I’ve struggled with oily skin all my life. I thought that it was just part of puberty and would lessen later on but here I am in my late twenties, just as oily as ever. Aside from having to deal with a constantly greasy face, the bigger problem is that my oily skin makes me very acne-prone. Every little thing clogs my pores! I’ve tried so many different products in the hopes of controlling my oily skin and in the process, I learned that there is no magic product that will solve my skin woes. Rather, it is a combination of habits and products working together that help me keep the shine in check and the pimples away. I swear by these tips, and they should work for my fellow oily-skinned gals as well!

Never, ever sleep with makeup on

We’ve repeatedly stressed the importance of facial cleansing before hitting the sack but it’s an especially important non-negotiable for oily skin. While other skin types may not get any reactions from one night of neglect, my uber oily skin ensures that I wake up to pimples and bumpy skin! I’m so done with making this mistake so I always keep a bottle of Bifesta Sebum Cleansing Lotion handy for removing all traces of my makeup and toning my face all in just step! I like how it doesn't leave a sticky residue on my skin so it sucks that I’ll need to replace this soon as Bifesta has pulled out of the market. On nights when I don't feel like using micellar water, I reach for my Nivea Exfoliating Wipes (P140 at leading department stores). One side is smooth just like a regular makeup remover wipe, while the other side is textured so I can exfoliate my face without washing.

A sonic cleansing brush can do wonders

A sonic cleansing brush can cleanse our face more thoroughly than our fingers, plus it helps remove dead skin cells. I invested in a Clarisonic (P8,890 at BeautyMNL) three years ago, and I am happy to say that it still works fine until now. Although it costs a pretty penny, I do not regret my purchase at all. My skin definitely feels smoother with regular use, and I feel confident that I don’t have an ounce of makeup left on my face. For those who are not ready to bite the bullet though, there are more budget-friendly alternatives worth trying out.

Exfoliate twice a week

Did you know that oily skin can tolerate more exfoliation than other skin types? And let’s face it, when even the smallest amount of oil and dirt can turn into a blemish, we could surely use it! I love my Murad AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser because it uses a combination of chemical (glycolic, lactic and salicylic acid) and physical (jojoba beads) exfoliants to polish my skin.

Moisturizers are your friends

It is a common misconception that oily-skinned people don’t need to use moisturizer, and it’s one that myth that should be immediately busted! When our skin lacks moisture, our oil glands go into overdrive in an attempt to compensate. If you’re afraid to add a greasy texture to an already greasy face, it may be that you simply haven’t found the right type of moisturizer for your skin. Gel moisturizers are usually best because they aren’t sticky or heavy. I’m currently loving The Body Shop Vitamin E Aqua Boost Sorbet (P999 at The Body Shop) because my skin absorbs it so quickly that it feels like I have nothing on!

Not all sunscreens are sticky

When I first started wearing sunscreen around eight years ago, there weren’t a lot of options that didn’t make me feel like a white ball of grease. Luckily there are now so many lightweight options that don’t give that ugly white cast! The Face Shop Natural Sun Eco Ice Air Puff Sun SPF50 (P995 at The Face Shop) is the lightest facial sunblock I’ve tried to date. It is like a sunblock spray with a sponge tip at the end, so it goes on very sheer and dries quickly. It has a nice cooling effect on the skin, too!

Don’t be afraid of oils

Contrary to popular belief, not all oils are comedogenic. When I first read about the oil cleansing method, I was skeptical. After all, why would I want to put more oil on my face? I still tried it though, with the cult favorite Shu Uemura Cleansing Oils, and I’m a convert! I loved them so much that I seriously tried out every variant that the company has ever produced. They’re expensive but worth every penny and last quite a while. The Porefinist variant, in particular, has noticeably made my skin less oily so this is something that I keep coming back to.

Add a clay mask to your routine

Sheet masks are in the limelight right now but I still use clay masks as ,well, for a different purpose. Compared to sheet masks that are mostly designed to infuse the skin with moisture, clay masks work to draw out impurities and help reduce oiliness. They are cheaper than sheet masks in the long run, too, because one tube can last for 30 or more uses. I currently have four in rotation that I either alternate or do a mask combo: Laneige Pore Minimizing Pack (P1,150 at Laneige), B&Soap Mamie Blue Pack (P550 at AltheaPH), Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask, and Origins Out of Trouble 10-Minute Mask (both P1700 at Origins).

Primers need not clog pores

While admittedly, silicone-based primers can help a lot in controlling oily skin and making makeup last longer, I don’t use it on a daily basis for fear of clogging my pores. Thankfully, there are primers that are not as silicone-heavy, and have added ingredients that are beneficial to oily skin. My favorites are Bioderma Sebium Pore Refiner (P1,748 at SM Beauty) with salicylic acid, and The Body Shop Tea Tree Pore Minimizer (P895 at The Body Shop) with tea tree oil. These mattify my face without breaking me out.

Setting sprays are a great add-on

Even the most long-wearing foundations slide off my greasy face so I’ve found that using an oil-controlling makeup spray really makes a huge difference in the longevity of my makeup. My favorite is Skindinavia The Makeup Finishing Spray Oil Control (starts at P550 for 20ml, for pre-order at Digital Traincase). I spray on three layers as directed, and it keeps my face matte for up to an additional two hours on top of all the other mattifying products I apply. It may not seem like a lot but those couple of hours are a lifetime for me!

Oil control powders are your best friend

For us oily-skinned gals, oil control powders and blotting sheets are our constant companions. Oil control powders are key products because I use them to both set my makeup and retouch throughout the day. If you’re worried about your makeup caking from too many layers of powder, make sure to use a powder with very sheer or translucent coverage. I find that silica-based products are the most effective in keeping my face matte. My favorites are Innisfree No Sebum Mineral Powder (P260 from AltheaPH) and Ellana Sheer Velvet Primer Powder (P399 for a refill at ellana.com.ph).

Do you struggle with oily skin as well? What are your beauty mantras for keeping your skin healthy, shine-free and pimple-free?

Bad news first: you can't make pores disappear with just skincare or makeup. You'll need something more drastic like laser to get them to go away permanently! The good news, however, is that so many brands know that you need something that'll work to conceal pores ASAP. One such brand to watch out for is Benefit Cosmetics, since one of their major claims to fame is the Porefessional line. The first Porefessional product - the Face Primer - is actually their best-selling product ever!

The latest addition though is something that I think you'll like as well. It's called the Porefessional Pore Minimizing Makeup (P1,700 at Benefit stores) and unlike the past Porefessional products, this provides coverage! Yup, it's basically a liquid concealer specifically meant for pores. I thought it was foundation at first - and it can be used as such - but it shines best when used with the attached sponge.

Press the button in the back to dispense! The product is meant to be squirted out on the sponge and then stamped into the area that needs coverage.

The Pore Minimizing Makeup has a runny texture and light to medium coverage. To get full coverage, it must be "stamped" on the pore-y area of your skin with the sponge attached at the bottom. It has five shades ranging from light to deep so you're sure to find something that will adjust to your natural coloring.

It's a nice foundation for evening out the skin tone and creating a smooth, ultra matte finish. But it's too expensive for that as there's only 15ml in the tube! It really works best as a pore concealer around your cheek area as it effectively mattifies and covers up the indentations.

I don't have many obvious pores so perhaps I am not the right model for this, so I wore it as a foundation all over my face to show off its smoothing finish.

Subtle, but effective

Looks great, right? I didn't wear any concealer or powder on top. It dries up completely so there's no filmy feel. You don't even need to set it with powder if you have dry to normal skin! I do find that it does not do much in controlling oil if you have combi to oily skin. It won't make matters worse but this definitely isn't a primer. You might want to apply the Porefessional Matte Rescue Gel first!

Staying power in the T-zone/cheek area would be around 6-7 hours for me. Not bad! It fades evenly at the tail end of my day. Do note I have combination skin though, so oilier gals might find that it would fade more quickly.

Overall, I highly recommend this to those who need something that's lightweight, has coverage, and a mattifying effect to effectively conceal pores. It's not ideal by itself on combi/oily skin types, so make sure to use a proper primer underneath! I do like Benefit's Matte Rescue Gel as it has a lighter texture compared to the original Porefessional.

What do you think? Does this look like a product you might try?

Whether it’s from having an active lifestyle, surgery, or simply being clumsy, chances are you have a scar somewhere on your body. It’s romantic to think of them as a gateway for telling an interesting story but we’d much rather not have to remember the time when a giant pimple threatened to ruin a special event! If you have scars that you’d rather live without, read on to find out what your options are for managing their appearance.

Different types of scars

The skin can work wonders when healing itself but some injuries are so damaging to tissue that it can sometimes result in pigmentation and/or a different skin texture. It’s important to find out what type of scar you have before attempting to restore your skin to its former glory as some scar treatments are only intended for specific types of scarring.

Flat scars result from minor breaks in the skin, typically from common injuries or burns. The telltale sign is the discoloration - it might start off as pink, reddish, tan, brown or black. In time, it will naturally fade away to something closer to your skin tone. If your flat scar was caused by acne, it’s technically not a scar but post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Severe burn injuries may cause contracture scars, which makes it look like the skin of the affected area has “shrunk”. The unnatural tightening can sometimes impair proper movement.

If you picked at your chicken pox, or had deep cystic pimples, you likely have indented or atrophic scars. These little hollows form if the wound destroys your skin’s underlying support structure. Sadly, topical treatments cannot restore atrophic scars to their original appearance. Collagen fillers might work but only temporarily.

