Reyes, Doctor of Medicine student

Believe it or not, I used to wear all the baggy clothes that boys wear. I once even went to Boracay wearing jogging pants just because I didn’t want to wear sleeveless and shorts. Haha! But then I got a boost of confidence when I joined Miss Pharmacy and then Miss University of Santo Tomas back in college. I felt the need to look presentable in front of other people. Baka sabihin nila, "Ay, yan ba yun? Parang ‘di naman nagsusuklay." Since then, I wanted to improve on how I present myself to other people. It’s not about being maarte. It's about bringing out the best in you and showing it to other people.

Quennie de Leon, Doctor of Medicine student

It's almost impossible for any women not to be kikay once in their lifetime. It’s cliché but I used to try my mom's clothes and heels when I was little. I was also fond of conceptualizing my daily hairstyles even when I was just 5 years old! I have fond memories of collecting Total Girl magazines, getting my first makeup kit, having my first mani-pedi session, going on mega shopping sessions, learning how to do my eyebrows, and many more that indulged my love for beauty.

Razel Eusebio and Nina Nuguid

Razel Eusebio, model

I used to be naive about making myself beautiful. I always wanted everything to be simple. When I first started modeling, I didn't know how to put makeup on, how to dress properly, and how to look presentable. I became super kikay when I felt like I had to. Every other model that I worked with knew how to look and be confident, so I decided to learn how to better take care of myself, too. I enrolled in a makeup school, and from then on, I knew how to carry myself properly and gained more confidence!

Nina Nuguid, blogger

I'm not really super kikay so I think the right question should be, "When did you start taking care of yourself?" The turning point for me was when I was about 16 years old. I was chosen as class representative for Ms. UN and I didn't want to put my batch to shame by losing the competition. It was certainly humbling when I got brutally honest and asked myself if I was presenting the best version of myself. And that, I guess, was the start of something new and beautiful.

P.S. I won first runner-up!

Ally Munda, model

If I were to choose a word to describe myself, it probably wouldn't be “kikay”. I grew up as the only girl in the household and it turned out as you expect; I think the only time my teachers stopped scolding me for my hair looking messy was when I cut it to a pixie. I've never been good at makeup, pretty things, or traditionally feminine gender stereotypical behavior but I love my skincare! I'm very particular about always washing, toning, moisturizing and protecting my skin. Since I started modelling, I've become more focused on keeping my skin healthy.

Jackie Go and Princess Jo-anne Malana

Jackie Go, model and blogger

I'm not super kikay but I do admit that I like pretty things and things that can help me achieve my best look. So sige na nga, kikay na din! Hahaha! Well, I was tomboyish growing up and it was only when I started doing TV commercials in early 2000 that I got exposed to a world where physical appearance is a currency. Since I worked with amazing makeup artists and stylists, I eventually learned a thing or two from them. After I got married and had kids, I became more conscious when it comes to dressing up and looking presentable. That fueled my curiosity for anything about beauty, and now I have a lifestyle blog where I love talking about it!

Princess Jo-anne Malana, cultural dancer

It all started when I discovered my talent in dancing. I was a cultural dancer when I was still a student. When performing, we had to look presentable. At first, I didn’t know how to apply makeup but I learned little by little with each performance. Then one day, I noticed that I was already enjoying putting makeup on, especially when other people compliment my look. It transformed me in a good way and made me feel more confident as I performed.

Even with small and humble beginnings, we can become women of beauty and grace, who are passionate about what we do, and striving hard to become even better. Making ourselves look and feel beautiful is as much an act of confidence as it a source of confidence. So the next time someone calls you “kikay”, say thank you and be proud of the fact.

Just a few years ago face contouring wasn't something you'd do on a daily basis; it was only reserved for special occasions, and a makeup artist had to be on speed dial in case of accidents and injury to our self-confidence (mostly). Kidding aside, I do love the fact that contouring is so common and affordable now. Good, convenient products meant specifically for face slimming magic can be had for a great price at the drugstore.

Maybelline recently came out with their V-Face by Face Studio line to help us achieve our contouring ambitions. Each product has at least two different shades to get you different effects. Which one is best for you and how do they perform in actual? Here's a quick rundown!

Face Studio V-Face Duo Contour Stick (P499). This dual-ended stick has a matte contour shade on one end and a pearly highlighter on the other. It's the quickest way to sculpt your face on the go since it only requires your fingers - the texture is easy to blend on top of foundation, whether it's powder or liquid. I quite like the highlighter since it's subtle and gives skin that dreamy, soft focus effect. It has just the right amount of pearlescent shimmer that's not spackly at all!

I appreciate the convenience, but the formula and specifically the contour shade leaves a lot to be desired. The shade I have, Medium, is too orange for my taste, even when it's blended out. T___T Not sure what Maybelline was thinking there. I mean I've had some orange-y cream contours in the past but the warmth always works with my yellow skin tone. This one though is quite obviously NOT skin-like unless you're an oompa loompa. I used it in this video, if you want to know how it looks like exactly.

The cream also pills. It has a bit of this moussey texture so when you press down, bits of it kinda roll off. It's easy enough to dust away or blend down but it's downright distracting.

Staying power is average for face color, around 3-4 hours.

Try this if: You want to contour anywhere, wherever. It offers the convenience of swiping on lipstick, but this time on your face!

Face Studio V-Face Duo Powder in Medium Dark (P499). This is my fave out of the three. Imagine retouching your face during the day AND CONTOURING IT EVER SO SUBTLY each time. That's genius! I always retouch around my contoured areas so as not to disturb or erase the shading. I find it common sense to just use powder that can boost contour while removing shine.

The Duo Powder, unlike the Stick, has a more neutral tone to it. It's closer to an actual contour shade. The effect is subtle so it needs to be layered if you're looking for sharp contrast. However, I like that it's not in-your-face and looks so soft. Just check out my FOTD below! Staying power is also average for a powder (3-4 hours) but it comes with a brush and mirror inside so you can retouch any time. I'd still want to use a proper brush though since the included tool is way too small.

Try this if: You want to be able to retouch and contour your face during the day without any hassle.

Face Studio V-Face Blush Contour in Wine (P399). I don't normally respect tiny blush/contour palettes because, come on, how are you getting your brush in there? Seriously! It's so frustrating. But if you can be patient with the tiny space for your brush, I think you'll enjoy Maybelline's version. It's pigmented and the contour shade here is the darkest out of the three products I've reviewed; it also has a taupe tint to it.

The first pink is a light one, to be applied as a sort of highlight. Then the darker pink is the main blush shade, while the contour holds it all together. You can achieve a nice 3D effect with this palette but don't bother if you have a normal blush brush. Don't bother also with the brush included because it's just, gah. The fibers are so hard and thick as to render it unusable (are we not in 2016???). I recommend going for something like the Zoeva Luxe Highlight brush or if you have a blending brush ala MAC 217, that should be fine too.  

Don't get me wrong ha - I don't hate this. In fact I like the colors a lot and the palette as a whole does create a nice effect on the cheeks! Staying power is average also (3-4 hours) and the shades goes on smoothly, if a bit powdery. However, maybe you should go for their normal-sized contour trio if you don't have the right tools yet.

Try this if: You want it all! And you have small face brushes, too.

In this FOTD, I used the Duo Powder and Blush Contour! I applied the powder under my cheekbones and on my jawline, as well as on the center of my face (the light color is a good match there). The Blush Contour went on my cheeks, and the dark shade I used to contour my nose - it surprisingly looks good there. The effect is nice right? Very smooth and looks natural, IMHO! 

If you had to try the V-Face by Face Studio line, I would recommend the Duo Powder. It just works! I do want to be able to contour a bit while I retouch. Though I'd probably replace the brush with a sponge applicator instead, just for convenience.

Thoughts? How do you like this Maybelline collection?

I’m in my late twenties, and have made it through a master’s degree and marriage with just my trusty body splashes from Victoria’s Secret and Bath & Body Works. I used to think that real perfumes smelled too strong, but before I knew it the collection of bottles on my vanity had already reached double digits!

I’m not sure when or how I began to develop an interest in scents. Maybe it was because of the constant badgering of sales assistants offering their testers I entered a department store. Maybe it was being with a friend who smelled good all the time that I made me realize what a difference a personal fragrance made in our social interactions.

Body splashes no longer felt enough - the smell was too faint, too commercial and had zero lasting power. So I started to explore different perfumes to find the scents I liked and applying them even just for everyday wear. And wow, I loved smelling good! No matter how haggard I felt, I took comfort in knowing that I was enveloped in a pleasing aroma.

As I delved deeper into the world of perfume, I found that there was no reason to be intimidated because there really is a scent for everyone! I am open to different types of perfume but I find myself most drawn to floral, fruity scents as well as other clean, just-got-out-of-the-shower scents. Deep, musky and woody notes for evening wear intrigue me as well.

Though I experiment a lot and try on different things, the most important factors for my perfume choices include elegance (classy without being in-your-face), having a soft sillage, and the ability to last for at least three hours.

I don’t consider myself to be a perfume connoisseur, but sniffing so many bottles seems to have heightened my senses. When I first started exploring perfumes, the only distinction I had between different scents was whether it was a “yay” or “nay” (I cringe). To train myself, I would look up the perfumes that I had encountered and liked to see what type of scent it is and what notes it contains. I’m still trying to train my nose to distinguish which notes are most prominent but based on my preferences, I’ve noticed that there are particular ingredients that seem to recur in my scent picks. My favorites include freesia, peony, apple, pear, and raspberry to name a few. I dislike anything with pepper and feel iffy about ginger.

My Holy Grails

GAP Dream. This will always be special to me not only because this was my very first scent, but also because it was a gift from my sister. Freesia is very prominent in this floral fragrance, and it makes me feel fun and light. GAP has recently discontinued their fragrances but I still see this on shelves locally.

Elizabeth Arden Green Tea. There is a reason why this line has produced soooo many flankers (variations of the same fragrance) over the years! There is something about the scent of tea that is just so soothing. It's ageless, too!

Lanvin Eclat d’Arpege. This is a popular perfume among perfume enthusiasts and it’s not hard to see why. It isa  fruity floral that is described as “delicate, fragile and angelic.” If you’re trying fragrances for the first time, this is a good perfume to start with.

Versace Bright Crystal. This is my all-time favorite fragrance, and not just because it has my name on it! When I sniff this fruity floral fragrance, I feel refreshed and it improves my mood. Peony is one of my favorite notes and it really sparkles in this one. It definitely perks me up!

Unique Finds

Signorina Eau de Toilette Salvatore Ferragamo. It’s not often that you’d find milk mousse in the base notes, and it is definitely prominent in this one.

Paco Rabanne Black XS for Her. This is another gourmand fragrance. The cacao note is what makes it unique. It’s a dark but sweet scent that is great for formal evening events.

