Are you still searching for the perfect, long-wearing, super black eyeliner that doesn't cost a pretty penny? We're here to help, as always! We picked out five affordable black eyeliners to test against each other and here's how they compare!

From top: Essence Extreme Lasting Eye Pencil, Ever Bilena Advanced Silky Eye Liner, Happy Skin Eye Am Here To Stay Liner, Holika Holika Wonder Drawing Eyeliner, Rire Luxe Gel Eyeliner

From the arm swatches alone, it’s easy to tell that the Essence Extreme Lasting Eye Pencil is the darkest of the bunch. Three out of the five liners apply as a matte black, while the Ever Bilena Advanced Silky Eye Liner had a slight sheen and the Happy Skin Eye Am Here to Stay Liner contained fine gold shimmers. All five liners claim to be waterproof, and took quite a bit of effort to remove from my arm. Using even pressure on a cotton pad heavily soaked with micellar water, it took me five swipes before I got about 90% of the makeup off and around two more to fully erase all traces of the swatches. Pretty impressive!

After 5 swipes of Garnier Micellar Water

I would normally just use these liners to tightline, but for you to see how they apply on the eyes, I applied a straight line on my upper lid (as I normally would when lining my eyes) in addition to tightlining. I didn’t use any eyeshadow or primers so I could test the wear time of each product without any additional help. Do take note that my lids get oily, so your experience may be different if you’ve got a drier eye area. Here’s how they fared, in detail! 

Rire Luxe Gel Eyeliner (P210 from AltheaPH)

The Rire Luxe Gel Eyeliner was the only one that came with a built-in plastic sharpener. While incredibly pigmented, I find that it’s on the drier side and causes a bit of a drag when I try to line my eyelids. It doesn’t smudge on me but I noticed that it flakes off around five hours in and leaves black flakes on my under eye and cheek area. While it was the first to go on my arm swatch test, I find that it’s much harder to remove on the eyes due to the dryness. 

Happy Skin Eye Am Here to Stay Liner in Perfect Black (P599 at Happy Skin counters)

The Happy Skin Eye Am Here to Stay Liner had an easy glide that rarely skipped on my heavily-lined lids. The gold flecks threw me off the first time I used it but the detail isn’t as noticeable when applied on the waterline. It applies smoothly even without me having to pull my eyes taut, and lasts a good five hours before it starts to fade and smudge.

Essence Extreme Lasting Eye Pencil (P229 at SM Beauty)

While watching at the store, I initially felt like the wet formulation of the Essence Extreme Lasting Eye Pencil could be a recipe for disaster. It applies almost like a gel but surprisingly dries to a matte, budge-proof and smudge-proof deep black. This is a creamy pencil that glides and wears like a dream, and I get the longest wear time out of this – around eight hours before I would notice fading! One caveat: I have to use an oil-based remover to take this off as micellar water can’t deal with this.

Holika Holika Wonder Drawing Eyeliner (P200 at Holika Holika counters)

If you’d prefer not to sharpen your pencil liner, I find that Holika Holika’s Wonder Drawing Eyeliner is one of the better wearing retractable pencils. It feels a lot like a matte black version of Happy Skin’s eyeliner, and applies smooth and pigmented in one go. It smudges and fades on my oily lids at around five hours in. Word of warning: the pencil “lead” doesn’t fit too snugly in the packaging, so be careful not to twist up too much to avoid breaking! 

Ever Bilena Advanced Silky Eyeliner (P100 at the beauty section)

I was excited to see how this cheap eyeliner would perform against the rest of my list. It initially performed like a drugstore gem – it was creamy, pigmented, and silky as the name suggested. Around two hours in, however, I found that my tightline had completely stamped on to my undereye area and created a new line a few millimeters beneath my lower lash line. I’d never experienced this with any other liner so I gave it another go and the same thing happened. This may work better for dry-skinned girls.

Best in Overall Performance: I’d say that the Essence Extreme Lasting Eye Pencil is the clear winner! This product never gave me racoon eyes, which is basically my number one requirement for eyeliner. It applies smoothly and evenly, and did not irritate my sensitive eyes. Bonus: it’s very affordable, too!

Have you used any of these pencil eyeliners to tightline? What was your experience with them? What other pencils would you recommend for tightlining?

I've tried a Maybelline Super BB Cushion previously and did not like it. I got the wrong shade, granted, but I found the texture too thick and the undertone too pink to fit my requirements! That's why I had low expectations when the new Maybelline Fresh Matte BB Cushion (P749) arrived on my doorstep recently. It came with the Master Strobing Stick (P399), a duo which Maybelline hopes to be part of our summer kit.

Despite my pre-determination not to like the Fresh Matte Cushion, it instantly wormed itself into my heart. One swipe on my face and I knew - knew - that it's something I'll be using regularly! It has medium coverage in one layer and blends beautifully on skin with a soft matte finish. It covered up uneven areas and light blemishes on my face with ease; nevertheless, it still looks like skin. It's like I'm not wearing any foundation! I also love the SPF25 PA+ protection.

I mean, just look at this FOTD. I set the cushion with Clear Smooth All-in-One Powder Foundation (P259), also in the shade 03 Natural, to achieve clean, matte-but-not-flat skin. A swipe on the Master Strobing Stick on my cheekbones and bridge of the nose added a pretty highlight to my look.

I got the perfect shade match in 03 Natural. It's a yellow-toned, medium shade that should blend on NC35 skin seamlessly. There's a lighter shade available if you are fairer than I am, but if you are darker, well - sorry!

The caveat: this cushion doesn't stick very well on skin. It creases around my nose, eyes, and chin in about three hours - not a good sign - when not properly retouched with powder every hour. I don't even have particularly oily skin but there it is. I recommend wearing a primer before the cushion to hold it down better during the day!  

Still, I think this is a great cushion with a workable formula and great shade match. I'll continue using this as it's so convenient and it makes my skin look fantastic (even though it really isn't). It delivers its promise of fresh matte skin, and I'm sold.

The Master Strobing Stick (P399) is packaged simply, which may lead you to underestimate it. Don't! It's a beautiful warm champagne highlighter stick that glides on skin like butter. It blends easily with just fingers and allows light to bounce off your skin prettily.

I like that the formula is not too wet and sets for the most part. It stays on my skin about two-three hours - not particularly impressive - but I suppose it's easy enough to retouch due to the stick format. I love how the shine is subtle and wearable for everyday. You can apply this with a heavy hand without mucking it up; it delivers a soft glow to the skin with barely any effort.  This is a basic highlighting stick that should serve you well if you're looking for a good one without spending *too* much!

Let me know what you think of these new Maybelline drops! Have you tried any of them?

This week’s Beauty Roundup features the best of the best when it comes to all things beauty. From an organic Filipino company bagging top international beauty awards to a new foundation that feels as good as bare skin, we’ve got the low down on everything you need to know this week. Ready your wish lists because you’re going to want to try these amazing products!

Yes, today is the day! Day 1 of our 9th Anniversary celebrations begins with six of our fave brands opening their doors at The Podium Mall in Ortigas. Come by the Level 2 Atrium to experience Inglot, Kate Tokyo, Pink Sugar, Ellana, Baby Foot, and My Amazing Hair Care Secrets! They have special promos only during our event, so please don't miss it.

Day 2 is tomorrow, when our Guts, Glam, and Glory Forum will commence. The whole PV Team is excited to see you there!

Image via Human Nature and Philippine Primer

Proudly Pinay!

It’s no secret how the local beauty scene is expanding with more and more brands to choose from, with one-of-a-kind quality product offerings that can compete internationally. The global community has also been paying attention and looking to Filipino efforts for the next advances in beauty innovation. At the Sustainability Awards held in Paris, homegrown brand Human Nature took home the Sustainability Pioneer Award, a recognition given to a brand that continues to make waves and sustainable changes in the beauty world. With Human Nature’s constant creation of certified natural cosmetics (it’s the first local brand to be certified cruelty-free by PETA, too) made from locally sourced ingredients and employment of impoverished communities in the Philippines, it is truly a brand to be recognized. 

In addition, company co-founder and president Anna Meloto-Wilk was recognized as the Asia Pacific winner of the Beauty Industry Woman of the Year by Cosmetics Design, a London-based beauty industry publication. She’ll be joining the In-Cosmetics Global Exhibition in London where the global winner for the award will be announced, but her win for Pinay entrepreneurs is already a great source of pride and inspiration. Congratulations, Human Nature!

Update as of 31 March, 11am: Anna Meloto-Wilk won the Global Beauty Industry Woman of the Year award! See announcement here.

Image via Bustle

Glow-bal Domination

As if we could love (and lust) over Anastasia Beverly Hills products even more, the brand is now coming out with another must-have palette for us highlighter-obsessed women: the Aurora Glow Kit! It’s been a long time (and several palettes later) since the brand launched their first ever Moonchild kit, and fans have been craving for another “out of this world” palette of pigment. The Aurora Glow Kit will consist of six shades inspired by the stars and outer space while still keeping the wearable look of each powder. There’s Eclipse (soft peach), Luna (baby pink), Spectra (deep lavender), Helia (white with green tint), Orion (turquoise), and Lyra (warm orange). The palette is set to launch soon on April 4 on the ABH website and will retail for $40. Better get your wallets ready!

Full story on PopSugar

Image via LA Times

Herbivore It’s Too Late!