Sometimes, the skin can be a little overzealous and produce way too much collagen to repair a wound, causing raised scars. Hypertrophic scars are typically red but stay confined within the wound’s boundaries. Keloids are also raised scars that form even beyond the area of a wound, so you end up with a mark larger than the wound that caused it. Unfortunately, some people are more predisposed to form raised scars whether from shallow or deep wounds because of genetics.

Stretch marks are also technically a form of scarring but these form from the inside, when the skin is stretched beyond its capacity. They can be caused by weight changes (gain or loss), pregnancy, or even puberty when you hit your growth spurt!

Over-the-counter (OTC) scar solutions

It’s always best to consult a doctor, preferably a dermatologist, for proper treatment of scars. There are many options available, including clinical treatments like laser therapy, microdermabrasion, and even surgical procedures. For less severe scarring that can be treated by topical gels and creams though, these (prescription-free) drugstore finds can significantly reduce their appearance if not fading them off completely.

Contractubex Topical Gel (P600 for 10g and P990 for 20g)

This lightweight gel contains three active ingredients that help skin repair properly: extractumcepae - nion extract, an anti-inflammatory that helps prevent excessive scar tissue formation; heparin, which promotes cell and tissue regeneration; and allantoin, which soothes the skin.

There have been several clinical trials that prove this product’s effectivity but please note that there is no proof that these active ingredients would perform similarly when used individually. Personally, this gel has flattened and lightened my keloid scars relatively quickly. It also lightened my post-acne marks, and wears well under makeup! Best to rub the gel onto affected area twice daily after cleansing until it is completely absorbed. You can also apply this on older scars and then cover with gauze.

Dermatix Ultra Topical Gel (P731.25 for 7g and P990 for 15g)

Scar tissue can benefit from silicone-based formulas with skin-healing antioxidants and ingredients. It helps to plump up depressed areas and thus create a smoother skin texture. It has less active ingredients than Contractubex, but it looks and feels exactly like a smooth silicone-based primer! As such, you can wear this under makeup and you can get a smoother application on the area. Dermatix is also available in sheet form, which works best on raised scars, but I couldn’t find it at the drugstore in my area.

Image via shiberty.com

Glyderm Stretch Mark Cream (P462 for 60mL and P808 for 125mL)

Nothing can completely eradicate stretch marks, since these form underneath the skin. Still, I can attest to the transformative power of Glyderm on my post-pregnancy belly marks! I applied this twice daily and it has significantly lightened and reduced my stretch marks, making them less obvious. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should check with their doctors before using this.

Bio-Oil (P495 for 60mL and P795 for 125mL)

Many people swear by this dry oil, though it seems that just as many say it doesn’t work. It claims to work wonders for scars, uneven skin tone, and stretch marks with its PurCellin oil. Its main agent is mineral oil, which is mixed with other skin-nourishing ingredients like vitamin A and several plant oils.

Apollo Sebo de Macho (12g for P40)

This is a staple in many Pinoy households but did you ever wonder what it’s made from? Its one and only ingredient is mutton’s tallow, aka sheep fat! Before you freak out and dismiss it as a gross option, know that mutton’s tallow has been used for centuries as an all-around remedy for skin troubles. Apparently, it’s very similar to the skin-restoring sebum that our skin naturally produces to protect itself plus fatty acids that nourish the skin.

How to minimize scarring

Prevention is always better than treatment, so if you get an injury or have a nasty pimple, here are some suggestions:

• Treat wounds properly. Appropriate first aid is crucial to any break in the skin so don’t delay cleansing and applying antiseptic treatment. Never apply creams or other treatments to open wounds.
• Use a gentle cleanser. Harsher formulas might irritate the skin and worsen its chance of healing well. Don’t scrub the area, as well.
• Keep the wounded area away from sunlight to prevent further pigmentation.
• Don’t fiddle with it! It’s so tempting to pick at a scab, especially the itchy ones, but doing so could cause permanent scarring.Manage your expectations once scars form. All we can do is try to improve its appearance and hope for the best. It’s awesome if your scars completely disappear with proper treatment, but don’t be surprised if it doesn’t.
• Track your progress. It’s easy to be disappointed with scar treatments since all of them need time and a lot of patience to work. Whenever possible, take progress photos of the scar when trying out treatments.

What kinds of scars are you dealing with right now? Have you tried any of the products in our list? We want to know what worked for you!

Sources: WebMD, Cosmetics Cop, The Weston A. Price Foundation, Paula’s Choice

Bright and bold makeup gives me life. Nudes are pretty and always appropriate, but when I’m getting bored with my looks, I like to have fun with crazy pops of color on my face! That’s really the best thing about makeup. You can use it to create an entirely different person whenever you feel like and when you’re done, you can simply do a new one.

So, when Sephora PH challenged me to do a bold FOTD I said yes immediately. I chose the theme “red” because it’s the most flattering color on pretty much anybody. Red brightens any skin tone and catches the eye like no other color can. That makes it intimidating to wear, so I’m going to show you two easy ways you can work with it! 

The Look: Classic Daytime Red

A matte red lip gives you that retro flair. When matches with gold lids and thick lashes, you can wear it everyday as it’s just the right balance of pop and elegance. Here’s how I did the look!

Step 1: I massaged the Herbivore Lapis Oil Balancing Facial Oil (P1,316) to hydrate my skin and give it a natural glow. This one smells so good! 

Step 2: The Burberry Cashmere Foundation in 32 Honey (P2,848) provided medium coverage to even out my skin tone. I like using my hands when applying liquid foundation as it ensures max coverage and a skin-like finish.

Step 3: To conceal dark spots, I patted on a small amount of the Becca Ultimate Coverage Concealing Creme in Honeycomb ( P1,608) again with my fingers.

Step 4: I set the look with the Cover FX Matte Setting Powder in Medium (P1,742) to make sure that the liquid base doesn’t move throughout the day.

Step 5: Using the Sephora Long Lasting Brow Pencil (P503), I filled in my brows - using just enough to cover sparse areas - and brushed them up.

Step 6: I layered the “Pure Ganache” (a white gold) shade from the Zoeva Cocoa Blend Palette (P1,106) on my lids, then swiped “Substitute For Love” (a light bronze) on the crease to blend it out. “Freshly Toasted”, a matte terracotta, went into my outer-v for that slight smoky, reddish tint

Step 7: I then used the Eyeko Fat Brush Mascara (P1,040) to create volume and length on my lashes. The trick to maximizing your mascara is to deposit most of it on the root of your lashes, then brush up with whatever remains on the wand.

Step 8: I contoured and highlighted my cheeks with the Cover FX Contour Kit (P2,613). Cream contour gives a more natural effect compared to powder, and looks more believable in daylight.

Step 9: The Sephora Cream Lip Stain in Always Red (P804) was the perfect lip color to cap off this look. It is completely matte and quite long-wearing! 

The Look: Bold, Fierce Red

This one is inspired by K-pop! It’s an overload of red that I think would be perfect for a party or concert. It uses the gradient technique to emphasize the eyes and lips!

Step 1: I patted on “Warm Notes” (a reddish pink) from the Zoeva Cocoa Blend Palette (P1,106) on my lids first, then layered “Infusion” (a sparkly deep plum) over it to create a gradient effect on the upper lid. I combined both Warm Notes and Infusion on my lower lids for a smoky look.

Step 2: I then drew on a sharp cat eye with the Guerlain L'Art Du Trait Precision Felt Eyeliner (P2,360). The trick to a precise and even cat eye is creating the layout first before filling it in!

Step 3: Sometimes, too much is just perfect! I used the Sephora Nano Lip Liner in Classic Red (P335) to line on top of the black liner. It gives a pretty Korean vibe!

Step 4: I added more volume to my lashes with the Eyeko Fat Brush Mascara (P1,040). You may also choose to attach some falsies for a more pumped-up eye look.

Step 5: This is optional, but I recommend adding a reddish pink flush on the cheeks with the Zoeva Luxe Color Blush in Rush Rush (P486). I just love the effect!

Step 6: The red gradient lip involves the Herbivore Coco Rose Lip Tint in Coral (P1,220) as a base. It also moisturizes the lips nicely and smells like roses.

Step 7: I then lined my lips with the Sephora Nano Lip Liner in Classic Red (P335) starting from the inner part. I then blended it by pressing my lips together. It’s easy, I promise. ;) That completes this K-pop look! 

I hope you had fun watching and reading these tutorials! Would love to know what you think, as always. If you’re curious about the products used, you may get them all at Sephora PH. ^_^ Do check out their other bold looks with different pops of color here! 

This story is brought to you by Sephora PH. There are custom links in this post, but we make no money when you click or purchase through them. It just lets Sephora know you got to their website via Project Vanity! 

by Kristel Yap, contributor

Once upon a time when I was in Grade 4, there was a commotion in the school assembly area. Everyone was lining up in front of this girl who was assessing everyone’s noses, declaring whether people had blackheads, whiteheads, or baby blackheads. While many pubescent changes such as acne and body odor disgusted us, getting comedones were treated as a badge of maturity that we were all excited to claim. Now that I’m much older and way past puberty (thank heavens!), I have a more fuck off attitude towards the little clogs that peppered my nose. But what I’ve known my whole life is apparently a lie: those aren’t blackheads!

So, what are they?

The quick answer is “sebaceous filaments” but before we talk about what those are, let’s first take a look at our skin’s structure. If you’ve ever wondered why the hairs on your head, your arms, and your face look different, it’s because they are. There are three types of hair follicles, with the first and most immediately noticeable one being the terminal follicles. These are what we would call normal hair such as our head hair, eyebrows, and armpits. The second type is called vellus follicles and they consist of the finer hairs that don’t have much pigment. They cover most of the rest of the body, and look like peach fuzz or balahibong pusa.

