I’ve always been a huge fan of J-Beauty, and there's something about their skincare and makeup that just works perfectly for my skin. My love for it grew even more after an afternoon with K-Palette. I’m not new to the brand—I’ve been hooked on their liquid eyeliners since my first Don Quijote shopping spree in Japan. Usually, I stick to the classic black, but now my world has opened up with K-Palette’s launch of three new vibrant shades of their 1Day Tattoo Liquid Eyeliner and a new shade of their curl-enhancing 1 Day Lash Up Mascara.

These days, it's easy to get swept away by the latest and greatest in the beauty aisles. The bright lights, beautiful packaging, and bold promises can turn even the most practical among us into magpies, attracted to shiny new things. Yet, in this glittering array of options, it's important to remember that not every product is destined to be our holy grail. This isn't just about saving money (though that's a definite perk); it's about curating a collection that truly reflects who we and what our needs are. Let's take a closer look at the beauty traps that can catch us unawares and how a mindful approach can guide us back to making better purchases.

It’s getting hot in here! This week, we’re keeping it FRESH here at Project Vanity with the latest in beauty. Let’s get to know new local product drops for that perfect summer look from Ever Bilena, GRWM Cosmetics, and Sola. We’re also checking out Estée Lauder’s newest global brand ambassador: multi-talented Korean superstar IU!

Avon is at it again, folks, and they're pushing for something they already do well: the Make-up +Care Range. This line features skincare-infused makeup that’s designed to be your go-to everyday. And who better to bring this innovative range to life than the viral personality, Mimiyuuuh? I’m looking forward to seeing her funny videos about Avon, as I’ve been following her for many years now.

Toni Sia, known for her authentic and engaging beauty insights, recently graced the latest campaign of barenbliss, bringing her unique charm and warmth to the forefront. Her journey with barenbliss, from an early advocate to becoming one of its celebrated faces, is a story of true affinity and belief in what the brand stands for—clean, joyful beauty for all.

In this campaign, Toni embodies the essence of barenbliss with a selection of products that resonate with her personal style and the brand's philosophy. Let's delve into the beauty choices that highlight Toni's radiant look!

A few weeks ago, at the Project Vanity #EmpowerHer event, I gave a talk about how we can crystalize our personal style. I said, “Spend as much as you can afford on clothes!” I believe that it’s important to buy quality items that will last years if not decades. I spent so much money during my early 20s buying flimsy, cheap clothes that I ended up throwing away anyway. Now that I’m older, I know that well-made things are worth the cost simply because I never have to spend money on something like that item again - at least for the next ten years or so.

After my talk, someone asked a really good question: “How much of our budget should we spend on clothes?” I love that question because it brings things into a sharper perspective.

And just like that, April is here! To distract us from the scorching heat, let’s do a roundup of this week’s WINS for beauty. Let’s get to know WYN BEAUTY, Serena Williams’ makeup brand. Find out which MAC x Disney limited edition products are making a comeback for the beauty brand’s 40th anniversary. NARS Cosmetics surprises us with a new formula and new shades for their powder blushes. Last but definitely not the least, Sassa Gurl wins as she stars in Colourette #thatpeach campaign.

Project Vanity turned 16 last March 22, and it was like our own sweet 16 - a time for friends to come together and celebrate as we step into a new stage of life with the theme "Empower Her." It was a transformative afternoon for our community, with talks on personal style, eloquence, and personal finance, all in a room filled with energy and excitement about improving and achieving our ideal selves.

These days, it seems there’s an app for just about everything—yes, even for figuring out which colors suit you best. These color analysis apps promise a quick and easy way to determine your most flattering colors without ever having to leave your couch. But can these digital tools truly replace a physical color consultation with an expert? The short answer: no. The long answer is all about how light is in fact a physical object,

BeautyCon 2024, hosted by Watsons at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City, recently wrapped up, and it was a gathering that beauty enthusiasts wouldn’t have wanted to miss. From March 20 to 23, this event transformed into a playground for those passionate about skincare, makeup, and overall wellness, featuring over 100 beauty brands that came together to showcase their latest offerings, from exciting deals to exclusive freebies.

This week’s Beauty News Roundup showcases brands and beauty icons showing up on unexpected platforms! Issy takes to the wrestling ring with their new Eyes of a Champion collection. We’ll check out how Happy Skin looks on Uniqlo shirts and totes! Fans of *the* Bobbi Brown can now gain access to exclusive content online via Substack. Last but not least, the next face of CoverGirl will be chosen with an online search. Ready? Let’s go!

