by Crystal Rodis-Concepcion, contributor

Spritzing on some perfume before heading out can instantly make you feel more glamorous and polished, even if you're just wearing a basic tee and jeans. That's because our favorite scents reflect something about our personality and help us achieve certain moods. And who doesn't feel more confident when you know you smell really good? Wouldn't it be nice to be able to enjoy your perfume in other ways? Here are a few new ideas on how to maximize your collection!

Amp up your bath water. If you bathe with a pail and tabo or use a bathtub, you can add a few drops of perfume to scent your bath water. Not only will you be fragrant before you even leave your bathroom, your aromatic bath will feel like a luxe, pampering session.

Make your own perfumed lotion. Most perfumes have a lotion variant if you buy the set, but why spend extra when you can DIY? Mix a small amount of unscented or lightly scented lotion with few drops of your perfume before applying. The lotion will help your perfume stick to your body and make it last longer, too!

Spray it on your hairbrush. Some gals spray perfume directly on their locks but coming in contact with the alcohol can your dry hair out. Apply the scent to your hairbrush instead and wait for a few seconds to allow the alcohol to evaporate before brushing your hair. This will leave hair smelling fragrant without the damage.

Make your own deodorant. Haven't found a deo that actually keeps you smelling fresh? Mix some rubbing alcohol with a few drops of liquid vitamin C, and apply to your underarms with a cotton pad. Then spritz on your favorite perfume to top it off.

Use it as a linen spray. Before trying this trick, first check if your perfume leaves oil stains on on cloth by applying a little in a less noticeable area and allowing it to dry. If it doesn't leave any marks, go ahead and spray it on your curtains and bedsheets!. You can also give your mattress a few spritzes. 

Create your own heat-activated scent. Carefully spray a bit of perfume on a light bulb while off, taking care not to get any moisture near the electric base. When you switch on the light, the heat will activate the scent.

Pre-scent your clothes. This is a good trick to follow if you're constantly rushing and prone to forgetting to apply perfume when you go out. Spray a few cotton balls with perfume, put them in a pouch, and stick the bundle in your closet. If you have fabric-covered hangers, you can spray on them before hanging up your clothes. You can also line your drawers with paper sprayed with perfume. And if you use a clothes dryer, skip the dryer sheets and toss in a scented cotton handkerchief mid-cycle instead.

Use it for your humidifier. Combine water with a few drops of your favorite scent and wait for the aroma to fill up the room!

Make your own scent diffuser. Take a glass container, pour in some carrier oil (almond, avocado and virgin coconut oil are popular choices), then mix in a few drops of your favorite scent. Place some reed sticks in the container.

Deodorize stinky shoes and bags. Spray perfume on a business card or a cotton handkerchief and insert it into shoes and gym bags. This works for your handbag, too!

If you've amassed quite a perfume collection, this is a great way to use them up before they start to go bad. They usually only have a lifespan of three to five years before the scent starts to disintegrate and turn rancid, so you may as well put them into good use and enjoy their fragrance all over your home. You can also acquire perfume oils from a supplier if you want to save!

Got other uses for your perfumes? Do share them in the comments!

Estée Lauder Philippines recently brought global makeup artists Bobby Wang and Vincent Wu to SM Aura where they spent the entire day sharing their best tips and tricks using the latest Estée Lauder products.

The PV team caught the first session with Bobby Wang, and boy, did we learn loads! PV contributor Marianne even got to be Bobby’s model for his demo, and she attests to how light his hands are when applying makeup. Bobby's tutorial included some very practical tips that we've started incorporating into our routines, and they can make such a difference in yours, too!

Bobby’s Tip #1: Prep your face with good skincare.

Before applying makeup, make sure you have a clean and well-moisturized base. Bobby swears by the Estée Lauder tandem of Micro Essence Skin Activating Treatment Lotion and Advanced Night Repair Serum.

One of the things that makes Estée Lauder an HG brand for us is the quality of their skin care products, so even though skin care is just part of prepping your face, it certainly pays to invest in something of good quality. 

Bobby’s Tip #2: Start applying foundation from the center of the face, such as the sides of the nose.

