Navigating the vast array of mascara options on the market can be a confusing task. Each product comes with its own set of promises – lengthening, volumizing, curling – the list goes on. But what do these terms really mean for you and your lashes? Today, I'm here to cut through the clutter and provide a clear, straightforward breakdown of mascara types and what those labels on the packaging actually signify.

This week’s beauty roundup brings us local beauty news, takes us to Japan, and even to the virtual gaming world! Let’s learn more about Shiseido group’s exclusive “Future University” in Ginza and explore Givenchy Beauty’s Festive Winter Escape game in Roblox. Take a peek at new lippie shades from Blk Cosmetics, and check out Luxe Organix’s choice of new packaging for their ClinicalPRO Serums. We’ve got a lot of ground to cover, so let’s dive right in!

When it comes to beauty staples that won't break the bank, Ever Bilena consistently delivers. Their new EB Plus Serum Tinted Lip Balm (P245) is no exception, offering a budget-friendly option for those who want a pop of color with the added benefit of hydration. Priced well at just P245, this lip balm promises to deliver sheer yet buildable color while keeping your lips moisturized.

I think that we’ve been taking sunflower oil for granted. It was such a big deal before, but as time passed I feel like we’ve sort of started to ignore it in favor of more buzzy beauty products. This is a mistake because sunflower oil, out of all beauty oils, is the best to have on hand! It’s light on skin and hair, inexpensive, and easy to access online and off. It has so many different uses outside of face moisturizer and frankly if that’s how you use yours, you’re missing out!

In a world obsessed with luxury and designer labels, it's easy to think that being elegant means spending a lot of money. But I've found that's not necessarily true. Sure, money can buy fancy things, but it can't always buy good taste. True elegance is about taste, and you can develop that through research and study - it's worth it if you've got the time.

I believe that being classy and sophisticated isn't about how much you spend. It's more about attitude, smart choices, and understanding the art of presentation. Here's how you can exude class without constantly reaching for your wallet!

Last week, the Mall of Asia Atrium transformed into a wonderland of luxury beauty and skincare, hosting the SM Beauty Holiday Soiree from December 11-15. It was an event that truly celebrated the art of giving, proving that luxury gifts are not just about their price tags, but the personal touch they embody.

Last year, I got to try the Tarte Maracuja Juicy Lip Plump which I loved so much that I’ve been pretty much saving it for special occasions. I love that it’s a super minty balm which has a nice glossy finish and a bit of a plumping effect. People always ask me about it when I wear it alone since it’s so pretty, but most of the time I use it to prep my lips before lipstick or use it as a final lacquer to finish up a lip look. Anyway, yeah, it’s fantastic! But it’s expensive at P1,700 and I can’t quite justify another tube considering the other lip products I have lined up to review.

I have a serious social media addiction. The most effective thing I’ve found against it is an app called OneSec. Basically, it forces me to do journaling, a breathing exercise, asks me to specify the reason I’m trying to access the social media app at the moment, suggests other activities I can do, and then finally asks how long I want to use the app so it can shut down after the allotted time - ALL of these steps happen before I get to open the app. So far it has prevented me from opening my apps almost 14,000 times and saved me about 30 solid days of my life this year. I know it can be more, except my work revolves around social media. Still. It’s an achievement I’m proud of.

The year 2023 is almost up, and I find myself looking forward to what the next year brings! So for this week’s Beauty Roundup, let’s discuss what trends will make it big next year (which is in a couple of weeks, wow). Let’s get to know Peach Fuzz, Pantone 2024 Color of the Year. We’ll also check out a bunch of interesting beauty and style predictions from Pinterest Predicts 2024. The Ultimate Skin Master collection by the Albert Kurniawan rounds up Teviant’s releases for 2023. And last but not least, Selena rocks the world yet again with surprise Rare Beauty drops for the body. Are you ready? Let’s go!

Japanese skincare brands always amaze me with minimalist yet effective products, so I was excited to attend the launch of Hada Labo's extension of their iconic skincare line. During the event, there were skincare talks from board-certified dermatologist Dr. Bea Chan and Hada Labo brand manager Jenny Arcellana. Did you know that Hada means “skin” and Labo is short for “laboratory”? The name Hada Labo goes hand in hand with the brand’s philosophy of “Perfect x Simple” and “Nothing more, Nothing less”. This means that their products are formulated without unnecessary ingredients – no alcohol, no mineral oil, no colorants, and no fragrance.