Benefit Mini Fragrance Set. I was really happy to receive these as a gift but unfortunately Benefit has discontinued most of their fragrances. I enjoyed the fun, girly vibe plus the tiny bottles looked so cute!

Wish List

Chloe Eau de Parfum. I am generally not a fan of rose scents but this one is the exception. To me, this a light and fresh floral that always makes me want to do a double sniff.

Philosophy Pure Grace. I really regret not buying this when Philosophy still had their boutique here. At the time, they had no testers so I just sniffed the bottle and it was uninteresting for me. Later on, I got to try it out on my skin and I really enjoyed the soap and water smell. This is a nice, soft scent that would be great for everyday use.

Chanel Coco Mademoiselle. Chanel products always exude luxury, and this one is no different. This is described as an oriental, woody fragrance. On me, I can’t quite describe what it smells like but it definitely smells unique and expensive, but not too mature.

Collecting perfume is not a cheap hobby but I prefer to invest in good brands and won’t waste my money on knock-offs. However, I have never, ever paid full retail price for a bottle of perfume! I wait for sales that offer a substantial discount, source from abroad, or buy from Duty Free. It’s a lot of fun though, and all the glass bottles instantly prettify any vanity. Even if you’re not into perfumes, it’s nice to keep at least two: one for daily wear, and another, fancier one for special occasions. Like the perfect flattering lipstick, a good scent adds a little something extra to your look and instantly improves your mood for the day!

Do you wear perfumes? What scent picks are in your collection?

by Gett Baladad, contributor

We salute female news anchors for their poise and bravery in reporting amidst the current political landscape. We admire the endless amounts of grit and hard work they showed as they climbed up in the industry, and remain a trusted voice heard by millions around the country! Now, being the beauty nerds that we are at PV, we've always wondered about how newswomen manage to look great while on camera. We talked to Patricia Ann “Trish” Roque, a News5 correspondent and Aksyon News Alert anchor, about her secrets to looking presentable whether she is under the harsh studio lights or out on the field. Get ready to take notes!

Do you do your own makeup, or do you have a makeup artist do it for you?

For my newsbreak anchor duties, I have a makeup artist do my makeup. But I do my own when I report on the field or when the makeup artist is not able to make it to the studio for our newsbreak schedule. So I have to be prepared all the time!

What’s a normal day at work like for you?

For my news anchor duties, I wake up at 7AM and get to the office at around 9AM. I get my hair and makeup done by the makeup artist before we air at around 10AM.

For my regular reporter duties, I wake up at 4:30AM to avoid traffic. I arrive in the office at around 7AM, then leave for my coverage by 8AM. I do my makeup in the crewcab while on the way to the location. I just put simple makeup on – powder, eyeliner, mascara, lipstick – for my everyday coverage look. If I have to go live later in the day, that’s when I apply a full face of makeup. When I get home, I wash my face with facial wash and put on moisturizer.

Describe your skincare and makeup routine when prepping for a broadcast.

My skin is not that sensitive so I can usually use most products. Most makeup artists and anchors prefer MAC foundation because of the finish looks good onscreen. I don’t have a particular skincare or makeup routine before broadcast but I make sure to cleanse and hydrate my face first before applying makeup.

How is broadcast makeup different from the usual everyday makeup?

Broadcast makeup looks simple and basic on TV, but it’s very different from everyday makeup. If you do everyday makeup for TV, it will look really pale or as if you don't have any makeup at all. Broadcast makeup is a bit darker, and requires more highlighting and contouring than everyday makeup.

I have to look sharp and professional with my makeup. No shimmer, nothing fancy, just clean and simple makeup that will emphasize my features and make me look presentable while delivering the news.

Getting the makeup right is definitely a challenge. I always have to check my makeup on our preview monitor before going on air. Studio lighting is very different from normal lighting so you may think you have the right amount of makeup on, but once you step in the studio, the lighting can wash out your makeup. You also shouldn’t put on too much because this might distract the viewers. The focus should be on the news item you are delivering and not on you. So make sure to do my makeup in a well-lit place as it helps me get the right blend.

Do you have a preferred style of makeup you like to do for broadcast? What facial features do you usually emphasize?

I have no particular makeup style for my broadcast makeup. I just keep it clean, simple and professional-looking. I like neutrals, shades of brown, to emphasize my eyes. When you’re on TV, the eyes are your connection to the camera and the viewer. I always put on false eyelashes to give just the right amount of emphasis!

What are your must-do steps when doing broadcast makeup?

I apply concealer or liquid foundation as base before applying powder foundation. This will help keep the makeup stay on longer, even with minimal touch ups. I also have to contour my face and nose line well. On TV, you tend to look as if you are ten times bigger, so you have to emphasize and highlight your face well through contouring.

What are your makeup and skincare picks/must-haves?

Naturactor is a really good concealer for dark spots, pimples or blemishes. As an alternative for MAC (which is quite pricey), I use FS Cosmetics Powder Foundation in Chino. It has a nice finish comparable to the more expensive and imported brands! For contour, I recommend Happy Skin’s Feeling Sculptacular Contour Kit or FS Cosmetics Powder Foundation in Rajah. For my eyebrows, I use K-Palette ‘s Lasting 2-Way Eyebrow Pen.

What’s the best lesson you learned with regards to broadcast makeup?

I didn’t know how to put on makeup before I started working on television. I learned by observing makeup artists and asking questions. I learned that not all makeup styles are suitable for one’s face. It may look good for another person but may not look good on you because of your different facial features! I learned by practicing over and over and doing my makeup more often. The best lesson I learned is to keep things fresh and simple, and not to overdo your makeup. Emphasize your features but keep it natural and clean.

Have you ever experienced having to do your makeup for TV before? What are your tricks for keeping your features from getting washed out?

This story is brought to you by Innovitelle.

I had pretty bad acne during most of college years and my early twenties. The first piece of makeup I ever bought with my own money was concealer because I couldn’t stand the sight of my blemishes! I was much more of an introvert back then because the acne affected my self- confidence. I was so desperate that I even agreed to undergo a deep chemical peel which made my facial skin fall off in chunks for a week; I regret it up to this day. I went to see a dermatologist who prescribed oral medication to regulate my hormones but it didn’t quite work out.

Thankfully, after years of experimenting with products and my hormones just finally calming down by themselves, my skin is now fairly clear save for the occasional stress-related pimples. Those were dark, dark days. I realize how lucky I am to be in an industry that constantly educates about good skin health practices and the latest innovations in skincare! That being said, I have an interesting piece of news for you: there is now a pill that aims to cure pimples and keep them from coming back. It's now available in the Philippines, and here's what you need to know.

Lactezin® is a clinically-tested over the counter drug which uses a natural milk-derived antibacterial ingredient, Lactoferrin, combined with Vitamin E and Zinc to reduce skin oiliness, comedones (pimples/whiteheads/blackheads), and promise better complexion in as early as two weeks. If you are looking to minimize skin irritation and get that natural glow, you may take this oral supplement twice a day for best results. It is manufactured by Innovitelle, the personal care arm of Unilab which makes the top Vitamin E supplement in the PH, Myra.

So what is lactoferrin exactly? Stay with me here. It is a protein naturally derived from milk and has been shown to possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It works by binding with iron - the nutrient needed by bacteria, fungus, and other microorganisms to grow. It is able to fight off these skin-emies by getting rid of the source, and also helps to reduce the inflammation and redness caused by pimples.

One box contains eight pills

The Vitamin E in the pill is the antioxidant component that protects the skin from sun damage. The Zinc, on the other hand, aids also in healing pimple lesions and skin renewal. It is the breakthrough combination of these three ingredients that makes Lactoferrin unique.

I know how stressful it can be to have pimples, especially the kind that feeds on the bacteria that develops from uncontrollably oily skin. There's no cure for being oily but there are ways to manage it by having a consistent skincare routine, blotting whenever needed, and getting a boost from a supplement. Oiliness may be forever but pimples don't have to be a part of your life!

If topical solutions or hormone-regulating pills are no longer working for you (if at all), you might want to ask your dermatologist about Lactezin®. It’s available over the counter but I would still recommend talking to a PDS (Philippine Dermatological Society) doctor to make sure it’s appropriate for your condition. Here’s to better #skinhealth!

Sources:

1.Farnaud S, Evans RW. (2003). "Lactoferrin—a multifunctional protein with antimicrobial properties".Mol. Immunol. 40 (7): 395–405.
2. Kim J et al. (2010). “Dietary effect of lactoferrin-enriched fermented milk on skin surface lipid and clinical improvement of acne vulgaris”. Nutrition.26(9): 902-
3. Keller KL, Fenske NA. (1998). “Uses of vitamins A, C, and E and related compounds in dermatology: a review”. J Am Acad Dermatol. 39(4 Pt 1): 611-25.
4. El-Akawi Z et al. (2006). “Does the plasma level of vitamins A and E affect acne condition?”. Clin Exp Dermatol. 31(3): 430-4.
5. James KA et al. (2009). “Emerging drugs for acne”. Expert Opini Emerg Drugs. 14(4): 649-59.
6. Dreno B et al. (1989). “Low Doses of Zinc Gluconate for Inflammatory Acne”. Acta Derm Venereol. 69(6):541-3. 

Cover photo via Happy Skin Cosmetics

Getting glammed up by a beauty pros is a special treat. Aside from our trusty online beauty gurus, makeup artists are our up-close and personal source for the hottest trends, the latest beauty technology, and cutting-edge techniques. It’s also nice to just sit there and have someone else worry about getting our wings even and the eyeshadow blending just right!

However, while we enjoy having someone fuss over us, we might take for granted the basic guidelines to creating a positive experience for both parties. So we asked a bunch of seasoned makeup artists to ask about their client pet peeves, and what we can all learn about how to behave while on the chair. Let's dust up our manners!

She's got this!

Pet Peeve #1: The client has no respect for the expertise she's paying good money for

“Even before we begin, some clients already tell me, ‘Please don’t put too much, just what’s needed. Keep it light!’” -JU

“The one I hear over and over again is ‘Don’t put on too much makeup! The eyebrows are too thick!’” -NI

“During a trial session, a bride insisted that I apply foundation that was at least five shades lighter than her skin tone!”-ACS

There is the all-too-common issue of clients being a little too specific and even downright misguided with their comments and requests, even when the results are sure to be unflattering. Remember that these are trained professionals, and that you hired them for their expertise. Says JU, “I clarify that flash photography will wash out the finer details in our features, like lashes and brows. This is often why makeup on special occasions like weddings is thicker. That is, unless it’s an outdoor wedding and the majority of photos will be in natural light.”

After clearly discussing your palette and look peg with the artist, it’s time to let them take the reins. They want you to look your best, too, as a sub-par job would also reflect badly on them or potentially undo the reputations they’ve worked hard to build. NI assures, “Trust me. Leave it to me. You’ll feel and look great after this makeover!”