Finally, we come to the sebaceous follicle. It’s basically a hair that’s connected to a sebaceous gland underneath and is most commonly seen on the nose. A sort of tube-like structure (the filament) builds around the hair from collected sebum and dead skin cells, and it has white or yellowish appearance. This occurs naturally and isn’t as bad as it sounds!

Image via WebMD

 Knowing these characteristics, three things begin to make sense. When I squeeze these fake “blackheads” on my nose, I sometimes get a gross, impossibly long string that makes me wonder how it all fit under my skin! Secondly, I feel a sense of comfort in realizing that there is nothing abnormal with my skin nor is it just dirty. As there’s more hair on my nose than I originally realized, it’s natural that I have so many visible sebaceous filaments concentrated on a certain area.

Last but not least, I now know why the “blackheads” didn’t look black at all. I used to think they appeared greyish because I have dry skin and produce less oil! Sebaceous filaments can look white, grey, yellow or even tan due to their contents and structure.

Can I get rid of them?

When we prick a blackhead, that is normally the end of the story. As blackheads are merely ‘dirt plugs’, removing them fixes the problem. However, people who use pore strips or squeeze out the sebaceous filaments will never completely get rid of them. They’re part of our natural skin structure, so they will just keep coming back.

That said, it’s possible to minimize their appearance and make skin look clearer and smoother. Pore strips are a popular option but since they only remove that top part of filament, the buildup continues to stay deep in the skin. Just as with the rest of our body, the best way to remove shed cells and sebum is through exfoliation and oil purging. Don’t force them out on your own; you can wound yourself and even causes broken skin capillaries. Instead, go for these gentle yet effective options:

BHA exfoliants or solutions

Beta-hydroxy acid is an oil-soluble chemical exfoliant and therefore able to penetrate deep into the pore. It’s one of your best bets in attacking sebaceous filaments at the root as it causes all the blockage to get purged. Salicylic acid is technically not a BHA, but can also help in de-gunking pores. However, it works best as a spot treatment rather than something to apply all over your face. Instead, opt for a light liquid solution, such as CosRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid (P963 at theskincarecurator.com). Rest for about 20 minutes after application to allow the acid to work before proceeding with your skincare.

As acids are very potent (and thus effective) skin care products, we recommend consulting with a dermatologist about precautions and contraindications prior to usage. I know many Filipinas are scared about using acids in their skincare routine, and rightfully so, but starting at 2% twice a week for about a month should help you get a feel of what your skin can manage. If unexpected irritation occurs, use due diligence in deciding whether less frequent usage or complete abandonment of the routine is necessary. If you feel your pores are hyperactive and fill up much faster than a twice-a-week routine can manage, definitely consult with a dermatologist!

Clay masks

As a highly porous material, clay is very effective at stripping oil and dirt on the surface of the skin. It’s a particularly good addition to your weekly routine if you have very oily skin. Personally, I love the soothing texture of Innisfree’s Jeju Volcanic Pore Clay Mousse Mask (P520 at Althea PH).

Oil cleansers

It sounds strange but the best way to remove excess or hardened oil/sebum is to use an oil cleanser! The cleansing oil melts the buildup and, combined with a gentle facial massage, gently dislodges it from the pore. My favorite is Banila Co’s Clean It Zero (P890 at Banila Co), which also works great at removing even waterproof makeup.

I already use the clay mask and oil cleanser but it looks like the BHA is key to making everything work. I’m hoping to add that to my collection soon and doing a #30daysofporechallenge! From what I’ve read on the Fifty Shades of Snails blog, the secret to smaller looking pores is to apply the BHA for the recommended period of time, apply the clay mask, wash it off, apply and allow that oil cleanser to penetrate, then massage before washing it off with a cleanser.

Do your sebaceous filaments bother you? Have you tried using a BHA before? What products have you tried and would recommend as effective?

Sources: NCBI, Vuality

Kristel Yap is currently based in Seoul. Find more of her writing at beauty-by-tellie.com

We’ve already written about the skincare, bases, eye makeup, and lippies that we loved in 2016, but we decided to challenge ourselves and pick JUST ONE product that we couldn’t have survived without. The catch: it must be a makeup product that was released in the same year! Here’s what we voted for:

Den: It feels like my skin changed from dry to normal last year, thanks to a better skin care routine. While that was good news for my skin quality, the oil and added moisture level made it easy for my brow pencil to rub off and smudge. I was lucky enough to get my hands on the Make Up For Ever Pro Sculpting Brow, which applies light but has buildable coverage and stays on all day. I also love that it comes with a built-in highlighter and a spoolie brush on the other end; it makes it adding dimension to my arches so easy!

Gett: Playing faves but my honest-to-goodness fave beauty find has got to be the Pink Sugar x Project Vanity These Lips Don't Lie matte lip crayons! I love how pigmented they are and the wearable color selection. Most importantly, my favorite thing about it is how it doesn't dry out my lips. I wore this often while on my Japan trip, and it was soooo cold at that time but my lips didn't dry out!

Marielle: It was love at first sight for me and the limited edition MAC Soft Serve Eye Shadow in Must Be Lust. I've always wanted to go beyond shimmer shadows, and a fateful day attending a MAC workshop taught me that it was actually possible. The fine sparkle pigment in an airy souffle-esque medium allows me to use it underneath my regular matte shadows to give them dimension. The clever formulation of the medium also prevents pigment fallout, a common problem when working with sparkle!

Kim: The formula of the Tarte Amazonian Clay Blushes might not be in any way new but to get 10 of these in one sleek package was my best score for 2016. It still makes my insides warm and fuzzy just by looking at it! I feel like I shouldn't be allowed to buy anymore blushes until I hit pan on at least two shades.

Crystal: I'm loving this reformulation of Guerlain Lingerie de Peau foundation. They finally have more shades for warm skin tones! It gives me medium coverage that looks natural yet stays on for hours, so I've been ignoring my other foundations lately thanks to this.

Claire: I love it when drugstore brands step up their game, and release a new product that keeps up with trends. Last year my fave find is Essence Shape Your Face palette in Ready, Set, Peach! I love having a matte bronzer, matte highlight, and blush all in one handy compact, all for less than 500 pesos! I do hope they come out with more shades for paler and darker skin, and for cooler undertones.

Katsy: I'm really not a foundation girl but I have to award the Shiseido Synchro Skin Foundation as my best beauty find for 2016. It stays on all day, even when I have to go to construction sites and face the heat and dust. I also love the coverage it gives while making me feel as if I don't have it on. Super bonus that I can easily apply it with my fingers and blends like a dream!

Jenn: My best beauty find (and also most abused product in my kit) is the April Skin Magic Snow Fixing Foundation. The pink case and puff aside, it's completely perfect for my oily, acne-prone skin. Its matte finish is just right, covers my pimple marks well, and lasts the whole day on me. The only limitation I see is the shade range: I wish they'd make the shades a bit warmer. Apart from that, love love love the product!

Stacie: Hands down the best brand for me this year is Pink Sugar. I like the Pink Sugar x Project Vanity lippies but as a tint person, I absolutely adored the Sugar Tints! I would rather classify these as liquid lipsticks rather than tints though as they are so creamy and heavily pigmented. They also stay matte on my lips and only budge when I eat oily food. I am seriously considering getting all the available shades, and plan to try their shadow palettes and blushes next!

Angela: I really love the Lizly What A Lovely Palette that I got from Althea. The shimmers give off a beautiful finish, and are made with a very refined powder that won’t look like you got covered in confetti. They are so pigmented and the colors are just beautiful! Considering the price, this definitely is my best buy for 2016.

Was 2016 a good year of beauty finds for you? What’s the one 2016 product that helped you survive the daily grind?

Editor's Note: We believe that virginity, birth control, and sex are still opaque topics here in the Philippines. A discussion about these things with our parents mostly involves them telling us never to have intercourse or get pregnant until we're married. However, that is hardly a deterrent for women to make unwise choices. At Project Vanity, our ultimate goal is to empower women by providing them information about their own bodies so they feel more confident navigating their world.

In The Sex Talk, a new section here at PV, we aim to consult with doctors and experts about common questions we feel should be answered by women, for women.

Sex isn't evil nor should it be a taboo topic. If you're sexually active, you shouldn't be ashamed of using your body in a manner that makes you happy. If you're not sexually active, that's cool too. It's your body and you have the right to decide what to do (or not to do) with it.

You do, however, have to be responsible for your choices. For instance, it's important to know how to avoid getting pregnant if you're not ready to raise a child. What if your boyfriend isn't into condoms? Do you put complete faith in his ability to withdraw before he ejaculates?

Often, birth control is a woman's burden. That's why we’re taking a closer look at artificial birth control methods currently (and legally!) accessible to Filipinas.* With the expert medical advice of Dr. Cecilia Vicencio, head of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at The Medical City, we are here to give you a rundown of your options and what you really need to know if you wish to avoid pregnancy for the meantime.

While we hope this helps you decide on which method is best for you, it should not be taken as a substitute for medical advice as your doctor will be better able to evaluate your particular needs.

What women want

When asked to name the most popular artificial birth control methods among Pinays, Dr. Vicencio tells us that the Combined Oral Contraceptive Pill (COCP) is still the go-to. This is followed by injectables and intrauterine devices (IUDs). Surprisingly, the lowest on the list was male condoms!

