As much as we love talking about affordable finds here on Project Vanity, we do love to splurge and treat ourselves to a nice thing every now and then (okay maybe more often than that!). If you're thinking of getting something that'll make your skin look imperceptibly glowy and literally magically better, here are three powders you just might adore as much as I do!

Lunasol Skin Contrast Face Powder (P2,400 / 15 grams in Rustan's). This is a translucent, silky finishing powder that brings this soft glow to the skin. It has the ability to blur lines and make the skin's texture more even. I love using a tiny bit of it after I've applied setting powder - a little goes a long way!

Bobbi Brown Brightening Brick in Naked (P3,300 for 6.6 grams in Bobbi Brown stores and Rustan's) is not quite a highlighter, although it does have a healthy amount of shimmer. I like to dust a small amount all over my face to get a golden glow when the sun hits my skin juuuuust right! This is what I go for when my skin is too pale and flat as it is an instant brightener, no matter how dull my face is.

La Mer The Powder (P5,250 for 8 grams in Rustan's) is housed in a heavy frosted glass jar and does look every bit as luxe as its price tag. Same with the other powders, a small amount goes a long way! I'd say this is a combination of the powers of the Lunasol and Bobbi Brown powders I mentioned above; it has a translucent, smoothing base and has fine shimmer to brighten skin. I find it also quite useful when it comes to oil control, too!

Here are all the powders worn below: the leftmost is the Lunasol, the middle is Bobbi Brown in Naked, and the third photo is one where I wore the La Mer. If you've been wondering how my skin looks so photogenic, well, here's the open secret haha. Of course the foundation and concealer I wear makes up most of it, but that final powdery touch helps bring it all together to this level!

What's your go-to complexion enhancer?

The beauty assistants at makeup counters can be your friend or foe. In a best case scenario, they’re well-versed on the products they’re selling and notify you when the item you’ve been saving up for goes on sale. On the other hand, they can also make shopping at luxury stores more intimidating that it already is, and get hella annoying with the sales talk. Some push so hard that they make up #altfacts just to convince you to make the purchase, even though there’s just no way in the world that the product would work for you. While we know they’re just trying to make a living, we wish they’d stop saying these things! 

“Bagay sa inyo kahit anong lip color kasi maputi kayo!” (All lip colors look good on you because your skin is fair!)

Yes, you are free to wear ANY lipstick color you want regardless of your skin tone, but not all colors will suit you. Your skin color and undertones all play a part in determining what lip colors will flatter you best, and which ones will look a little weird. Strong hints of orange can make your teeth look yellow, while certain nudes can make you appear pale and sickly.

“Safe po ito kahit sa bata, natural lahat ng ingredients!” (This product only has natural ingredients, it's even safe for kids!)

If you have sensitive skin, or you’re trying to be more environmentally responsible with your makeup choices, “natural” will draw you in like a moth to the light. But while the product may be made from 100% natural ingredients, that doesn’t guarantee that it's safe for you. You may be allergic even to natural ingredients, or experience negative interactions with other products in your routine. So when in doubt, do as Sarah Lahbati says, and check the label!

“Ito po gamit ko ngayon!” (It's what I'm wearing right now!)

Before buying anything beauty-related, we take care to look for reviews (here in Project Vanity, of course!) and get personal recommendations from people we trust. Because SA’s are expected to know all about their brand, we tend to give weight to their opinion as well. That lipstick or blush may look nice on her but look off on you. And yes, it’s entirely possible she’s actually wearing a different product.

“Dapat lighter yung color na kunin niyo kasi ‘pag oily skin, acidic!” (Get a lighter foundation shade, since if you're oily, you have acidic skin.)

Oily or dry, our skin is naturally acidic, thanks to a natural acid mantle that protects our skin from irritants. You may notice that your base makeup changes color after a few minutes of being applied to your skin, and it’s only to be expected as formula adjusts to the unique conditions of our skin. So before you commit to buying a skin-tone adaptive shade, have the SA apply the product on jaw line, and wait an hour or so to see how it will look when oxidized. If you have time, it's best to apply the foundation on your whole face and walk around for a few hours to see how it suits your skin.

“Bagay sa inyo!” (It looks great on you!)

Flattery can go a long way, but don't let it pressure you into buying something you're not that sure about. It's your money and more than anyone else you know how hard you've worked for it; don't be shy and walk away if the product doesn't look or feel right to you. SAs are there to help you out with whatever you need. Even so, shouldn't feel like you owe them anything because they were just literally doing their job.

What annoying things have SAs said so that you’d buy their products? Share your experiences with us at the comments below!

Admit it: wearing sunscreen often feels like a chore. You know why you have to wear it on your face as well as all over your body everyday but - and here comes the drop - most days it's a hassle. The greasiness of the average drugstore high-SPF sunscreen is too much to deal with plus re-applying is simply inconvenient if you're already out of the house. I get it. But y'all have no excuse now because Bioré, the PV Team's HG sunscreen brand, just came out with two bombshells for face and body use: the Aqua Rich Watery Gel SPF50 PA++++ (P460) and the UV Perfect Spray SPF50 PA++++ (P299)!

The Aqua Rich Watery Gel SPF50 PA++++ is similar to the Watery Essence in terms of its light scent and weightless, watery texture. The main difference is that it has a slightly more opaque appearance and it has the addition of what Bioré calls "aqua micro capsules" that burst for added moisture and cooling feeling. Once the Gel is spread out, I don't notice any difference from the finish and feel of the Essence. Is it more moisturizing? I can't really tell; the gel evaporates very quickly due to its alcohol base. I can say though that I don't find it drying on my normal body skin.

It bears mentioning that the gel has 90 grams for P460 while the Essence has 50 grams for P420. In other words, the Gel is actually cheaper than the Essence. But is there any difference? This blog post does a detailed comparison in terms of ingredients (spoiler: they're almost identical). The Gel apparently is a combination of both chemical and physical UV blockers (due to its titanium dioxide content, which explains its slight opacity) while the Essence employs purely chemical sunscreen actives. 

So which is better to buy? The Essence I feel offers a bit more moisture than the Gel; it makes my combination facial skin feel more moist granted that it is heavy on the alcohol, so I would use it alone in the morning. If I were to use the Gel, I would use a separate moisturizer underneath. So it depends on what you need! If you're dry, however, you definitely have to wear moisturizer first under either of these sunscreens.

As it happens, both the 2015-2016 Essence and Gel formulations are discontinued to make way for the 2017 formulation (the one in the deep blue gradient tube). No word yet on when this will come in the PH but I had my mom, who's in Osaka currently, buy me the new Essence. So I'll let you know how that goes! In any case these 2015-2016 versions are still amazing formulas that are easily accessible to all of us. I would use them everyday!

Next up is the Bioré UV Perfect Spray SPF50 PA++++. Ohhh I love this stuff! This is a fast-drying aerosol sunscreen that sprays out a fine, fine mist. It's perfect for touching up your sunscreen in the middle of the day as it's super fast to use; no need to spread it around with your hands as the mist provides even coverage on the skin. It can be used on both the face and the body, but as I am a bit more sensitive on my face, I would prefer to limit this on my body for now.

This sunscreen spray dries up almost instantly - seriously, it feels like nothing on my skin once the liquid has evaporated! If you're sick of sunscreens that feel sticky once you start sweating up a storm, this is the perfect solution. And guess what, it's only P299! I heard from the Bioré team though that this is available for a limited time only - until April or May, while stocks last. Excuse me while I elbow you guys out of my way. I NEED LIKE TEN OF THESE.

Btw - the one we have in the PH right now is the 2017 repackaged version. I think it's the same formula but the can and cardboard cover are different.

Anyway, last Saturday, I got to put these two Bioré sunscreens to the test when the team took us out on a tour of Manila. We got to visit Fort Santiago and the Rizal Museum inside its walls, as well as San Agustin Church. I love history - I have a Political Science degree - so I loved hearing about stories of daring battles, bloody wars, and witnessing beautiful architecture. It was all thanks to our tour guide, Kuya Mar, who narrated everything with such passion and a real commitment to educate the present generation about its past.

Thank you for holding such a fun event, Bioré and Digify! ^_^ Let me know what y'all think about these new drops from Bioré

One of my pet peeves is when someone says, "You're beautiful just the way you are. You don't need all this makeup." While I do believe that most of us don't need to wear as much paint as we think, it's also entirely our prerogative to express ourselves the way we wish. For others, makeup is also the quickest path to self-confidence - is it false confidence? You know, if you were able to do more because you had your game face on, who's to say that your self-esteem is a lie? It's like caffeine. The energy burst might only be temporary but you still finished what needed to be done.

Women who love makeup tend to be judged for being shallow, stupid, and vain. I know, we shouldn't even still be having this conversation in this day and age but that misconceived association still exists. The amount of makeup a woman puts on is subject to harsh public opinion as much as the clothes she wears or how high her heels are! It can feel oppressive and cause us to feel unsafe with the way we dress. Hopefully we can change that by calling out those who want to limit us.

While that change might take a while, I think we can also refine the way we think about ourselves and our relationship with beauty. I feel like there's also a lot of pressure from other women, from brands, and from the media to buy, buy, and buy things so we can feel "perfect". Even so-called "empowering" messages that tell us we're beautiful "just the way we are" and that we don't have to change a thing feel empty - some of us can't force ourselves to believe that just because a soap brand said it. It just doesn't work that way.

For me, makeup is that bridge between who you think you are and who you want to become. It's a conversation you hold with other people as you signal certain things about yourself. For example, red lipstick makes you strong and bold; eyeliner makes your eyes look more piercing, intense; eyebrows enhance your facial expressions and frame your face to look as kind or as fierce as you want. 

Makeup is also a conversation you hold with yourself. You know, more than anybody else, who you are. You know what you're capable of and what your dreams are. I think makeup is a useful tool to take that image you have inside of yourself and bring it out for all the world to see. It also allows you to change what you don't like about yourself and enhance what you do like; it allows you to navigate your ever-changing sense of self.