If you feel really uncomfortable with what your artist is doing, speak up but do it nicely. It’s definitely okay to ask questions or make requests but if your artist recommends against it, trust that they are looking out for you.

Good quality makeup and tools don't come cheap

Pet Peeve #2: When the haggling becomes downright embarrassing

“Are there no discounts? Throw in the airbrushing for free! Why is your transpo fee so expensive?!” -BI

“The haggling is the most annoying part. I often get, ‘Don’t I get a discount? So expensive!’” -NI

While there’s nothing wrong with trying to get the most out of your moolah, understand that you get what you pay for. That means funding makeup quality and skill enhancement (additional training and continuing education) of the artist. “Being a freelance artist, most of my clients are are home-serviced,” explains GRS. “My fees for hair and makeup are very reasonable yet I’m always asked if they can get a discount. Aside from the time spent doing your face, we also have to contend with traffic to get to your home on time. We spend not just for makeup but lights, makeup chairs, tools and other accessories to make your experience more comfortable. And we have to cart all of that around to all of our bookings.”

Don't expect or feel entitled to a discount just because you're friends with the artist. Wait for them to be the one to offer; otherwise, don't bring it up! If you’re on a really tight budget, shop around for a makeup artist whose published rates match your requirements. For weddings, it helps to check out bridal fairs where some makeup artists offer special discounts and service packages. And if you’re wondering if spending extra on a known makeup artist is really worth it, look for reviews of past customers.

Makeup artists work with your features, not against them

Pet Peeve #3: When they think we are special effects artists and/or plastic surgeons

"There’s a lot of ‘I want to look like this or that…’, but their facial features are quite the opposite of what they want the look to be modeled after. I’m not Belo! I wish I could say, ‘Why do you want that look when you’re actually prettier?’”  -CH

“What’s weird is when they request to look like a certain celebrity who looks nothing like them. Then they repeatedly ask [throughout the session] if they already look like that person.” -FL

With a ton of contouring and perhaps some prosthetics, you can probably transform into your favorite celeb. But please don’t! While Paolo Ballesteros can look like just about anyone, you don’t want to look unrecognizable unless you’re attending a costume party or doing a cosplay. Makeup artists can perform not-so-minor miracles like making your dark circles disappear or giving you a perfect pair of brows when your natural ones are practically nonexistent. But they can’t make you look like someone who has a completely different face.

Your pegs are there to give your artist guidance on the look you want to achieve, not to copy it exactly. The key elements of the #FOTD you want - the colors, the application, the formula - will be customized in a way that suits your face best. The MUA's job is to make you look like the best version of yourself, not a carbon copy of somebody else.

Pet Peeve #4: When clients give zero f*cks about instructions and can't be separated from their phones

“It’s annoying when clients are glued to their phones while I’m doing their makeup. Clients cause delay by doing various tasks other than sitting still and letting us work. And when we start to run late from those delays, they’ll be hurrying the process along. It’s very stressful!“ -FL

A full face plus hair can take at least 30 minutes to do, so you can expect to warm your seat for a while. TBH, it can be a bit boring but the makeup chair isn’t the right place to be checking on your Facebook feed the whole time. Your makeup artist may occasionally give you directions on where to look or how to angle your head, so it’s important for you to pay attention and not do anything else in the meantime. If you’re preparing for a big event, use this opportunity to chill out and relax!

For makeup artists, it’s important to be sensitive to your client’s demeanor. A bit of small talk can help build rapport with your client and keep them engaged during the session, or soothe them if they’re feeling nervous. Others may prefer the quiet so be respectful of that as well.

These are tools of trade, not a display demo

Pet Peeve #4: When the client asks way too many questions

“People often ask, ‘What makeup are you using?’ If they ask why I do this and that, or if they ask about what makeup I’m using, I explain to them in a nice way.” -BI

“I am asked a lot on the best concealer to use to remove eye bags and wrinkles around the eyes. I tell them that their best friend is a peach or salmon corrector and top with a concealer to hide the dark areas but to get rid of wrinkles, they need Botox.” -GRS

This is a bit of a gray area. Some artists don’t mind when you ask about the products they use, while others find it awkward. One or two questions should be okay, but asking them about everything that they’re doing and using distracts them from their work. It’s a makeup session, not a makeup lesson. If you want to know what they’ll be using, the makeup is often laid out beforehand or you can watch attentively and ask to take a closer look at the products after. And please, don’t treat their kit as a makeup counter and swatch everything indiscriminately! Make sure it's ok first by asking permission but even then it would be kinder of you to let them conserve their products for their professional use.

On the part of makeup artists, try to be patient and gracious in answering questions. There’s often a genuine interest in learning more about beauty on the client’s part, but they may be too shy to go to the more luxe makeup counters for pro recos. Spread the makeup love!

Make a quick phone call, or at least send a text!

Be considerate about making the booking and, subsequently, cancelling

“One of the things that really annoy me is having a client suddenly cancel a booking in favor of a friend who can do it for free.” -BI

How can you not cringe reading that? When you book your artist (or any other supplier, for that matter), remember that they are blocking off that date and time exclusively for you; they could have scheduled another client, but instead they chose to trust your word. Show up on time and well-prepared, with your face clean and your pegs on hand. If you really must cancel though, give proper notice at least a week ahead so they can offer the slot to someone else who may want it.

Makeup artists should definitely follow the same courtesies. Keep your schedule organized so you don’t miss appointments, show up late, or double-book. And in case you suddenly get sick or have an emergency, it’s best to have a Plan B (like having a fellow artist take over) so you don’t leave your clients in a lurch.

If you’re wondering why you have to follow any of these at all, the truth is that you don’t. These are really just loose guidelines that can contribute to a pleasant and stress-free time with your MUA. Even if it’s unlikely that you’ll have the chance to work with your artist again, it’s just nice to be nice to others. And that’s a kind of beauty that no amount of makeup can give.

*Names have been changed

It's ironic that we feature so many products and yet, some of them fall through the cracks and may take too long before their moment in the sun. This column aims to give you a preview of what's been working for me of late and why they're good. I didn't want to be careful about curating the list; I just really grabbed whatever is on my table or shelf! Here are six fairly new finds that made my September a winner.

Aveeno Daily Body Lotion and Body Wash. I had resolved to put the new Aveeno body washes and lotions in the "Give To Mom" Pile. I couldn't resist trying them out first though, just in case they were good. THEY'RE GOOD. They have a mild scent and are super hydrating without feeling like they're just sitting on my skin!

It's hard to describe but I feel that my skin is somehow more balanced, healthier even, than it used to be. Is it the marketing? I don't know. I just like how my body skin feels nowadays! 

It's almost like a gel but it delivers rich hydration

Origins Mega Mushroom Skin Relief. This is actually my third bottle but I just never felt compelled to use it. It might be the droll green packaging but I was aware that this softener/essence is Origins best-selling product! I finally decided to put it on my face because I found the limited edition printed bottle so pretty - I know, I know, so shallow but there it is. 

ANYWAY now I know why it's so popular worldwide. This smells fantastic - citrusy and refreshing - and evened out my skin tone and texture in just a week.  I like this better than the Original Skin softener!

Innisfree No Sebum Mineral Powder. I've never been into white powders because I felt the were too matte and took away from the finish of the foundation instead of enhancing it. Just a personal preference! But I was surprised how nice this Innisfree powder was. It smells great (it has a minty thing going on), sets my makeup beautifully and keeps my face shine free for longer.  I like it so much that I just got the jumbo size from Althea!

Victoria Beckham x Estée Lauder Highlighter. I'll definitely do an exclusive feature on this but damn, guys, it's gorgeous. It's an almost bronzy highlighter with super fine shimmer and it sticks on my skin well. It will give Becca a run for its money! 

Iope Cushion Blush. This is my first ever blush in cushion format! It's a sheer pink with a pearlescent finish; I pick it up when I want my skin to have a natural flush. It's quite sheer so I usually layer it but I like the way it thins down my makeup and gives back that skin-like glow after layers of product.

Elizabeth Arden Lip Protectant Stick. I love wearing a thin yet nourishing lip balm before matte lipstick, and this one does the job. It has a honey tint to it but it's not that pigmented; I just like it for the moisture boost and how it primes my lips well. Oh and this has SPF15!

So there you go guys, hope you enjoyed my list! Do you have September finds to share as well? 

I have always loved living in the city. There’s plenty to do and places to see, and practically anything you can think of is within reach. But while progress happens at a rapid-fire pace, there’s also heavy traffic that adds to our stress and exposes us to pollution. Even if I spend most of my time in transit inside a car, there’s just no escaping the pollutants that get mixed in the air we breathe.

Aside from the health risks, city pollution can take a toll even on our skin. Exposure to great amounts of environmental aggressors mean that we are being affected at a cellular level, and the fact is, we are all slowly but surely developing more sensitive skin!

How do we know if we have sensitive skin? I honestly never thought about it before as I’m quite used to my skin not having any reaction. I just say it’s dry and I need more moisturizer. I just think it’s dull and I need to amp up my game with the 10-step Korean skincare routine. And while we have proven here on PV that the 10-step routine works, that dryness or dullness that I thought was “normal” can actually be signs of something more alarming.

Dr. Shiela Chua, dermatologist and medical affairs manager for GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) Philippines, reveals that rashes and breakouts are not the only symptoms of sensitive skin. When you start experiencing extra dryness, this develops dullness and heightened irritation. Your skin becomes prone to redness, and feels tighter and less supple. You might even experience burning and stinging all over.

This hypersensitivity comes from exposure to intense pollution on our daily commute. Dr. Chua explains, “When pollution comes into contact with the skin, the particles’ tiny size – which could be up to 20 times smaller than pores – allows them to infiltrate the deeper layers of the epidermis. The breakdown of skin barrier functions at a cellular-level can make skin extra sensitive, and can cause skin irritation, dryness, dehydration, premature aging and dullness.”

To help us properly address our skin’s needs and protect it from the changes in the environment, Physiogel has launched a new skincare line called Daily Defence. Jon Lee, head of Skin Health & Nutrition for GSK Philippines, presented the Daily Defence facial range and how it is a complete day-to-night regimen specifically designed for urbanites. To overcome the challenges we face living in the megacity, Physiogel combined its BioMimic Technology™ (an advanced complex of essential lipids similar to those found naturally in the skin) with broad spectrum UV protection and an Antioxidant Complex. This skincare cocktail helps our skin to retain its moisture so that it won’t become dry and sensitive.

The Physiogel Daily Defence Gentle Facial Cleanser (P850) is a lightweight liquid that you apply using a cotton pad. Just wipe off the excess after - there’s no need to rinse! It’s supposed to be effective at removing makeup, dirt, and impurities while maintaining the skin’s moisture barrier. I’ve only been using this in the morning though, as I can’t shake off my need to oil cleanse at night. It preps my skin for makeup application and I find that I don’t need to apply as much moisturizer after. This is a must for dry, sensitive skin types because it doesn’t strip the moisture off your face like most soaps do.