The center of the face is where we usually need to apply more foundation, so applying on the sides of the nose first will ensure that we get coverage where we need it the most. Our noses are usually the most prone to redness, blemishes, oiling up, and getting touched (like when you push up your glasses or cover a sneeze) so this should be your focus point. 

Bobby also did a demo water test for the Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Makeup, which claims to be completely waterproof and transfer-proof. Check out these photos to see how well it actually held up!

Bobby’s Tip #3: Choose your tools for application wisely.

The tools you use matter just as much as the makeup. To apply powder foundation, he recommends using a brush or a sponge to keep the finish light and natural. For liquid, opt for a brush because it won’t absorb as much of the product. And of course, make sure to set with powder like Estée Lauder’s Double Wear Stay-in-Place Powder Makeup to make everything stay put longer.

Bobby’s Tip #4: Use two shades of concealer instead of just one.

The darker concealer shade is applied first to neutralize the bluish tones of the under eye area. The lighter shade is then applied to blend and lift the triangular area from the eyes to the sides of the nose. Tap lightly with your finger to set the concealer into the foundation.

Bobby’s Tip #5: Apply makeup in upward strokes.

This is Bobby’s secret for an instant face-lift with makeup. By using upward strokes, everything is blended in a lifting motion which will do wonders for the face. Use this technique for applying your base, and when putting on blush, contour or highlighter.

Bobby’s Tip #6: Apply blush first.

Bobby prefers applies blush before any eye or lip makeup. Why? He believes that blush is the most important of all colors. A great blush is like a post-workout glow which creates that healthy look, and applying it first gives a better frame of reference for the kind of lip or eye makeup you apply. 

He prefers a cream one for the most natural looking flush. For on the go application, pack the Estée Lauder Pure Color Lip and Cheek Multistick to give you that pop of color.

Bobby’s Tip #7: Powder only on the T-zone.

To retain that healthy glow and keep the skin from looking too matte and cakey, dust powder only on the t-zone. Keep your cheeks powder-free for a more natural finish.

Bobby’s Tip #8: Use a lip volumizer for the most kissable lips.

He applies the Estée Lauder Pure Color Envy Lip Volumizer on the cupid’s bow for a sexy pout. It also doubles as a sort of lip balm as it helps keep your lips hydrated.

Bobby’s Tip #9: Maximize your products.

Do you know about the Estée Lauder Little Black Primer? It’s designed to tint, amplify, and set your lashes but Bobby also uses it on the eyebrows! It instantly primes the brow hairs while setting them in place.

Bobby’s Tip #10: Take time to perfect your mascara application.

With perfectly applied mascara, Bobby says you can even skip eyeliner. Just pack it on especially at the roots of the lashes as this will support that much desired curve. Around three layers should do the trick, but build it carefully to avoid clumping.

Just look at Marianne’s lashes – so lush and fluttery! Bobby achieved this without an eyelash curler, only several coats of Estée Lauder Double Wear Extreme Zero Smudge All Effects Mascara.

We also got matched with our perfect Estée Lauder foundation shade. Mine is Warm Crème for the Estée Lauder Double Wear Makeup to Go Liquid Compact. I love how convenient and hygienic the compact is! But the winner for me that day is Estée Lauder Pure Color Envy Lip Potion in Quiet Riot. It was my first time to try and I now fully understand what Liz meant when she named the EL Lip Potions as the Best Liquid Lipstick.

Do you attend brand makeup workshops? What is your favorite Estee Lauder product?

The Estée Lauder Foundation Master Class was a free event and open to the public. For schedules of future events, follow Estée Lauder on Facebook. 

The girl boss is goal-driven and in control of her life. She's not a stereotype - she is anything she chooses to be, and doesn't let what others think stop her from achieving her dreams. She knows how to have fun but she also knows how to roll her sleeves up and get to work.

That's what I had in mind when we conceptualized the Girl Boss Glam Kit (P1,250 for P3,600 worth of items), officially out in The Store today! The look diverges from your typical workplace makeup to reflect a more spunky, go-getter attitude. The colors used are also chosen with a brightening effect in mind, as most offices (if you work in one) have bad lighting that dulls down the skin.

We made a video with our fave model, Marish, to show you how we did the Girl Boss Glam look!