Sephora Philippines is killing it these days! From restocks to new-ins, the website has got everyone buzzing with excitement. Another awesome addition? Organic skincare brand Herbivore Botanicals is now available! Known for their all-natural, cruelty-free products and minimalist packaging, the brand has created a gigantic following since early 2014. Their masks have been raved about by tons of magazines and YouTubers for having amazing results. The Blue Clay Spot Treatment Mask (P1,124) promises to help treat your stubborn spots and bumps while gently clarifying your skin; the Blue Tansy AHA + BHA Resurfacing Clarity Mask (P2,215) is a cooling gel mask that helps reduce redness while unclogging pores and exfoliates dead skin cells; and the Brighten Pineapple Enzyme + Gemstone Instant Glow Mask (P2,696) increases blood circulation, giving your skin extra plumpness and a glow from within. I’m definitely excited to try the Sea Mist Coconut + Sea Salt Beach Wave Hair Mist (P610) and the Bamboo Charcoal Deep Cleanse Detoxifying Soap (P610) once they go back in stock! Shop Herbivore Botanicals here.

Image via Beauty Almanac

Nothing is Everything

MAC Cosmetics is known for their amazingly full coverage foundations and base products. From their iconic Studio Fix foundation and powders to their Studio Sculpt tubes, the brand knows their stuff when it comes to that flawless finish. So when they release a foundation that promises an undetectable look and feel to the skin, we can't help going crazy! The MAC Next to Nothing Face Colour is formulated with nourishers and light-reflecting opalescent microspheres giving you that “no makeup, makeup look” complete with a dewy glow. The thin, BB cream-like formula feels lighter on the skin but ably covers up all redness and discolorations. Available in nine shades so far, the Next To Nothing Face Colour retails for $31 and the Next to Nothing Powder is for $27. 

Full story on Allure

Image via facebook.com/BeautyMNL

It’s That Simple!

Talk about a surprise treat! BeautyMNL is slashing P100 off on ALL of the Simple Skincare products on their site! Shop their Moisturizing Facial Wash (P239), Micellar Wipes (P239) and Eye Makeup Remover (P399) at discounted prices until March 31. Remember: they offer free shipping for orders above P2,000 so you may want to stock up on your skincare staples. Happy shopping, PV girls!

Images via Lime Crime

Mane Priority

Summer is officially here and things are about to get extra magical! Taking a turn for the better, Lime Crime has been reinventing themselves as a brand and coming out with more products to catch our fancy. The beach is definitely a hot spot for everyone this season, and what better way to rock an on-trend look than with Unicorn Hair! Oh yes. Lime Crime’s Unicorn Hair Dye ($16) will be available in 11 shades of pure magic. From shades like Strawberry Jam to Dirty Mermaid, you can rock your locks in colors that celebrate the carefree days of summer. No word yet on the exact release date but the dyes are 100% cruelty-free and vegan, with no bleach needed! Check out the Lime Crime website for more details.

Full story on Bustle

Screencap from Instagram user @cosrx

Cos(RX) Your Fingers!

We’re not big on rumors but when the official Instagram account of one of our favorite Korean brands posts a picture about meeting with one of the country’s top beauty destinations—we freak out! CosRX posted a very simple picture with the caption “Guess who we met today #watsonsphilippines #cosrx #comingsoon” which has us buzzing! We’ve already spotted (and promptly purchased) their acne pads, honey moisturizers, and cushion pacts at select SM Beauty stores like Megamall and Makati. We’re eager for the brand to reach at more locations! That, and for the full line of products to be available! We’ll definitely keeping close tabs on this one and updating when we get more deets.

Header via Shop and Box

If you didn't know by now, I spend an inordinate amount of time at Althea. I do it for, er, "research", okay? There's always something new to watch out for and the products are so well-curated that there aren't many throwaways. I've been snooping on skincare there a lot these days for starters. I also keep an eye out for interesting deals like this COC Marine Blue Makeup Brush Set (P770)!

I got it because the photos looked fantastic on the product page plus the P770 price tag for six brushes seems more than reasonable. It's not exactly dirt cheap but the quality looked good so I just went for it. Plus, I will be traveling a couple of times this month and could definitely use a compact travel brush set!

That's probably my favorite thing about the COC Marine Blue set. It comes in a small ziplock pouch that isn't fancy but can fit in a normal handbag. I initially thought that the brushes inside would be too small to use comfortably; that isn't the case as they fit in my hand properly.

So how are these synthetic brushes, individually? Here's a quick rundown:

• Powder Face Brush. This is sufficiently fluffy and dense, enough to blend powders seamlessly. I've had softer bristles, honestly, but the hairs on this one are serviceable.
• Buffing Brush. This reminds me of a Real Techniques brush I have. It's perfect for blending cream or liquid products as it's super dense and soft.
• Blending Brush. This is for applying powder in small areas like the lids and under eyes. It's not as dense as I would like; this would be my least favorite brush in the set.
• Flat Brush. This is a basic eye brush, ideal for patting on a solid layer of eyeshadow or concealer.
• Smudger Brush. Stumpy with a rounded edge, this brush can nicely smoke our or soften your eyeliner. It can also pat eyeshadow on the upper and lower lids.
• Eyebrow and Spoolie Brush. The angled brush is not as stiff and dense as it should be. I love the spoolie though - it's soft and doesn't scratch my skin!

Overall, while I wouldn't say that the COC Marine Blue Makeup Brush Set is at the top of its game, it's functional enough for the price. I appreciate it most for its compact size and packaging; otherwise, these brushes aren't what I'd use for my everyday look. I would bring it to a trip however, when I care about space.

Now this set Is currently out of stock at Althea but there are other interesting things from the COC brand. See more brush sets and makeup ~mostly~ under P400! What do you think? Do you like collecting travel-sized brushes?

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

In The Sex Talk, we consult with doctors and experts about common questions we feel should be answered by women, for women.

If a missed or delayed period has ever made you panic, know that you’re not alone! Thanks to urban myths and misleading information, it can get really confusing about what can and can’t get you pregnant. We decided to put a stop to this guessing game and asked for the help of Dr. Maria Rosario G. Castillo-Cheng, an obstretrician-gynecologist and perinatologist (high risk pregnancy specialist) at The Medical City in Pasig.

But first, a refresher on what we learned in science class!

For pregnancy to occur, a woman’s egg cell must be fertilized by a man’s sperm cell. The sperm has to swim up through the woman’s cervix and into the uterus, where an egg cell may be present if the woman is fertile. Ovulation, or the period in a menstrual cycle when the ovaries release an egg cell, normally happens only once a month so there is usually only a small window of time when a woman can get pregnant. 

On the other hand, the sperm quality also has to be good to increase the chances for fertilization. There should be a healthy sperm count (amount of actual sperm in the ejaculate fluid), good morphology (the sperm must have both a head and a tail), and motility (the sperm’s ability to swim up to the egg). With all these factors needed for pregnancy to occur, one might conclude that it’s really not that easy to get pregnant. Well, that’s a yes and a no!

When exactly is a woman fertile?

A woman with a regular menstrual cycle (meaning one cycle lasts around 25 to 35 days) will be fertile during the middle of the cycle, from around Day 12 to Day 16. At this time, her vaginal discharge becomes more conducive for sperm to survive and move through and the egg will be ready for a possible conception. 

If you haven’t been keeping track and aren’t sure what your menstrual cycle is, take note of the first day of your next period. That will be Day 1 of your cycle. Take note again of the day when you get your next monthly period - that will be Day 1 of your next cycle, so you can just count back on how many days passed between those two periods to determine the length of your cycle. You can also use natural birth control methods to help determine when you are most fertile. 

Can sperm wait for an egg to become ready for fertilization?

Assuming that it’s perfectly health and meets all the requirements, sperm can live inside a woman’s body for up to 48 hours! This means that if sexual intercourse occurs even the day before the a woman is fertile, it’s possible for her to still get pregnant.

Can I get pregnant even if I only have sex once?

If all the conditions are favorable and no contraceptives were used, it is definitely possible to become pregnant. This is why you should never ever skip using protection, whether it's your first or nth time.

Can I get pregnant if I have sex while on my period?

It is unlikely. A woman would not be fertile while on her period because ovulation happens around the middle part of a regular menstrual cycle. If you do not have regular periods though, then you might have have Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS). In this case, it may be difficult to determine your exact fertility date. It’s best to see a doctor who can help you figure out your menstrual cycle and possibly prescribe medication to make your periods more regular.

Can I get pregnant from anal or oral sex?

No, the only way to get pregnant is through vaginal intercourse.

But what if my partner ejaculates near my vaginal opening?

The chances are extremely slim as the sperm will have to survive the external environment in addition to traveling all the way up to the uterus.

Can I get pregnant from pre-ejaculation fluid?

That is a complicated question. Pre-ejaculation fluid (or pre-cum) refers to the liquid substance that is secreted by a man’s penis during intercourse but before ejaculation. The thing is, there is no way to know whether there are any sperm left in the shaft of the penis from a previous ejaculation. If sperm is present in the shaft, then yes, there is a chance that some sperm would be mixed into pre-ejaculation fluid. 

This is why men who undergo vasectomies are advised to use protection for the first two times they engage in sexual intercourse - to make sure that there will not be any sperm left in the penile shaft. 

Can I get pregnant if my partner ejaculates in a pool?

No, swimming pools have chlorine that will kill the sperm. Salt water will do the same, as well. However, if your partner ejaculates inside you while you’re both in the water, you can get pregnant.

Can I increase the chances of choosing my baby’s gender?

There are claims that having intercourse at certain times of the day or during a woman’s cycle can help influence a baby’s sex. However, there are no founded studies on that as of now, so there’s no way of ensuring that the baby will be a girl or a boy outside of in vitro fertilization. With that method, several of the mother’s egg cells may be fertilized by the father’s sperm cells, and the couple can then choose which of these embryos will be implanted to continue the pregnancy.

Did we cover your question or correct what you used to know? We feel that it’s important to know about these things even if you aren’t yet sexually active because understanding how your body works enables you to make good choices for your reproductive health. Dr. Castillo-Cheng advises that if you decide to have sex, make sure to choose your partner/s well and know your options not just for family planning but protection from sexually-transmitted diseases as well.