After cleansing, follow up with the Physiogel Daily Defence Protective Day Cream with SPF15. Every bit of SPF helps though it is still best to apply a separate sunscreen after. The Light version (P800) is best for normal to combination skin, while the Rich variant (P920) is best for those with dry to very dry, sensitive skin. I currently use the Light one because my skin isn’t overly dry these days. While the cream is relatively weightless on, there’s a slight sticky feeling that remains. My skin feels plumper though because of the added moisture.

At night, the Physiogel Daily Defence Replenishing Night Cream (P960) provides intensive moisture that gets absorbed by the skin as you sleep. It’s best for dry, sensitive skin types, especially if you sleep with the A/C on as it causes the air to dry out and zaps your skin of moisture. This is designed to be a little heavier than the day cream but it doesn’t feel uncomfortable.

Physiogel also introduced three new brand ambassadors who epitomize the modern urban woman for the Daily Defence Range. Fay Hokulani, Martine Cajucom, and Liz Uy frequently travel all over the globe, so their skin is constantly subject to pollution, stress and even the extremely drying cabin air inside planes. You wouldn’t have guessed that their skin takes on a lot of abuse though, as each of them looked absolutely glowing!

Liz Uz also gives this advice to her fellow citygirls, who are busy working hard and pursuing their dreams: You should be able to go out there and do what you gotta to do to succeed, without having to worry about it taking a toll on your skin. She says, “The best decision you can make for yourself is to carefully defend your skin. So go out there and let Physiogel Daily Defence take care of your skin!”

Have you noticed the symptoms of sensitivity on your skin? How do you protect your skin from pollution and keep it healthy even when you’re stressed?

Physiogel is available at leading drugstores and supermarkets. For more information, visit http://www.physiogel.com/ph

Having a tropical climate means being able to enjoy beach-ready weather, fruity treats, and summer dresses all year-round. Unfortunately, it also means having to deal with our faces oiling up in the middle of the day. The combination of heat and humidity makes skin produce oil faster, even those with naturally dry skin types. As an oily-skinned gal, sopping up midday grease is something I have to contend with daily so I make sure to have at least one of these four shine-free savers on hand at all times!

Tissue

Do you keep a packet of tissues in your purse? You should! They’re great for a number of quick beauty fixes, including saving your face from an oil slick. Don’t wipe it off though, or else your makeup may come away with it, or worse, smear all over your face. Just hold the tissue over your shiny spots for a few seconds to absorb the excess oil, press firmly, and peel it away carefully.

You can use any brand available but here’s a beauty insider tip: Starbucks napkins are the absolute best for oil blotting. It’s such a favorite beauty discovery that it even has its own MakeupAlley rating! They’re thicker and more absorbent than regular white tissues, plus you can easily grab a few when you get your caffeine fix. You can also try other unbleached recycled paper napkins like the ones from Jollibee, Family Mart, and Coffee Bean.

Blotting sheets

I was so happy to come home after living in the US for a while, not just because I was homesick but because blotting sheets were so hard to come by there! We’re so spoiled for choices here, and you can easily get one from the grocery or even convenience stores. The cheap, papery-looking ones are blotting papers, which work well enough for mild blotting. For more heavy duty oil-soaking though, blotting film is your best bet as the material is sturdier and more absorbent. If you want one-step retouching, however, then go for powdered blotting sheets like the Palladio Rice Powder Tissues (P250 at Beauty Bar) so you can blot excess oil and powder your face at the same time.

Retouching powders

So what's the difference between a blotting powder and a powder foundation? The former is specifically designed to absorb oil better, while a powder foundation is more for providing coverage and evening out the skin tone. BPs are usually sheer and sometimes even has zero coverage. They are better to use in the middle of the day since you don't want to pile on any extra coverage that'll look too thick.

If you are as oily as I am, it’s best to follow a two-step process that involves blotting with sheets first before retouching with powder. It’s important to remove the oil first because it may otherwise cause your powder to cake under your product. It may look okay when you powder over oil but that stuff is going to seep out sooner than it should and cause your makeup to crease!

Now when choosing a retouch powder, look for oil-absorbing ingredients like silica, kaolin and rice powder for extra oil control. You can check out our staff picks for our tried-and-tested faves. You may also try the Tony Moly Panda's Dream Clear Pact (P678) and the classic MAC Blot Powder (~P1,200) which we are loving currently.

Final tip: keep your application light by patting on a sheer layer; you don’t want your face to look cakey and unnatural, or erase what you already have underneath! Bring a small powder brush if you can since it is a more effective tool versus the typical sponge applicator.

Mattifying balms

Even oily skin can experience dry patches and flakiness, which are emphasized when you use powders. Instead, use a specially-formulated absorbent balm to lightly pat on areas that are prone to oiling up, after blotting with tissue or sheets. In addition to keeping you shine-free, Benefit’s The Porefessional License to Blot Stick (P1,100) has the added effect of blurring your pores. You can also opt to apply this before putting on your face base to act as primer!

Facial mist

Once you're done with any of the products mentioned earlier, mist your face with a toning liquid to keep your skin balanced and refreshed. The Etude House Wonder Pore Freshener Mist (~P300) is a fave of oily-skinned women here because it re-hydrates their face while sealing makeup. It's always out of stock! We recommend transferring some of the liquid in a smaller spray bottle so it's easier to bring around.

How often do you need to blot your face in a day? What products and techniques do you use to stay matte and fresh?

K-Palette is most famous for its liquid eyeliner, but the brand actually released a pencil liner some three years back. I thought it was okay. I used the pencils for a while however I quietly went back to the liquid liner since it simply performed better across the board. Recently though, K-Palette has come out with a reformulated version of their automatic eyeliners. The verdict? It's better than the original and - I can't believe I'm saying this - arguably better than the liquid.

The K-Palette Real Lasting Eyepencil (P795) is a waterproof liner that is pigmented, buttery, and did I say waterproof? It has a satin finish that's opaque in one swipe. I've worn this to tennis and it barely fades on me (no rubbing of course) even though I've sweated buckets. Buckets. It adheres so well that it requires several passes for a micellar water makeup remover to take it off!

I've found that it doesn't smudge on me, but I need to mention that my lids never get particularly oily and I always keep it dry during the day. A person with very oily lids might get a different experience.

I love how this is so easy to apply. Most pencil liners with this level of pigmentation and staying power usually tugs at the lids and gets ~crusty~ since it dries on skin so quickly. But not this K-Palette penci l! It goes on so well even on top of eyeshadow. It also gives you just enough time to correct your line and clean up edges with the handy sponge tip. As for getting a smudgy look though, hmmm. It doesn't retain its emollience once swiped to allow you that luxury.

The pencil includes a pointed sponge to help you clean up your line. Make sure to clean it regularly or else the accumulated product would just mess up your work!

This pencil is creamy so take care to twist out only a small amount per swipe. If it's too long, it will break immediately and you would've wasted the product.

Compared to the liquid liner, the Eyepencil adheres to skin better, delivers deeper pigmentation, and stays on for longer. I've had this for 10 hours and it just, well, remained intact. The liquid would eventually dissolve at the corners around that time but the pencil fades only minimally. 

Wore the Super Black here. It's super indeed!

Of course, I'd still recommend using the liquid if you like clean and crisp lines and absolutely zero tugging. As the pencil is wax-based, it will never glide on like a liquid (although it doesn't do too bad, IMHO, as it goes on smoothly). 

Overall, I highly recommend the K-Palette Real Lasting Eyepencil to anybody who wants a waterproof eyeliner they can cry sweat, and live in without worrying about smudging. It's leagues away from the original and gives the best-selling liquid a run for its money! I've been picking it up more than the liquid! It has fast become my daily eyeliner just because it's so easy to use and I know I can rely on it.

What do you think of this new liner? Will you be switching soon?

When it comes to beauty updates and exciting new releases, we’ve got you covered. September has just come to an end but the fun (and stream of goodies) doesn’t stop here. We’ve got the latest lippies from Avon, MAC’s newest celebrity collection teaser, another surge of cuteness from Tony Moly and so much more! So sit back, relax, and welcome October with us as we celebrate all things beauty!

Their latest innovation, the Ultra Color Indulgence Lipsticks, makes the big claim as the lipstick “has it all”. Incredibly moisturizing, richly pigmented, and super lightweight, this new formula aims to give that extra boost to your makeup look, without stripping your lips of moisture. The line offers eight shades designed to suit every skin tone, and retails for just P399!

Image via musingsofamuse.com

Crazy for more Kat Von D

From holiday sets to delicious collaborations, beauty mogul Kat Von D is on a roll in the makeup department. With several of her products becoming “cult favorites” (her Everlasting Liquid Lipsticks and Tattoo Liners are makeup addict must-haves) she has been upping her game by focusing on what her loyal consumers have been asking for. Her latest announcement sent people buzzing: the popular Shade and Light Contour Powders are now available in a refillable palette!

The freedom to customize and refill her incredibly pigmented and blendable contour and highlighter powders will allow you to create your perfect contour kit for just $49. The pans retail for $14 (small highlighter pans) and $16 (large contour powders) and are now available on Sephora.com. And if you haven’t found your perfect match yet, Kat Von D will be launching even more contour and highlight shades come 2017!

Full story on Popsugar

Image via mytsumtsum.com

Lip smacking-ly cute!

We first gushed and went crazy over the Tony Moly x Pokémon skincare line a few weeks ago. The line is officially here, AND Tony Moly has announced a 15% price reduction on all products! Thank goodness for that because we’re going to need some extra moolah for the Tsum Tsum x Lip Smacker Lip Balm collection!

The Japanese-style egg-shaped lip balms are not only moisturizing and deliciously flavored, but also feature some of the best-loved Disney characters. From honey-flavored Winnie the Pooh to strawberry-flavored Minnie Mouse, these lip balms are definitely something to add to your list. The collection includes eight character designs and is priced at $4.95 a piece. Now before you go gaga, these little collectables are limited edition and are only available online. Shall we start calculating shipping costs?

Full story on Bustle

Image via @drewbarrymore on Instagram

Flower Beauty in Manila? Is this Drew?

Even if you haven’t been checking your Instagram feed, chances are you’ve spotted the photo above while browsing online. Hollywood actress Drew Barrymore was spotted in the beauty section of SM Makati a few days ago, sparking rumors of her bringing her cosmetics line to the Philippines. Well, just to get you guys a little excited (and a whole lot more hopeful) of this coming true, let’s take a peek at some of the bestsellers of Flower Beauty.