Considering how easy it is to purchase condoms in drugstores, groceries, and pretty much anywhere, we were shocked that it was the one least preferred. It doesn’t even make the Top 3. The doctor explained that male partners usually complain that condoms feel thick and can cause a loss of sensation. Yep, even when using ultra-thins! When it comes to preventing sexually-transmitted diseases though, condoms are the only option, as they form a physical protective barrier. Unfortunately, female condoms are not available in the PH.

As for the birth control patch (which was launched only a few years ago), it didn’t enjoy much success locally due to its high price. So while it’s technically available, it’s pretty hard to find and isn’t considered a cost-effective solution. For this feature, we decided to just focus the discussion on the top three most preferred methods. Most of the contraceptives discussed here contain synthetic hormones that essentially keeping you from ovulating, thereby preventing the development and maturation of an egg cell. The hormones also cause the cervical mucus to thicken, so sperm can’t properly swim “upstream” to the vaginal area.

The Pill

Combined Oral Contraceptive Pills (COCPs) can be broken down into two main types: the progestin-only pills and the combination pills. Progestin is a hormone that suppresses ovulation, and it can be taken alone or combined with estrogen. There are different types of progestin, which is why there are lots of different pill formulations, and these are typically prescribed for breastfeeding women (as estrogen in combination pills can suppress lactation.)

Aside from formulations, different brands of pills will vary in terms of the number of active and inactive/blank pills. Some have the user stop for a few days every cycle to allow her “menstruate” (only the uterine lining is shed as there are no eggs released) while other types must be taken daily to maintain the routine of taking them regularly. For example, Brand X has 24 active pills and 4 inactive ones to complete the 28-day cycle, whereas Brand Y has 21 active pills and 0 inactive pills that require the user to stop taking pills for the remaining 7 days.

Finding the right pill formulation for you requires your doctor’s prescription so please only take pills under their supervision! If you experience adverse reactions, it may mean that you need to use a different pill and your doctor can prescribe a new formulation. The success rate for contraceptive pill use is 91%.

The Good: Some formulations of combination COCPs like Cyproterone Acetate have the added bonus being anti-acne! This is why the Pill is sometimes prescribed by dermatologists as an acne treatment. You can also stop at anytime should you want to try getting pregnant.

The Bad: Smokers and those with a history of hypertension, heart problems, diabetes, and deep vein thrombosis are not recommended to take the Pill as they can increase blood pressure and worsen circulatory problems.

Injectibles

For those who just can’t seem to follow the stringent daily schedule of remembering to take the Pill, a depo medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) shot is the next best option. It’s more popularly known by its brand name, Depo-Provera, and functions in pretty much the same way as the progestin-only Pill does. A single dose is enough to cover you for three months though so you don’t need to worry about taking a pill everyday. It also has a higher success rate at 94%.

The Good: A little bit goes a long way! At just over P100 per shot, DMPAs are actually quite affordable in addition to being convenient.

The Bad: It’s a no-go for those who are uneasy with the prospect of being pricked with a needle, and for those who might not want to wait three months to be able to get pregnant.

IUDs

For those who have yet to see an intrauterine device in real life, it might come as a shock that it’s actually a really tiny piece of T-shaped plastic with a copper wire snaking around it. “The copper works as an irritant, inducing an inflammatory changes [within the uterus] that destroys sperm,” explains Dr. Vicencio. Some IUDs are also designed to contain and gradually release progestin. The hormones inhibit ovulation and thin the lining of the uterus. At just slightly bigger than a 5-peso coin, a doctor positions it into the uterus, and the device can stay there for up to three years (or more) before replacement is required. At 99%, this is also the most reliable contraceptive option available.

The Good: If positioned properly, you wouldn’t be able to feel anything, except perhaps for the string that hangs outside the cervix. It stays effective for a very long time and should you decide to start trying for a baby, you can just have it removed and your fertility will be easily restored.

The Bad: The string on the IUD can be quite problematic as it tends to make you more prone to infection. Also, those who use tampons must be careful not to pull out the IUD string along with it.

What you should know

While your OB-GYN may have explained how your choice of contraceptive works and how to properly use it, you may have missed a few things in this rather lengthy discussion. We asked Dr. Vicencio about the most common misconceptions about contraceptives, and we’re debunking them, STAT!

Myth 1: There’s ZERO chance of getting pregnant if you’re using contraceptives.

Even though the top 3 methods are immediately effective and may even offer long-term protection, none of them are completely infallible. “No contraceptive is 100%  effective. There’s always a 1-2% chance of getting pregnant,” explains Dr. Vicencio.

Myth 2: When you stop taking the Pill (as part of the cycle) or when you take the placebo ones, you menstruate.

Um… Not really. What comes out isn’t “real” menstruation! The hormones prevent ovulation to begin with, so your ovaries don’t release any eggs that can be fertilized or menstruated out as usual. What actually happens is called “breakthrough bleeding” and what comes out is just remnants of the uterine lining. This is why “periods” are usually lighter when on the Pill.

Myth 3: You need to menstruate to “clean out” your uterus.

Since there is no egg cell to drop, there is nothing to clean. “Menses are not something that you need to have to expel toxins,” emphasizes Dr. Vicencio. “You’re not going to menstruate if you don’t ovulate.” 

Myth 4: Artificial hormones in contraceptives can cause permanent infertility or birth defects later down the line.

Not at all! According to Dr. Vicencio, “When you stop taking the Pill, there will be breakthrough bleeding. But after that and you get your period normally the following month, the Pill will have completely lost its effect. You can regain fertility almost immediately.” And since the Pill no longer works, it won’t affect the embryo once the pregnancy begins.

We hope this sheds light on some of those burning questions! And remember: it’s always important to be in tune with your body’s needs. Always be honest with your OB-GYN about your experiences and medical history so that they can prescribe the best option for you. Let them know if you feel uncomfortable so they can re-evaluate your contraception.

*We will publish another story on natural birth control methods.

Sources: Rappler, Broadly, PSA,

Header image via netdoctor.co.uk

I think it’s safe to say that the KBeauty domination isn’t going away anytime soon. You won’t hear us complaining though – the Project Vanity team is crazy about the SoKor makeup aesthetic of radiant skin and youthful glow! One key component to acing that doll-like Korean makeup look is the lip tint. Applied either as a gradient or at full opacity, the tint can bring a new level of freshness and brightness to any FOTD. If you’re as crazy with their lip tints as we are, here’s five more under P500 that are worth adding to your kit!

TheSAEM Saemmul Real Tint (P190 at Althea)

I’d say this is on my top three lip tints of all time! It has a gel-like consistency that’s very easy to spread either for that gradient, just-bitten look or for the typical all-over stain. It lasts about a half day on me before fading, so I do have to keep this in my purse for retouching. I particularly love the grapefruit scent and that it’s a deep, toned-down red. Plus points: it doesn’t dry my lips as badly as other tints would!   

Witch’s Pouch Radiant Tint (P350 at Althea)

The mousse-y, glossy formula reminds me a lot of the Laneige Water Drop Tint. Even the applicator is spot on – it’s a diamond-shaped tip with a hole in the center, so you don’t have to keep dipping the wand in for more product. It’s definitely one of my balmier lip tints but it also has the best moisturizing power among these five. It won't color immediately upon application, but wait a few minutes to see it develop a nice, even stain on your lips!

Holika Holika Holy Berry Tint (P275 at SM Beauty)

If natural tints are your kind of thing, this comes highly recommended! The tint has a very watery consistency for a sheer, lovely color that looks good on both your lips and cheeks, but you can build it up to a medium opacity with layering. It’s not as long lasting as I’d like but it’s practically fool-proof for quick touchups! A few dots of this and a little tapping can bring life back into my complexion without fear of streaking if I don’t blend out fast enough.

Tony Moly Kiss Lover Lip Master (P440 at Tony Moly stores)

For juicy, glossy lips without the sticky feel, this would be my tint of choice. It has a yummy fruity-candy scent and taste, and it feels as moisturizing as it looks. It lasts about three to four hours on me before the gloss completely goes away, leaving a nice stain in its wake.  

Yadah All Day Tint (P345 via Beauty Bar)

The Yadah All Day Tint is no doubt the winner for pigmentation and longevity. If I need something to instantly brighten my lips, I would reach for this over anything else. I won’t say it lasts all day as the name suggests but it does leave a nice stain even after several meals. It can be a little drying, but nothing that a quick swipe of In Her Element’s Nourish & Cleanse Balm can’t fix!

From left: Holika Holika Holy Berry Tint, Tony Moly Kiss Lover Lip Master, TheSAEM Saemmul Real Tint, Witch’s Pouch Radiant Tint, Yadah All Day Tint

What do you think of the K-beauty lip tint look? Have you tried any of these tints?

Last November, I had the privilege of being invited to know more about Japanese heritage brand Kanebo in nowhere less than the heart of Tokyo. I met with their amazing team, visited their Kanebo counter in Seibu Ikebukuro, and got to explore the beautiful Kao Museum in Sumida. It was an experience I'll never forget! I am so lucky to have been able to spend a day knowing more about one of my favorite beauty brands, and in my favorite place in the world, too.

The Kanebo counter in Seibu Ikebukuro / The Kao office building in Kayabacho

The Kanebo counter Seibu Ikebukuro

What most people might now know is that Kanebo is an 80-year old brand that started as a textile business which sold cotton and then eventually silk thread. The year 1936 was their first foray into beauty with a facial soap that contains silk oil; eventually, they started to manufacture cosmetics, producing creams, lotions, pomades, face powders, shampoos, and other products with attractive packaging that competes with prestigious imports from Europe and the United States.

