Beauty Hacks: Five ways to Angkas-proof your makeup

Can't book a ride or don't want to be stuck in traffic? You might want to consider taking a motorcycle service instead. I started using Angkas about a year ago when I couldn't get a car or a cab after an hour of trying. I got to my destination quickly and safely, and though I wasn't prepared for a bike ride. I now take it regularly to get to work without having to deal with the horrendous Manila traffic or exorbitant fares, so I need to make sure I still look presentable when I arrive at my destination. Apart from spritzing a bit of fragrance, here are five tips for staying fresh and surviving the bike ride: 

Tip 1: Protect yourself from the elements 

Wearing a jacket or hoodie may seem crazy in hot weather, but having this external layer is important. This outerwear minimizes the likelihood of having the smell of smoke and pollution stick to your clothes, and it also offers some protection against sun exposure. A leather jacket is particularly handy in case of a sudden downpour. 

Most drivers provide disposable paper face masks for their riders. The thin material does little to protect you from pollution, but it may help keep your face clean by lessening its exposure. You can also get reusable masks from stores like Miniso for a more eco-friendly solution, but make sure to wash it between uses to keep dirt and face oils from building up on the fabric. 

It's unfashionable and uncomfortable but unless you bring your own helmet, you'll need to find ways to make sharing a helmet more sanitary. Drivers usually provide a mesh-type cap that you can wear but the porous material does not fully protect your contact with the inner lining. Bring your own reusable plastic shower cap instead and tuck your hair underneath before putting on that helmet. 

Tip 2: Slather on your sunscreen 

You should already be wearing sunscreen from top to toe every day but more so if you'll be traveling in an exposed vehicle like a bike or motorcycle. Make sure to apply sunscreen on both your face and body, and reapply every few hours. Don't let sun damage take a toll on your skin - sunscreen is the best anti-aging product! 

Tip 3: Apply an anti-perspirant primer

I'm not even a sweaty person but the combination of being outdoors and being covered up will result in perspiration collecting on my face. It's normal and not exactly a big deal, but it makes me look haggard and feel sticky. And if you had worn makeup? It won't be pretty.

The Neat 3B Face Saver Gel (P200 at the Project Vanity Store) works, even for the very sweaty! It also sits well under makeup so it may prolong your look and help you keep fresh for the rest of the day. 

Tip 4: Keep makeup light but waterproof

If you are wearing a face mask, heavy makeup will be likely to cake and stick to the mask material. Opt for something lightweight instead, or skip foundation altogether and just apply some powder to minimize shine. A compact like the Pink Sugar Our Lil' Secret All Day Matte Powder (P349 at pinksugar.com.ph) is translucent and easy to tote around so you can easily do a touch-up when you get to your destination. 

It would be a horror to find that your kilay has been erased or smeared after all that traveling, so choose a formula that can withstand whatever situation you're in. As the name suggests, the Project Vanity X Ellana Life Proof Brow Gel (P499 at at the Project Vanity Store) stays on through your ride and beyond. 

Use a cream blush that's comfortable and won't streak. Try Ellana's Lip Drunk Blush (P449 at ellanacosmetics.com) for long lasting color. 

Tip 5: Skip the lipstick

Speaking from experience, regular lipstick will stick to the mask and smear on your face. Use a lip balm instead - the In Her Element Nourishing Cocoa Balm (P185 at inherelement.ph) is perfect for prepping your lips for color application, too. 

If you really must wear a lipstick, choose a formula with minimal transfer like the Colourette Velvetints (P349 at colourettecosmetics.com). 

Have you tried commuting using Angkas or riding a bike to work? What are your tried and tested tips for staying fresh?