Image via budgetbeautyblog.com

The E.E. Erase Everything Ultimate Foundation ($12.98) is a crowd favorite with its cream-like formula and lightweight feel to the skin. The built-in brush applicator looks like it’ll make for a nifty travel companion! Meanwhile, the Kiss Stick High-Shine Lip Color ($6.98) and Lip Radiance High Shine Lip Lacquer ($7.98) are lip colors that pack a punch. Creamy, pigmented and super moisturizing, these formulas promise to last all day while plumping your lips. Both are solid favorites among beauty gurus! Drew also has a great product to take your kilay game to the next level. The Take a Brow Complete Brow Kit ($9.98) is a quad that includes a brow taming wax and three universally flattering brow powders to fill in your brows easily. Flower Beauty is currently only available at Walmart, so we’re hoping that Drew’s visit will change that!

Image via Instagram user @trendmood1

All that glitters is MAC

What can we say? MAC is coming out with every collection we could possibly ever want. From Star Trek to Taraji Henson to Selena, the cosmetics brand has just announced the continuation of yet another collection fit for a queen. Or in this case, a diva! Following the success of her All I Want lipstick collaboration with MAC, Mariah Carey is now coming out with her own glitter-packed collection that we just can’t wait to get our hands on. The pieces that have been teased so far include two lipsticks, a lipglass and a bronzer – all shiny, shimmery and downright sparkly! Anyone else getting Glitter vibes? No word yet on when the collection officially launches but we’re thinking that with all this glitter, it may be a holiday collection that will have us humming “All I Want For Christmas”.

Full story on Elle

Image via Instagram user @trendmood1

Need an amazing highlighter? They’ve got you Cover(ed)FX

Known for their Custom Cover Drops and Custom Enhancer Drops, Cover FX Cosmetics has been helping us achieve that perfect flawless base and glowy, dewy skin. With their signature silver bottles and product pipettes, bringing out a powder product is a little out of left field. But let me tell you, they are gorgeous!

The brand has launched their Perfect Light Highlighting Powders, three amazingly pigmented compacts to help you achieve that ethereal glow. The shades include a shimmering gold called Sunlight, a bronze called Candlelight, and a cool pearly sliver called Moonlight. Retailing at $34, these highlighters are available online on Sephora.com, CoverFX.com and Dermstore.com.

Full story on Allure

Love, Marilyn

It’s been 54 years since Marilyn Monroe passed away but her legacy and iconic look is here to stay. Thanks to Max Factor and Zalora you can now get your hands on your very own Max Factor Marilyn Monroe Colour Elixir Lipstick!

The collection has four shades to help every gal channel her inner Marilyn. There’s the cool toned Berry Red, the warm toned Sunset Red, the Cabernet Red for darker skin tones, and Ruby Red, which is the iconic hue that the actress would often sport. Normally priced at P595 each, they’re currently priced at just P299 a lipstick on Zalora.ph! 

A photo posted by Happy Skin Cosmetics® (@happyskin_ph) on Sep 30, 2016 at 2:51am PDT

More reasons to be happy!

Heads-up and wallets ready, ladies: Happy Skin has just opened their biggest boutique to date! The spacious makeup haven is gorgeously furnished by Heima and equipped with three makeup stations. You can now enjoy shopping for their cult fave lipsticks (and taking gorgeous store selfies) over at the ground floor of Trinoma Mall.

Certain products get raves from beauty gurus and real friends alike but sometimes, somehow, they just don’t work FOR YOU. It sucks but it’s just one of those things that you have to accept as a unique person with a unique set of needs and restrictions. In fact, having the same skin type and condition as someone else who has tried the product doesn’t even guarantee that you’ll experience the same results that they did.

And so we thought of talking about beauty finds that simply did not work for us, for some reason. Let this serve as a reminder that we must always take reviews online with a grain of salt, and (if possible) test the product first before purchasing. Here goes!

Liz: I'm pretty forgiving and open-minded when it comes to testing products. I've been doing this for eight years and I've found out that often, people won't know how to apply the product properly or choose what is right for their skin. The L'Oreal Super Liner Blockbuster though remains to be a tough nut to crack. It has a large, and I mean a LARGE tip that is unwieldy and seemingly impossible to work with! Imagine the cheap markers you buy for a white board - that's how thick and hard the felt tip is.

The formula of this liquid liner also smears like something else. I love most L'Oreal things but this one was a dud for me.

Claire: I was overjoyed when I found this always-out-of-stock charcoal mask at Daiso. The rave about this product online was unbelievable, and it was getting glowing reviews both locally and abroad. I thought I had nothing to lose, aside from a measly P88. I was ready to shell out serious moolah for a product that can remove whiteheads from my nose and chin area but this budget-friendly seemed like a fantastic deal. I couldn't resist!

However, it did NOT work for me – it was a pain to remove, left my nose red, and burned my chin to a grayish black! I desperately wanted this to work so I tried it again with a thicker layer, applied with a brush, and sped up the drying process with a hair dryer on cold blast. Still the same results. I still kept the tube though, hoping I could somehow find another use for it. Got any suggestions?

Stacie: I rarely get pimples from using a product, so I didn’t question why I had a serious breakout on my forehead a couple years ago. I had big red angry pimples and doubted the contents of my entire vanity, except for the culprit: my facial cleanser. The Holika Holika King of Bean cleansing foam escaped from getting thrown out until I started using another cleanser and my skin cleared up! The large tube and cheap price were great point but sadly, it just didn’t work out. Luckily, it works well as a brush cleaner!

Karla: I have super sensitive skin so when I find a product that works, it's all I use. If it causes me to break out, I stay as far away as I can. Though I’ve had a bad experience using their facial washes, I was still super excited to try their new makeup line! Celeteque’s 24-H Photoready Liquid Foundation applies beautifully on the skin with a sponge and gives me that flawless finish...but, boy, did it make me break out! I got all these little bumps on my forehead and texture on my cheekbones, I couldn't believe it!

Gett: It's a cult favorite among many women, but I just can't get on board the Human Nature Sunflower Beauty Oil. I bought it to incorporate it in my skincare routine, but I find that it's too rich on my oily skin, and it breaks me out.

Charlie: Being a lip tint addict, I fell into the peel-off lip tattoo craze and got myself the Monomola Long Lasting Lip Color. It promised a long-lasting and even stain so I was stoked! Unfortunately, the scent threw me off immediately as it smelled like strong soap and lingers as you apply it. It also didn't give me that evenly stained lips as I'd hoped. I wish it worked for me but sad to say, regular lip tints just work and smell better.

Crystal: I'm a Philosophy girl, so I was really looking forward to owning one of their bestsellers, the Microdelivery Wash. Within a few weeks after I had opened it, I noticed that the exfoliating beads had melted away! Now it feels just a regular facial wash, which I plan to use it until it's empty but I won't repurchase again.

Kim: I wore the Poise Liquid Matte Lipstick twice and never picked it up again. While the color that I have is lovely, it takes forever to dry down and the formula isn't a true matte. It didn't help one bit that it tastes and smells weird. For something that's priced at Php 1,250, it fares poorly next to more affordable options.

Some PV staffers also opted out of this question. Here’s why!

Marielle: I don't really have products that I've sworn off of. Even when something isn't my favorite, I'll find one way or another to finish it up because I hate wastage. It's always, "Oh, it's meh/average/mediocre." But I'd use them if they're already there.

Tellie: As harshly as I rant against certain products that disappoint me, I don't think I have a Beauty Blacklist. I always cling to the thought that X Product might not work now, but can work in different climates, hair conditions, using a very specific technique, or while on a certain kind of diet (?!). I am borderline superstitious sometimes, but I can't help it!

Katsy: I actually don't have a product that I feel against so strongly to merit being the one I'll never use again. There are those I won't repurchase because of price, etc. but none so far that I will never use again.

Has this sort of thing ever happened to you before? What products were you using? 

"What should I buy from the Philippines while I'm there?" You've probably been asked this question by a balikbayan friend or relative at least once before. Now that it's vacation season for many OFWs, we'd like to help you answer the question with a few top picks that you should brag about (and consider gifting) to friends and family who live or work abroad! We're sure they'd love these products as much as we do, plus there's a certain pride that goes into saying they are from homegrown brands.

The Ellana Loose Mineral Foundation (P499 at Ellana.com.ph) is a favorite that we keep coming back to. It has a flawless finish, buildable coverage, and 10 shades to suit warm, cool and olive skin tones. They are vegan, talc-free, fragrance-free and cruelty-free in addition to having a very affordable price point. And if you’re not sure about which shade will suit you, you can simply request for their free sampler kit!

Suesh is best known for their amazing makeup brushes and train cases for makeup artists, but they have beauty gadgets too! This Power Bank with Built In LED Mirror (P1,480 at Suesh.com) can charge both your phone AND serve as a lighted mirror so you can retouch any time. It's the perfect handy gift!

We also recommend the best-selling Suesh Concealer Pots (P105 each), which are lifesavers for anyone who has skin issues like dark circles and acne. They are very rich, thick, and pigmented so a little goes a long way. They're so cheap that it's easy to get corrector shade for each kind of skin discoloration (green for redness, peach for dark under eye areas). Suesh also sells a customizable magnetic palette to store your picks.

We love everything Pink Sugar but their lippies are definitely our favorites. The moisturizing matte goodness of These Lips Don’t Lie (P399) is the stuff our dreams are made of, literally. We got to design a collection based on what the girls of PV need! However, we also have to throw in a good word for their Sugar Tints (P349). The shades are very wearable, staying power is pretty good, and the budget-friendly price make it so easy to hoard!

Happy Skin has been making waves with their beautiful collections and fab collabs with Philippine beauty icons. Their latest is the Glam Squad line, which has an extensive selection of products co-created with the best celebrity makeup artists in Manila. Tell your balikbayan friend to try out the Liquid Matte Lipstick (P699), the Eyeshadow Duos (P899), and the Contour & Color (P1,399) if she's looking for pro-level products in luxe packaging.

It still comes as a surprise for some to learn that VMV Hypoallergenics is actually a Filipino brand. They have stores in several countries, which make it easier for non-locals to restock bestsellers like Skintangible and the Armada sunscreen line. Their products are must-tries for those with sensitive skin!

For more affordable skincare picks, Celeteque offers skin solutions clinically formulated to maximize ingredients for skin health. They also recently released a line of skin-friendly makeup so users can continue to care for their skin even with color cosmetics. Our absolute fave though is their Clarifying Shampoo (~P200). This removes all the nasty junk from our hair, keeping it bouncy and light.

If stress is causing your hair to literally fall out, pick up bottles of the Zenutrients Gugo Strengthening Shampoo and Conditioner(P234 and P260 respectively). These all-natural products are reminiscent of local folk herbal remedies, and they really work! Our ancestors knew what's up: gugo and virgin coconut oil are natural ingredients that strengthen strands and promote hair growth. 

Organic, environment-friendly and socially conscious brand Human Nature has been around for eight years now, and they’re constantly coming up with great products that can compete in the global market. They have sulfate-free bath products, paraben-free makeup, essential oil-based skin care, and even coral reef-safe sunscreen! A cult fave from them is the Sunflower Beauty Oil (P174) which can be used for the face, hair, and body.