When large jars of aloe vera gel began making their way to the Philippines from South Korea about a decade or so ago, it resonated deeply with the Filipino beauty community. It was a match made in skincare heaven - a product that was not only lightweight and moisturizing but also soothing, perfectly matching the needs of those living in a tropical climate. This laid the groundwork for the embrace of similar products, such as the Hello Glow Soothing Gels lineup, available on Shopee Mall, which have since become staples in the beauty routines of many Filipinos.

These gels, coming in generous 300 mL jars, offer a modern twist on the classic aloe vera formula, infusing it with active ingredients designed to target a variety of skin concerns while remaining budget-friendly. Let’s discuss each!

The phrase 'Kababae mong tao' is one that all Filipinas have encountered at some point, often used as a dig anchored in the towering stereotypes dictating what a woman is supposed to be. If you've ever felt hindered or stifled by the limited roles set for women, let me take you through the essence of the recently concluded She Talks Asia Summit, aptly themed Breaking Stereotypes. It was a day brimming with compelling discussions and narratives that left the crowd feeling changed and inspired. It's my hope that by sharing this, it sparks the same for you.

In case you missed it: Spotlight, a Filipino brand that debuted on the eve of the pandemic, is going through somewhat of a reawakening. It seems they've been on a quest to find their spot in the sun (get it?), and with the introduction of their new Spotlight Lush Lip & Cheek Crème (Php 425 / 6.5 grams), they might just have hit the mark.

As a professional makeup artist, I often find myself overwhelmed by the sheer number of base products and shades in the market. But with Vice Cosmetics’ new Endlezz Collection, the guesswork was taken out of the equation—making it easier than ever to create flawless looks for my clients. I recently attended the Vice Cosmetics x Full Spectrum Masterclass event, where I learned all about the a new skin-focused lineup designed to revolutionize the way we approach makeup in the Philippines and beyond.

The heat is on! Lately I’ve been drawn to a fresh monochromatic look with lighter colors, a juicy lip, and fresh base: the makings of a good summer go-to look. And it seems like I’m not the only one. Thankfully, new releases have focused on barely there skin tints, bright cheeks, and glossy lips. This week, let’s take a look at Spotlight Cosmetics’ new Lush Lip and Cheek Créme, and new shades for Blk Cosmetics Creamy All-Over Paints. We’ll also get a taste of ColourPop’s new plumping gloss balms and lip liners. Last but most definitely not the least, let’s take a peek at Dior Beauty’s new color lineups for the season. Let’s get started on this week’s beauty news roundup!

Ever had those mornings where you're rushing out the door, no time for a shower, yet your hair is screaming for a wash? Or those days when the weather just makes your scalp feel ickier than usual? We all know how humid it gets here in the tropics, especially in Manila where pollution is an all-time high. That's where the lifesaver called dry shampoo comes in, and trust me, it's a winner for anyone looking to freshen up their locks on the go.

It feels like the wheel of trends spins faster with each passing year, doesn't it? The traditional arc of the trend cycle weaves through five distinct phases: introduction, rise, peak, decline, and finally, obsolescence. Along this journey, we've embraced everything from the audacity of blunt bangs and the allure of blue eyeshadow to the fresh charm of strawberry makeup looks and the daring edge of the wolf cut. Yet, amidst the whirlwind of changing styles, one constant remains: our ability to look back at our old photos and wince at what we once deemed the pinnacle of fashion. Indeed, the trend cycle seems to unfurl across five stages, but I propose we acknowledge a universal, unspoken sixth stage: regret.

Have you ever been on the brink of achieving something you've wanted for so long, only to do something that pulls the rug out from under your own feet? It's like there's a part of you that's your own worst enemy, lurking in the shadows, ready to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory. This, my friends, is self-sabotage in action. It feels like taking two steps forward and then three steps back, leaving us bewildered and asking, "Why do I keep doing this to myself?"

There's something captivating about a bright, radiant smile. It's like being the proud owner of a luxury item that never goes out of style. But achieving that coveted sparkle can sometimes feel like navigating a minefield in a world obsessed with coffee, tea, and the occasional "just one more glass" of red wine. Fear not, my friends! Here’s some advice on how to help brighten your teeth over time.