I obviously think about this a lot, haha. It's my job to talk about makeup and skincare but it's more than that, for me. I find meaning in how makeup can empower women to believe. It was never just about how pretty a lipstick is; it's about what it makes you feel!

Anyway, I shot a video with Sephora to show you guys how my everyday work look is like, and more thoughts of what makeup means to me. ^_^ I hope you enjoy watching!

If you're curious, I used the following products:

Face Base: I mixed the Guerlain Lingerie de Peau and the Burberry Cashmere Foundation then concealed spots with the Becca Concealing Cream. Finally, I set everything with the Cover FX Matte Setting Powder.

Eyebrows: I used eyeshadow this time for softer, differed brows. I applied Charmed, I'm Sure from the Too Faced Sweet Peach Palette as the filler shade, then added contrast where needed with a darker color, the Beans Are White eyeshadow from the Zoeva Cocoa Blend Palette.

Eyeshadow: I like having matte eyeshadow for work engagements as it allows me to softly contour my eyes in a non-distracting way! It was the Too Faced Sweet Peach Palette all the way here; Georgia on the lids, Puree on the crease, and Delectable on the outer v.

Eye Definition: I lined close to my lids with the Pixi Endless Silky Eye Pencil and then pumped up my lashes with the Eyeko Fat Brush Mascara.

Cheeks and Contour: I contoured first with the Cover FX Contour Kit, using the darkest cream shade, then layered the Too Faced Sweet Peach Glow Kit on top for a natural peachy flush.

Lips: Can't go wrong with a natural nude-y lip, I think! I adore the way the Too Faced Sweet Peach Gloss in Papa Don't Peach looks on me. 

And that is that. ^_^ Hope you have an International Women's Day full of new ideas and realizations! It would be amazing if you can share as well what makes you feel #boldlybeautiful and tag @sephoraph to let them know what you feel.

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! 

One constant source of thrills in my life is bargain beauty hunting. Whether it’s scoring an amazing value kit, snatching up my wish list items on sale, or simply discovering true makeup gems from the drugstore – I’m always up for the challenge of stretching my money to get the best makeup deals. While I’ve had my fair share of losses in playing this game, the high of a solid win is a joy unlike any. This time, I flexed my shopping skills in the fast-expanding Korean-inspired store Mumuso to see which items are worth the money. Here’s what my P1,000 bill brought to the makeup table, and what I think of my affordable loot!

Swatches from top: eyebrow pencil, mascara, eyeliner

Charming Matte Smooth Black Liquid Eyeliner (P99)

Swatching this liquid eyeliner on my hand for the first time, my interest was piqued after seeing how clean the drawn lines were. The formula doesn’t bleed at all although it was more opaque and jet black on my arm than on my eyes. Still, given the solid wear time – 8 hours with minimal fading, I’d say this is a YAASSS! The fine felt tip applicator with a long handle is also ideal for drawing even the tiniest line.

Permanent Beauty Delicate Pencil #3 (P99)

I’m always looking to compare the PV-favorite Daiso eyebrow pencil with products in the same price range. I’m happy to report that Mumuso’s formula is just as nice if not better because of the longer wear time. This pencil is a definite YAASSS! It comes in three shades  (black, gray, and brown), and the brown shade I picked up is pleasantly a more ashy brown compared to Daiso’s shades, which have more reddish hues.  

Eyeliner brush and mascara brush

Secret Lengthening Mascara (P149)

The wand initially looked like a dupe of the Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara but all comparisons ended there. This mascara was painfully lacking in all departments, especially compared to my current favorite Covergirl Supersizer. As cheap as this is, I say PASS and get yourself one of Maybelline’s awesome and affordable mascaras instead.  

 Vitality 4-Color Eyeshadow (P149)

The formulation of Mumuso’s eyeshadows reminded me a lot of Ever Bilena’s Pink Palette. That said, the color payoff and blendability of each shade went above and beyond my expectations for the price! I have been reaching for this nonstop for quick and easy 3-minute eye looks. With a good primer, the deeper shades would stay on all day long on my crease and outer V, although I find that the lighter shades fade significantly after around 4 hours. I just wish that the gorgeous gold shade was available in a bigger pan. Still, this is a STRONG YAASSSSSSS for all you budget beauty hunters!

Swatches from top: four eyeshadow shades and three-tone lipstick

Three-Tone Lipstick (P199)

I initially classified the gradient lipstick from Mumuso as a YAASSS because I was pleasantly surprised by the easy, juicy gradient I was able to achieve but I feel like it’s hardly worth 200 bucks. While it looked great on me, it smelled and tasted like actual soap. It also slipped and slid quite a bit, and couldn’t last longer than a few hours on me. This is a PASS.

Brand new and after just a few uses

Massage Granules Cleansing Brush (P149)

I thought I was going to be a fan of this cleansing brush because of how soft it felt. After a few uses however, it had become permanently stained from washing away traces of makeup and waterproof mascara. I’m not really sure I can count on a tool to keep my skin clean when it can’t even keep itself clean so it’s a PASS for this.

120 Pieces Pocket-Type Cosmetic Cotton Pads (P99)

Cute pink color but these are perhaps the scratchiest cotton pads I’ve tried. PASS and go to Miniso instead for better quality cotton pads!

Final Bill: P943 for seven items! Even though four out of the seven items were duds, the three eye makeup products totally impressed me! I used the eyeshadow, eyeliner, brow pencil, mascara, and lip color in this #MOTD and I’m still digging how rad it looked.

Have you tried anything else from Mumuso? How did it fare for you?

When Pink Sugar first burst into the local makeup scene in 2015, word about how great their products are quickly spread in the beauty community. Matte liquid lipstick was just beginning to trend, and the Sugar Tint Lip & Cheek Tints (P349) were right on the money as a high-performing budget-friendly option. The maiden color line included some daring shades like Purple Pleasure, which became our editor Liz’s favorite.

The second wave brought in some very pretty nudes, including the best-selling Queen Bee, which looks great across all skin tones. I got myself Sugar & Spice from the third collection released for Fall last year, and it works great as contour on the go! This summer, Pink Sugar came out with three on-trend shades that will have you looking perfectly beach-ready. And at just P349 each, you’d definitely want to get a shade or two or all three!

From top:Pillow Talk, Love Bug, Slay

Pillow Talk is described as a Warm Brown on the Pink Sugar Cosmetics site. It has just the slightest red mixed in that makes the color look quite natural on my cheeks. On my lips, it shows up as a lighter version of the still-trending brown lipstick. I find myself reaching for this when I’m going for a more polished look. The shade also works for an earthy version of the monochromatic makeup look.

Love Bug is my personal favorite of the three new shades. It is the lightest in terms of saturation and shows up the brightest on my skin tone. Pink Sugar describes it as Pink Coco and it does show up as such on swatches. On my face though, it pulls on the yellowness of my skin and appears more like a brighter pink with a hint of coral. It is such a lovely shade and I’ve been using it everywhere!

Slay is a Dirty Blue Pink that is the most cool-toned of the three. I like to wear it out when I want to make more of a statement in terms of color. I also like using it for draping paired with Love Bug. The shade is striking yet not screamingly so, which makes it a versatile lip for any occasion.

I find that the three new Pink Sugar Sugar Tints live up to the hype of the entire line. They still have the same sweet scent that I’ve come to love and associate with the Sugar Tints. The new colors also look as lovely on the cheeks as they do on the lips! Be careful when applying though as a little goes a long way - a dot or two for each cheek should do the trick.

The trademark mousse-y texture of the Sugar Tints is something that I’ve also come to appreciate. You can wear it for hours, even for consecutive days, and they won’t dry out your lips like other liquid lipsticks do. The color payoff is excellent as well. Just don’t forget to exfoliate your lips beforehand so you won’t have any issue during application. I especially like how they make my constantly dry lips look healthy and plush. The color also fades evenly and can last through a meal or two; just refresh by pursing your lips together and you’re good to go.

What is your favorite Pink Sugar Sugar Tint shade? Do you use it on the lips or on the cheeks or on both?

Pink Sugar is available at pinksugar.com.ph and in SM Beauty and Watsons stores.

The future is here, PV Girls! This has got to be one of the most futuristic-themed roundups we’ve ever done. Online shopping has gotten even easier with the launch of a new mobile app, and even makeup newbies can now apply falsies thanks to a magnetic makeover. We’ve also spotted a new collection of metallic bullet lipsticks that will have you wishing for the days to go by faster! Dare to read on and explore the future of beauty with us!

Images via BeautyMNL

Click Bae

Makeup shopping should really be considered a sport: it’s honestly a challenge to be on top of restocks, online sales, shipping perks, and midnight releases! If you’re keeping a close eye to get the best deals, the newly released BeautyMNL Mobile App allows you to easily keep track wherever you go. With an easy-to-use interface and handy search function, the app makes it easy to browse through hundreds of beauty products with just a few flicks of a finger. There are also exclusive in-app promos while giving you access to your preferred payment options, just like in their desktop site.

The app is currently only available on iOS so we hope they also offer it for Android users soon. ‘Til then, best to take advantage of their Free Shipping offer for purchases made using the app. Happy shopping, everyone!

Full story on BeautyMNL

Image via Zalora

Be Their Guest

With the wait for Disney’s latest masterpiece finally over, our excitement over Beauty and the Beast has reached new heights with the official launch of #HappySkinXBeautyandTheBeast! We first heard about the collab in February, and now Happy Skin’s Limited Edition Beauty and the Beast Matte Lip Kit (P1,199) is available at Happy Skin counters and at Zalora! The gloriously dusty rose shade of the liner and lipstick set is made even more wearable with the infusion of Cupuaçu Butter in both formulas, offering a deeply moisturizing treatment for the lips. You can also grab the liquid lipstick on its own for P699 so make sure to snag this in time for your movie date.