The first ever Kanebo beauty product, the Savon de Soie

Vintage Kanebo products on display at the Kao Museum

Today, Kanebo is available in over 50 countries and regions around the world, and is part of the Kao Group which also carries brands like Lunasol, Impress, Freshel, Kate Tokyo, and Sensai as well as Jergens, Biore, Liese, Molton Brown, Goldwell, and John Frieda (to name a few). Kanebo as you may know recently launched its namesake brand only last September and has presented a holistic skincare and cosmetics line that empowers elegant yet effortless beauty.

According to Mr. Kosaka of Kanebo, what makes this new brand different is how it can be adjusted according exactly what a woman needs. There are three core products in the skincare line: the Kanebo The First Serum, the Kanebo Fresh Day Cream SPF 15, and  Kanebo Night Lipid Wear. You can then add what Kanebo calls “tuning products” to address specific concerns. For example, you may use the Kanebo Moisture Flow Rich Lotion if you are feeling dry; the Kanebo Moisture Flow Lotion if you want to lessen oiliness.

I received a few new products to review so stay tuned for that. So far though, I am loving the Moisture Flow Lotion and Bouncing Emulsion, which are part of my best skincare finds for 2016. Kanebo's double moisturizing technique has done wonders in improving my skin texture or "bounciness" which is the big goal of Asian beauty products.

Anyway, I would love to show you pictures of my tour at Kao Museum in Sumida. I had an exclusive look inside the Communication Plaza, which is not normally open to visitors! This area has exhibits of the latest products that represent Kao product lines as well as devices that assess the state of one's skin and hair. Let's get started!

We started with checking the state of my skin with this amazing device. A lotion was placed on my hand, and then a small sensor was attached to my finger. I had to massage the lotion in to make the digital flower bloom! If it has full petals (like the one above), it means that my skin is in great condition.

There is also a display of Kanebo's best-selling powder foundations through the years. The technology involves a beauty serum incorporated in each powder; that's why it's not drying or chalky, and has a skin-like look!

Here are some of Kanebo's brands in the past and present! They have Kate, Lunasol, Evite, and T'estimo (already discontinued) to name a few.

I loved this particular demo. They asked me to take a selfie, then the app showed me four different makeup looks which can be achieved using the beauty philosophy of four makeup lines. The "filter" can be adjusted too! I loved the one from Lunasol!

The museum also has this lip color map. It can predict which of their lipsticks would look great on you based on your favorite lipstick shade.

Here are some of the shimmery pigments used in Kao cosmetics. They use gold powder, crushed pearls, and aluminum powder,  to name a few.

This one is a gorgeous display of their MIlano Collection, which is their limited edition, best-selling powder line which comes out once a year since 1991. The packaging is just break-taking! It's inspired by the beauty of Milan, melded with the clean aesthetic of Japanese cosmetics.

There's also a wall of some of Kao Group's international brands. You'd be surprised to know that they carry Jergen's under their company!

With the Kanebo team in Tokyo: Mr Liu, Mr Kosaka, Mr Abe, and Mr Hara

And that concludes my Kanebo tour. I hope you enjoyed seeing the pictures and knowing more about the brand! <3 Thank you so much to Robby da Silva, Kanebo Philippines' brand manager, for arranging this for Project Vanity. Thank you also well to for answering my questions over lunch at that wonderful tempura place somewhere over Kayabacho. 

Until next time, Tokyo!

Kanebo is available inside Rustan's department stores.

Do you have a bunch of makeup that you just love but are too inconvenient to bring around? Or do you have a foundation that turned out to be lighter than what you actually needed? It happens! I’ve had my fair share of buying makeup that didn’t quite fit my needs, so instead of letting it go waste or sitting unused in my stash, there’s a way to repurpose it into something I can actually use: my very own DIY cream makeup!

For this DIY, I made two variants of cream makeup. The first is a creamy concealer because I had a Koh Gen Doh foundation that’s a couple of shades lighter than my actual shade. I love how it looks on my skin but sadly, it’s a pain to correct foundation especially when you’re in a hurry.

The second is a blush-highlighter hybrid featuring Avon Face Pearls. This is my affordable alternative to the extremely pricey Guerlain Meteorites but I disliked how I had to keep the little pearl balls from rolling all over my vanity and onto the floor.

You can adjust this recipe according to the products you want to create but these are the basic ingredients you’ll need per DIY cream makeup variant:

• 2 tablespoons of beeswax – I used a combination of Burt’s Bees and EOS lip balm as substitute
• 1 tablespoon of coconut oil – I used VCO for the blush-highlighter and C Beauty Oil for the concealer
• Empty pot containers - I used EOS lip balm containers but you can use old (and clean) contact lens cases or travel cases as well
• Double boiler or microwave

Step 1: Use either unprocessed beeswax or a lip balm as the base wax. Combine this with the coconut oil in a mixing bowl. Mash and blend together.

Step 2: Add your choice of makeup to the mix. The proportion you need will vary according to the product, so start with a small amount first, adding gradually as needed.

I used a few pumps of the KGD foundation plus a heavy dusting of the Nichido Powder to thicken up the concealer consistency. For the blush-highlighter, I added Avon Face Pearls and an extra tube of Burt’s Bees Lip Shimmer Radiance to the bowl.

Step 3: Stir thoroughly over a double boiler until the mixture turns into a smooth liquid, or pop into the microwave for a few seconds, stirring at every interval. If you don’t have a double-boiler, fill a pot about halfway through with water then set another bigger bowl on top of it. The bottom of the bigger bowl shouldn’t touch the bottom of the pan, so the heat it receives is just from the boiling water (as if you're melting chocolate).

Step 4: Prepare your chosen containers, ensuring that they’re completely clean and dry. I dismantled the EOS lip balm container into three pieces, then put the middle part and cover together, placed upside down on the lower half for stability. Pour the liquefied mix into the container and freeze for up to an hour.

And here are the finished products! Both the DIY concealer and the DIY blush-highlighter have creamy textures due to the oil. They have a slight slip when applied, but it’s quite tolerable. I found that they blended easily enough onto my skin, though I think I’ll have to modify the proportions a bit to create the color, texture, and function that I actually want. I recommend starting out with small batches first to figure out your preferred proportion.

The concealer acts more like a skin brightener instead of a full-coverage concealer. I like it though because it works well for my under eye area! It can get a bit shiny though, so a light dusting of powder may be needed to set it matte.

For the blush-highlighter, the Burt’s Bees Lip Shimmer definitely gave the product additional gleam! It is a bit creamier than I would have preferred but nothing I can’t solve with some loose powder. I really like how the mix subtly colors my normally pale face!

This DIY was really fun and actually quite easy to do. I now have a portable concealer/brightener and a shimmery cream blush-highlighter hybrid, without having to buy any new products. Plus, I got to use up items in my stash instead of letting them go to waste!

Will you be trying out this DIY? What kind of cream makeup would you want to make?

The new year is moving so fast, don't you agree? We're already halfway past January and it has been insane at the PV HQ since Day 1. It's a good kind of insanity. We hope you've been enjoying yours as well! Anyway, it's time to announce the CoM for December and she is Missus C! Please email den [at] projectvanity.com on how you can claim your prize. ^_^ Congratulations!

This month, we're giving away the Make Up For Ever Artistic Essentials Holiday Kit which contains luxe sizes of the STEP1 Skin Equalizer Hydrating, Mini HD Powder, Excessive Lash Mascara, Aqua XL Eye Pencil in Black, Artist Plexi Gloss inside the metal box. We've also got the Origins Handy Hydrators Set which has the Ginger Hand Lotion, Comfort Mood™ Silky Vanilla Hand Cream, and Make A Difference™ Rejuvenating Hand Treatment. We also just had to add the Pink Sugar x Project Vanity These Lips Don't Lie Lip Crayon in Ready In Five!

So! It's the same mechanics as before. Every month, we'll pick a commenter on Project Vanity. She must be able to leave useful comments, such as sharing feedback about a product we reviewed. It can be a "thank you" comment, or maybe a really good question (we love good questions). A big factor would be the frequency of the reader's comments. Does she always visit? Does she read through the site? At the end of the day though, we always value quality more than quantity. Consistency is key. 

Comment away! Am hoping to hear from you. We'll pick the winner by the second week of February 2017. ^_^

My fragile beauty heart was shook when the Silisponge first broke the Internet. The promise of a smooth, airbrushed texture sans the maintenance troubles of a normal beauty sponge? While I love the Beauty Blender, I’d be lying if I said I didn’t find the task of cleaning it pretty demanding. The Silisponge hooked me in from the beginning, and review after review left me curious as to how it would perform. We managed to order a dupe from an online seller but we decided to test it with a fun, cheeky bonus: I picked up a similar-in-texture silicon nipple pad that I’ll also be trying out for makeup application. Let’s call it the boobie blender, as other YouTubers have been doing!   

My game plan is to apply foundation and concealer on the right side of my face with the Silisponge dupe, and the boobie blender for the other half. I used the Celeteque Dermocosmetics Photoready Foundation for my base as per usual, and concealed with TheSaem Cover Perfection Tip Concealer. Time to find out how these trending tools actually perform!

Round 1: Silisponge Dupe

The gel-like material of the sponge makes it poreless and not at all absorbent, so I expected that a small amount of product would go a long way. Starting with about a centavo-sized squirt of foundation, I first dabbed it on like I would with a Beauty Blender but it left obvious foundation stamps under my cheekbone and around the mouth area. I also found it more difficult to apply on tight nooks and crannies like the sides of my nostrils because the sponge is on the thick side and not so easily pliable.