Another local brand, Snoe Beauty, has a strong following because of their fun packaging, funny puns, and interesting formulations. One of their best-sellers is the Awesome Poresome Pore Perfect Serum (P449). Users like how it tightens their skin without the heavy feel. We also recommend their What's Up Brow 3D Brow Setting Mascara (P799) for one-step full brows that stay put all day.

Riot Brushes (P2,500 for complete set, P1,450 for essential face set, and P1,250 for deluxe eye set) by a young Filipina entrepreneur came out a just few months ago. They are so soft, blend well, and look luxurious in their leather pouch. Think Zoeva without the price tag!

We also have a thriving indie beauty community that have come up with interesting new products like a whole range of different-colored lip and cheek stains. Instead of hoarding dried mangoes and jeepney keychains as pasalubong, consider supporting these homegrown beauty brands so they can grow more and get the recognition they deserve.

Do you feel proud of what the local beauty scene has come up with so far? What Pinoy beauty products would you send to foreigners or balikbayans? 

Is it still called nostalgia even if you didn’t live through a certain period in time but have a romanticized notion of it? That’s how it felt when I caught sight of MAC It’s A Strike collection. It was a scene straight out of the 50s: rock ‘n’ roll music, guys and gals dancing in varsity outfits, milkshakes on the menu, and of course, bowling! Being the Grease fan that I am (it’s a wildly popular high school musical before there was Disney’s High School Musical - am I giving away my age?), the collection instantly gave me the old-timey feels but with the bold, modern twist that MAC is known for.

The retro bowling theme is such a great fit for the collection, considering what a vibrant time it must have been for the youth of the 50s and 60s. Those two decades were arguably the peak of the game’s popularity, so it was the height of fashion to join bowling leagues and don varsity jackets, even off the alley. Now imagine MAC swooping in and taking the most spirited aspects of that period, and you’ve got yourself a fun, somewhat rebelliously curated combination of limited editions and re-promotes.

From left: Perfect Score, Flat Out Fabulous, All Fired Up, Babes and Balls, Liquid Lurex, Honeylove, Bowl Me Over

Four of the lipstick shades (P1,050 each) are special edition while the other three are re-promotes from the permanent lineup: Liquid Lurex is pure gold-pink sparkle on a sheer base with a dazzle finish; Perfect Score is a deep, matte red; Babes and Balls is a matte, plum-touched burgundy; Bowl Me Over, of the retro matte variety, is a reddish deep burnt brown, kind of like a brownish marsala.

The Cremesheen Glass glosses (P1,350 each) are all limited edition and come in five shades: It’s a Strike is a highly-wearable nude pink; Throw a Spare is a popping fuchsia with pink with shimmer; Perfect Frame is a deep berry-purple; King Pin is that trendy chocolate brown with a hint of mauve; Right Up My Alley is a cool-toned red.

From left: Eyeshadows in Gutter Gal, 300 Game, Join My League, Bowl Out, and Bowlarama; Cremesheen Glass in Throw a Spare, Right Up My Alley, It’s a Strike, Perfect Frame

For cheeks, Casual Colors (P1,650 each) are lip and cheek creams with the choice between the subdued nude of Have a Lovely Day! (re-promote) and the bold reddish lilac of Blind Score. To highlight the look, there’s the Pearlmatte Face Powder in Trophy (P1,800), a lovely combination of white, pink, and green shimmer. Swirled together, the effect is a fine, pinkish-white shimmer for a pretty highlight!

Clockwise from top left: Casual Color in Have a Lovely Day! and Perfect Score; Eyeshadows in Bowl Out, 300 Game, and Bowlarama.

The eyeshadows (P1,050 each) come in six colors, with the matte black Carbon as part of the permanent line. Gutter Gal is a matte off-white gray; Bowl Out is a matte midtone gray; Join My League is a matte dark espresso; 300 Game is a matte blackened cherry that allows for a sultry look without going full-on black. Bowlarama is a bright lime green with a satin finish that looks intimidating at first but actually functions well as an accent or pop of color. For definition, there are the Fluidline Pens (P1,230 each) that are also part of the permanent lineup: Vintage Brown, Retro Black, and Indelibly Blue.

On me: Eyeshadows in 300 Game and Bowlarama; Lipstick in Babes and Balls

The collection also includes three new polish shades to jazz up your tips for showing off after you score a strike. The Nail Studio Lacquer (P800) comes in Babysplit (a pale lime green), Rack ‘em Up (a deep khaki), and 5 Pin (a deep wine).

From left: Babysplit, Rack ‘em Up, and 5 Pin

The vintage-lover in me finds this retro collection fun and the colors quite exciting! Never thought I'd sport lime green eyeshadow but it's actually a nice eye-brightening alternative to my usual champagne shimmer. 

What do you think of re-promotes in collections? Do any of these strike your eye?

So you’ve finally found the cushion compact of your dreams. Congratulations! Whether you found The One via recos list, discovered it while browsing your favorite beauty haunts, or ventured to make your own, it’s satisfying to finally get the coverage and skin-improving qualities you’ve been looking for in a face base. But did you know that effort into finding and creating a flawless complexion can be undone by a dirty sponge?

Think about it: you’ve been using the same sponge daily to pat on a moist beauty product. Once you're done patting, you simply pop the sponge it back into the compact before it’s had a chance to dry. Think of all the bacteria living in that wet and dark environment. Gross, right? If you make sure to keep your brushes and other tools clean (and you definitely should!), it’s important to do the same for your CC puff. They are particularly tricky to clean though, owing to the water-resistant nature of most cushion formulas and the multi-layered design of the sponge itself, but we found a way to purge it of every last drop of product build-up. Here’s how!

What you will need:

• Dirty (but still usable) cushion makeup sponge
• Ziploc bag (I picked up a box of 30 for P88 in Daiso)
• Diluted dishwashing liquid (1:2 ratio of soap to water)

Step 1: Pour the soapy water into the ziploc bag and pop in your dirty sponge. Seal the bag.

Step 2: Lightly press the sponge to get it wet and to activate the soap. You can also slide the plastic back and forth between your thumb and fingers to give the sponge a good rub. We don’t recommend squeezing or crushing the sponge as it may get deformed or even destroyed in the process. The water will start to turn murky as the product loosens from the sponge.

Step 3: Remove the murky water and add in a clean batch of the soap solution to follow Step 2 again. You’ll want to repeat this process 2-3 more times until the water runs clear even after pressing it a few times. If the sponge has a stain, pour more diluted dishwashing liquid into the bag and focus on gently rubbing that area. 

Step 4: When it’s completely clean, rinse the sponge well under running water until no soap appears when you press it. Press the sponge lightly on a clean towel or thick tissue to get the excess liquid out. Again, be gentle and don’t wring it! Leave it to dry with the bottom side up, or tie the sponge handle (that piece of ribbon across) and hang the applicator somewhere. After cleaning its compartment, you can pop the sponge back in its case.

So, why do you need the ziploc bag anyway? Can’t you just clean it with your bare hands? I tried to this and ended up damaging my sponge. While I was squeezing and pressing away, my nails would accidentally nick the blue surface of the sponge and cause it to peel. Eek! So I decided to put it into a plastic bag to serve as a layer of protection. Doing so allowed the sponge to better soak in the solution and made it easier to get to the deep-seated gunk within. Plus, it was just so much neater than having murky, foundation-colored water splashing and dripping all over the sink. You can even opt to dry out the bag and reuse it for when you have to wash your sponge again.

Careful maintenance will give your sponge a longer lifespan, keep your cushion foundation from being contaminated, and keep you from getting unwanted breakouts! If your sponge starts to break down though, you can easily buy a replacement from most stores that sell cushion makeup.

Do you clean your cushion sponge? How do you do it?

No matter how much makeup I have, I am still no match for the charms of a beautiful eyeshadow palette. The Tartelette In Bloom Amazonian Clay Palette (~P2,400 or $50 from Amazon) was an impulse buy mainly because I saw Sam, our resident photographer at Project Vanity, post hers on Instagram. I hadn't even googled reviews beforehand, I just wanted it! Something about the gold palette and the cover with purple floral watercolors just got to me. I consider myself very good at avoiding temptation (well at least when it comes to makeup, paper and paint do not count) but I fell off the rails with this one.

ANYWAY. Even though it was a barely thought-out purchase, the Tartelette ended up being a good buy. I've been using it regularly these last few weeks because the colors are exactly what I need to either create a complete neutral look, or be the supporting cast in a more intense #EOTD. I love how neatly the colors are categorized so I can easily pick out what I need to get harmonious eye makeup.

The quality of this palette makes up for the price tag. It's a little powdery than I would prefer, resulting in fallout, but the pigmentation and smooth application of each color are extremely satisfying. They are so easy to blend! Some of the colors have a sort of creamy texture, such as Firecracker and Funny Girl. They go on almost like a cream eyeshadow and sticks like one, too. Very little goes a long way with these shadows so I don't need to layer to get a solid color on my lids. The powders also have this pleasant mild vanilla smell that I enjoy.

The first row has cool, taupey colors. The second has warm sunny shades while the last row has reddish clay hues. It's predominantly warm so the palette works well with my skin tone. My top faves are Flower Child (for the brow bone), Smarty Pants (crease), Rebel (lid and crease), Funny Girl (the perfect intense pop of shimmer on the tear ducts and center of the lids. It can even be used as a face highlighter!), and Firecracker (a winning bronze). I also love the dark shades as they work great as a liner when applied with a wet brush or as smoke-out colors. The shades stick on my lids well with or without primer, though of course I would still recommend using a primer to get max pigmentation and adherence.

Actually I adore everything in here, bar one: Charmer, a matte white. I personally have little use for a flat white shade since I'm medium toned; it looks off on my lids and brow bone. 

It bears mentioning that each pan has 1.5 grams of eyeshadow, which is A LOT. For reference a full pot of MAC eyeshadow has 1.3 grams and I have never finished one of those in my life.

Overall, I highly recommend the Tartelette In Bloom Amazonian Clay Palette if you need a basic neutral palette that is pigmented, easy to blend, and can play well with others. It can be that "bridge" palette that connects your difficult-to-use eyeshadows (bright colors, metallics, name it) and make them look more modern and well-blended.

To be honest,  I wouldn't say the colors are particularly unique as I probably already have them in my other palettes, but I like that I have everything I need in one place. If you're looking for unforgettable shades - well, the Tartelette can't provide. I'd say these are the equivalent of perfect fitting jeans or comfortable black pumps. It looks great but it's boring unless you pair it with more exciting things.

I had my friend buy this from the US but if you don't have anyone coming home soon, I'm sure online resellers would have this fairly popular palette.

Thoughts? Which eyeshadow palette are you trying very, very hard to look away from? I'm crushing on the Victoria Beckham x Estee Lauder palette but STOP ME PLS UGH!