Images via Peaceful Dumpling

The Future of False Lashes

Even as we master contouring and drawing the perfect winged eye well enough to do them everyday, putting on a pair of falsies can feel like too much trouble and thus best reserved for special occasions. But what if you could just clip them on with ease? Magnetic lashes are a fascinating innovation that need no glue or adhesive to apply; the magnets simply stick to each other and give amazingly lush lashes that promise to last so much longer than normal falsies! One Two Cosmetics currently offers four types of magnetic lashes: Original ($69), which are your standard lashes; Bold ($69) or thicker, more dramatic lashes; Accent ($59), which are small bunches of lashes; and Filler ($59) or thin strips of lashes.

As intimidating as they may seem, these lashes won’t hurt your lids. You simply “clip” them on by placing one half on top of your lash line and the other just below it, sandwiching your actual lashes in between them. It’s very nifty though I’m not sure about how comfortable they are but if you’re tired of having curling, waiting for the glue to dry, and carefully positioning falsies, this might be something you’d want to give a go. Purchase a pair over on the One Two Cosmetics website.

Full story on PopSugar

Images via Allure

#CoupleGoals with the Ultimate Pair

Is it just me, or are lip kits becoming a *thing* in the beauty world? From local faves to international standouts, the pairing of liner and lippie has been so in-demand that it’s got us wondering just how many other brands will debut similar liquid lip-liner combos. One that’s caught our eyes and possibly captured our hearts: Urban Decay’s The Ultimate Pair ($22). A kit with a full-size Vice Lipstick and a 24/7 Glide-On Lip Pencil, this pair means serious business. It’s currently available in four shade duos: Firebird & Jilted (hot pink), Bad Blood (true red), Ex-Girlfriend & Naked2 (cool toned nude), and Blackmail (deep berry plum). You’ll want to grab your own kit over on the Ulta website before it runs out! I’m hoping these babies land on Sephora and Philippine shores soon, too, cause truth be told: I NEED BLACKMAIL!

Full story on Refinery29

Images via Temptalia

Dishin’ Out Some Heavy Metal(lic)

What’s another fun way to customize your pout? How about adding some metallic goodness to it! MAC Cosmetics has entered the game of metallic lipsticks, with a bit of a twist. Unlike the usual metallic liquid lipstick, MAC is bringing back the OG bullet form lippie with the MAC Metallic Lips line! Just check out that foil-matte finish.  

Images via Temptalia

Retailing at $17 each with 18 shades to choose from, we’re definitely looking into Foiled Rose (rosy pink) and Cold Front (periwinkle blue), which looks very similar to the Unicorn lipstick trend. There’s even Zerocool (emerald green) and Nightly Ritual (midnight blue) for more adventurous lipstick lovers! The lighter shades look like they can even double up as cream highlighters, giving it potential to become a multi-purpose product. The new lippes go on sale on March 23 on the MAC website!

Full story on Allure

Images via Bustle

Smooth as Velvet

She’s basically come out with everything but the kitchen sink, yet somehow continues to surprise and delight us! 19-year old makeup mogul Kylie Jenner is at it again with yet another product that tons of us are going to be stocking up on: the Velvet Lip Kits! With a new demi-matte formulation and gorgeous shades, these new kits are Kylie’s latest baby since her Kylighters. Pegged to be more comfortable than her super matte formula, these liquid lippies offer a velvety effect similar to combining her matte lippie and gloss. Choose from Rosie (mauve pink), Harmony (old rose), Charm (pinky nude), and Dazzle (reddish nude). They’ve just dropped today so if you missed them, better watch out for when stocks will be available next!

Full story on Bustle

Many of us are familiar with double cleansing, but how about double moisturizing? Just the thought of it can make us flinch, what with the humid year-round summer weather we have to contend with on a daily basis. But double moisturizing is not just about slathering on two moisturizers on top of each other in a slap dash fashion - Kanebo's double moisturizers are designed to offer maximum moisture with a watery texture and supple-skin feel.

The logic is this: the more our skin retains moisture, the less likely it is to show age and damage over time. So how do moisturizers work? Humectants attract moisture to the skin - examples of ingredients used for this function are glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides. Occlusives, such as silicone, mineral oil, and petrolatum (petroleum jelly), seal that moisture into the skin and keep it from evaporating. Emollients smooth the surface of the skin and help repair it; oils rich in fatty acids make for great emollients. Some of them can also function as occlusives. 

A good moisturizer would have all of these functions, but I've observed that it can either feel too heavy/greasy or light/not moisturizing enough. Double moisturizing, the way the Japanese designed it, gets a good balance going - there's a lot of moisture so skin is instantly supple, but it doesn't feel thick at all.

Kanebo's suggested routine involves a lotion and an emulsion. The lotion is typically more fluid and often clear or translucent, while the emulsion looks like a typical cream (albeit more runny in texture). First, you apply the lotion, which functions as a humectant. Then, you follow with the emulsion, which then acts as both an occlusive and an emollient.

I've been using the Kanebo Moisture Flow Lotion  (P3,000 /180ml) and Bouncing Emulsion (P3,600 /100ml) for months now and I am very pleased with the results and super light feel. I've actually been double moisturizing for years now (before with a serum + moisturizer, then later on with a lotion/essence + emulsion) but I can still see that my skin has become more supple and bouncy. My oiliness is level, as well - there's less grease during the day. These are maintenance skincare so I can't say they have particularly powerful actives, but my skin loves the balance. I just use a mask, serum, or facial oil when I feel like my skin needs a boost!

I have to say that the mild ylang-ylang and tea flower scent is amazing. Ahh, one could only wish to create such beautifully scented skincare! (It's harder than it sounds honestly.)

There's a Rich version of the Lotion and Emulsion under the extensive Kanebo skincare line, something you should consider if your skin is dry. As for my combi skin, it's pretty happy with the regular version.

I recommend you guys try out double moisturizing if you haven't yet. Doesn't matter if you're oily or dry as choosing the right products can help bring your skin to heights you didn't know were possible. ^_^ If you're ready to splurge on skincare, I say go for Kanebo! Actually the prices are not too bad considering you get 100-180ml of product per bottle. Most high-end moisturizers are just at 30-50ml! I have other things from the Kanebo line that I'm excited to try. I just need to pace my skincare use these days but you should see a review in a few months! Let me know what you think, as always.

Kanebo is available in Rustan's.

Ingredients List:

 Kanebo Bouncing Emulsion

Water (Aqua), Dipropylene Glycol, Dimethicone, Glycerin, Squalane, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Isocetyl Myristate, Stearic Acid, Cetearyl Alcohol, Ceteth-6, Steareth-2, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Cholesterol, Carbomer, Butylene Glycol, Disodium EDTA, Fragrance (Parfum), Nasturtium Officinale Extract, Ethyl Glucoside, Eriobotrya Japonica Leaf Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin

Kanebo Moisture Flow Lotion

Water (Aqua), Dipropylene Glycol, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, PEG-20, Maltitol, Methyl Gluceth-20, Sodium Citrate, PEG-11 Methyl Ether Dimethicone, PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Citric Acid, Fragrance (Parfum), Sodium Hyaluronate, Nasturtium Officinale Extract, Ethyl Glucoside, Lysolecithin, Eriobotrya Japonica Leaf Extract, Phenoxyethanol

Whether you’re worried about having makeup melt off your face or looking for a way to minimize the appearance of your pores, adding a primer to your routine can literally change your game face. There are as many kinds as there are different skin concerns; you need to just find The One to forever change your mind about never skipping this step again! I’ve personally been on the hunt for a new one to try so I turned to my fellow PV girls to give me the lowdown on their favorite face primers and why they can’t live without them.

Liz: Face primers should do two things for me. They have to enhance the appearance of my skin and help later layers of my makeup adhere better. That's why I love tinted and illuminating primers since they make my skin look fantastic and actually reduce my need for more coverage! In rotation right now is the Kanebo Glow Primer, which has no coverage but just brightens my skin instantly; the Benefit Porefessional Pore Minimizing Makeup, a watery tint for the t-zone; and the Laneige BB Cushion Pore Control for a matte coverage that sticks to my skin in a thin, lightweight layer.

Karla: It may be a recent discovery but the BECCA Backlight Priming Filter is my HG PRIMER!!! I never used to use primers because I always thought they were just an extra step and a "princess product" but OMG I WAS SO WRONG! My makeup has never looked more radiant and fresh, and boy, does it last all day! Whenever I have events and need to wear a full face of makeup that I can be confident about lasting all day (and not budging), I use the BECCA primer. It makes even the most full coverage and matte foundations look more natural and glowy (without being oily) and it doesn't break me out! ❤

Katsy: I use the Laura Mercier Foundation Primer for normal days where I know that I just need to extend my makeup a bit. While it does the job quite well, I still reach for the MUFE HD Primer for heavy-duty days. I honestly used to think that primers were just an extra step that's not really needed but after starting to use them, I could really see and appreciate the effect. I still have multiple primers for different purposes and I love mixing them up but these two are my go-to’s right now.

Claire: My go-to all-over face primer is Banila Co. Prime Primer Purity (for sensitive skin). It has a greenish cast that color corrects my redness! It also gives a brightening blur effect and extends makeup wear. To fill in large pores and lines, I also use the Innisfree No-Sebum Blur Primer alone when I feel like my redness is under control. It looks and feels exactly like Benefit's The Porefessional but has a slight herbal scent similar to their famous No-Sebum loose powder.

Gett: I only started using it recently but the Aritaum Pore Master Sebum Control Primer blew me away with how nice my skin looked after application. It made my pores vanish! The oil control is decent, lasting 5 to 6 hours before I get oily. Korean beauty bloggers say this is a dupe to the Benefit Porefessional (haven't tried it yet) but I'm super sold, especially considering how cheap this one is.

Stacie: I got Etude House's Face Blur a little less than a year ago and I’ve been reaching for it so often that I am already running out! It can hide my pores and skin unevenness, making my skin look almost completely flawless. It also has SPF so it can boost my sunscreen protection!