See how the product looks "stamped" on my skin? I had to blend it out quite a bit to make application look more even

With experimentation, I found that a combination of dabbing and swiping movements work best with this tool. Here’s half of my face done after seven minutes of smoothing it out. I’m pretty impressed with how smooth it looks!  

Wearing foundation using the Silisponge dupe on the left!

Round 2: Boobie Blender

I used the same amount of product to do the other side of my face and followed the same dab-and-swipe technique. My first thought was about how weird it felt to be patting a nipple cover all over my face, but I soon realized that I actually liked this better than the Silisponge dupe! It’s softer and more pliable, so it’s more comfortable to use.

Since it was designed to cover nipples, it has curved surface rather than a flat one. As a result, I didn’t encounter the same stamping marks issue! Here’s how it looked seven minutes later--who would have thought I’d used a boobie blender?

Used the Silisponge dupe on the left, and the boobie blender on the right

Verdict

Call me a believer! It’s funny to me how people think of these things but guess what – they actually worked! The finish was pretty much identical but between the two, I’m putting my coin on the silicon nipple tape which I got from Bench for only P179 for a pair. The Silisponge dupe is priced at around P150 on Ebay, Shopee, and Facebook for a single sponge, plus you face the risk of streaking if you don’t blend out your foundation well.

That being said, neither one is on the same level of airbrushed finish that I get from the original Beauty Blender, so I’m not about to put that away anytime soon! It also takes me about five to seven minutes to do my full face with the BB so there’s a time-price tradeoff. These “dirty” sponges do put my heavily stained Beauty Blender to shame, though. A quick makeup wipe rundown got these back to looking brand new in just a few seconds!

I had so much fun putting these hot trendy items to the test! Have you ever tried the Silisponge or any of its dupes? If you’re considering trying this out, which one would you prefer to get?

I've been stalking Herbivore, a Seattle-based natural skincare brand, for months now. I love the minimalist packaging, the clever products, and their focus on the concept of sensorial beauty! I've wanted to try it for so long but have always been discouraged that I had to order it from the US. Thankfully, Sephora PH recently started carrying Herbivore products! I just had to get a few things, and one of them is the Sea Mist Coconut + Sea Salt Beach Wave Hair Mist (P1,027 at Sephora PH).

I was surprised by how hard I fell in love with the scent. It's an airy coconut scent with a dash of vanilla; it reminds me of cool drinks by a sunny beach. Granted it doesn't stay strong for very long, but I like that I get a whiff of it every once in a while during the day. It doesn't smell funky even when I sweat.

The gorgeous scent is not my favorite thing about the Sea Mist though. I love how it makes my hair look all textured and more volumized, just with a bit of water, aloe, and salt! It's amazing really. I was crazy about the Batiste Dry Shampoo last year - I even have backups - but I just didn't like how my scalp got so oily with it. Herbivore's Sea Mist does not make my scalp greasy even if I don't wash it off at night.

I'm also a huge fan of how this Herbivore mist can tame my frizzy hair without any stickiness or waxy feel.

Sorry that this is black and white! I hope to reveal this #FOTD next time haha. You can get a clear idea of how the Sea Mist texturizes my hair here.

The Sea Mist also doesn't leave a white residue like the average dry shampoo. If you spray too much in one area though, the salt might show a little bit when it dries. Definitely not as obvious as powdered shampoo!

Overall, the Herbivore Sea Mist smells fabulous and makes my hair look great. I would highly recommend it to anybody who wants to create more pronounced, messy (but not overly so) waves! It's a welcome break from my dry shampoo and volumizing mousse as it doesn't weigh down hair nor leave a hard-t0-clean residue on the scalp. Thoughts? Have you tried other salt sprays for your hair?

ICYMI: skin is in! The current makeup trend has swung towards face bases that are lighter and more natural-looking. And if you’re looking for that #WokeUpLikeThis no-makeup makeup look, one of your best options it to get yourself a cushion compact. You get good coverage, SPF, and the compact makes it easy slip into your purse for touchups. You can DIY your own cushion, too, but sometimes it’s hard to beat formulas developed by established brands.

Luckily, so many brands are getting into the cushion makeup craze, with Western ones starting to compete with the OG Asian releases. We’re not complaining though - we’re definitely spoilt for choice, and it now poses the new problem of narrowing down which ones to consider for your selection. To help you decide, we shopped our stash and picked out a mix of old faves and new finds to battle it out!

Skin notes: I have dry skin that’s prone to redness, and I get a little shiny on my T-zone after a few hours. My shade is somewhere between NC15 and NC20.

Estée Lauder Double Wear Cushion BB in 2W0 Warm Vanilla SPF 50/PA+++ (P2,400 at Estée Lauder)

Among the cushions I tried for this challenge, this has the lightest formula and the sheerest coverage. It mildly corrects discolorations but doesn’t do much for blemishes or hyperpigmentation. I felt that the lightweight formula may have contributed to it fading at the three-hour mark. Warm Vanilla is an excellent match for my skin tone, though, and gives it a healthy, slightly sun-kissed coloring! I like that it didn’t make me look like I had a white cast, even with the impressively high SPF. This cushion is ideal for those with dry to normal skin who have lots of good skin days because it looks more like a tinted moisturizer.

Laneige BB Cushion Whitening in 21 Beige SPF 50+/PA+++ (P1,320 at Althea Korea)

Another cushion that toes on the sheer side, Laneige’s offering doesn’t do much for redness and blemishes. Compared to the Estee Lauder cushion, the formula feels drier and more foundation-like with a dewy finish. Longevity is at two to three hours before a touch-up becomes necessary. The shade made my skin look slightly paler, which might be due to the whitening/brightening effect it claims to have. Plus, I've been a little more tan these past few months and I bought the cushion when I was at my palest. It's still wearable for me though, and I can just top it with a powder foundation closer to my current skin tone.

W.Lab W-Snow CC Cushion in #21 S.L SPF 50+/PA+++ (P1,050 at Althea Korea)

This also has a dewy finish and provides light color correction and blemish cover, just like the first two. The shade, insta-bright effect, and coverage level is similar to Laneige but I liked this formula better! It’s more lightweight and runny so it instantly got absorbed by my skin. Zero tackiness and stickiness, too, so I hardly felt that I had any base makeup on. It also lasts a bit better, with touch-ups needed after a good four hours.

Iope Air Cushion Moisture Lasting in N23 SPF 50+/PA+++ (P1,520 at Althea Korea)

True to its name, the formula feels a little richer, with a certain heaviness that reminds me of sunblock. It’s this thickness that causes it to stay put, even when in a humid, sweaty environment. On the flip side, it's also what makes this base prone to caking on pores and clinging to dry patches. The finish is dewy but looks like I have a thick layer of translucent powder on, which is unable to hide redness and hyperpigmentation. The shade may just be too light for me, which is odd considering that this is already the darkest shade available. Longevity is at four hours.

April Skin Magic Snow Cushion in 23 SPF 50+/PA+++ (P650 at Althea Korea)

Medium to full coverage with a satin finish, this evens out my complexion and deals with hyperpigmentation without much effort. It mattifies without looking too flat, and lasts four hours. Though the finish is more matte, I still recommend using a setting powder afterwards as the formula tends to look cakey (as opposed to fading) when the skin starts to get oily. The shade is on the yellow side, giving my skin a lightly tanned look.

Chica Y Chico Matt Cushion in No. 23 Medium Beige SPF 35/PA++ (P610 at Althea Korea)

While most of the other cushions gave a dewy glow, this is gives a truly flat matte finish. It almost feels like actual medium to full coverage foundation, too, as a few pats is all I needed to neutralize redness and lighten hyperpigmentation. No need to set with powder! As with typical mattifying liquid foundations, it can be a little drying, so make sure to moisturize well beforehand. Medium Beige is on the yellowish side, making it a good match for my skin tone. Without setting powder, my nose starts to get shiny after three hours. It fades around three hours.

Verdict: I can’t pick just one winner because the formulas of the six cushion compacts varied quite a bit! Instead, I have my Top 3 to will address various skin type and coverage requirements.

Best lightweight formula and sheer coverage: Go for Estee Lauder Double Wear Cushion BB if you want that woke-up-like-this, dewy, healthy look and have minimal skin issues. This also feels like nothing on the face, and it fades evenly throughout the day.

Most comfortable to wear: W.Lab W-Snow CC Cushion helps me achieve that luminous K-idol look without feeling dry or sticky. When using cushions in humid weather, its lightweight formula makes a huge difference to my comfort levels.

For oily skin and matte lovers: Chica Y Chico Matt Cushion is a clear winner. And if you have normal or dry skin, you can already skip the setting powder and use this as a one-step base.

It bears mentioning that while Korean cushion compacts are worthy products, you'd be hard-pressed to find a good shade match if you're NC35 upwards. Medium-toned ladies will rarely catch a break in that regard! Laneige does offer a wide shade selection; Estee Lauder and Bobbi Brown makes good shades for darker skin too.

Do you use cushion face bases? Which one is your fave? Whatever you do end up using, don’t forget to keep the sponge clean to avoid breakouts and general grossness!

Imagine going to one of your favorite shopping destinations and seeing SALE signs everywhere. There are 30% off, 50% off, and even Buy 1, Take 1 promos. We PV girls go weak at the knees for budget-friendly beauty finds, so a major sale at one of our fave shopping haunts is good news that we simply can’t keep to ourselves!