Header image via Pinterest

Hi Liz and team! I've been breaking out lately and my skin is reddish from both tiny pimples and cystic bumps that just won't quit. I've already seen my derma and gotten medication. So...I know that I shouldn't be wearing foundation but I do a lot of face time with clients. It's not an option at work. What foundation can I use? - Rhea

Hi Rhea! Sad to hear about this. I'm glad you've seen a professional already and I'm looking forward to positive results for you soon! We also have some articles about acne management that you may find useful. To answer your question, I have two recommendations that might work for you. They are both formulated for sensitive skin, offer coverage and conceal redness, and - as it happens - proudly Pinoy.

The Ellana Loose Minerals Foundation (P499) is kind to skin because of its all-natural mineral ingredients blended with Vitamins C and E. Try this if you're looking for something that's preservative-free, fragrance-free, and with zero fillers (i.e. additional ingredients that are not really required in the formula, but helps to lower cost)! Its actives are zinc oxide and titanium oxide, which help to calm down skin and function as a physical barrier against the sun. 

The Ellana foundation also offers heavy, long-wearing coverage that can last on even the oiliest of surfaces. It can cover up minor blemishes and major redness without causing irritation. Of course, your mileage might vary (YMMV) but I'd like to think that this foundation isn't famous for nothing! I first found this, wow, sometime 2008 or 2009? I have a bunch of other foundations but I still use it to this day - especially when I'm breaking out. Here are my complete swatches for your reference.

Shop Ellana online at ellana.com.ph and in their physical counters

The Happy Skin Zit Zapper Second Skin Cream (P1,299) is a silicone-free, sheer coverage liquid foundation that has 2% salicylic acid in the formula. Salicylic acid helps to dry out pimples. You can apply it separately for more concentration, but it's rare to have this active into the makeup itself!

The silicone-free nature of this foundation is a boon to those who are particularly sensitive to it. Silicone is not a "bad" ingredient per se, it's just that in certain concentrations it has a tendency to clog pores and irritate some people's skin! It's also rare to find silicone-free face products here in the PH so this is a godsend if silicone breaks you out.

The coverage of the ZZ Cream is sheer, and so it comes in only one shade. It's enough to get an even glow and to take down redness, though you might need to use a concealer afterwards. Actually, you may want to set it with the Ellana Loose Foundation powder for max coverage and acne control!

Shop Happy Skin online at happyskincosmetics.com or at their physical counters.

Hope you found my recos useful, Rhea! How about you guys, which foundations do you gravitate towards when your skin is acting up?

We know this heat has been making you daydream of hitting the beach, but not everyone is lucky enough to make the trip. The next best thing is to jump into the cool blue waters… of a swimming pool! 

However, this summer-perfect activity may turn out to be detrimental to your hair health. Chlorine damage is something to take seriously as it zaps out the moisture and the natural oils that prevent your mane from drying out and splitting. Moreover, the coloring and the chemicals found in pool water can cause light hair to discolor. So much for that platinum blonde you painstakingly bleached and toned! But we’ve got some tips up our sleeves to help prevent fugly pool hair.

Image via hairinmanila.wordpress.com

Put off major salon services until after pool season is over

Dye jobs, rebonding, and other chemical treatments make your hair more vulnerable to damage. The hair strands already become more brittle, dry, and porous, so we’re not going to sugar-coat it: Chlorine WILL make it worse. 

Image via livestrong.com

Image via sciencefocus.com

The swimming cap is your best friend

Aside from keeping hair out of your eyes while doing your laps, the swimming cap serves as the much-needed barrier between hair and chlorinated pool water. Find one with a snug fit, but not something so tight that you start to feel lightheaded.

Start and end with washed hair

Those shower rooms/stalls are there for a reason! Aside from making sure you descend into the pool a little cleaner, the tap water will introduce moisture and get absorbed by the hair over the chlorine-treated water. It’s a sponge effect, so let hair soak up on the tap first to avoid soaking up on chlorine instead.

After the swim, rinse off the excess chlorine on the tap. Do not idle when your locks are on the line! The sooner you wash off those chemicals, the less damage they’ll make on your hair.

Shampoo, condition, and treat your hair

You’re going to need a lot of conditioners and damage-repair treatments if you’re planning on being a regular at the pool. Hair experts actually recommend applying conditioner before you dive in, as the product packs in moisture and helps prevent chlorine from penetrating your hair strands. After you swim, condition your hair again after shampooing or switch to a deep-conditioning hair mask for a stronger dose of moisture.

Have you already gone to the pool this summer? How did you deal with chlorine damage?

Sources: Go Ask Alice!, Today.com

Cover image via lifewithme.com

I'm a little - okay, a lot - behind some product reviews for you guys. It's just that many things fall in the cracks when my schedule gets crazy, but I resolve to be more diligent about timing in the future. That, or clone another Liz whose sole mission will be to write and shoot things! (If only.)

Anyway, I've had the Laneige Milkyway Fantasy Collection since December 2016 as this was their holiday offering. There's some skincare but I'd like to focus on swatching the new shades of their best-selling Two-Tone Bars (P1,200): two for the Lip Bars, and two for the Shadow Bars. I've reviewed the Two-Tone Bars previously, so you can read that if you're looking for a more detailed discussion on the formula.

I love the blue box and pink bullets of this collection. It doesn't show in the photos, but the silver caps has a pink gradient in the bottom!

Here are the four new, limited edition shades:

• No. 1 Milkyway Burgundy is a deep pink cream shadow mixed with pale pink shimmer. It's cute on the eyes and can be worn alone, but should register best on fairer skin. I find it doesn't look that pigmented on my lids as it does on the swatch.
• No. 2 Smoky Dust is a deep brown with champagne shimmer. This is fairly pigmented on top of primer.
• No. 1 Bloody Dress has a rather macabre name, but the bright splash of scarlet mixed with a beigey pink does remind one of a bloody dress, no? I love this shade. I've been wearing this a lot lately as it's so bright and eye catching!
• No. 2 Mystic Rose is a bright rosy pink mixed with a cool baby pink. I find it too pale for my medium skin tone but it should look great on fairer coloring.

The Shadow Bars seem to stick better than Laneige's first stab at it, but they still crease miserably on my non-oily lids without a primer. The Lip Bars' formulation are still top notch - they're creamy, stain well, and get the gradient look right with minimal effort!

In this look, I'm wearing a mix of Milkyway Pink and Smoky Dust on my eyes. I'm wearing Mystic Rose on my lips in the left photo, and Bloody Dress in the right photo. So kawaii, right?

Overall, I love the concept of this Laneige collection. If you must only get one item, go for the Two Tone Lip Bar in Bloody Dress! It looks fantastic. I think the Shadow Bars still need to be reworked into a wearable formula for humid weather. That being said, I'm definitely looking forward to more shades of the Lip Bars!

Thoughts? How's your gradient makeup game coming along?

Photography by Samantha Gonzales

While other girls dream of building an extensive makeup collection with custom-built dressers, my ultimate beauty goal is to never need to wear foundation or concealer ever again. Between those two options, I used to think that it would be easier to do the makeup collection than it is to get perfect skin! In the skin care forums that I follow though, there was a product that was often mentioned and frequently on the “favorites” list of people. That’s where I first heard about Estée Lauder’s best-selling Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Recovery Complex II.  

At more than P5,000 for the full-size 30mL bottle, I put it on my list of Things To Buy When I’m Rich and made do with products within my small budget. After all, how life-changing can a tiny bottle possibly be, right? That’s where I was quickly proven wrong.

As our first ever team challenge, Estée Lauder invited me and my fellow PV girls to try using their Advanced Night Repair and Micro Essence Skin Activating Treatment Lotion for 30 days. We all had different skin types, concerns and routines, so it was very exciting for us to find out exactly how one product could be something that all of us would want to add our routines. Here’s what we discovered, and we share our makeup-free selfies to reveal the results!

The first photo was taken at the beginning of the challenge, the second (middle photo) after 15 days, and the last photo after 30 days.

Den Bengzon

Skin type and concerns: dryness, occasional dry patches, fine lines, uneven skin tone

I deliberately avoided reading about the Micro Essence and ANR until I’d completed the challenge to be sure thatt whatever changes I might experience, it would be something that I actually observed rather than been conditioned to expect. It was love first use because of the lightweight texture and delicate, somewhat spicy scent. By Week Two, I noticed that my face was glowing and looked brighter than ever! More importantly, my skin felt (and still feels) amazing, and my laugh lines have diminished. Saving up for my repurchase already!

Gett Balalad

Skin condition and concerns: oiliness and acne

I noticed that my breakouts heal faster than usual! I also like that there seems to be a glow about me. even if I lack sleep or feel bleh. I think my skin may be purging though, as I've been breaking out more at both the usual areas and not-usual ones like my forehead.

Angela Fernandez

Skin condition and concerns: combination with hormonal acne on forehead

Both the microessence and ANR felt light on my skin. They were easy to apply and fit right into my skincare routine, and seemed to improve the absorption of the other products that I used. My skin feels softer and smoother, with a radiance that made me look more healthy at just 15 days into the challenge. The changes are even more noticeable now, as I’ve received compliments on how my breakout is clearing up and my redness has lessened. The day after I finished the challenge, I stopped for a second after cleansing my face and decided, "Yes, I wanna keep doing this!"

Charlie Ermerna

Skin condition and concerns: oiliness, acne, scarring, dark spots, uneven texture and tone

To my surprise, the serum and essence combination, despite being light on the skin, was actually enough to keep my skin moisturized that I was able to skip my usual moisturizers! As the challenge hit the midpoint, my mom actually commented that my skin looked a bit brighter. The pores on my cheeks are no longer as embarrassingly visible so I’ve been skipping silicon-based primers without cringing at the sight of my pores.