Kim: Before I started using primer religiously, I would always complain to friends about how I don't get as much wear time from my makeup. Murad's Oil Control Mattifier totally changed that! Not only do I stay matte for longer, I find that it also helps extend my makeup wear time by around 2 to 4 hours.

Have you tried any of these primers? Which one would you recommend or want to try out next?

If you hang out at Althea long enough, you'll feel compelled to buy random Korean things that you probably don't need but looks crazy enough that you just have to try them. One of the things I spotted is this funky-looking tool called the It's My Carve Foundation Brush (P180). It's an incredibly dense yet soft brush that is designed to fit into the contours of your face so you can "carve" your cheekbones to perfection.

It looked sketch on the site, truly, but it was cheap enough that I didn't mind taking a chance on it. Surprisingly it performed better than I thought it would! It's super soft with the hairs packed tight so that it can easily blend out cream makeup. That curve in the middle? It hugs round surfaces on the face well so one sweep covers a big area evenly.

This is perfect for cream contour and blush. If you like drawing lines all over your face then blending them out, the It's My Carve is a novel yet thoroughly useful tool. I've washed this a few times and I didn't notice any major hair fall out or running dye. For P180, this definitely exceeded all my expectations! 

I do recommend checking out the other brushes from the It's My brand. There's a lot to see, and almost all of them are under 200 bucks. Crazy. I wonder how they make money! Rhetorical question, of course I know how - super low production cost, maybe only 10% of the retail price? - but it's hard to imagine with the quality they offer.

Let me know what you think, as always!

Photography by Samantha Gonzales

One of my pet peeves is when someone says, "You're beautiful just the way you are. You don't need all this makeup." While I do believe that most of us don't need to wear as much paint as we think, it's also entirely our prerogative to express ourselves the way we wish. For others, makeup is also the quickest path to self-confidence - is it false confidence? You know, if you were able to do more because you had your game face on, who's to say that your self-esteem is a lie? It's like caffeine. The energy burst might only be temporary but you still finished what needed to be done.

Women who love makeup tend to be judged for being shallow, stupid, and vain. I know, we shouldn't even still be having this conversation in this day and age but that misconceived association still exists. The amount of makeup a woman puts on is subject to harsh public opinion as much as the clothes she wears or how high her heels are! It can feel oppressive and cause us to feel unsafe with the way we dress. Hopefully we can change that by calling out those who want to limit us.

While that change might take a while, I think we can also refine the way we think about ourselves and our relationship with beauty. I feel like there's also a lot of pressure from other women, from brands, and from the media to buy, buy, and buy things so we can feel "perfect". Even so-called "empowering" messages that tell us we're beautiful "just the way we are" and that we don't have to change a thing feel empty - some of us can't force ourselves to believe that just because a soap brand said it. It just doesn't work that way.

For me, makeup is that bridge between who you think you are and who you want to become. It's a conversation you hold with other people as you signal certain things about yourself. For example, red lipstick makes you strong and bold; eyeliner makes your eyes look more piercing, intense; eyebrows enhance your facial expressions and frame your face to look as kind or as fierce as you want. 

Makeup is also a conversation you hold with yourself. You know, more than anybody else, who you are. You know what you're capable of and what your dreams are. I think makeup is a useful tool to take that image you have inside of yourself and bring it out for all the world to see. It also allows you to change what you don't like about yourself and enhance what you do like; it allows you to navigate your ever-changing sense of self.

I obviously think about this a lot, haha. It's my job to talk about makeup and skincare but it's more than that, for me. I find meaning in how makeup can empower women to believe. It was never just about how pretty a lipstick is; it's about what it makes you feel!

Anyway, I shot a video with Sephora to show you guys how my everyday work look is like, and more thoughts of what makeup means to me. ^_^ I hope you enjoy watching!

If you're curious, I used the following products:

Face Base: I mixed the Guerlain Lingerie de Peau and the Burberry Cashmere Foundation then concealed spots with the Becca Concealing Cream. Finally, I set everything with the Cover FX Matte Setting Powder.

Eyebrows: I used eyeshadow this time for softer, differed brows. I applied Charmed, I'm Sure from the Too Faced Sweet Peach Palette as the filler shade, then added contrast where needed with a darker color, the Beans Are White eyeshadow from the Zoeva Cocoa Blend Palette.

Eyeshadow: I like having matte eyeshadow for work engagements as it allows me to softly contour my eyes in a non-distracting way! It was the Too Faced Sweet Peach Palette all the way here; Georgia on the lids, Puree on the crease, and Delectable on the outer v.

Eye Definition: I lined close to my lids with the Pixi Endless Silky Eye Pencil and then pumped up my lashes with the Eyeko Fat Brush Mascara.

Cheeks and Contour: I contoured first with the Cover FX Contour Kit, using the darkest cream shade, then layered the Too Faced Sweet Peach Glow Kit on top for a natural peachy flush.

Lips: Can't go wrong with a natural nude-y lip, I think! I adore the way the Too Faced Sweet Peach Gloss in Papa Don't Peach looks on me. 

And that is that. ^_^ Hope you have an International Women's Day full of new ideas and realizations! It would be amazing if you can share as well what makes you feel #boldlybeautiful and tag @sephoraph to let them know what you feel.

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! 

One constant source of thrills in my life is bargain beauty hunting. Whether it’s scoring an amazing value kit, snatching up my wish list items on sale, or simply discovering true makeup gems from the drugstore – I’m always up for the challenge of stretching my money to get the best makeup deals. While I’ve had my fair share of losses in playing this game, the high of a solid win is a joy unlike any. This time, I flexed my shopping skills in the fast-expanding Korean-inspired store Mumuso to see which items are worth the money. Here’s what my P1,000 bill brought to the makeup table, and what I think of my affordable loot!

Swatches from top: eyebrow pencil, mascara, eyeliner

Charming Matte Smooth Black Liquid Eyeliner (P99)

Swatching this liquid eyeliner on my hand for the first time, my interest was piqued after seeing how clean the drawn lines were. The formula doesn’t bleed at all although it was more opaque and jet black on my arm than on my eyes. Still, given the solid wear time – 8 hours with minimal fading, I’d say this is a YAASSS! The fine felt tip applicator with a long handle is also ideal for drawing even the tiniest line.

Permanent Beauty Delicate Pencil #3 (P99)

I’m always looking to compare the PV-favorite Daiso eyebrow pencil with products in the same price range. I’m happy to report that Mumuso’s formula is just as nice if not better because of the longer wear time. This pencil is a definite YAASSS! It comes in three shades  (black, gray, and brown), and the brown shade I picked up is pleasantly a more ashy brown compared to Daiso’s shades, which have more reddish hues.  

Eyeliner brush and mascara brush

Secret Lengthening Mascara (P149)

The wand initially looked like a dupe of the Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara but all comparisons ended there. This mascara was painfully lacking in all departments, especially compared to my current favorite Covergirl Supersizer. As cheap as this is, I say PASS and get yourself one of Maybelline’s awesome and affordable mascaras instead.  

 Vitality 4-Color Eyeshadow (P149)

The formulation of Mumuso’s eyeshadows reminded me a lot of Ever Bilena’s Pink Palette. That said, the color payoff and blendability of each shade went above and beyond my expectations for the price! I have been reaching for this nonstop for quick and easy 3-minute eye looks. With a good primer, the deeper shades would stay on all day long on my crease and outer V, although I find that the lighter shades fade significantly after around 4 hours. I just wish that the gorgeous gold shade was available in a bigger pan. Still, this is a STRONG YAASSSSSSS for all you budget beauty hunters!

Swatches from top: four eyeshadow shades and three-tone lipstick

Three-Tone Lipstick (P199)

I initially classified the gradient lipstick from Mumuso as a YAASSS because I was pleasantly surprised by the easy, juicy gradient I was able to achieve but I feel like it’s hardly worth 200 bucks. While it looked great on me, it smelled and tasted like actual soap. It also slipped and slid quite a bit, and couldn’t last longer than a few hours on me. This is a PASS.

Brand new and after just a few uses

Massage Granules Cleansing Brush (P149)

I thought I was going to be a fan of this cleansing brush because of how soft it felt. After a few uses however, it had become permanently stained from washing away traces of makeup and waterproof mascara. I’m not really sure I can count on a tool to keep my skin clean when it can’t even keep itself clean so it’s a PASS for this.

120 Pieces Pocket-Type Cosmetic Cotton Pads (P99)

Cute pink color but these are perhaps the scratchiest cotton pads I’ve tried. PASS and go to Miniso instead for better quality cotton pads!

Final Bill: P943 for seven items! Even though four out of the seven items were duds, the three eye makeup products totally impressed me! I used the eyeshadow, eyeliner, brow pencil, mascara, and lip color in this #MOTD and I’m still digging how rad it looked.

Have you tried anything else from Mumuso? How did it fare for you?

How do you look like when you wake up? If you’re like most people, chances are you don’t look like anything you’d actually consider Instagram-worthy. Even after washing your face and brushing your hair, you may not feel ready to face the day without some paint. But what happens if you woke up late and don’t have time to line your lids, swipe on some lipstick, or draw on your brows?

It’s actually possible to post a gorgeous #wokeuplikethis selfie without pulling any tricks. The secret: semi-permanent makeup! Now before the images of greenish ink and botched brow jobs scare you off, take a look at these photos and tell me that they don’t look fab:

Browhaus can turn your dream of waking up with rosy lips, well-defined eyes, and perfect brows into a reality, with a bit of help from 100% non-allergenic vegetable dyes and highly-skilled treatment specialists. Here’s how!

Brow Resurrection

If your brows are short, skinny, patchy or even non-existent, the Brow Resurrection treatment can save you from having to draw a presentable kilay every day. Unlike old-fashioned tattoos, this semi-permanent pigment has a 3-dimensional look that appears completely natural and lifelike. The strokes are drawn on individually so that it mimics the way your hair looks and grows. Because they’re even more obsessed about eyebrows than we are, the Browhaus School in Singapore (yes, they really do have one) is constantly updating and improving the technique that they specially designed for this, which explains why the effect appears a lot finer compared to other treatments like embroidery. The result: arches that look constantly on-fleek for up to two years!