With super convenient locations (they’re practically everywhere!) and plenty of well-loved brands, Watsons is our go-to for affordable toiletries and makeup staples. With the ongoing Watsons Big White Blowout, they’re all about bringing us the lowest prices for their best-selling whitening products. If you’re keen on taking better care of your skin or getting a more even skin tone this year, now is the perfect time to stock up!

Cosmo Skin founder and marketing director Dr. Nino Bautista and brand endorser Ruffa Gutierrez

Celebrity guests joined us for the special event. Ruffa Gutierrez talked about her endorsement with Cosmo Skin while Kelly Misa and Lauren Young shared their favorite must-buys from the store. We spotted Kelly getting back-ups of the Pond’s Flawless White Face Cream and BB Cream plus a box of Belo Collagen Powder Drink, which promotes youthful and healthy-looking skin. Lauren got her trusty Cetaphil Cleanser, as well as Watsons Collagen Face Masks which were Buy 2, Get 1 Free.

Brands like Belo and Skin White are up to 20% off or have Buy 1, Take 1 deals.

If you’re a fan of Nivea and Rexona deodorants, take advantage of the sale to keep you smelling clean all year long! You can also get Olay Face Creams at up to 40% off.

Other brands included in the sale are Vaseline, Safeguard, L’Oreal, and Celeteque, with their lotions and creams at up to 50% off.

I hoarded these Watsons Collagen Face Masks (P65 each) because we just love our sheet masks here at PV! I’ve also heard a lot about the benefits of collagen and wanted to try it for myself.

Our editor Liz still keeps raving about Kojie-san so I’m pretty excited to try out their popular Skin Lightening Soap (P120 promo pack) as well as their Body Lightening Lotion with SPF 25 (P159).

One of the causes of dull skin is having too many layers of dead skin cells (ick) so exfoliation is a must. I chose a Nylon Body Glove exfoliator (P59) for my body and a konjac sponge (P199) for my face.

I’m a loyal user of Pond's White Beauty Spotless White Cream (P32) before so I got an extra as backup. I also got the Biore UV Perfect Bright Milk sunscreen (P380), the Quick FX Tinted Moisturizer (P35), and the Nivea Extra White Repair Pore Minimiser Toner (P185) because I’ve seen good reviews about these products.

The Dazzling White Instant Whitening Pen (P188) for teeth is a cool addition I got because of Lauren Young’s tip. This should make it easier to wear lippie shades that somehow make teeth look more yellow. Whitening can take a while though, so in the meantime, you can use makeup to fake a pearly white smile.

The Big White Blowout sale at Watsons is until February 22, 2017. If you’re an SM Advantage Card or BDO Rewards card holder, you even get a chance to win an iPhone 7 when you buy P500 worth of participating products. Just look for the “Qualifier to win iPhone 7” sticker like on the packaging. For more information on this promo, check out the complete mechanics.

Are you ready to shop the Watsons Big White Blowout Sale? What will you be stocking up on?

As promised, I took my Dollar Store makeup haul and put it to the test! I was both excited and nervous about doing this as I’d never tried any of these products before. I was determined to make it work, though, no matter what it took. Can I do makeup magic with a P1,000 budget? Will I survive this challenge?

Step 1: Concealer

I couldn’t find a liquid foundation that matched me in the store so I figured I’d just use the She Concealer (P89) all over my face. I started buffing it in with the largest brush from the 6-piece Princessa Tool Kit (P99). Instant regrets because I did not sign up for a cat scratching!

This concealer smelled like a Pentel pen. And nope, the brush ain’t working out.

Aside from irritating my skin, the bristles kept falling off! I had to switch to the flat top brush I scored from my Divisoria haul to give the product a real shot at working. That said, the concealer wasn’t half bad at evening out my skin tone but I had to go in for a second layer. It was still far off the level of coverage I normally wear but I also didn’t want to cake up my face this early on.

What it looked like a single layer (left) and a second application (right)

Step 2: Powder

The L.A. Colors Mineral Pressed Powder (P149) turned out to be a patchy, blotchy, tanned nightmare!

But Sand is normally my color for everything!

Okay, so this is partly my fault because I picked up the wrong shade. In my defense, Sand is usually a light-medium shade with yellow undertones but this definitely wasn’t it. I had to blend like a mad woman to diffuse what looked like a messed-up tanning job. That took a while but I was able to save my canvas.

Blending is my cardio

Step 3: Blush

I swear on my grave that I just lightly dipped the brush on the She Bronzer Palette (P129) and it still came out like this. I even tapped the excess product off but here I am, looking like a perfectly ripe tomato. This blush did not want to blend and practically emphasized every single pore on my cheek! I tried to tone it back down with powder but it wasn’t working so I gave up five minutes later. I disturbed my concealing job to try to get this blush to look less patchy, to no avail.

What the hell have I done

Step 4: Contour

I was so done with that stubborn bronzer palette so I switched to the Beauty Treats Eyeshadow Palette (P99) for contouring. Luckily, there was a cool taupe shade which worked out for my nose.

My nose is more high maintenance than you can imagine

Step 5: Eyebrows

The She Eyebrow Gel (P99) turned out to be more dark brown with grey tones than jet black, which I was very thankful for! Using the tiny lip brush from the Princessa kit, I was able do a pretty decent job filling in my eyebrows.

I know it looks a little strong without eye makeup on, but just wait!

Step 6: Eyeshadow

The Beauty Treats Eyeshadow Palette (P99) left me unimpressed when I swatched it so I didn’t really have the highest hopes for the palette. I used the bottom right quad to shade my lids, and the She Eyebrow Gel for a subtle wing. I packed and packed and packed color repeatedly but this was the best pigmentation that the eyeshadow could offer. No surprise there.

Where's my pigmentation at?

Step 7: Falsies

A pair of fluttery lashes makes everything better, right? LMAO, wrong. The Revlon Double Wink Eyelashes (P129) were the heaviest and stiffest pair I’ve ever tried to put on (wait, are these authentic?). And I’ve had studded falsies before, mind you, complete with long, spidery fibers and tiny gem stones! The eyelashes came with a sticky band but no lash glue. Because I had a tough time aligning the band to my lash line, all the readjustments caused the adhesive to lose its stickiness. I was all out of lash glue and not to keen on having these on so I ended up not wearing the falsies after all.

Felt heavier than the curtains falling on a bad comedy act

Step 8: Lipstick

A nude lip has never failed me...until now. The formula of the L.A. Colors Lipstick (P99) refused to stick to my lips and got all over the place. I’ve never had lipstick this bad since 2003, when eight year old me thought it would be a good idea to buy P10 magic lipstick from a sari-sari store.

Verdict

Believe you me, I tried my damnedest to make this work but not a single product turned out to be worth being thrifty over. Go to the drugstore instead, or use your P1,000 to splurge on a high ticket item that’s Holy Grail material. Even if these are cheap, your money is better spent elsewhere.

Looks like a throwback photo to when I didn’t yet know how to put on makeup

Have you had a better beauty hunting experience at the Dollar Store? What products worked out for you? I want to hear your story!

One of the things we love about beauty is how brands are continuously pushing the envelope to come up with new ideas and better techniques. It’s pretty inspiring, plus you end up looking good as a result! This week, we discovered that our fave childhood cartoon has even more makeup collections, an easier way to finally find your foundation soulmate, and the year’s cheesiest holiday will be worth celebrating for singles and couples alike. Read on to get the deets on the hottest beauty news!

Image via strongindependentcatwoman.wordpress.com

Customized to perfection

Every makeup-lover knows just how real the struggle is when it comes to finding the perfect foundation. It’s hard enough to find one that matches your undertone and shade - you also have to consider your skin type and even acidity level as well! Knowing and finding your match is a skill on its own, and a truly gratifying experience when you finally achieve it. Well, what if we told you that you can now skip all that guesswork and buying duds with just a click of a button?

Lancôme set the beauty world abuzz with a video featuring their newest foundation. Le Teint Particulier is the first ever custom-fit foundation that not only promises to give your perfect shade match but the best formula for your skin type as well! Using a specially developed gadget, your face is scanned to determine your shade and skin type. The analysis is then fed into a mixing machine that will concoct a blend uniquely customized for you. If that isn’t awesome enough, you can even choose the coverage, finish and amount of moisturization! Unfortunately, it’s currently only available at select Nordstrom stores! 

Full story on Lancôme USA

Image via Beauty Almanac

Read my Lips(stick) Palette

Looks like 2017 is all about new trends in both fashion and beauty as luxury brand Tom Ford has just announced their sexiest lipstick creation yet: the Shade and Illuminate Lips! The whopping $60 duos feature six pairs of pure pigmented goodness that only a luxe brand like Tom Ford can pull off (at that price tag at least). Each palette is designed to help you sculpt the perfect pout - think classy ombre lips! The selection includes Nikita (warm toned red and deep brownish red), Tantalize (dusty rose and bright red), Automatic (nude and brown), Impulse (mauve pink and maroon), Possession (hot pink and baby pink), and Saboteur (purple and violet). If the formulas are just as good as their Lips & Boys Collection, we know these babies will be perfect to carry around!   

Full story on Refinery29

Image via Creer Beaute

Champion of justice and of our hearts!