Since moving to Manila from Cavite and commuting regularly to school, blackheads have become a top skincare issue for me. I keep my face clean but daily exposure to pollution, dirt, and sweat has resulted in the formation of too many pesky black dots on my nose! Unfortunately I can’t easily get rid of them with just facial wash and my student budget can’t afford a monthly trip to a facial center for extractions. So I found two cheap alternatives to try out at home!

Nose strips are a pretty popular solution for removing comedones, and you can easily buy some almost anywhere you go. I picked up Megan Purifying Nose Pore Strips from Mercury Drugstore, and the pack of four only cost P49! Pretty cheap, right? I’ve seen a lot of other pore strips around but I was particularly interested in trying these out because they’re supposedly formulated with witch hazel extract, a natural ingredient known to be effective at minimizing the appearance of pores.

To use, I cleansed my face and left my nose a bit damp from rinsing. I stuck on a nose pack (each is individually-wrapped) and left it on for 15 minutes as recommended on the packet. When it was dry, I carefully pulled the strip off – it can be a bit painful especially if it’s your first time, so you can lightly moisten the area to make removal easier. Seeing the strip and everything stuck to it was so satisfying! It managed to pull out every bit of gunk, except for one really stubborn and deep-seated blackhead I can’t seem to get rid of. Otherwise, I was pretty happy with the results!

After two weeks, I tried the Innisfree Jeju Volcanic Blackhead Out Balm (P300 at Althea PH). It’s a white, solid balm that turns into an oily consistency as it melts in the warmth of your hand. Starting with a dry nose, I picked up a bit of the product with clean fingers and applied it to my nose. As I gently rubbed it in, I could see and feel some blackheads becoming more prominent and then coming out from my pores (gross but fun).

I rubbed it in for a few more minutes to allow the product to better penetrate my skin and in the hopes that the pressure would displace all the comedones. I felt a few blackheads and whiteheads come out but I could feel that there were still a few stuck in my skin. I followed the instructions to wash off the balm with a facial cleanser and hoped that doing so would displace the rest. Unfortunately, it did not. I was pretty disappointed but perhaps I need to try using this with the rest of the Jeju volcanic line to get the results I want.

The nose strips worked better for me as it got more of the gunk out but it almost made my skin feel pretty sensitive afterwards. There are also some claims saying that using nose pore strips could do more harm than good and actually make your pores permanently larger because of the stress your skin is subjected to. If you do opt to go for this peel-off option, use it sparingly (no more than once in a week) and make sure to apply a soothing moisturizer afterwards. Do not use this product if you have sensitive skin!

On the other hand, the balm was gentle on my skin and I feel that I may even be able to use this product every day. With continued use, I think that it may be able to rid me of all my issues once and for all. It’s slower progress but I like that it doesn’t harm my skin and that the tub of product will come out cheaper per use compared to the strips.

If you have any skin conditions, make sure to consult with your dermatologist first before purchasing and using these products. Before applying it to your face, check for potential allergic reactions first by applying a bit of product in a less conspicuous area then observe for a few hours.

Do you suffer from blackheads, too? How do you get rid of them? Would you opt to try the nose pack or the balm?

by Claire Reyes, contributor / Header image via askmewhats.com

We all have those days when we feel like we could be the new face of a #StressDrilon or #HaggardoVersoza meme. The struggle is real and it’s something most of us experience every day: we breathe in polluted air, fight through traffic, then brave a challenging day at work or at school.

Sure, you can use beauty hacks to cop a fresh look or pull up makeup tricks to look more rested but it’s unhealthy to ignore the root of the problem. As busy as your calendar may be, it’s important to unwind and make time for yourself! We all turn to different things to relieve stress though, so here are a few more ideas from ten busy women on how they cope and give themselves the chance to refresh.

Gretchen Gatan and Trisha Lopez

Gretchen Gatan, marketing manager at Glamourbox, makeup artist and blogger

One quick way for me to unwind after a long, tiring week at work is to apply my favorite mask from GLAMGLOW, which is the YouthMud Mask. Lately, I’ve also been trying their other masks like the FlashMud. I would sometimes alternate it with sheet masks from Kracie. I just put on a mask, pour myself a glass of red wine, and lie down a few minutes - instant mood lifter! I also try to get a diamond peel facial once a month, just to maintain a healthy and radiant-looking complexion (I’m obsessed about having clear and smooth skin). Lastly, I always indulge myself with massages - I get it once or twice a month to completely de-stress. I know it can be a little expensive but I consider these rituals as investments to make sure I have a sound mind, body, and soul.

Trisha Lopez, Information Security AVP and entrepreneur

Being a working and hands-on mother to my 3-year-old daughter can get stressful but I try my best to find time for myself and for the things I love to do. I usually have my "me-time" at night when my daughter is already in bed. To de-stress, I like taking a hot shower and I use bath and body products that I personally make! My favorites are my all-natural goat milk soap with lavender and peppermint essential oil then my home-made body oil (it's a blend of golden jojoba, sweet almond oil, lavender, vetiver and frankincense essential oils) to keep my skin moisturized. The essential oil blend I use for my soap and body oil are great for relaxing and for getting a good night's sleep. For my face, I use a mild non-scented moisturizing cream with a drop of geranium therapeutic grade essential oil because geranium is great for your skin and it also promotes emotional wellness. I love putting pure essential oils in the all-natural products I use and personally make because it helps refresh, relax, and rejuvenate my body and mind.

Kate Reyes and Pam Abuan

Kate Reyes, marketing executive at Clinique

My day usually starts really early. I set my alarm at around 4:00 am and make sure to leave the house by 5:30 am to avoid the morning rush. When I get to work, I waste no time and take advantage of working while the office is still nice and quiet. Days at work are more often than not full of meetings, fast-paced, and can get stressful.

Since everyday feels rushed, I de-stress and slow things down on weekends. I make sure to wake up early to enjoy the morning sun and eat my breakfast! Eating cereal with my favorite fruit in milk starts my day just right and I feel like it shows in my skin, too, when I have a proper diet cause it looks more supple and rosy! I also de-stress by dolling up on weekends and pair my clothes with the right skincare and makeup to complete the look. When I get ready to go out, I include watery lotions and treatment oil into my regimen like Clinique's Even Better Essence Lotion and Turnaround Oil so my skin looks dewy and luminous. I use Clinique Even Better Foundation and the Water Veil Powder because it sets like a clear veil of light water on your face, creates an illusion of looking like you had the best beauty rest! To look more youthful, I apply just the right amount of blush with Clinique Cheek Pop in Rosy and create a tinted lip with Clinique Lip Pop Matte in Peony Pop and Lip Pop in Punch Pop. The combination is too pretty!

On weekdays, I also take mid-week breaks by hitting the gym and sweating the bad stuff out. Boxing allows me to release stress and brush off setbacks and frustrations. Exercise releases endorphins, too! And because it also tones and strengthens my body, I feel ten times better! At home, I make time to read the Bible and pray because that is the most peaceful and restful time for me.

On days I can splurge a little, I do some retail therapy and get my hair and nails done! It's good to treat yourself once in a while and reward yourself for working hard.

Pam Abuan, full-time mom, makeup artist and cake artist

To keep my face youthful and glowing, in the morning I wash my face with placenta soap and I keep it moisturized with Embryolisse Lait-Creme (edition gold). I seldom use makeup when I leave the house but I never forget to put on Mary Kay's Time-wise Matte-wear foundation and Lucas Papaw Lip Ointment. It's also important to have a positive and happy disposition, plus keep yourself updated with the latest trend in fashion, makeup and technology. 

Kriska Ramos and Chrizie Leynes

Kriska Ramos, marketing manager at Benefit Cosmetics

My de-stressing beauty ritual includes visiting the Benefit Brow Bar to get my brows and upper lip waxed. The process takes about 15-20 minutes and it gives me time to relax after a long day at work. The best part of the service is when they apply a moisturizing eye mask plus a soothing cold compress that just refreshes the look and feel of my whole face.

Chrizie Leynes, lawyer and entrepreneur

I find painting my nails a great de-stressing beauty ritual! It feels great knowing that I have a couple of minutes that forces me to give up everything that I'm doing. I find it really relaxing just sitting on our sofa while the nail polish dries. To top it off, I simultaneously use my favorite face mask and just close my eyes, pondering on the meaning of my life.

Donna Gonzales Lim, fashion/event stylist and store owner

I rarely get to make trips to the salon or the spa but this does not mean I skimp on de-stressing and my beauty rituals. I often get massages at home with my kids running around me but it gets the job done. I also make sure to allot at least half an hour to put on makeup in the mornings. It does not matter if I am just off to my kids’ school or a shoot; I make an effort to still look my best to conquer the day! It always gives me a boost knowing that I look presentable.

Liee Lozano and Diana Agbi

Liee Lozano, artist

I have always had problematic skin and it doesn’t help that everything I like doing just happen to involve long nights and lots of pollution. My skin has considerably calmed down over the past years but sometimes I get stressed and I get breakouts. Art takes a long time to create and I haven’t really gotten past my habit of staying up late so unfortunately it shows up on my face. The only difference is that, unlike in my younger years, I now make it a point to de-stress. I used to be iffy about calling this a beauty ritual, but what the heck.

I start with Etude House Baking Powder Pore Cleansing Foam, which I like because it makes my face clean but not tight and dry. I do this twice because when I’m stressed I feel like everything is on my face and one wash just won’t cut it. After that I dry my face, neck, and hands, and apply Etude House Berry AHA Bright Peel Mild Gel. Etude House recommends that you do this about twice a week which is fine, but on a stressful week, I do this every day. I then follow that up with a face-sweeping of Bioderma Sensibio H2O. I understand this is just another cleanser but I don’t really like toners as they dry my face out too much. I like sheet masks a lot, so both good and bad days require a sheet mask of some sort. I’m quite partial to Etude House because my skin likes their products but I also use The Face Shop sheet masks from time to time. Which sheet mask I use depends on what I need but my favorites would be lemon, green tea, and honey.

While the mask is on, I try to pay attention to my hands. It’s nothing fancy and it’s usually either sunflower oil, virgin coconut oil, or grape seed oil. Sometimes I bring it down to my legs and feet. I need to take care of my hands because without my hands, I can’t create anything.

Last but not the least, I find that a lot of my stressed and burned out feelings come from not being hydrated enough. I try to finish at least 2 liters of water a day.

Diana Agbi, team lead and professional makeup artist

Being a single mom, balancing a full-time job, freelance work, and trading is exhausting. Although I find it difficult to find time for myself, staying prepped is a must. Some makeup hacks save me precious time on my beauty rituals. At night I load up on oil-absorbing masks like the Queen Helene mud mask and wake up oil-free. I wash my long, rebonded hair only every three days to keep it thick and healthy. Every time I wash my hair, I shampoo three times to make sure it's clean then I deep-condition using super thick concealers. I don't regularly use hot tools to avoid split ends. For makeup, I pre-mix foundation, face primer and concealer in a jar so I can use them all in one go. I love Estee Lauder Double Wear foundation, Hard Candy primer and Dermablend concealer. I usually go neutral for my eye looks by using the same brown eyeshadow and brown gel liner for my brows and eyes. I stick to old-school tricks like using matte lipstick as blush (I like the ones from Wet n Wild). I prefer matte pink-coral tones, as that shade is universally flattering. I finish the look with a good thickening and lengthening mascara.