A post shared by Browhaus Singapore (@browhaussg) on Jan 14, 2017 at 3:45am PST

Eye Define

Besides perfecting their brows, many women spend a lot of time on getting their eyeliner to look even. Whether you're a newbie struggling to figure out eyeliners or an oily-skinned gal who can't find a formula that won't smudge or fade through the day, Eye Define is worth considering. It makes lashes look lusher and creates a fresh, wide-awake look. You can also choose how thin or thick you want the line to be, and if you want it on both lids or just the upper lid. The thought of having such a procedure done near your eye might sound scary but there’s no need to worry: the Browhaus specialist must have had at least two years of experience and undergo a rigorous training program at the Browhaus School before being qualified to perform this treatment. They even have monthly reviews and annual certification to ensure that their skills are A-grade. Best of all, the liner lasts for up to five years!

A post shared by Browhaus Singapore (@browhaussg) on Jan 11, 2017 at 5:05am PST

Lip Define

I’m not suggesting that you give up your lipsticks but if you have an uneven lip line, pale lips that make you look sickly, or dark lips from smoking, Lip Define keeps your pout looking polished. It’s like having a lip liner that stays on and on, with a color that adds a healthy flush to your face. The pigment looks super bright for the first few days following the procedure then mellows down to a liptint-like appearance. If you’re on a quest for a lip color that will last through a whole day of eating and countless hours of kissing, this is the longest-lasting lip tint that you’ll find at up to two years.

Browhaus is strict about keeping their treatments safe and hygienic so they’re only performed by trained specialists using single-use needles and sterilized tools. They also make sure to keep the experience pleasant and discomfort at a minimum by using a potent numbing cream, which is reapplied throughout the session. Browhaus sales & marketing head Monique Jamlang, who has tried every one of the treatments, tells me that the sensation while the dye is being applied just feels like a very light scratching. “There’s no pain but if you start to feel uncomfortable, the specialist is trained to stop and reapply the cream,” she says.

The area may feel swollen and a bit delicate after, and there’s a short downtime that can last for three days to a week. There’s also a recommended Tune Up Session a few months after your initial session to ensure that the semi-permanent makeup stays defined and properly colored after it has settled into your skin.

A post shared by Browhaus Singapore (@browhaussg) on Dec 29, 2016 at 3:12am PST

Semi-permanent makeup is a serious commitment so if you’re thinking of taking that plunge, it's best to do it safely and correctly. Browhaus adheres to international safety standards and constantly works on improving current practices, so you can look forward to fabulous results and a smooth, pain-free experience. Are you ready to #BHmakeitreal?

For more details and appointments, contact Browhaus Manila

Have you ever stopped to think what makes a gentle face wash gentle? We read the word being thrown around by brands all the time but just how do we know for sure, beyond the product description? While the way one person reacts to any product is unique, there are a few guidelines which can help you decide on a better facial cleanser. If you happen to have sensitive skin like I do, it’ll serve your skin well to read the label and watch out for these common skincare triggers.

Fragrance

Aside from having no real benefits, fragrance is also one of the most common allergens that irritate sensitive skin. Depending on the concentration used and your skin’s sensitivity, fragrance has been known to cause redness, itchiness, and even breakouts. Experts agree that people suffering from skin conditions like eczema, rosacea, or acne can benefit from going fragrance-free.

One expert tip: unscented doesn’t mean fragrance-free! Most fragrance-free products may have a slight scent because of an ingredient in the formula but no additional scent was incorporated into the mix. On the other hand, unscented can also mean that an additional fragrance has been added to cancel out an unpleasant smell that a product naturally has.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate

Better known as SLS, it’s a cleansing agent normally found in home cleaning agents, shampoos, body wash, and yes, certain facial cleansers. It is a detergent that breaks the surface tension of your natural moisture barrier (the protective layer of your skin) so your cleanser can come in direct contact and cleanse more thoroughly. While that sounds like a great thing, you actually need your moisture barrier to stay intact for your skin’s health. This barrier keeps the bacteria and irritants out from the deeper layers of your skin while simultaneously locking the moisture in.

Bad Alcohols

It’s important to note that not all alcohols are made equal. Simple alcohols that dry out the skin like isoprophyl, methanol, denatured alcohol, and ethanol are to be avoided. While they can quickly combat oiliness and enhance the penetration of actives into your skin, they corrode your skin’s moisture barrier as well, which can be more problematic in the long run.

If you’re happy with how your current cleanser works even if it contains common irritants, just keep going for what’s best for you. We all react to products differently, and you know what’s going on with your skin more than anyone. If your skin is continuing to act up and surprise you with nasty breakouts though, you may want to consider switching. Here are a few great options to try!

CosRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser (P540 via theskincarecurator.com)

SLS-free and formulated at the ideal pH of 5, this gentle foaming cleanser from the cult-favorite Korean brand is particularly great for sensitive, acne-prone skin types. It also contains tea tree oil and BHA to declog your pores and keep your breakouts in check!

Celeteque DermoScience Hydration Facial Wash (P130 at supermarkets and drugstores)

Very affordable and available practically anywhere you go, this facial wash beats many others by being fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and non-comedogenic. Skin feels very clean without tightness due to getting stripped of moisture.

Physiogel Hypoallergenic Cleanser (P140 at supermarkets and drugstores)

Soap-free and formulated for sensitive skin, this dermatologist-recommended facial wash is best for dry skin types who want to achieve a deep clean while leaving the face moisturized. It’s also safe to use even for kids.

Image via explorewithcorinth.com

Cerave Hydrating Cleanser (new brand alert!)

You read that right! This brand will finally be available in the PH soon, and we’ve been patiently waiting for its arrival. Apart from offering a thorough yet gentle cleanse, this unique formula also contains ceramides that can actively heal a damaged moisture barrier.

Is your facial wash as gentle as it claims to be? What’s your favorite “certified gentle” facial wash?

Sources: Paula’s Choice, TeenVogue, Into The Gloss

We're nine - could you believe it? It's still not hitting me, how Project Vanity has grown in the last nine years, and how much faster it has surpassed all our expectations in the past year. We now have a staff of 14 contributors, the Project Vanity Kit, events, a lipstick line, and an offshoot skincare brand! Every year I never know what to say. Every day I am grateful to all of you for finding Project Vanity, and staying.

I think I'll save the happy tears for the event itself, so I would like to invite you to celebrate Project Vanity's 9th Anniversary with the whole team (and then some) on March 31 to April 1 at The Podium Mall! This is the fourth anniversary party we're having for PV (check out how we celebrated last year)! Coming over are our favorite brands with special promos and activities on those dates at the Podium - you can enjoy the fun beauty shopping experience with our curated selection of stores. There is no entrance fee and you can shop any time during mall hours, from 10am to 10pm.

On April 1, Saturday from 2pm to 5pm we have a program - the Guts, Glam, and Glory Forum. A few amazing women will be gracing the stage to talk about what beauty means to them, how they found success by pursuing their passions, and of course, they're dying to answer your beauty questions!

• Best Face Forward: Cosmopolitan Magazine editors Bianca Mascenon,  Gab Ignacio, and Chandra Pepino will talk about how to use beauty as a tool for empowerment, self-discovery, and self-improvement. Cosmo has always supported fun, fearless Pinays in a predominantly conservative country, and it would be amazing to hear what they have to say about putting your best face forward, without the shame!
• Beauty and Brains: Ever wonder how successful women built their empires from scratch to pursue a singular passion? Get to know Darlyn Sandra Ty, the President of Viviamo! Inc. (of Belle de Jour fame); Angela Dinglasan, President of Greenhouse Inc. (behind Proudly Pinoy organic brand Zenutrients), and Rosario Juan, CEO of Commune and organizer of Social Media Day in the PH. Love these women because they inspire me in my own path! I will be moderating a panel discussion to talk about how they began, how they are succeeding, and how much farther they want to go.
• Meet The PV Team: Your favorite girls will be there to share their favorite beauty tips, their Project Vanity stories, and answer any kikay questions you have! I am looking forward to introducing the women who've been bringing a new voice and life to Project Vanity.

Last year's goodie bags!

We promise you an inspiring afternoon with our special guests, so please, please don't miss this party! To join, just order our 9th Anniversary Kit for P995, which will have beauty products from all our lovely sponsors worth at least P8,000. We'll be revealing what you'll be receiving from Pink Sugar, K-Palette, Happy Skin, Inglot, Beauty Bar, Browhaus, Zenutrients, Ellana Minerals, Essence Cosmetics, Catrice Cosmetics, Flormar, Jordana, and Belle De Jour in the coming days. We can't guarantee stocks so best to order yours as soon as possible. 

Note: The Anniversary Kit also serves as your ticket to the Guts, Glam, and Glory Forum, so it will only be available for pick up on April 1 at The Podium.

Are we seeing you there? The whole PV Team and I can't wait! This is our biggest event ever so we hope you can celebrate this year with us!

March is National Women’s Month! To mark this special occasion, we’re sharing stories of an extra special kind. Anyone would agree that motherhood is no walk in the park. The task of raising another human being is a serious responsibility, and it admittedly becomes even more of a challenge when a woman has to do it on her own. Whether they’re single, separated, or widowed, single motherhood is a remarkable experience that’s worth honoring and drawing inspiration from.

Nikki Quilicot, businesswoman, 28

One thing that I’ve learned to appreciate and really enjoy about motherhood are the magic moments: when you feel the proudest of your child; when you feel most deeply and intimately connected; or even when you see him/her with the hugest smile on their face and happiness emanating from their being. As a mom, I’ve learned to love these little moments of joy, contentment, and peace. It’s hard to explain but when you see glimpses of a smart, funny, virtuous individual in your kid, the sacrifices and the trials you had to go through raising this person becomes worth it.