I didn’t grow up rich. I know how it’s like to go without and watch other people have nicer, newer things. So, when I started making my own money, I really cherished every single thing I bought which made it hard for me to throw them away once they were past their usefulness. Somewhere at the back of my mind lay a dark thought: what if I don’t get a chance to have something this nice again? I spent my early twenties hoarding stuff I don’t need in my tiny apartment.

The festive season is upon us, and Watsons is redefining the art of gifting with a thoughtful, environmentally conscious twist. Their latest initiative, Sustainable Choices, is more than just a product line – it's a commitment to the planet and future generations. Let's dive into how Watsons is turning the tide towards a greener Christmas.

This year, I made a conscious choice to save money by adopting an alternative approach to my Christmas gifts. As a skincare enthusiast and someone who is part of the Project Vanity Team, I've been fortunate enough to acquire a vast array of incredible products throughout the year. This abundance led to an extensive stockpile, or 'tambak', which inspired me to re-gift these items to myself for the holidays. My goal was to rekindle my love for the hidden treasures in my collection and to enjoy the experience of opening gifts, without the need to spend more of my hard-earned money.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year again, and what better way to celebrate than indulging in some fabulous beauty deals? Barenbliss, known for their chic and effective beauty products, is going all out for their 12.12 Christmas sale - their last double day extravaganza of the year. Trust me, you don't want to miss these bundles, each thoughtfully curated and packed with amazing savings. Let’s unwrap these delightful sets together!

This is dedicated to everyone who has a beauty girlie (or anyone of any gender identity) in their lives. You know who she is: she’s always in the know when it comes to new releases, she has a signature lipstick and scent, and she is the proud owner of a well-curated set of products that she researched heavily before buying. It’s tempting to go online or walk into her favorite store and grab something that looks good. After all, there are so many amazing gift sets out during the holidays! It’s not that hard to pick out something nice and with good value to boot. But I’m warning you: don’t do it. Just don’t.

With less than two weeks until Christmas, are you still pondering over your shopping list? Let me share my recent experience with The Body Shop's Holiday Collection, which might just be the solution to your gifting needs. This year, they've really stepped up their game with two special seasonal scents: the returning favorite, Pears & Share, and the new, delectable Cherries & Cheer. I was lucky enough to get my hands on these fragrances, along with two of their beautifully packaged gift sets. Each set is more than just a gift; it's a contribution to positive change, supporting communities globally through The Body Shop’s Community Fair Trade partnerships. Join me as we unwrap these treasures and explore what makes them the perfect gifts for this holiday season!

So who else is gearing up for the 12.12 sales? If you’re like me, you would have done your research on the best beauty deals by now. Because I love you guys so much, I’ll make it more challenging for you! This week’s Beauty Roundup will open your eyes to new local releases, a surprise pop-up collab, and a new local skin care brand. Saddle up and get ready for this week’s roundup!

If you’re the type of person who prefers the sheer to mid coverage of a tint, then this one is for you! I recently got to try the Barenbliss Apple Makes Adorable Mousse Tint (P399) and was hooked by the gloss-to-mousse formula. Interesting right? Upon first swipe, it feels like your normal glossy tint - wet, even a little balmy as it’s meant to be a moisturizing formula. Then, it dries down into an ultra light mousse texture with a powdery matte finish.

Last December 1, I was at an intimate luncheon at Admiral Hotel, surrounded by some amazing people, all united for a cause. The conversation turned to some pretty eye-opening stats from the Philippines – did you know there are over 1,100 confirmed HIV-positive individuals as of June 2023? And that's not all. During the pandemic, HIV testing and treatment saw a significant drop. It's a stark reminder that this fight is far from over.

Ladies, let me take you through a magical journey I had the pleasure of experiencing last November 22nd at the opening of Dior's Les Tuileries Royal Garden, Carousel of Dreams Pop-Up at SM Mall of Asia. This wasn’t just an event; it was a walk through a dream of a Parisian winter wonderland brought to life right here in Manila. As I stepped into the space, inspired by Dior's Holiday 2024 campaign with Anya Taylor-Joy, it felt like slipping into a scene from a luxe holiday film. The entire space echoed the charm of the snow-dusted Tuileries Gardens. Imagine a crisp winter night in Paris, the air filled with a sense of wonder - this was the essence captured by the holiday pop-up.