My skin also now looks considerably lighter (and actually now matches my the color of my neck), even radiant despite my period acne. While I wish that the serum also did its magic to my acne and scar problems, I’m happy to have tried it and see my face look bright. I wish the pictures were able to do enough justice on the serum’s effect on my skin. I now understand what the rave over this serum is about. This bottle is not just a product of sweet talk - it actually, totally, works!

Katsy Faustino

Skin condition and concerns: dryness, blackheads, fine lines

Before I started using the essence and ANR, I didn't like how my face looked so yellowish. The tone was just off and made me look sickly without a sheer wash of base. I also had to exfoliate every 2-3 days around the nose area, or else I will have a build-up of blackheads. Two weeks into using the duo, I noticed that I didn't have to exfoliate as much. My skin tone started losing the yellow tint and actually looked healthy.

I also noticed an improvement in skin texture even though I refrained from exfoliating the entire month, which I couldn’t have skipped without the help of the Micro Essence. My skin felt nourished, and not once did I experience the extra tightness that comes from having dry skin. I would definitely keep using the products and plant to repurchase once I've used them up. A little goes a long way and I can clearly see the results so I look forward to trying out the rest of the Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair line, particularly the eye creams as that is another one of my main skin issues. In fairness, my under eye area somehow lightened up even by just using the ANR serum.

Crystal Rodis-Concepcion

Skin condition and concerns: oiliness and acne

I had just come from a nasty breakout that left me with a lot of acne marks when I started this challenge. The first time I tried the products, I knew that I would enjoy using them because both felt so light and easily absorbed by the skin. Waking up in the morning of Day 2, I immediately noticed that my skin was not oily at all and felt like I had just applied my skincare products minutes ago.

After a few days, I noticed that my skin was looking brighter. By Day 15, I noticed that my acne marks had faded a little, and that there was a big change in my oil production. I can now go longer without blotting my face, and when I do, my oil blotters aren't as soaked in oil as before. It feels so good to not be so dependent on oil-blotting sheets, and I have this duo to thank for helping normalize my skin!

Jenn Tan

Skin condition and concerns: oiliness, acne, large pores, scars from a recent bout of chickenpox

I took this challenge shortly after my bout with adult chickenpox, which left deep, indented scars on my skin. I was also unable to follow my usual skincare routine for the two weeks I was sick so my skin was really messed up! I have actually tried the ANR serum before its current reformulation; it didn't agree with my skin back then but I'm glad my skin positively responded to it this time around.

The most immediate change I noticed is how my skin felt smoother to the touch the day after my first application. I remained a skeptic until about a week into the challenge; though my skin is far from perfect, it looked better in photos even without makeup on and I began to believe in the "I woke up like this!" glow. It doesn't directly treat acne as I still did get pimples from time to time, though I did observe that they were fewer and smaller. My theory is that ANR strengthened my skin's natural mantle, effectively making it more resistant against external factors and less prone to pimples. I still have pore problems although my skin's texture has definitely improved.

The best thing about using ANR for me is that it protects and nourishes the skin even during days when I had little sleep. Of course, it's still much healthier to get a good night's sleep but on days when you're running on only so much of it, you can depend on ANR to catch your skin and not let it fall.

Marielle Ong

Skin condition and concerns: dryness, dullness and hyperpigmentation

The Micro Essence feels hydrating but not slick and slightly sticky like some of the moisturizing liquids/toners I've used. It actually feels very presko and clean on the skin without drying it out. The same goes for ANR: The gel consistency is rapidly absorbed, giving it a coated feeling sans any discomfort or fear that it would stick to my pillowcase. What amazed me about this duo was how they maintained a healthy skin texture when I got sick halfway through challenge.

Being ill usually gives me rough, bumpy, tired skin that just feels gross and neglected but using ANR made my face felt noticeably smoother even when I wasn't at 100%. While it doesn't really register on cam, my fingers can definitely detect the difference!

Claire Reyes

Skin type and concerns: sensitive, combination, hormonal acne, large pores, dark spots

I was really excited to do this challenge - this is my first time to try Estée Lauder skin care for a whole month! At the same time, I felt apprehensive and doubtful as I have sensitive skin and get hormonal acne so I usually stay away from too many active ingredients. What really made we decide to try was the need to address the dark spots left behind by pimple marks. Finding  something that addresses these issues, while not making my oily areas greasy and my dry patches obvious, is a real challenge!

And so I found it hard to believe when I noticed my skin wasn't as greasy when I woke up after the first ANR challenge night. I noticed micropeeling on my nose but it was never felt painful, just that my skin was regenerating at a much faster pace. By day 15, my dark spots were less noticeable. Even though I had a fresh breakout (I had been on day 2 of my period) my skin wasn't as red as usual. The texture in my cheeks was also less noticeable.

By day 30, I was a true believer in the power of ANR! I had clearer skin overall, and my skin is the closest it's ever been to a normal skin type. Even the lines around my mouth and eyes weren't as obvious! This is something I will definitely consider adding to my permanent skin care. It may seem expensive but considering how well it performed with the very small amount I've been using, it's definitely worth it!

Sam Gonzales

Skin type and concerns: normal, occasional dry patches, prone to dehydration

I get the intermittent hormonal blemishes due to PCOS and what I love about the ANR regimen is that it definitely tones down the redness of all the marks, such that I’m confident enough to just go out with sunscreen and a lip balm. It also eliminates the “tight” feeling I usually have around my nostrils, which was always a problem due to the dryness of my skin. The best part of the challenge was to form a nighttime routine - to never neglect cleansing and treatment.

Stacie Chan

Skin type and concerns: combination-oily, fine lines around the eyes, uneven texture, whiteheads

I noticed that my skin felt softer within the first few days of using ANR but after taking the second photo on Day 15, I was shocked at how much brighter my skin actually looked even though there was redness on my forehead and cheeks. I met up with the PV Team sometime around Day 20 and received a lot of compliments on how well my skin looked! It was then that I realized that I could finally walk out without base makeup, except for concealer for my dark circles!

Admittedly, I didn’t even notice how dull my complexion was until I started using this duo. My Day 30 photo says it all; the ANR challenge has made it look healthier and more glowy! Even the usual small bumps I get on my forehead have completely disappeared. The combination costs about P8k, which is a whopping amount for a student like me. I would definitely pay for the price IF I had the cash but unfortunately, I will most likely re-purchase only when I have a steady job and no longer living off an allowance.

Have you tried taking the month-long #AdvancedNightRepair challenge? Hope we've convinced you to do so!

Product photography by Samantha Gonzales

A pop of color in your look does not always have to mean something bold and bright. It can also be intense matte nudes and darks, just like the ones in this new lipstick collection by L’Oreal Paris called the Color Riche Rouge Magique. 

While the red lip will always be a classic, having the perfect nude in your stash ensures that you will always have that go-to MLBB shade. And for those hot summer nights? The dark shades from the 15-piece Rouge Magique collection (P400 each) are sure to make you smolder!

From left: Mont Blanc, Beige Reveur, Café De Flore, Vin Exquis, Purple Comtesse, Miss Chocolate, The Fort

I’ve been road testing seven shades from the line and I find myself reaching for them often, particularly the nude shades in Mont Blanc and Beige Reveur. Those two are the easiest to wear and blend quite nicely with my medium skin tone. Though they are matte lipsticks, the Rouge Magiques do not dry out my lips. I even go out with just a tube in my bag, most times forgetting to bring along a lip balm as the moisturizing benefits of jojoba oil and honey keep my lips nourished.

The tubes also make for great eye candy with their sleek fuchsia and black packaging. The intensity of the pink caps are reminiscent of the strong shades of the line. 

Mont Blanc is a nude for medium skin tones, with a hint of pink to keep your look soft and feminine. This is my runaway favorite!

Beige Reveur is a warmer, deeper nude that makes for a great MLBB for many skin tones. I reach for this if I want my look to be more pensive than playful.

Café De Flore is a beigey nude with a hint of brown for that light take on the still trending brown lipstick. L’Oreal recommends this for medium skin tones.

Vin Exquis is a distinct plum that gives your look that extra edge. While the shade may be unique, it is still quite wearable for an everyday look. 

Purple Comtesse is described by L’Oreal as a deep wine shade. I reach for it if I want a different take on the red lip. Just make sure to exfoliate your lips prior to application for a smoother finish. 

Miss Chocolate is a delicious-sounding deep brown shade perfect for morena skin tones. It does get a little patchy as some dark lipsticks tend to do so I follow up with a lip brush. 

The Fort is the darkest shade of the bunch and it is the purple-toned version of Miss Chocolate. You can barely see the difference in my lip swatches but on the arm swatches, you can easily detect the nuance between the two. This shade also gets patchy so proper lip prep is a must. 

Overall, the L’Oreal Paris Color Riche Rouge Magique Lipsticks present a formidable line-up of nudes and darks. The intense matte promise is legit without drying out the lips. Longevity is pretty good also as I can go for hours without reapplying. You can surely find a go-to shade or two for everyday wear and for evenings out.

Do you love wearing matte lipsticks? Are you Team Nude or Team Dark this summer?

For #ONESWIPEINTENSEMATTE in 15 shades, the L’Oreal Paris Color Riche Rouge Magique Lipsticks are available in L’Oreal Paris makeup counters and official online retailers this April 2017. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/lorealparisphilippines.

If you want to know if a piece of skincare works as it claims, don't look at the price tag or the brand name - look at the ingredients list. Think of it as a story that maps out the journey the skincare will take on your skin! The first part of the ingredients list (around 5-10 of the names in it, depending) is usually the base or the carrier of the active ingredients. For example, if the product is water-based, you'll see water, aqua, distilled water etc. as the first name in line. Then you'll be seeing alcohols, solvents, emulsifiers, and other ingredients that help to stabilize the formula and make its texture pleasant.