I’ve also learned to appreciate and enjoy community. Though we’ve been labeled as single moms, we’re never truly alone. I’ve learned to reach out to others and ask for help, both from family and friends. Because of that network and exchange of generosity and love, I’ve developed a kinship with others that can be even better than what a singular man can offer.

There are lots of single mother challenges – there’s loneliness and longing for companionship, the struggle of providing for yourself and your child’s needs (both time and money), trying to be enough, finding a good father figure for your child, uncertainty about whether I’m raising my child correctly, and more.

One thing I really struggled with (and perhaps still do until now) is the social stigma. Single mothers have this reputation of being easy, slutty manhunters (or manhaters) and it’s quite hard to be taken seriously, both in the aspects of love and career. Single moms are single for a reason, and more often than not, the cause is a lot nobler than what others think. It’s actually kind of funny because a lot of single moms I know have higher standards, and try to not settle for less because it’s no longer just for themselves but also for their children. If single moms were to be stereotyped, it really should be as strong, uncompromising women and not the other way around!

There are TONS of lessons I learned as I raised a kid “unreadily” by myself – I had to learn to swallow my pride, to love unceasingly and unconditionally, to never give up even when things seem hopeless. But one thing I had to really learn was to forgive myself and know that things will be okay. When I didn’t know how to comfort my child when he was crying, when I had an outburst because my kid got annoying, when I failed and things got hard, when I felt helpless and didn’t know what to do – I learned that things will never be perfect, I will never be perfect, but that’s okay.

The second lesson I’m currently trying to process is that, in the midst of the bittersweet journey that is raising my child, I’ve also come to realize that he is not my own – he is his own person who will eventually grow up, leave home, and tread his own life and journey. The eventuality of this fact has got me thinking that really, nothing in our life is our own and that both our life and the people who come into our lives are things that we are entrusted with to nurture, to love, and eventually, to let go. In these two hard circumstances of uncertainty, I’ve learned to trust in the Lord, to lean not on my own understanding, to manage the things I can control, to let go of the things I cannot, and to just enjoy the seasons of life.

Belle Maestro, public relations, 32

I would like to believe that I married and had my son out of love. But my son's father and I - we were young and straight out of college - we did not go through the best of both worlds of adulthood and parenthood. Eventually, we simply grew apart.

Deciding to be a single parent is undoubtedly and unarguably the most unnerving yet liberating thing I have ever done. I had just moved to Manila with practically nothing to my name. I was too proud to ask for help from anyone and too stubborn to go back home in the province. I was struggling to find a life for myself as a fresh grad in a big city but I had a living, breathing human being who was completely dependent on me for survival. Knowing I had to do both at the same time is the most sobering wake-up call one could ever have. At 21, I was at a loss. Life didn't come with a manual and as much as I wanted to whine, cry, and have a meltdown - I simply didn't have the time. It was then that I understood the kind of person I needed to be to rise above the challenge.

The learning process is continuous but perhaps this is what I would like to share with other single parents out there: it is entirely up to us. Who we are, who we need to be, who we want to be is not dependent on anything but our own will to do so.

I've always been a firm believer that happiness comes from within, and for me, that comes from living consciously. It's a lifestyle decision and a discipline I continue to work on everyday, since becoming a single mother. I am an active participant in the world I live in and I make deliberate choices based on personal core values that are aligned with goals I've set for myself. I have also stopped seeking external fulfilment such as love, acceptance, acknowledgement from other people. When you believe you need certain things to be more happy, you are setting a path that sees no end. In living humbly, we slowly learn to let go of things beyond our control and instead live in the present bliss.

Earth Rullan, blogger, 39

The best thing about motherhood is waking up and sleeping with someone who loves you unconditionally! More than the financial aspect, the greatest challenge is having to do everything by yourself, with no partner to share your trouble and joys. Not having someone to share all the good and the bad of being a parent of a child with autism is hard, but I’ve learned that family will always be your strength and that I should always be strong for my daughter. I’ve also discovered that I have a patience of a saint for my family but I don’t take no shit from anyone else.

Bea Bianca Cañete, social media analyst, 25

Being a single mom is a very challenging job but it also has its joys, especially when you know that you are the first and the most significant person in your child’s life. From the moment I first held him in my arms, I knew that my life would never be the same again. I had to learn how to change diapers and even how to make him burp after finishing a bottle of milk. Everything I experienced with him was a “first time” and I really had a difficult time adjusting! But the most challenging part is when he gets sick because I have to be focused and calm while my heart is pumping really fast and I have no idea what to do.

As a mom, all his milestones make me so proud of him. I often wonder what I did to deserve having this little angel in my life. From the time he called me mommy, the first time he walked his little steps, to being an achiever in school, it has given me an unexplainable fulfillment. Watching him grow and being with him all throughout is both an adventure and a blessing.

My son has taught me to be the best version of myself. I am not really a patient person but everything changed when Rex Paris Miguel came to my life. I became more understanding, kinder, and selfless. Before I only shop for myself but now I will always put my son’s needs first.

Kaycee Enerva, blogger, 29

I really enjoy watching my child develop and grow, although there are times I wish he could stay a baby forever. It's nice to have someone to snuggle with and care for! The greatest challenge for me is juggling work and being a mom. We don't have a yaya so it's difficult to work while also looking after my son full-time. I seldom go to events as I prioritize being a mom over going out. I can say that I learned how to love unconditionally when I became a mom. I'm willing to sacrifice anything for his welfare. It's a life-changing experience. When I was on my own, I didn't care at all what would happen to me but with him in my life, his needs come first.

Lorraine Ledesma, freelance emcee and tutor, 27

I was young, wild, and rebellious in an attempt to prove that I am free. In my short-sightedness for pleasure and need for acknowledgement, I did everything that I thought was liberating and rewarding. With my aim to prove myself right, I disregarded my parents' training and even wisdom from church. I got myself involved in intimate relationships and found myself expecting a child.

Being a mother and content with what God has allowed for us to have is not easy breezy. We live in a world of pretty pictures and they're often unrealistic. Being a single mom means providing love and other needs for your child without dwelling on the pressure of this world or manipulating relationships to build a "family" picture. Being a single mom and being happy regardless of what we have or don't have is the greatest challenge.

The most important lesson I learned is that life is beyond my control but I am accountable for I do. Years ago I believed that I control my own destiny and be anything I want to be as long as my heart desires. It's a sad look at a wonderful reality. I learned (and I'm still learning) that God's sovereign righteousness is real. There will be consequences to our choices, people will be affected, and even to the best of our abilities, we cannot manipulate our own lives according to our dream picture. I learned that the wonderful thing about being alive is seeing God work through our failures, and receiving God's grace for us to stand up again and, this time, walk in His ways. It's been almost seven years of being with the Lord Jesus and I can't thank Him enough for trading my shame and sorrow as a single woman for the joy I have today as a mom.

Happiness is a choice. When I received the Lord Jesus as my Savior and Master, everything else followed, including the gift of joy He always gives. Growing in the knowledge of how sinful I was (and still can be), how God overcomes, and how He has the best plans, I have learned to be happy in the easy and the hard. The love of the Lord Jesus that brought forgiveness and hope in my life is the joy that enables me to choose to be happy even when the world looks dim. Faith is trusting without seeing (yet).

Jo Legaspi, educator

When I got pregnant, I decided I didn’t want my son’s father in the picture. He had psychiatric issues and I didn’t want my son growing up in that environment. Fortunately, my family has been so supportive but I didn’t want to task them to pay for my son’s everyday needs. Providing for my son’s milk, diapers, and his yaya’s salary was difficult. On a teacher’s salary, ubos yan! I even had to delay some of his shots because I really couldn’t pay for it, nor did I want my mom to take on the expense. I had to take extra tutoring jobs during his early years and would often be home late. I’d play with my son for 30 minutes then his yaya would put him to bed. I even used to joke that his yaya was his mom.

Being a mother, I learned that you have to sacrifice and give up some things so you can provide for your child. You need to differentiate between a need and a want so it’s important to surround yourself with supportive people to cheer you on! My family and friends supported me from day one, when I said that I was going to raise my son on my own and that my ex wasn’t going to be part of our lives. They told me that my situation may not be ideal but it was and is okay.

Having family surround me helped so much. While I did go through postpartum blues, I was able to rise above it. After having my son, I went back to work and back to my usual routine. I didn’t have time to re-examine my life and say,  “Am I happy?” or “Am I sad?” Some of my friends mention having a Johnson’s moment: that feeling of being completely in love with your baby, just like in commercials. I’ve never had it but that doesn’t make me less of a mom. I did what I had to do, with my family helping me out. So I think I’m doing good, and I’m pretty happy where I am and where my son and I are.

Belen Ngwe, risk management

I was widowed at 30 with two very young kids to care for. Raising kids solo was an immense responsibility! I was always second guessing decisions I made: where to live, where to send them to, what is a reasonable curfew, stuff like that. It is almost laughable now but when they were growing up, it was really a big deal. The greatest lesson I learned was not to indulge in self-pity and to just forge ahead. I am a better and stronger person today because of this experience.

My life is all about my children. Seeing them grow up to become independent and responsible individuals has been very rewarding.

We salute all the single mothers out there who have sacrificed so much out of love for their children. Hats off to you!

Despite how up to date we are on tech, memes and beauty innovations, our culture is still one that is mostly conservative. Tattoos are still often frowned upon. For instance, my family members would tell my inked relatives how unprofessional and how unbecoming tattoos look, especially when you’re a woman. Even with these societal pressures, some women still opt to get their bodies inked as more employers adopt non-discriminatory hiring practices.

We talked to ten women about their different views on getting tattoos, and not just the semi-permanent kind for brows or lips. Permanent tattoos are a lifelong commitment, so we hope that their voices can help you decide on whether or not getting inked is right for you.

