Today we find ourselves chatting about something that’s been popping up quite a lot again lately - mall pull out perfumes. Sellers claim that these are the perfumes straight from the factory, overstock, or items that have minor defects, hence the considerable markdowns on the prices. But before you snag that deal, let’s have a little heart-to-heart about what you're actually getting into and why it’s a better choice to stick to the official retail stores.

I found myself thinking about a significant question as I settled in for a celebratory birthday manicure, fully prepared to treat myself to an elaborate gel manicure. As someone constantly using my hands, I routinely choose a gel manicure to ensure longevity. However, as my hands went under the UV lamp, a worrying thought crossed my mind, sparked by a flurry of social media posts and a recent study making rounds.

Could my cherished manicure sessions be raising my risk of cancer?

Another day, another story about me loving a Japanese beauty product. I can’t help it! J-Beauty has got to be my favorite, favorite beauty movement and category hands down. I love that Japanese brands constantly innovate and they do it at fantastic price points too. Their products, for me, are the best in the world and they happen to suit Filipino needs too. A good chunk of the beauty products I use on a daily basis is from Japan and it wasn’t a conscious decision; it’s just what makes sense.

And so, today, let me share a quick rave about the LuLuLun Cleansing Balm Rich Moist (P995 for 90 grams, available in Beauty Bar).

In the competitive landscape of beauty products, where each brand jostles for a spot in our skincare routines and makeup arsenals, I couldn’t help but wonder: how do Filipino beauty brands stack up against the international behemoths?

Planning a wedding can be incredibly demanding, particularly when you are orchestrating it on your own. If, like me, your coordinator isn't stepping in until a month before the grand occasion, it's understandable to feel both stressed and fatigued. This is precisely why a bridal shower serves as the perfect interlude; a moment to unwind and rejoice in the celebration of you, the bride-to-be. Whether you find yourself as the bride, the maid of honor, or a devoted family member tasked with arranging the bridal shower, allow me to share the strategy I employed to craft the bridal shower of my dreams.

The U.K.'s premier body mist has arrived in the Philippines! With a launch reminiscent of both Elle Woods and Barbie, SO…? Fragrance unveils a range of over ten captivating scents, from rich and bold to sweet and classic, tailored for daily wear and all preferences. More than just offering a taste of the U.K., SO…? Fragrance invites users to embark on global adventures with So…? Escapes, a collection of body mists inspired by the allure of sun, sand, and sea breezes from around the world.

Now, onto my latest find that's become an integral part of my haircare routine: Dermtropics Raw Coconut + Aloe Vera Moisturizing Shampoo (P350 / 50ml and P1,200 / 500ml). Yes, it's low-foaming, low pH, fragrance-free, and yes, it’s fantastic. The lack of foam initially made me skeptical. I mean, how can something that doesn't lather like a soapy cloud actually clean my hair?

Happy Skin has just reintroduced their Generation Happy Skin line and if you like a fresh, blooming look using just a few quick products, then this is worth a gander. I have a few things from the new collection, so let’s go ahead and take a look.

Ah, cushion foundations. They promised a revolution in the beauty world and, to an extent, delivered. I've been around the beauty block, and I've swiped, dabbed, and patted on more cushions than I can count. But just when I thought I've seen everything, along comes the Barenbliss True Beauty Inside Cushion (P719) to re-ignite my passion. Here's why this cushion is different from what’s available in the market!

In a world deeply entrenched in the age of digital media and constant visibility, there's an overwhelming pressure to be in a perpetual state of greatness. The carefully curated snippets of our lives on social platforms, the highlight reels of achievements, and the incessant call to be more, do more, and show more paint a distorted image. In today's age, we are often bombarded with notions of consistent greatness, of being the best at all times. But how realistic, or even desirable, is this notion of unceasing heroism?

Issy & Co. has rebranded as simply Issy and dropped a crazy impressive launch while at it. They've unveiled a staggering 54 new products, staying true to their "bigger is better" mantra. The collection boasts powder blushes, bronzers, contours, and highlighters. Additionally, it features a diverse range of pressed eyeshadows, complemented by an eyeshadow and concealer base.

Ever since I discovered the world of beauty, there's been one constant theme: the evolving dance of innovation and responsibility. Today, I am thrilled to share about a beloved K-beauty brand, Barenbliss, and their latest sustainable move.

You might know Barenbliss for their TikTok viral lip tints, powders, and game-changing cushion formula. Their signature product, the Peach Makes Perfect Lip Tint and Cherry Makes Perfect Lip Tint, has been staples in my own daily lip wardrobe.

Drunk Elephant recently launched the new and improved Drunk Elephant A-Shaba Complex™ Eye Serum (P4,000/15ml) – a dedicated eye treatment with retinol that many fans of the original Shaba Eye Serum requested. This joins the “Retin-all” line-up of the brand which includes the A-Passioni Retinol Cream and the A-Gloei Maretinol Oil. It also rounds up the trio of Drunk Elephant eye treatments consisting of the Ceramighty AF Eye Balm and the C-Tango Multivitamin Eye Cream.

I’ve been an entrepreneur for about seven years now, and it’s been a rollercoaster ride, that’s for sure. The highs are high indeed but the lows can really flatten a person, too! I get lots of great advice from my husband and my friends, of course, but I needed someone who can guide me and put me on an even clearer course. That’s when I met Myrza Sison.

The Filipino beauty industry has grown by leaps and bounds, especially during the pandemic. It’s ironic because while a lot of established brands struggled during this period, this also gave smaller brands opportunities to build a loyal following. Now, there’s nothing I love more than discovering and celebrating Filipino beauty brands that deliver passion, innovation, and truly cater to the diverse skincare and makeup needs of Filipinas. Today, I’m ecstatic to share with you four new local brands that have captured my attention. Let’s dive in, shall we?

National Lipstick Day might be behind us, but that doesn't mean our affection for lipsticks has dimmed. When we dive into conversations about lip wonders, it's almost impossible to bypass MAC Cosmetics. Their iconic lipsticks have held their place in beauty enthusiasts' hearts for years.

I’ve done a first impressions review of the Happy Skin x Marj Maroket brushes over on Tiktok, so please watch that before reading this (if you don’t mind!). The reason is that some products are better seen in action than others. Have you seen it? Okay, then read my review after a couple of weeks of using these brushes everyday!

The delicate tinkling of crystal glass filled the air as I walked into the sophisticated space of the Tory Burch boutique in Powerplant. The room was aflutter with an intoxicating blend of fragrances and the excited chatter of fellow beauty editors and influencers, all gathered for a special brunch event hosted by Nicole Limos Morales of The Beauty Edit. A plush invitation had promised the revelation of something magical, and I was ready to be swept away.

There's a fresh breeze in the beauty world, and it carries with it the energy of inspiration, empowerment, and confidence. Today, I'm thrilled to unveil the news that has set the Philippine beauty community abuzz: Nadine Lustre is now the first Filipino celebrity brand ambassador for the renowned Korean beauty brand, Barenbliss.

Yesterday, as I was in the car on my way to an event, I started thinking about what success means to me. Why is it that to be considered successful at something, we have to do that thing forever? If we stop, then we have failed. If we stop, then we were too weak to continue.

We tend to laud the unwavering dedication to a craft or profession as the epitome of success. If you've been a lawyer for 20 years, a makeup artist for 30, or even a dedicated beauty enthusiast like myself for a decade and a half, people often attribute your success to the fact that you've done it for so long. Even relationships are only considered successful if they never end.