Then we get to the fun part - the active ingredients. Aside from the packaging, these are what you're really paying for. For example, just to give you an idea, a kilo of cosmetics grade Vitamin C in the Philippines costs roughly P28,000. A skin lightening protein could cost anywhere from P300,000 to P1,000,000! There are hundreds of oils and extracts available. Some are cheap, while some are expensive for a reason.

Of course, each bottle of skincare would only have a small percentage of active ingredients. It's because our skin can only take a limited concentration before sustaining damage, and the cost of the active/s has to be taken into consideration. The more expensive it is, the more of it there is in the formula, the more pricey the product is. 

And so I present to you the new La Mer The Hydrating Revitalizing Serum. It promises to "awaken vitality" in your skin by hydrating it what they call the Deep Hydration Ferment (a blend of green, brown and red algae) and Lime Tea Concentrate, an antioxidant to protect skin. So does it do what it says? As far as I understand, yes!

It's a water-based serum chock full of plant and algae extracts, oils, and peptides. It is hydrating but it doesn't have a thick feeling at all; the serum is light and is absorbed deep into the skin. There is no filmy or sticky residue as my skin just feels soft and smooth! When I use it at night, I wake up to glowy smooth face with a crazy soft texture. It certainly does look and feel woke, i.e. revitalized.

It does have a strong alcohol (?) scent though. That's strange as I was expecting the usual powdery La Mer scent. Butylene Glycol, a safe organic alcohol, is the third ingredient in the list which may explain the scent, but I see that there's perfume added. Some of the oils should have their own scents as well. Perhaps they are not that pleasant together and are therefore simply masked?

In any case, I suggest smelling this first and checking if you're okay with it. I don't mind it personally as the smell goes away fairly quickly! I suppose this is better than the fishy or old socks smell of other similar serums.

Overall, I find the La Mer The Hydrating Revitalizing Serum responsible for vastly improving the texture and even tone of my skin after I've used it for a couple of months. It's a great pre-boost to the La Mer Moisturizer or as a primer before foundation. It's worth checking out if you're into luxury skin care!

Skincolor de la Mer is available in Rustan’s Makati, Shangri-la and Cebu

Product photography by Samantha Gonzales

Ingredients of the La Mer The Hydrating Revitalizing Serum:

Declustered Water (-)\Aqua\Eau De-Structuree (-), Declustered Water ( )\Aqua\Eau De-Structuree ( ), Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Algae (Seaweed) Extract, BIS-PEG-12 Dimethicone, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Sucrose, Limnanthes Alba (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil, Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Oil, Medicago Sativa (Alfalfa) Seed Powder, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seedcake, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Seed Meal, Eucalyptus Globulus (Eucalyptus) Leaf Oil, Sodium Gluconate, Copper Gluconate, Calcium Gluconate, Magnesium Gluconate, Zinc Gluconate, Tocopheryl Succinate, Niacin, Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Powder, Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Peel Extract, Commiphora Mukul Resin Extract, Codium Tomentosum Extract, Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract, Humulus Lupulus (Hops) Extract, Citrus Reticulata (Tangerine) Peel Extract, Asparagopsis Armata Extract, Salicornia Herbacea Extract, Alcaligenes Polysaccharides, Glucose, Porphyridium Cruentum Extract, Sigesbeckia Orientalis (St. Paul's Wort) Extract, Squalane, Cholesterol, Caffeine, Undaria Pinnatifida Extract, Ascophyllum Nodosum Extract, Laminaria Digitata Extract, Sea Salt\Maris Sal\Sel Marin, Castanea Sativa (Chestnut) Seed Extract, Plankton Extract, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed Extract, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Trehalose, Lactoperoxidase, Dimethicone, Lecithin, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Protein, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Fruit Juice, Glucose Oxidase, Linolenic Acid, Hydrolyzed Rice Extract, Laminaria Saccharina Extract, Yeast Extract\Faex\Extrait De Levure, Acetyl Glucosamine, Bisabolol, Glycosaminoglycans, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium PCA, Tourmaline, Linoleic Acid, Sorbitol, Urea, Tocopheryl Acetate, Pentylene Glycol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Polyquaternium-51, Ethylbisiminomethylguaiacol Manganese Chloride, Hydroxypropyl Cyclodextrin, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Nordihydroguaiaretic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Alcohol Denat., Carbomer, Xanthan Gum, Potassium Sorbate, Fragrance (Parfum), Disodium EDTA, BHT, Phenoxyethanol, Amyl Cinnamal, Hexyl Cinnamal, Benzyl Benzoate, Citronellol, Limonene, Coumarin, Linalool, Blue 1 (CI 42090), Red 4 (CI 14700)

I’ve been an avid online shopper since the (now dead) Multiply platform became a popular place to shop for hard-to-find items. Today, I still purchase a good deal of my beauty hauls from online stores. It’s particularly convenient for makeup and skincare addicts like me, who look for more budget-friendly prices as well as brands and products that aren’t available locally. 

My experience as an online shopper has actually inspired me to put up my own store, so seeing posts about disgruntled buyers and angry sellers definitely make me cringe! Actual scams aside, many of the situations I’ve read about are a simple result of a failure in communication. Knowing and understanding each other’s expectations can make the transaction pleasant and hassle-free for everyone involved, so here are a few tips to guarantee a fun (and easy) shopping experience!

Tip #1: Take the time to read the terms and conditions

While some online sellers don't put every detail as a strategy to establish communication with buyers, many provide the necessary information for efficiency and customer convenience. Check the post for information about the item for sale, and browse the website FAQs for instructions for payment and shipping. Seeking out information allows you to decide on making a purchase faster, as you won’t need to wait for the seller to reply before placing a reservation and end up missing out on limited stocks because you waited too long. 

Tip #2: Do your research on the product

My problematic, acne-prone skin has led me to try many different skincare sets so I've had my fair share of disappointments. Some purchases made me feel ripped off but in hindsight, now that I know more about skincare and understand my skin better, they didn't work because I didn’t read up enough about the products before putting in my order for them. It’s so much easier now that the internet makes it possible to read reviews and interact in forums but always make sure to get your info from credible sites with real reviews (like Project Vanity!). If you never want to miss a story, just sign up for our weekly newsletter to have them delivered to your mailbox.

Tip #3: Pay on time with the correct amount

Once you've settled on a price and placed your order, makes sure to agree on a due date for the payment and honor this commitment. Bigger e-commerce sites usually accept credit card and Paypal payments, which are easy enough to use, but smaller stores are often restricted to just receiving bank deposits. Set a reminder on your phone so you don’t forget, or if you don’t want the hassle of lining at the bank, consider enabling a mobile banking account for quick transfers. As a seller, I appreciate buyers who take the time to scan or take a clear photo of their payment confirmation slips with their name written on it for easy reference. 

Doing a meet-up and cash on delivery payment option is a common practice when high value or bulky items are at stake. If you choose this option, make sure to arrive on time and keep communication lines open with the seller so they can easily contact you if they are running late or have had a change in plans.

Tip #4: Share the task of tracking your order

Many disagreements have stemmed from delayed shipments, leading the buyer to suspect the seller of being bogus. While a responsible seller should notify the buyer of the date and waybill number of the package, tracking its shipment progress is a shared task between both buyer and seller. Most courier companies have tracking features in their websites that allow you to easily find a package as long as you have the number, so if delivery is taking a while, check its status first before throwing an angry fit. The seller might not have been able to monitor every order sent out, especially if there is a large volume of orders. 

Tip #5: Patience, please!

Convenience is a top reason why people love online shopping, and the same goes for online sellers as well. Many do it on the side for extra income, and thus may not always be online to respond to queries immediately. It doesn't mean though that they've forgotten about you or are ignoring you, so give them some time to reply. Patience is also important for pre-ordered items as shipping takes time and delays can be unavoidable. 

Do you shop online? How do you maintain a good relationship with your suki? 

Here's what I learned about business from the two guys behind Pink Sugar: cut out what's not working, and focus on what does. It's difficult to hear ugly truths about a product you slaved so hard to "perfect", only to find out that others do not see it that way. Laveen and Rohit Mirpuri are remarkably agile entrepreneurs because they can adapt to the unpredictable realities once a product hits retail, and they are not afraid to shore up their bases even if it means going back to the drawing board.

That's why Pink Sugar is the drugstore cosmetics brand to watch - it listens to its customers and acts on it, like, yesterday.

The best example is their Sweet Cheeks HD Cheek Color (P299). This used to come in eight shades, a bigger compact that accommodates a pony-haired brush, and a price tag of P499. I loved Miss Independent and South Beach. When they found out the whole shebang wasn't hitting ALL the high notes with their market (i.e. us), they decided to create a tighter shade selection with wearable colors for everyday, removed the brush (most people didn't use it anyway), and subsequently lowered the price to just P299.

That aside, you NEED these blushes in your life because:

• They are pigmented with a soft focus matte finish - one layer is all you need to get great color on your skin. You do have to be careful about the amount you use. Florence for instance is really, really pigmented so I wipe my brush pa on tissue before proceeding to my cheeks.
• They stay impressively well! I've had these last on my combi skin for about 4-6 hours depending on whether I'm in an airconditioned area. Man, do they stick! They don't just sit on top of your makeup, they kind of ~stain~ into it. Reminds me of TheBalm's Instain blushes actually.

Morocco is a fantastic neutral taupe shade for contouring. I love it because it's perfect for my skin tone. Sin City, which has been reformulated, is a fine white gold highlighter that's absolutely swoon-worthy. It used to be full of spackles in its former life! If you're looking for warm, natural peach blushes for your morena skin, you'll love Summer Nights and Miss Independent. Florence (the other new shade aside from Morocco), is a dusty rose that should be universally flattering.

Wore Morocco here to contour my cheeks and jawline, added Florence on the cheeks, then popped Sin City on the cheekbones and bridge of the nose.