Debbi Baybay, digital strategist manager

I always thought of my body a canvas, another venue to express who I am as person. I have a tattoo for each passion point in my life: milestones, travel, and even Harry Potter. I’d wanted to get a tattoo as early as college, maybe because I loved to draw and paint. Unfortunately, my university was very strict with the no tattoo policy so as soon as I got to my first job in advertising and I saved enough money, I got my first tattoo on my 22nd birthday. I currently have seven tattoos, and I definitely want to get more!

Betsy Nacionales, tutorial center teacher

Tattoos are very aesthetically pleasing and that's one thing I love - you are able to put what you want in a tattoo. I love it because it's very artistic and it displays not only the skill of your tattoo artist but it shows a bit of the person who has the artwork on their skin.

I put a high value in self-expression and I like to think that getting a tattoo somewhat shows a feat of endurance, not only physically but also in dealing with the stigma against tattoos. Being from a conservative country and all, it has so many implications. Frankly, people who proudly wear their ink is something admirable for me.

I've considered getting one since I was in high school. Honestly, I just want one because it looks so nice. It might sound a bit impulsive but wouldn't you buy things just because you like them or how they look? That's how I view getting a tattoo. I used to only want one but two or three sounds great. Where to put them would probably be the hardest decision for me. I personally haven't gotten any yet due to time and budget constraints, and my parents wouldn't want one on me.

A. B.

I can't stand needles. They always say that the prick is "parang kagat lang ng langgam" but the idea of it inside my veins is just too much for me. I'll only agree to it if it were for medical purposes or when I decide to donate blood.

[Donating blood] is another reason why I wouldn't have myself tattooed; there aren't really any state-regulated tattoo facilities and you'll have to wait a year before donating blood. What happens when someone in your family is in need of blood and there isn't enough in the blood bank/hospital? The chances of that may be somewhat small but I wouldn't want a tattoo to hinder me from helping out in the time of need. I'd rather have them prick me for something worthy of a cause than to "permanently" remind myself of something that I may regret 30 years from now. (That’s another thing, why go through that pain and process when you know you might just have it removed when you’re older?) When it comes to dealing with needles and nostalgia, I think I’d stick to arts and crafts or a cross-stitch canvas. I have no judgments against people who do have tattoos. I think everyone is entitled to do what they want with their bodies so long as it's good for both their physical and mental health.

Selina

Isabel

Selina Garcia, art management consultant

I love tattoos because of many things. It is a form of self-expression and a form of art in itself. I enjoy seeing the various interpretations and renderings of say, the moon. The colors, the style, the placement of the tattoo and its size - they can mean so much. And when you ask the person about the tattoo, it opens a story. You get to learn something about their lives.

I only have one so far but I do intend to get another one. It took me a while to gather up my guts to get a tattoo. I was afraid of the pain so I would get a henna instead. Then, the last year of college arrived and it was an important marker in my life. I was also going through some personal things. That's when I decided to get a tattoo: to remind myself that I can rise above the hardships and pain in life.

Isabel Hernandez, graphic designer

I personally have a great deal of respect for people who commit to inking their bodies, mainly because their pain tolerance is probably high. As a designer, I also really like tattoo work that is cohesive with each other despite being done years apart. Sadly, the main reason I don't ever plan to commit to a tattoo is because my pain tolerance is incredibly low. The idea of having it retouched every so often sounds like more pain that I'm unwilling to go through. That said, if we eventually find a way to make it painless, I'd totally get a tattoo. I do feel like that detracts from the full experience and commitment, though.

Phoebe

Hilary

Phoebe Casin, associate managing editor

I got my first tattoo a year or two after I had graduated from college. It has always been my dream to get tattooed because having permanent art on my skin meant that I could express myself in a much more visual way. Being a writer and part of the liberal arts community also solidified my decision to get one, thinking that an ink wouldn’t be frowned upon, but rather celebrated, if you will, in the industry that I was a part of. They allow me to express myself and my individuality. I love that each tattoo signifies a moment in my life, and helps me remember it. And since I moonlight as an art writer and have always been exposed to the visual arts, the fact that I can turn my skin into a canvas is something that I also love.

I currently have three tattoos. My first one is the word “catharsis” on my right wrist, done by Skinworkz’s Ricky Sta. Ana, one of the most prominent tattoo artists in the country. I wanted him to do my first one because I wanted it to be special and memorable. Catharsis is one of my favorite words; it was a no-brainer for me to have it as my first tattoo design.

The second one is a black quill with a single-stemmed red rose rapped around it on my left calf. I got this on a whim. One weekend and because we had the money, my friend and I just decided to head on to the nearest tattoo shop to get inked. No regrets.

My third ink is a light pink bunny profile in watercolor on the inside of my left forearm done by Wiji Lacsamana, who specializes in watercolor tattoos. This represents my love for rabbits (I have two, Chuck and Norris) and my Chinese zodiac sign.

Each of my tattoos have a two- to three-year gap, and except for the second one, the ink and placement was carefully thought out and planned. All three can also be seen in plain sight; I didn’t want them to be intentionally hidden and covered up because what’s the point of getting one if you can’t freely showcase it, right?

[I plan to get] one or two more this year, hopefully, if my budget allows. I’m thinking of getting a Valfre illustration or a customized Kita (Keeshia Felipe) illustration on my arm. Somehow, I’ve convinced my friend, photographer Shaira Luna, to sponsor my next tattoo, hehe.

Hilary Hao, brand marketer

Getting a tattoo has been something that has been frowned upon in my family for as long as I remember (even until present time). And probably has something to do with the stereotype that the only people who got tattoos were those that were looking for trouble – that is, the Chinese mafia, or the Yakuza. Not exactly the kinds of profession a parent would aspire for his/her kid to have.

While I now know that these stereotypes say nothing about a person, growing up with this sort of thinking has affected the way I perceive things, and kept me uninterested in anything that had to do with body art outside of the standard single ear piercing. So while it’s pretty cool to see someone with an intricate skull and dragon tattoo (and admire the craftsmanship that went into the design), I’ll pass.

Kate

Kems

Kate Sim, consumer marketing assistant

The idea of getting a tattoo has always fascinated me. It tells stories - the meaning behind the design, the motivation for committing to it, and the experience of getting inked. I think it’s a brave and beautiful way of expressing one’s self. In a way, I also look at it as a way to conserve a certain part of yourself or to commemorate a particular moment in your life. Maybe it’s the thought of surviving the needle repeatedly jabbing through the skin or of having the willingness to commit to such a permanent mark (unless, of course, you have the money for an expensive tattoo removal), but I feel like a person with tattoo exudes a different kind confidence and courage.

I would love to have a tattoo in the future, but only after doing further research. Having an artist I could trust and a design I can commit to are factors to consider. If I decide to get inked, I want to make sure it’s a symbol, a word, or a phrase which I live by. I want it to be a reminder to celebrate who I am and who I can become.

Kems Laput, speech therapist

I didn’t see tattoos to be attractive until I saw some of my favorite artists get themselves inked. It wasn’t just "cool" (as I see this as a reason why people get them), but beautiful. My thoughts about tattoos have changed and I now see it as an art form, and something that carries a special meaning to them. When I went through a low moment in my life, I wanted to have something that would remind me about my faith – to carry it with me, to have it on my skin. My mom didn't allow me because she thinks it's unprofessional, with me working in the medical field. I respect her, and I do think I can live without one. I still think [tattoos are] beautiful, though.

S.Y.A., undergraduate assistant in nursing

I decided to get a tattoo as a remembrance of my grandparents. I was raised by my grandparents and I chose a design which reminds me of them, and is also significant to my childhood. What I love most about tattoos is the uniqueness of each design - no one has the same exact tattoo. I currently have one tattoo and intend to get at least three more to complete my design. I decided to gradually increase my tattoos, as although it is on the same area (full back), I wanted to make sure that I was certain about each additional piece. Tattoos in my religion is viewed as taboo, and I am the first from my family from both my parents’ sides to have a tattoo.

 Have you ever considered getting a tattoo? Or maybe you're absolutely set on never even considering it? Share your thoughts at the comments below!

Since my company started up its own skincare brand, In Her Element, I have been hyper-aware of skincare trends and formulation - well, much more than usual! It's amazing how much one learns when talking to cosmetic formulators and manufacturers. One also learns about ingredients, costing, and the headache that comes with pricing. It's all very fascinating though. It's especially rewarding whenever people say we've got it right!

Anyway, one of the things that's been on my radar are cleansing sticks. I want to make one, but it's proving to be challenging although the concept is simple. Basically, cleansing sticks are foaming facial washes that are in balm form, packaged in a twist-up stick. They look like soap but don't be fooled - they are technically solidified cleansing oils with surfactants. They're not cleansing balms at all, as these depend on oil and an emulsifier that allow them to be washed off. Cleansing sticks foam. Certainly the foam is not a necessary function but many feel that foaming washes clean better (not always true).

Cleansing sticks have been rocking the Asian beauty world for a couple of years now. They are usually low pH to keep the skin's moisture barrier intact. Unlike other facial foams, the oil content, acids, and mild surfactants used in the formulation of cleansing sticks are kinder to skin as they make for low pH while foaming nicely while cleansing skin thoroughly. Oh, and you gotta love how travel-friendly it is! You can also just chuck it in your gym bag so you can remove makeup + wash your face with just one product.

Yes, these cleansing sticks remove light makeup, even water-resistant types. They stop at waterproof eyeliner, lipstick, and mascara though. Still for a quick cleanse every day, these sticks are pretty effective. I have three here that I've been testing out for a while now, and here's what I think!

Su:m 37 Miracle Rose Cleansing Stick (~P1,500). This is perhaps the most famous of them all. Boasting of a pH of 5.5, this is a mild cleanser that foams nicely. Perhaps not as much as a liquid cleanser but it's satisfying enough! It removes light makeup with ease and never leaves my face feeling dry. It has a slight rose scent which is pleasant enough but still soapy; I wouldn't say it's as nice-smelling as others say it is. It has rose bits which don't do much and are sparsely distributed around the balm.