If you grew up in the 90s, chances are this anime character was on your must-watch list. Now, our beloved Sailor Moon is back with even more goodies up her sleeve... or should we say gloves? Apart from getting us giddy with Romance Communicator Lip Glosses, the geniuses over at Creer Beaute have announced the latest addition to this fandom collectible: the Sailor Moon Prism Compact! The playfully kawaii compact contains four shimmery eye shadows (with one that can double up as a blush) for creating makeup looks that are out of this world! It includes a golden nude, a dark brown, a baby pink, and of course, a hot pink shade for that whimsical pop of color. Set to be released in March of this year, the compact will set you back $34 but hey, it seems worth it considering that it also doubles as a collector’s item. Check it out on the Creer Beaute website.

Full story on PopSugar

Image via Bustle

As luminous as the moon

Speaking of appeasing fandoms, even Japan’s luxury brands are getting on trend. To celebrate the 25th anniversary of the anime, Shiseido will also be releasing a two-piece Sailor Moon makeup collection for the MAQuillAGE line! Can we just talk about how insanely gorgeous these look?

The focus is all about creating gorgeous skin that looks bright and smooth. The Dramatic Skin Sensor Base UV is a lightweight liquid formula that creates a perfectly smooth and matte complexion, while the Dramatic Powder UV is a compact with light coverage. The set is about $61 and comes with a velvet pouch to keep the powder compact safely protected. It comes out in April but you can already pre-order!

Full story on PopSugar

Image via Instagram user @Guerlain

Guerlain gets it!

Known for combining luxe aesthetics with superior performance, Guerlain is once again changing the way we see cosmetics and beauty. The French brand has just tapped Hollywood actress bas the muse for their new fragrance! Brand master perfumer Thierry Wasser says that the brand creates fragrances based on the women that inspire them, so having the silver screen’s biggest siren as their latest icon will bring a whole new level of sexy to the upcoming scent. It’s been in the works since December 2015, and is expected to finally drop on March this year! Anyone else excited to smell like Angie? *raises hand*

Full story on Telegraph

Image via Instagram user @kyliecosmetics

From Kylie, with love

ERMERGERD. Even if you aren’t a fan of the flowers, the crowds, the traffic, and the cards, this will make you look forward to Valentine’s Day. Kylie Jenner is giving you big reasons to pucker up and batt your lashes! The makeup mogul has announced a limited-edition Valentine collection that includes two new lip kits, six mini matte liquid lipsticks, and a giant palette called Kylie’s Diary which includes her first ever blushes! There are also three mini collections that include two lippies and two exclusive eyeshadows each. Start your vigil at the Kylie website early because these are sure to sell out in seconds once it goes on sale on February 2, 3pm PST!

Full story on PopSugar

Image via Instagram user @jaclynhill

YASSSS, HONEY!

If you didn’t get that reference, don’t worry, we gotchu! YouTube queen Jaclyn Hill has just teased her most epic creation yet: a palette with Morphe Cosmetics! Although there are no pictures of the actual palette yet, Jaclyn has been busy teasing her fans on her social media accounts with the various shades and gorgeous finishes of the shadows she’s helping to create.

Image via Snapchat user @jaclynhill

Partnering up with a brand that is known for high quality at a low price, her Morphe palette will feature 35 shades that she has personally worked on since 2015. Expect warm browns, oranges, golds, turquoise, and tons of other Jaclyn-approved shades! The price will range from $23 to $40, and will launch some time in March. Who’s ready to recreate her signature warm brown smoky eye?

Full story on Glamour

The new year is moving so fast, don't you agree? We're already halfway past January and it has been insane at the PV HQ since Day 1. It's a good kind of insanity. We hope you've been enjoying yours as well! Anyway, it's time to announce the CoM for December and she is Missus C! Please email den [at] projectvanity.com on how you can claim your prize. ^_^ Congratulations!

This month, we're giving away the Make Up For Ever Artistic Essentials Holiday Kit which contains luxe sizes of the STEP1 Skin Equalizer Hydrating, Mini HD Powder, Excessive Lash Mascara, Aqua XL Eye Pencil in Black, Artist Plexi Gloss inside the metal box. We've also got the Origins Handy Hydrators Set which has the Ginger Hand Lotion, Comfort Mood™ Silky Vanilla Hand Cream, and Make A Difference™ Rejuvenating Hand Treatment. We also just had to add the Pink Sugar x Project Vanity These Lips Don't Lie Lip Crayon in Ready In Five!

So! It's the same mechanics as before. Every month, we'll pick a commenter on Project Vanity. She must be able to leave useful comments, such as sharing feedback about a product we reviewed. It can be a "thank you" comment, or maybe a really good question (we love good questions). A big factor would be the frequency of the reader's comments. Does she always visit? Does she read through the site? At the end of the day though, we always value quality more than quantity. Consistency is key. 

Comment away! Am hoping to hear from you. We'll pick the winner by the second week of February 2017. ^_^

My fragile beauty heart was shook when the Silisponge first broke the Internet. The promise of a smooth, airbrushed texture sans the maintenance troubles of a normal beauty sponge? While I love the Beauty Blender, I’d be lying if I said I didn’t find the task of cleaning it pretty demanding. The Silisponge hooked me in from the beginning, and review after review left me curious as to how it would perform. We managed to order a dupe from an online seller but we decided to test it with a fun, cheeky bonus: I picked up a similar-in-texture silicon nipple pad that I’ll also be trying out for makeup application. Let’s call it the boobie blender, as other YouTubers have been doing!   

My game plan is to apply foundation and concealer on the right side of my face with the Silisponge dupe, and the boobie blender for the other half. I used the Celeteque Dermocosmetics Photoready Foundation for my base as per usual, and concealed with TheSaem Cover Perfection Tip Concealer. Time to find out how these trending tools actually perform!

Round 1: Silisponge Dupe

The gel-like material of the sponge makes it poreless and not at all absorbent, so I expected that a small amount of product would go a long way. Starting with about a centavo-sized squirt of foundation, I first dabbed it on like I would with a Beauty Blender but it left obvious foundation stamps under my cheekbone and around the mouth area. I also found it more difficult to apply on tight nooks and crannies like the sides of my nostrils because the sponge is on the thick side and not so easily pliable.

See how the product looks "stamped" on my skin? I had to blend it out quite a bit to make application look more even

With experimentation, I found that a combination of dabbing and swiping movements work best with this tool. Here’s half of my face done after seven minutes of smoothing it out. I’m pretty impressed with how smooth it looks!  

Wearing foundation using the Silisponge dupe on the left!

Round 2: Boobie Blender

I used the same amount of product to do the other side of my face and followed the same dab-and-swipe technique. My first thought was about how weird it felt to be patting a nipple cover all over my face, but I soon realized that I actually liked this better than the Silisponge dupe! It’s softer and more pliable, so it’s more comfortable to use.

Since it was designed to cover nipples, it has curved surface rather than a flat one. As a result, I didn’t encounter the same stamping marks issue! Here’s how it looked seven minutes later--who would have thought I’d used a boobie blender?

Used the Silisponge dupe on the left, and the boobie blender on the right

Verdict

Call me a believer! It’s funny to me how people think of these things but guess what – they actually worked! The finish was pretty much identical but between the two, I’m putting my coin on the silicon nipple tape which I got from Bench for only P179 for a pair. The Silisponge dupe is priced at around P150 on Ebay, Shopee, and Facebook for a single sponge, plus you face the risk of streaking if you don’t blend out your foundation well.

That being said, neither one is on the same level of airbrushed finish that I get from the original Beauty Blender, so I’m not about to put that away anytime soon! It also takes me about five to seven minutes to do my full face with the BB so there’s a time-price tradeoff. These “dirty” sponges do put my heavily stained Beauty Blender to shame, though. A quick makeup wipe rundown got these back to looking brand new in just a few seconds!

I had so much fun putting these hot trendy items to the test! Have you ever tried the Silisponge or any of its dupes? If you’re considering trying this out, which one would you prefer to get?

I've been stalking Herbivore, a Seattle-based natural skincare brand, for months now. I love the minimalist packaging, the clever products, and their focus on the concept of sensorial beauty! I've wanted to try it for so long but have always been discouraged that I had to order it from the US. Thankfully, Sephora PH recently started carrying Herbivore products! I just had to get a few things, and one of them is the Sea Mist Coconut + Sea Salt Beach Wave Hair Mist (P1,027 at Sephora PH).

I was surprised by how hard I fell in love with the scent. It's an airy coconut scent with a dash of vanilla; it reminds me of cool drinks by a sunny beach. Granted it doesn't stay strong for very long, but I like that I get a whiff of it every once in a while during the day. It doesn't smell funky even when I sweat.

The gorgeous scent is not my favorite thing about the Sea Mist though. I love how it makes my hair look all textured and more volumized, just with a bit of water, aloe, and salt! It's amazing really. I was crazy about the Batiste Dry Shampoo last year - I even have backups - but I just didn't like how my scalp got so oily with it. Herbivore's Sea Mist does not make my scalp greasy even if I don't wash it off at night.

I'm also a huge fan of how this Herbivore mist can tame my frizzy hair without any stickiness or waxy feel.

Sorry that this is black and white! I hope to reveal this #FOTD next time haha. You can get a clear idea of how the Sea Mist texturizes my hair here.

The Sea Mist also doesn't leave a white residue like the average dry shampoo. If you spray too much in one area though, the salt might show a little bit when it dries. Definitely not as obvious as powdered shampoo!

Overall, the Herbivore Sea Mist smells fabulous and makes my hair look great. I would highly recommend it to anybody who wants to create more pronounced, messy (but not overly so) waves! It's a welcome break from my dry shampoo and volumizing mousse as it doesn't weigh down hair nor leave a hard-t0-clean residue on the scalp. Thoughts? Have you tried other salt sprays for your hair?