Overall, I highly recommend the new Pink Sugar Sweet Cheeks HD Color to anybody who's looking for an affordable, pretty blush that stays on the cheeks. I think oily-skinned ladies will appreciate its staying power. These are fairly easy to blend (just be careful with Florence!) and could slip into any kikay kit without taking up much space. Go for Morocco, Sin City, and Miss Independent! I do love Summer Nights and Florence as well though so it feels a little unfair for me to have favorites haha.

If you're not convinced, well, try them on your face one of these days. I think you won't be disappointed! Let me know what you think, as always. ^_^

Check out Pink Sugar at pinksugar.com.ph, beautymnl.com, and at the following retail locations.

Habits, no matter how mundane or seemingly insignificant they are, define our lives. We can think grand thoughts and say grand things, but what we do every single day is who we are. Probably the easiest way to turn our life around is to review our daily habits and consciously discard what makes us weaker, inefficient, or unhappy and do more of what makes us better. Well, perhaps that's easier said than done, but what works for me is reviewing my goals before my day begins and assessing my performance before I go to sleep.

"How do I win today?" is something that I ask myself every morning. Sure some things may not go as I planned, but some others do. I build on these small victories so I can launch myself to the next step. Once I'm done with my day, I like to discuss with my partner, James, about what I've achieved and learned. Synthesizing these learnings in this manner opens my mind to new ideas while keeping my feet to the ground.

March was an incredibly hectic month for me. We held the Project Vanity 9th Anniversary which was attended by 200 people! Organizing that was an incredible feat by my small team, but in the background we were also working on product development for In Her Element. That's bloody, detail-intensive, and expensive so you could imagine how stressful that was. We were also working with our clients so I was often out in meetings and pitches. All that time I was thinking that if I could survive March 2017, I will likely survive anything!

Lucky for me, Yasmine Hidalgo, Director of Public Relations of Sofitel Manila, invited me to have a quick beauty staycation at their world class facilities. Sofitel houses Vietura, an aesthetic lifestyle institute that leverages on its holistic approach to beauty and wellness, offering treatments to improve the face, body, and even nutrition level. It's bespoke beauty that goes past superficial improvements by encouraging beneficial lifestyle changes, and carefully keeping watch on a client’s progress or setbacks. 

I was extra stressed last week month my skin showed it without remorse. After a quick consultation with Vietura's in-house derma, I requested for the Carbon Laser. It's a laser treatment that strips away hyperpigmentation with controlled intensity and precise degree of penetration. It helps remove solid dark spots and pigmented lesions like tattoos and birthmarks. 

First, the aesthetician cleaned off my makeup and then applied a carbon mask on my face. Then she placed goggles to protect my eyes and proceeded zapping my skin with Revlite laser. It's actually my first time to try laser on my face so I was a wee bit apprehensive, but after the initial discomfort (more from the zapping sound really!) I realized that it wasn't painful at all. Imagine ants gently crawling on your skin and leaving warm tracks. The fun part is that the laser zapped the carbon mask per centimeter; it revealed brighter, cleaner skin instantly.

My skin immediately after the treatment. No redness, though the last pass of the laser gun was warmer than the first.

Over the last week, I noticed my skin has a glow and some of my smaller blemishes and freckles have lightened. There's no downtime, not even micro-peeling. The recommended number of sessions to achieve permanent results is anywhere from 3-7, depending on your skin. I want to try this again and would recommend it to anybody granted cost was no object.

After my treatment at Vietura, I hied off to Sofitel's Le Spa for a 1.5 hour massage. The suite was handsome and quiet; the masseuse was polite and attentive. I enjoyed every minute of it! Instead of listening to music, I chose to listen to my Audible book (The Collapsing Empire by John Scalzi).

I felt like myself again after that lovely April afternoon at Sofitel. Honestly, I love the daily texture of my life even when the extreme stress tests my limits. Still, it feels nice to just take a break from all that and chill while working on my skin. It was exactly what I needed! Thank you, Yasmine and Sofitel, for having me over!

For appointments and price inquiries, please get in touch with Vietura at:

Tel:   +63 2 551 5555 loc.1662 | Mobile:  +63 917 581 3091 | Email :   info@vietura.com, sales@vietura.com

Le Spa is open daily from 8am to 12 midnight and may be phone at 551 5555 Ext 1588/1587

Are you enjoying some well-deserved R&R this weekend? Whether you’re enjoying an out-of-town getaway or a staycation with the fam, don’t miss out on this week’s beauty news! We were thrilled to find an exciting new update on the OG online beauty guru, and plan to stock up on some of our favorite beauty tools. Disney fever is still on a high with even more makeup collabs, and we’re thanking science for potentially coming up with a vaccine against every beauty girl’s nightmare!

Image via EM Cosmetics

EM my gosh!

First she talked about her Infinite Lip Clouds (super comfortable and long-lasting crème lippies), and now Michelle Phan is back with another addition to EM Cosmetics. Launching on April 17, the Illustrative Liquid Eyeliners ($15) are already creating major beauty buzz, thanks to a Facebook Live video of Michelle doing a live swatch. We’re honestly bowled over how pigmented and easy to use her liquid liners are! 

The Illustrative Liners will have two versions: a felt tip liner and a brush tip liner. The brush tip is perfect for freehanding your wing, whether you want a feathery line or a super slick and thin flick. The felt tip is stiffer and best-suited for sharper and darker lines. Inspired by art and calligraphy pens, these liquid liners are here to change the cat eye game. Waterproof and smudgeproof, we expect that these will go out of stock fairly quickly when they go up on sale at the EM Cosmetics site.

Image via PopSugar

A summer fling to last all year long

Say goodbye to thick and cakey face bases! The cult fave beauty sponge will be releasing a limited edition Summer Fling Collection that includes two new Beautyblender sponge colors - neon green and bright orange. A set of 3 sponges would normally set you back $60 but because of this special promo, the summer collection is just $49! Save yourself from slapping on too much product in this hot weather, and pick up this trio from Sephora and beautyblender sites starting April 12. 

Full story on PopSugar

Image via Elle UK

Sho(t)cking new development!

Could this be the miracle solution we’ve all been waiting for? Researchers from the University of California have created a new vaccine that will eliminate acne once and for all! The vaccine, which is in its early stages of development, aims to block acne-causing effects without killing off the bacteria itself. The shot will target the protein that excretes the acne onto the skin, causing inflammation. It’s designed to not kill the bacteria completely because research has shown that the bacteria is actually good for the body; its the proteins in it that cause acne to surface on the skin. The vaccine has been tested on skin biopsies of acne patients with positive results, and the team will begin human testing soon.

Full story on Inquirer

Images via The Revelist

Dolled up with Disney

Makeup collaborations are always a good thing, especially earn they come out as cute as these! It’s not The Face Shop’s first time to feature Disney but the new collection is certainly the most massive one yet! Every character gets to have their own beauty product: from Donald Duck’s Concealer Multi-Palette (how cute and convenient is this?) to Disney Princess Sheet masks, the brand is offering everything from bronzers to eye shadow palettes, lippies and blushes. The teasers on their Instagram seem to show a Princess Ariel green cushion corrector, Mickey Mouse lip and cheek tints, various character eye masks, and even shadow sticks! You can already shop the collection on Amazon before it hits stores.

Full story on Allure

 Image via Bustle

The latest lippie trend

Liquid lipsticks have become such a staple in our kikay kits. From ultra mattes to sexy satin finishes, we all have at least one liquid lippie that we’ve used and loved. Well, the latest trend in the beauty world takes these pigmented tubes to a whole new color-correcting level! YouTuber Amy’s Makeup Box posted a video using Huda Kattan’s liquid lippie in Cheerleader ($20) as an undereye corrector, and it proved to be a genius idea. We’ve tried this hack before to satisfactory results but used the traditional cream formula. Using a liquid lipstick should make it long-wearing.

The hack is so good that Hudda herself reposted it on her Instagram. Talk about a multi purpose product! Would you give this hack a go?

Full story on Bustle

Image via facebook.com/beautybarPH

Click Your Way to Clinique

Who doesn’t love an online exclusive? Beauty Bar Philippines makes shopping that much easier by bringing in Clinique! You can now shop online for their best-selling Clarifying Lotion (P1,450), Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion (P1,900), and even matte and satin Pop Lip Colours (P1,100). We’ve already got our eyes set on the Chubby Stick Sculpting Highlight (P1,400) and Pep Start Eye Cream (P1,500); after all, it’s FREE SHIPPING for orders above P1,500!

Header image via Glowlicious.M

How's your long weekend going so far?

We’re a generation of multitaskers, managing multiple aspects of life (career, family, love, and so on) while looking for the next frontier to our life’s adventure. It is inspiring, exhausting, and fun - it is the new norm. We even take the same approach with our makeup and skincare choices, opting for multipurpose products to save time, space, and money.

That said, powder foundations are the absolute must-have for the hyphenate woman who wants to look her best no matter how busy she gets. Heck, it’s a must-have for anyone, full stop. The right compact offers color correction, coverage for imperfections, and a matte finish to keep skin looking fresh even on scorchingly hot days. You can even use it to set your other base makeup for added coverage or make color adjustments to another base that’s a tad too dark or too light on you. Best of all: everything on our list is below P400!

Note: To give a more accurate portrayal of their coverage, I used the powder foundations on their own: no primers, correctors, or concealers. I'm currently experiencing a hormonal breakout (eep), so you can see clearly how the foundations fare with my blemishes.

Maybelline Clearsmooth All in One Foundation (refill size for P169 at Watsons)

If you tend to get heavy-handed with your powdering or need a quick retouch sans oil control sheets, Clearsmooth is a goof-proof solution to those issues. The finely-milled powder can be layered without it caking, and also has SPF 32 PA+++. to top up your protection. The refill comes in its own container and will fit into the tiniest purse, but the mirrored compact with applicator sponge is also very affordable at just P259.