Nikki Tiu, HR consultant, makeup artist, brand consultant and blogger

I don’t have much time to de-stress. The only thing I really do to unwind is to use face masks!

When my favorite mask sheet brand Leaders Insolution came out with an eye mask called Hydrogel Eye Therapy Patch, I picked it up right away! With all the late night work and random "toddler waking up moments", I knew I had to do something about my undereye circles and puffiness. Whenever my hormones start to act up and my skin turns from dry to combination, I use a Leaders AC-Dressing mask before I go to bed and wake up with less redness!  An added point is that, my skin looks hydrated and healthier.

How about you, what do you do to de-stress? How often do you get your “me” time? 

“Ma’am, ito po bago, Naked 5. Authentic po. Three hundred lang.”

My vanity had a space reserved for a Naked palette when this happened and my mother knew it. She excitedly pulled me aside and asked if I wanted one. I smiled at the vendor as I steered my mom away from the stall. “Fake ‘yun, Ma. Hanggang Naked 3 pa lang ang meron.” As her expression turned into a look of horror, I realized that many others who aren’t all that familiar with makeup can easily fall prey to the growing number of “Class AA” sellers that show up both online and in every tiangge.

I frequent so many online stores and bazaars that this line no longer surprises me. Be it the eighth Naked palette or the non-existent Anastasia Beverly Hills Paddle brush, these sketchy merchants now also claim to have “newer” items compared to what’s actually being offered by the brand. And it’s scary because if you’re new to the makeup world or unaware of what a brand’s offerings actually are, you can be taken advantage of and end up with a bunch of questionable products.

The core issue

Makeup can be quite expensive, especially if you’re springing for international cult favorites. As advertisements and social media drive up the hype for these products, people get curious to try the trend themselves. Only a few can actually afford to spend on every new shiny thing they spot their favorite celebs wearing though, so if you’re on a tight budget and eager to get yourself that product, it’s understandable to be tempted by an exact replica that’s priced only 5% of the original.

Counterfeiting is an illegal activity so we do strongly advise against patronizing these products and sellers. Though you’re not likely to get into legal trouble for buying these goods, you endanger your own health and shortchange the economy by not supporting legal businesses. If you’re buying online and unsure if the product you want is legit, here are a few things that you should watch out for.

Check the seller

I love the ease that online shopping gives: I can shop at any time, compare prices, check for reviews, and don’t have to deal with the traffic going to the mall, long lines at the cashier, or pushy sales personnel. On the flipside, shady sellers can easily concoct comments of “satisfied” buyers and it’s pretty hard to tell if they’re lying behind their computer screens. They can steal photos of the real products of other websites, and spin stories about how a relative has just come home from abroad or how someone they know works near where the products are manufactured and bought the overruns.

No one is doing a quality check on these goods and since they can take shortcuts on the production, they can be cheaply produced using subpar or even toxic ingredients that can harm the end users. A legit seller wouldn’t chance ruining their reputation by sending potentially dangerous products to their customers. One bad experience, shared on social media, can undo their hard work. Stick to buying from sellers with verified positive feedback or online stores with established reputations.

Learn the lingo

While there are shops that clearly state their products as fakes, some deliberately mislead people with buzz words. Some of the most popular terms include:

• US-authentic
• Singapore-authentic
• Hong Kong-authentic
• Factory overrun
• Class A
• Triple-A Grade Replica
• Factory wholesale

A brand would NOT issue country-specific versions of their products so cross that off your list. And if the manufacturers are making so many “overruns” that claim to simply be mislabeled or slightly damaged, the makeup brand would probably stop working with that company for making so many mistakes! And there’s certainly no way they’d allow for these rejects to be sold on the market in competition with the original product. Both the brand and its manufacturer would lose money in the long run.

Some products are sold with no other description besides “100% authentic” and there’s simply no way for the seller to actually prove this, short of having the brand itself vet the items. Other sellers offer special “promos” such as a set of two Kylie lip kits, an Anastasia brow pomade, and a MAC foundation for only P500. If their products are truly the real thing, why would they be selling them for just a teeny tiny fraction of how much it actually costs?

Pre-ordering is another common practice that I see in online makeup stores and it can also be another marketing ploy for unsuspecting buyers. This is even more tricky as buyers have no guarantee that their orders will actually arrive, or that the products that they do receive are the real deal.

Protect yourself by researching on the product you want as thoroughly as possible, and avoiding items that make questionable claims. Don’t get swayed by the extremely cheap prices of these promos. As for pre-ordering, it’s better (and safer) to simply gather your friends' orders and compile them as a single order so you can save on shipping! There are services like Shipping Cart and Johnny Air that can provide you a US address where the retailer can ship the products, then have the service ship to the PH.

Listen to your gut

I’ve sold a lot of my makeup on OLX, Instagram and even Shopee, so I have encountered numerous buyers sending me messages like, “Is this authentic?” and “Where was this item purchased?” Although they can sound a bit rude (especially ones that are curt and don’t bother with a “Hello” or “Thank you”), messaging the seller for additional info is good practice for anybody who’s buying online. Ask about anything that can help you ensure the authenticity of the item but be nice about it. Reading on FDA advisories on cosmetics may also be of help as they update on new counterfeit items that are flocking the market. When in doubt, follow this rule: if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Many beauty gurus can often tell the fakes apart from the real ones and share their tips about spotting the differences but it gets harder and harder as the copycats improve on their counterfeiting skills. Additionally, some sellers actually do price their products close to the real ones, which makes it easier for the buyer to believe they are authentic. If that's the case, we recommend just buying from the store of the official distributor instead to be 100% sure you're getting the real thing. What's a few hundred bucks for your peace of mind?

Should you still end up receiving a counterfeit item after all the precautions you took, contact the seller immediately. They may not have been aware that their items were fakes, and should offer to at least refund your money. As for the fake product itself, skip giving these a try! Better to be safe than to have to pay for the possible consequences afterwards.

Do you buy cosmetics from online stores? How do you avoid buying fakes? 

PS Just to clarify, the header image contains only authentic cosmetics. These products are the most commonly counterfeited ones though.

When I saw the Rilakkuma x A'Pieu limited edition collection drop at Althea last September, I knew I had to grab a few things before they go out of stock. The price wasn't too bad, plus I've been meaning to try the popular Korean brand A'Pieu anyway! But wait, what on earth is Rilakkuma? He is a famous fictional Japanese character created in 2003. His name means "relaxed bear", and he is usually shown lazing around in bed, slouched on a pillow, or eating snacks with his friends Korilakkuma, a white bear, and Kiiroitori, a yellow canary. He's a pretty chill bear who knows how to have fun!

The collection available on Althea only has the first (facial wash, cushion foundation, and cushion blush) and second (lip tint and eyeshadow palette) editions; the third edition, which adds mascara, nail polish set, and puff set to complete the lineup is not yet out in the store. I have one of each except for the third edition. Here's a quick review and swatches of the products I have!

The A'Pieu Air Fit Cushion XP Set Rilakumma Edition (P720) comes in a cute yellow and white compact with a custom printed applicator. The coverage is light to medium, with a lovely glowy finish that evens out the skin in just a few neat pats. It's very easy to blend and adheres on skin smoothly! It comes in two standard shades, No.21 and No.23. 

I got the shade No.23. As is the case with all other cushion compacts in that shade, it's too light on me. I'd say it's ideal for NC30! The swatch on my wrist looks ok but on my face it is obviously not my color. Unlike the other ones though this has a slight greyish cast when applied; fortunately, when set with foundation in a slightly darker shade, it seems to disappear. It also oxidizes a bit so it's not ~white~ on me after a few minutes.

Staying power is decent as long as I blot regularly and retouch whenever needed. Most Korean cushions have this tendency to liquefy on the face later on in the day, for some reason, so it's important to keep them in place. You should be fine though if you will be in indoors all day and have dry to normal skin.

This is currently out of stock at Althea, btw. They might restock soon, as they did the lip tint (more on that later).

The Air Fit Cushion Blusher Rilakkuma Edition (P520) comes in a smaller compact and five lovely shades. The blushes look gorgeous, but I was more curious about the contour color! I got the shade BR01. It's so close to my skin tone that it can be my foundation shade already. Hay Koreans! It's actually about the same consistency and finish as the base, so what I do is I sort of mix them together to take down the lightness of the No.23 shade. I apply the BR01 on the outer part of my face, then fill in with the foundation. It works. I do wish the Koreans would come out with shades for darker skin tones someday.

The A'Pieu For Your Shadow in Good After Brown (P490) is a nice warm neutral palette. It has three mattes for contouring the eyes, and one gold shimmer shadow for that pop of shine on the center or inner corners. Pigmentation is good (just use a base to maximize it) and it goes on the lids smoothly. It's not exactly groundbreaking but it's a pleasant compact palette that should work for light to medium skin tones. If you're morena though, you would want darker shades for better contrast. 

The Rilakkuma x A'Pieu Water Light Tint (P390) was actually a follow up order. It was out of stock when I got a box early in September, but after 2-3 weeks, it was available again! I grabbed it for my next order. It's out of stock yet again but it might just be back briefly, so it helps to keep checking the product page every once in a while. ;)

The shade I got is called Deep In Love Rose. It's a shiny red that looks pretty as a full coverage color or as a tint! The Water Tints are a clever mix of oil and water to create a light, hydrating texture that won't dry out the lips. They have a light soapy scent but it's not too unpleasant and it goes away quickly - just an FYI, in case you're sensitive about that. Staying power is average at three hours but it leaves a light stain even after eating or drinking.

Here's a look I did with all the products. ^_^ The base surprisingly works for me as long as I layer it with the contour, and the eyeshadow palette makes a lovely neutral eye. 

It's shallow but I feel kilig whenever I use the products. They're just too cute!

Last but not least, I got one skincare product in the Rilakkuma line. The Gonyak Cleansing Foam (P190) is so affordable that it wouldn't hurt me too much if it didn't work out. Luckily, it is nice - it wouldn't rock your socks off, but it is a basic cleanser that foams pleasantly, has a mild soapy scent only, and won't dry out your skin. It is a clear, dense gel and comes in a large 130ml tube. Not bad at all for just P190! There are two other variants, the Mud Cleansing Foam and Milk Cleansing Foam.

Well, that was long! I hope you enjoyed the review, swatches, and the look. <3 Let me know what you think of the collection! They're running out fast so I recommend getting them soon!

Product photography by Samantha Gonzales