This was tough to find. I had my friend get this from South Korea and she had to look for it quite a bit! There are resellers online selling it for about P1,800 to P2,000. Is it worth it? At that price, no, I don't think so. It's a facial wash. It's a luxury brand but most luxury brands would sell nicer facial wash at that price, IMHO.

Ingredients: Glycerol, Water, Orange Peel Oil, Lime Peel Oil, Lemon Peel Oil, Green Tea Seed Oil, Coconut Oil, Basil Oil, Ylang Ylang Flower Oil, Majoram Oil, Fermented Damask Rose Extract, Apricot Seed Oil, Olive OIl, Sunflower Oil, Betaine, Stearic Acid, Lauric Acid, Camellia Oil, Tocopheral, Rose Flower Water, Potassium Hydroxide, Lauryl Betaine

Neogen Real Fresh Green Tea Cleansing Stick (~P800-). This is the other famous cleansing stick, also at pH 5.5. I actually like this more than the Su:m 37 because it is more balmy and a bit more foamy. It also removes more makeup in one go! The price is also right for what it is. It has green tea bits that can feel a tiny bit rough on skin but it doesn't bother me so much.

Smell is mostly soapy with a bit of green. Not a huge fan either but it works well enough. This is what I put in my tennis bag so I can wash my makeup off after practice! Also had this purchased at SoKor but online resellers would usually sell it for P1,000-1,200. It's still quite expensive but def less expensive than Su:m 37 and worth it if you can get this at a reasonable price.

Ingredients: Glycerin, purified water, cocos nucifera (coconut) oil, palmitic acid, stearic acid, lauryl betaine, betaine, camellia sinensis leaf(0.3%), camellia sinensis seed oil(0.1%), camellia japonica seed oil, olea europaea (olive) fruit oil, helianthus annuus (sunflower)seed oil, limnanthes alba (meadowfoam) seed oil, oenothera biennis (eveningprimrose) oil, tocopheryl acetate, citrus aurantifolia (lime) oil, ocimum basillicum (basil) oil, cananga odorata flower oil, citrus limon (lemon) peel oil, origanum heracleoticum floweroil, citrus aurantium dulcis (orange)peel oil, fragrance.

Nakeup Face Stress 0 Cleansing Stick (P830 at Althea). This is the most accessible out of the three but my least favorite. It has a very bitter taste and stings my eyes a little. It removes makeup nicely and washes off cleanly though! It's less foamy than the first two sticks but it works well enough.

Ingredients: N/A. Can't find it online and it's not on the packaging.

How to use cleansing sticks:

1. On a dry face, rub the dry cleansing stick. They're balmy so a small amount would transfer on your skin.

2. Wet your face with water to make the balm foam. Massage it all over your face to melt makeup and oil.

3. Rinse completely!

Overall, I think cleansing sticks are worth trying out if you like to travel or wash your face out of your home a lot. They're novel, effective, and compact, but I wouldn't say they're an absolute must-have considering how difficult they are to access and their pricing. I do love their low pH-ness though! Even in high-end brands, it's hard to find a good cleanser that's sufficiently acidic. 

So what do you think: does it look like you need cleansing sticks in your life? Or would you still prefer a liquid cleanser? 

I think it’s safe to say that most Pinays started their beauty journey with Pond’s. In my case, I’ve probably tried every single variant of their facial cleansers throughout my pubescent years! From starting out and building their brand on being the go-to drugstore favorite for skin whitening, Pond’s has managed to stay on top of the beauty game since 1846. It’s not hard to understand why: their ability to keep up with the changing demands of women and dedication to developing new lines and products that address different skin issues make them one of the most trusted beauty brands in the country.

As the top face brand in the Philippines, the brand knows that women now require a lot more from our skincare products than we did a decade ago. Pond’s girl Apples Aberin shares, “Pond’s wants to evolve with the modern-day Filipina. We want to show her that there is no need to be afraid of the ever-changing environment, because Pond’s is rising up to the challenge and changing with the times. At Pond’s, #ChangeisBeautiful.”

The newest additions to the Pond’s line have been reformulated to battle the effects of pollution, stress, and the harsher sun – three things that they believe affect our skin the most today. To introduce their new products, they brought out four new faces that have joined the illustrious Pond’s Beauty Council.

Rising actress Sofia Andres shares that she uses the Acne Clear Facial Foam (P140) and Leave On Clearing Gel (P180) combo to battle the effects of stress, hormones, and pollution on her acne-prone skin. Made with Activated Thymol Essence, the Acne Clear line locks out bacteria and clears skin from the within for a smooth, blemish-free appearance.

For go-getters and multihyphenates Toni Gonzaga and Joey Mead King, nothing can keep up with their busy lifestyles like the Age Miracle line does. The new Age Miracle Day Cream and Night Cream (P725 each) harness the power of Retinol-C complex for round the clock anti-aging. With added vitamin B3, vitamin E-acetate, and glycerin, both products help to strengthen the skin’s barrier to reduce wrinkles, sagging, and age spots. This is the product line that works harder than busy girl bosses do!

From teen queen to on-screen superstar, the public has borne witness to Kathryn Bernardo’s beautiful transformation. Hard work has gotten her to where she is now but not without taking a toll on her skin. With the Pond’s White Beauty Beauty line, she is able to maintain her rosy, white glow while fighting 10 of the toughest skin problems. The new White Beauty Cream (P120) contains vitamin B3 and 12HSA to effectively whiten the skin. Formulated with titanium dioxide, it has UV filters that protect the skin from sun damage, enabling you to achieve a bright complexion.

The Pond's Beauty Council: Kryz Uy, Laureen Uy, Rissa Mananquil-Trillo, Nadine Lustre, Joey Mead-King, Toni Gonzaga, Kathryn Bernardo, Sofia Andres, Heart Evangelista, Apples Aberin, Iza Calzado, Tricia Gosingtian, Agoo Bengzon, and Cheska Kramer

With these new offerings from the brand we’ve grown up with, it’s easy to see how Pond’s has managed to stay relevant in the competitive world of beauty. Do you have a Pond’s story? What has been your favorite product so far, and what would you want to try from their latest releases?

A brow powder, I’d admit, is often not the most exciting makeup item in our collections. The fact that it’s always a staple in any makeup artist’s kit, however, should make you think twice about keeping one in your stash. It’s a versatile item that you can use dry for soft, natural-looking brows, or wet for stronger, more well-defined arches. When it comes to application, it’s easier to fill in gaps with a brow powder than a pencil because you can cover a larger area in just one stroke. Finally, it’s a nifty multitasker that you can use to contour your eyes, nose, cheeks, and even hairline without bulking up your travel makeup bag.

If you’ve never tried one before, I suggest picking up an affordable one to test and play with! Lucky for you, there are a lot of budget options to choose from, and we’re giving the lowdown on some of the best ones we’ve tried so far.

From left:: Celeteque Eye Brow Defining Kit in Deep Brown, Ever Bilena Eye Brow Kit, Essence Little Brow Monsters in 02 Little Miss Bold, Pink Sugar Honey I’m Good Eyebrow Kit in Sassy Brown, L’Oreal Colour Riche Eyeshadow in 839 Cupa Joe

Celeteque

Celeteque Eye Brow Defining Kit (P600 at the beauty section)

Available shades: Medium Brown and Dark Brown

This sleek Brow Kit contains brow powder, brow wax, and a dual-ended brush applicator. Used on their own, I find both pans lacking in pigment but layering them over each other helped me achieve softly-defined brows that last around four to five hours before they start to fade. The medium brown shade leans a bit too much on the warmer spectrum, and should be perfect for brunettes. While it’s a little up there in price, keep in mind that the whole line of Celeteque Dermo features skincare and makeup in one! Thus, this brow kit is infused with shea butter, argan oil, and vitamin E to nourish both the hair and skin in your eyebrow area.

Ever Bilena

Ever Bilena Brow Kit (P200 at the beauty section)

Only one shade available

This brow kit from a homegrown brand comes with three powder shades, one pan of clear wax, a mini tweezer, and an angled brush. For both quantity and quality, it’s definitely a brow kit that gives an extra bang on the buck! The inclusion of three different shades of brown also make it easy to customize your brow according to your hair and eye color, while the wax helps to set the brow hairs in place. No need to buy new products whenever you change hair color; you can just mix them up as needed! On a normal day, this would last six hours on me before it would start to fade.

L'oreal

L’Oreal Colour Riche in Cuppa Joe (P400 at the beauty section)

Strictly speaking, this is an eyeshadow quad but the three brown shades included could easily work for your brows! The pigmentation honestly doesn’t perform well as eyeshadow but I find that it lends the right amount of fool-proof pigmentation for shaping and defining my brows. The inclusion of a highlighter shade allows for a nice subtle lift under your arch if you want to amp up your brow game. Sadly though, this one fades the fastest at around just 3 to 4 hours.  

Pink Sugar

Pink Sugar Honey I’m Good Eyebrow Kit (P399 at SM Beauty)

Available shades: Perfect Taupe and Sassy Brown

This brow kit is the runaway winner when it comes to pigmentation and longevity! It lasts throughout the whole day with insignificant fading, thanks to the pigmented wax that it comes with. One caveat though: I find that all three powders from both shade options are leaning more towards the reddish browns so it might not work as well if you have ashy hair.

Essence

Essence Little Brow Monsters (P250~ at SM Beauty)

Available shades: 01 Little Miss Natural and 02 Little Miss Bold

The Essence Little Brow Monsters comes with two baked brow powders in brown and black, and one baked highlight shade. I would normally use the brown shade to fill in all the gaps, the black to emphasize my arch and draw on fake brow hair, and the white shimmer to highlight my brow bone and the inner corner of my eyes. On a normal day, this would last about 4 to 5 hours before beginning to fade.

Do you already own a powder brow kit? Which one do you recommend, and what would you like to try from this list?