Covergirl Ready, Set Gorgeous Fresh Complexion Powder Foundation (P395 at Watsons)

The vaguely egg-shaped compact is great to tote around for discreet touch-ups with its half-moon pan and sponge applicator. Coverage is sheer to medium and has a complexion brightening effect, but you’ll still need a layer of concealer to cover up hyperpigmentation and redness. The formula is non-comedogenic and oil-free with shine control properties, so it’s a good choice for oily skin types. 

Nichido Two Way Cake (P150 at Watsons)

If coverage isn’t a major concern (lucky you!), Nichido’s navy blue compact contains a two way cake that provides the subtlest color and mattifying effect. With several passes, it does effectively neutralize redness and brighten skin but the effect is so natural that it could pass off as a translucent powder. This is ideal for girls who prefer light makeup looks!

Silky Girl BB 2-Way Powder + Foundation (P249 at Landmark, Trinoma)

According to Silky Girl, this powder has skincare benefits just like a real BB! Aside from SPF 20 PA+, the formula contains a vitamin C derivative and vitamin E for brightening and moisturizing skin, respectively. The BB formula also creates a pronounced brightening effect, not to the point of looking like white cast but as more even skin tone and blurring of my blemishes. Since these products have been formulated for Asian skin, this Malaysian brand’s shade selection is perfectly suited for Filipinas. 

Ever Bilena Matte Two Way Cake (P169 at Watsons)

Though there are only three shades to choose from, the shades options are friendly to Pinay skin tones. There’s Matte White Ivory (fair with pink undertone), Matte Fair Oriental (light yellowish undertone), and Matte Golden Beige (morena-friendly beige). This can be built up to medium coverage but wearing just a light layer gives a satiny-matte finish that looks flattering on the skin.

From left: Nichido, Maybelline, Ever Bilena, Silky Girl, and Covergirl

Do you have a powder foundation in your arsenal? Which ones are able to keep up with your busy lifestyle?

While other girls dream of building an extensive makeup collection with custom-built dressers, my ultimate beauty goal is to never need to wear foundation or concealer ever again. Between those two options, I used to think that it would be easier to do the makeup collection than it is to get perfect skin! In the skin care forums that I follow though, there was a product that was often mentioned and frequently on the “favorites” list of people. That’s where I first heard about Estée Lauder’s best-selling Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Recovery Complex II.  

At more than P5,000 for the full-size 30mL bottle, I put it on my list of Things To Buy When I’m Rich and made do with products within my small budget. After all, how life-changing can a tiny bottle possibly be, right? That’s where I was quickly proven wrong.

As our first ever team challenge, Estée Lauder invited me and my fellow PV girls to try using their Advanced Night Repair and Micro Essence Skin Activating Treatment Lotion for 30 days. We all had different skin types, concerns and routines, so it was very exciting for us to find out exactly how one product could be something that all of us would want to add our routines. Here’s what we discovered, and we share our makeup-free selfies to reveal the results!

The first photo was taken at the beginning of the challenge, the second (middle photo) after 15 days, and the last photo after 30 days.

Den Bengzon

Skin type and concerns: dryness, occasional dry patches, fine lines, uneven skin tone

I deliberately avoided reading about the Micro Essence and ANR until I’d completed the challenge to be sure thatt whatever changes I might experience, it would be something that I actually observed rather than been conditioned to expect. It was love first use because of the lightweight texture and delicate, somewhat spicy scent. By Week Two, I noticed that my face was glowing and looked brighter than ever! More importantly, my skin felt (and still feels) amazing, and my laugh lines have diminished. Saving up for my repurchase already!

Gett Balalad

Skin condition and concerns: oiliness and acne

I noticed that my breakouts heal faster than usual! I also like that there seems to be a glow about me. even if I lack sleep or feel bleh. I think my skin may be purging though, as I've been breaking out more at both the usual areas and not-usual ones like my forehead.

Angela Fernandez

Skin condition and concerns: combination with hormonal acne on forehead

Both the microessence and ANR felt light on my skin. They were easy to apply and fit right into my skincare routine, and seemed to improve the absorption of the other products that I used. My skin feels softer and smoother, with a radiance that made me look more healthy at just 15 days into the challenge. The changes are even more noticeable now, as I’ve received compliments on how my breakout is clearing up and my redness has lessened. The day after I finished the challenge, I stopped for a second after cleansing my face and decided, "Yes, I wanna keep doing this!"

Charlie Ermerna

Skin condition and concerns: oiliness, acne, scarring, dark spots, uneven texture and tone

To my surprise, the serum and essence combination, despite being light on the skin, was actually enough to keep my skin moisturized that I was able to skip my usual moisturizers! As the challenge hit the midpoint, my mom actually commented that my skin looked a bit brighter. The pores on my cheeks are no longer as embarrassingly visible so I’ve been skipping silicon-based primers without cringing at the sight of my pores.

My skin also now looks considerably lighter (and actually now matches my the color of my neck), even radiant despite my period acne. While I wish that the serum also did its magic to my acne and scar problems, I’m happy to have tried it and see my face look bright. I wish the pictures were able to do enough justice on the serum’s effect on my skin. I now understand what the rave over this serum is about. This bottle is not just a product of sweet talk - it actually, totally, works!

Katsy Faustino

Skin condition and concerns: dryness, blackheads, fine lines

Before I started using the essence and ANR, I didn't like how my face looked so yellowish. The tone was just off and made me look sickly without a sheer wash of base. I also had to exfoliate every 2-3 days around the nose area, or else I will have a build-up of blackheads. Two weeks into using the duo, I noticed that I didn't have to exfoliate as much. My skin tone started losing the yellow tint and actually looked healthy.

I also noticed an improvement in skin texture even though I refrained from exfoliating the entire month, which I couldn’t have skipped without the help of the Micro Essence. My skin felt nourished, and not once did I experience the extra tightness that comes from having dry skin. I would definitely keep using the products and plant to repurchase once I've used them up. A little goes a long way and I can clearly see the results so I look forward to trying out the rest of the Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair line, particularly the eye creams as that is another one of my main skin issues. In fairness, my under eye area somehow lightened up even by just using the ANR serum.

Crystal Rodis-Concepcion

Skin condition and concerns: oiliness and acne

I had just come from a nasty breakout that left me with a lot of acne marks when I started this challenge. The first time I tried the products, I knew that I would enjoy using them because both felt so light and easily absorbed by the skin. Waking up in the morning of Day 2, I immediately noticed that my skin was not oily at all and felt like I had just applied my skincare products minutes ago.

After a few days, I noticed that my skin was looking brighter. By Day 15, I noticed that my acne marks had faded a little, and that there was a big change in my oil production. I can now go longer without blotting my face, and when I do, my oil blotters aren't as soaked in oil as before. It feels so good to not be so dependent on oil-blotting sheets, and I have this duo to thank for helping normalize my skin!

Jenn Tan

Skin condition and concerns: oiliness, acne, large pores, scars from a recent bout of chickenpox

I took this challenge shortly after my bout with adult chickenpox, which left deep, indented scars on my skin. I was also unable to follow my usual skincare routine for the two weeks I was sick so my skin was really messed up! I have actually tried the ANR serum before its current reformulation; it didn't agree with my skin back then but I'm glad my skin positively responded to it this time around.

The most immediate change I noticed is how my skin felt smoother to the touch the day after my first application. I remained a skeptic until about a week into the challenge; though my skin is far from perfect, it looked better in photos even without makeup on and I began to believe in the "I woke up like this!" glow. It doesn't directly treat acne as I still did get pimples from time to time, though I did observe that they were fewer and smaller. My theory is that ANR strengthened my skin's natural mantle, effectively making it more resistant against external factors and less prone to pimples. I still have pore problems although my skin's texture has definitely improved.

The best thing about using ANR for me is that it protects and nourishes the skin even during days when I had little sleep. Of course, it's still much healthier to get a good night's sleep but on days when you're running on only so much of it, you can depend on ANR to catch your skin and not let it fall.

Marielle Ong

Skin condition and concerns: dryness, dullness and hyperpigmentation

The Micro Essence feels hydrating but not slick and slightly sticky like some of the moisturizing liquids/toners I've used. It actually feels very presko and clean on the skin without drying it out. The same goes for ANR: The gel consistency is rapidly absorbed, giving it a coated feeling sans any discomfort or fear that it would stick to my pillowcase. What amazed me about this duo was how they maintained a healthy skin texture when I got sick halfway through challenge.

Being ill usually gives me rough, bumpy, tired skin that just feels gross and neglected but using ANR made my face felt noticeably smoother even when I wasn't at 100%. While it doesn't really register on cam, my fingers can definitely detect the difference!

Claire Reyes

Skin type and concerns: sensitive, combination, hormonal acne, large pores, dark spots

I was really excited to do this challenge - this is my first time to try Estée Lauder skin care for a whole month! At the same time, I felt apprehensive and doubtful as I have sensitive skin and get hormonal acne so I usually stay away from too many active ingredients. What really made we decide to try was the need to address the dark spots left behind by pimple marks. Finding  something that addresses these issues, while not making my oily areas greasy and my dry patches obvious, is a real challenge!

And so I found it hard to believe when I noticed my skin wasn't as greasy when I woke up after the first ANR challenge night. I noticed micropeeling on my nose but it was never felt painful, just that my skin was regenerating at a much faster pace. By day 15, my dark spots were less noticeable. Even though I had a fresh breakout (I had been on day 2 of my period) my skin wasn't as red as usual. The texture in my cheeks was also less noticeable.

By day 30, I was a true believer in the power of ANR! I had clearer skin overall, and my skin is the closest it's ever been to a normal skin type. Even the lines around my mouth and eyes weren't as obvious! This is something I will definitely consider adding to my permanent skin care. It may seem expensive but considering how well it performed with the very small amount I've been using, it's definitely worth it!

Sam Gonzales

Skin type and concerns: normal, occasional dry patches, prone to dehydration

I get the intermittent hormonal blemishes due to PCOS and what I love about the ANR regimen is that it definitely tones down the redness of all the marks, such that I’m confident enough to just go out with sunscreen and a lip balm. It also eliminates the “tight” feeling I usually have around my nostrils, which was always a problem due to the dryness of my skin. The best part of the challenge was to form a nighttime routine - to never neglect cleansing and treatment.

Stacie Chan

Skin type and concerns: combination-oily, fine lines around the eyes, uneven texture, whiteheads

I noticed that my skin felt softer within the first few days of using ANR but after taking the second photo on Day 15, I was shocked at how much brighter my skin actually looked even though there was redness on my forehead and cheeks. I met up with the PV Team sometime around Day 20 and received a lot of compliments on how well my skin looked! It was then that I realized that I could finally walk out without base makeup, except for concealer for my dark circles!

Admittedly, I didn’t even notice how dull my complexion was until I started using this duo. My Day 30 photo says it all; the ANR challenge has made it look healthier and more glowy! Even the usual small bumps I get on my forehead have completely disappeared. The combination costs about P8k, which is a whopping amount for a student like me. I would definitely pay for the price IF I had the cash but unfortunately, I will most likely re-purchase only when I have a steady job and no longer living off an allowance.

Have you tried taking the month-long #AdvancedNightRepair challenge? Hope we've convinced you to do so!

Product photography by Samantha Gonzales

Thought bubble: I wonder if high-end brands still make money given how drugstore lipsticks are viciously competitive when it comes to formulation. Of course there's still the matter of luxe packaging, but is that still relevant to consumers? Or is a great formula + color + affordable price all they care about? The market for dupes seem to be growing in recent years with some "dupes" even going so far as to plagiarize the concept of expensive brands!

But that's a conversation for another day. ^_^ For now, I want to show you some of L'Oreal's new Color Riche 24 Karat Gold Lipsticks (P400). I have four shades here, including the sparkly gold that's absolutely gorgeous when worn on top of a base color.

The 24 Karat Gold Lipsticks feature intense pigmentation with a high-gloss, lustrous finish. They glide on the lips like butter thanks to the jojoba oil in the formula - they're quite moisturizing even without lip balm! They stay on for about three hours, just average for a lipstick. You may want to blot the first layer before adding another one to extend wear time or wear a lip liner.

Rose Gold, Mocha Gold, Le Gold, Rouge Gold

Here are the shades I have!

• Sonam's Rose Gold P601 is a bright, medium pink with sheer gold flecks. It's an incredibly creamy, pigmented shade that's solid in one layer. I say, L'Oreal's on fire with the formulation of these lipsticks!
• Aishwarya's Rouge Gold R601 is a fire-engine red again with sheer gold flecks. The gold is not obvious from afar, but it adds dimension and body to the color.
• Eva's Mocha Gold M601 is a deep, chocolate red. The gold flecks here complement the color best, as you can see them at work providing depth to the lips.
• Le Gold G101 is a sheer sparkly yellow gold that's touted to have a touch of real 24K gold. Marketing speak aside, it's beautiful. It certainly can't be worn alone, but it looks fabulous on top of any lipstick shade.

Here's what I mean about Le Gold. The Rose Gold is already pretty by itself, but with a dab of Le Gold in the middle of the upper and lower lips, it looks more full-bodied and complex! Same with Mocha Gold. If you fell in love with the metallic liquid lip look, the Le Gold can help your existing lipsticks get there with just a swipe or two.

What do you think of L'Oreal's gold lippies? Which shade are you crushing on the most?

Product photography by Samantha Gonzales

Did you know that we started planning the #ProjectVanity9th event as early as Christmas? Every year, we always look forward to sharing a day (or in this case, two!) with our readers to celebrate our online bond. This year’s anniversary at the Podium Mall was our biggest one yet, and we were floored to have met more than 200 of you beautiful girls! We’re still on cloud nine over the ninth anniversary so allow us to recap the highlights!

Steal Deals

We dedicated two full days to hosting a beauty shopping bazaar with our favorite brands. Our brand partners offered exclusive deals for our readers: Baby Foot slashed P200 off their best selling foot mask; Inglot offered 10% off on cash and 5% off card purchases; Kate Tokyo had a 20% discount at their booth; and My Amazing Hair Care slashed prices on all products by 30%! 

All Pink Sugar purchases above P500 came with a free Sugar Tint. Those who have been meaning to snag the new Pink Sugar x Project Vanity These Lips Don’t Lie Crayons were in for a treat as well as they were at a special 3 for P1,000 bundle. One of Liz’s HG powders – the Ellana Minerals Loose Powder Foundation - was at a P100 off promo for the mirrored acrylic refill jar if you snapped an Instagram photo. Talk about a steal!

Cosmopolitan editors Gab Ignacio and Chandra Pepino

Awesome Talks

Never short of inspiring girl power, we invited some extra special guests to headline at the Guts, Glam, and Glory forum. Cosmopolitan editors Gab Ignacio and Chandra Pepino dished makeup #realtalk to further inspire the fun, fearless Pinay about owning your beauty in a (sadly) makeup-shaming society. Our key takeaway: don’t let anyone make you feel bad about loving makeup, yourself included!  

Our founder and EIC Liz Lanuzo with Ros Juan of Commune, Angela Dinglasan of Zenutrients, and Darlyn of Belle de Jour

The second leg of our beauty forum was graced by what can only be described as super women. Rosario Juan (CEO of Commune and organizer of Social Media Day in the PH), Angela Dinglasan (President of Greenhouse Inc. behind Proudly Pinoy organic brand Zenutrients), and Darlyn Sandra Ty (President of Viviamo! Inc of BDJ fame) shared about how their girl bosses stories started with giving up their 9 to 5 job to pursue their passions and entrepreneurial dreams. Our treasured lesson: it’s always a scary prospect starting over, but never knowing your full potential is even scarier.

Swag Bags

Let it be known: a Project Vanity Anniversary is never complete without an awesome swag bag. Tickets were priced at P995 each but everyone got not twice, not thrice, but more than eight times that amount! The support of our generous sponsors made the Guts, Glam, and Glory Kit our biggest one yet, with attendees taking home a hefty loot of products and services from BDJ, Browhaus, Catrice, Beauty Bar, Ellana, Essence, Flormar, Happy Skin, Inglot,  Jordana, K-Palette, Pink Sugar, My Amazing Hair Care, and Zenutrients!

Unveiling of In Her Element’s Newest Additions

One of the most exciting highlights of all was the first peek at two new products to be included to the In Her Element lineup. After months of formulating and testing, our latest babies are now ready for the world! Make space in your skincare stash and say hi to the Pure Squalane Oil and Spot Control Facial Oil, which are arriving soon at inherelement.ph.

From left: Karla Aguas, Denise Bengzon, Gett Baladad, Charlie Esmerna, Katsy Faustino, Liz Lanuzo, Angela Fernando, me, Sam Gonzales, Crystal Rodis-Concepcion, Jenn Tan, Claire Reyes

Meet Team PV

Oh, to be surrounded by these like-minded beauty geeks! The PV group chat is always fun and lively but having (almost) all of us gathered under a single roof makes for one crazy party. I’m so honored to be working alongside these smart, kind, and badass beauty addicts. We hope you had fun meeting us as much as we did meeting you!

The Faces Behind the Screen

Finally, our most important guests were you, dear readers! When we realized how big the crowd was, we couldn’t help but feel so proud and happy over how much the PV community has grown in the last year. We thank each and every one of you, whether you’ve recently just discovered Project Vanity or have been here since 2008, for spending the afternoon with us. We’re eternally grateful that you’ve found a happy little beauty home with our humble website. You made Project Vanity the success that it is today, and we can’t wait to share the next years with you!

Project Vanity anniversary events are never to be missed, and we hope to have bigger events and even more treats in the coming years. Big thanks to everyone who made this possible, and we can’t wait for #ProjectVanity10th!

With event photography by Paul Putong

Dear Majolica Majorca Lash King Mascara,

Six years ago, I knew I loved you before I met you. Your predecessor, the Lash Expander Mascara, immediately blew my lashes away to unbelievable heights, so I knew that you were magic even before you laid yourself onto my eyes. I was right. You were amazing.

You made my downturned lashes come up coquettishly, like they were created by the divine that way. They were thick and extra black in a manner that I never thought was possible thanks to the fiber pieces in your formula. My lashes stay curled all day and never smudged - truly, you were the perfect mascara for my sad excuse for eyelashes.

A couple of coats of Lash King look like falsies!

Eventually, however, I wasn't faithful. You were so clingy and hard to take off! I would lose a lash or two every time I go out with you. You were completely waterproof but that came at too high a cost.

So many mascaras came and went into my life. I've forgotten you all these years until one day, you came back to my doorstep. I was in love with another mascara (or three) those months ago, but soon enough you became my one and only once again. You're too good to be true. Everybody keeps on asking what falsies I'm wearing when it's only mascara!

Luckily, we have already formulated the In Her Element First Wash Cleansing Oil (P450 at inherelement.ph) which makes taking you off at the end of the day a breeze. It's the only one that can melt you quickly and without damage to my lashes. If I were to be honest, we wouldn't be together again if it weren't for this cleansing oil.

I am so happy that we're an item once more. I hope that this time, it's forever.

Love,

Liz xoxo

Majolica Majorca is available in select Watsons and SM Beauty stores. I know there's a counter still inside SM Aura's department store! The Lash King is around P795 per tube.

PS Yup, Lash King is better than Heroine Make's Long and Curl. It has thicker and longer fibers in it, IMHO.