We maximized all the products in the Project Vanity Kit to achieve this happy, inspired face. Marish applied the Origins Smarty Plants CC Cream to immediately brighten her skin and to protect it from the sun (it has SPF20). Noticed how her complexion looked more even in one layer? Then, she shaded and smoothened her brows with the Inglot Brow Wax* using an angled eyebrow brush. This shade is universal enough to suit all brunette hues. 

Then, she enhanced her upper lids with a subtle green color (Watermelon) from the Happy Skin Eye Candy Set. Colored liner is a great way to bring that pop to the eyes without using eyeshadow; you can cut the time you set aside your eye makeup! To brighten her waterline, Marish applied Butterscotch. It's a nifty trick to hide tiredness from late nights. 

Lashes are always a focus, so we're glad that Revlon is launching their latest mascara with us in this kit! The Revlon All-In-One Mascara is a hard worker, just like you. In only a couple of coats it can make your lashes look blacker, longer, and thicker. See how quickly it transformed Marish's lashes in the video!

Of course, we want skin to look healthy and flushed. Pink Sugar's Sweet Cheeks Blush in Tokyo Rush is a happy pop of pink that sticks to the skin all day. Use it sparingly and watch your complexion wake up instantly. To finish the look, we've got the Sleek True Color Lipstick in Barely There for pretty, moisturized lips. We love this shade as it is brightening and flattering on Pinay skin.

So there you go, our Girl Boss Glam Look! We've actually sold most of the Kits at the pre-buy announced two weeks ago, but don't worry - we still have a few stocks left! Grab yours now at Projectvanity.com/store before they run out <3

*The kit also has the Inglot Brow Powder, so you may get either one randomly - same effect though! They are also almost the same color and exact same price.

There's no award for who's the most tired with their life but somehow we're all winning. Being exhausted has practically become more than just a temporary feeling; it’s pretty much added to our permanent self description. Thanks to cosmetics, we can easily fake eight hours of sleep when we’ve barely had three. But has anyone ever told you that you look tired when you’ve spent hours and money trying to do the opposite?

If only it exists!

Makeup is wonderful, IF you’re using it correctly. You might not know it, but you might be committing a few makeup mistakes that are making you look more tired than you should be! Check out my half-and-half face and see these common makeup booboos and their solutions.

DO moisturize first, DON’T go to your base makeup right away

You set your makeup to fail when you skip the moisturizer. It doesn’t matter whether you want a dewy or matte finish; it’s important to keep your skin hydrated as dry, parched skin will age your look! Moisturizing your face also ensures that product doesn’t just sit on top of your skin, hence giving you the most natural skin-looking finish possible.   

Try: Aveda Botanical Kinetics Intense Hydrating Soft Crème. This is my glow booster in a jar.

DO go for an airbrushed finish, DON’T cake your face up

While heavy foundations have their place in studio shoots with harsh lighting, it simply doesn’t work as well for everyday wear. I love the BYS Crème Foundation in Sand Beige but if not applied properly, any cream formula tends to cake up and accentuate fine lines. If you haven't mastered a creating a flawless face base yet, a liquid foundie is the way to go for that skin that looks like skin that we all want. Applied with a blending sponge, you can get an airbrushed finish that looks great both in photos and real life.

Try: Céleteque Dermocosmetics 24 Hour Photoready Foundation applied with the Nippon Pro Blend Sponge

DO blend out a light concealer in an inverted triangle, DON’T just place it where your bags are

Your dark circles and eye bags are usually the biggest tell-tale sign of tiredness. With concealing, the two things that you have to remember are color and location. Personally, I prefer going one shade lighter as I like the slight highlighting action that brightens my eyes and lifts my face. As for the location, I blend out the concealer in an inverted triangle reaching the center of my apples. Don’t forget to add a bit on your lids, too!

Try: Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer as a splurge option, or the Maybelline Fit Me! Concealer if you're on a budget

DO extend your brow outwards but DON’T let them droop them downwards

If your brows are shorter than they should be, extend them outwards and in a slight downward angle rather than doing a sudden cliff dive. While I appreciate a good arched brow, extending the tail too far down has the tendency to make your eyes look droopy. Droopy = sleepy = tired.

Try: BYS Brow Definition Kit

DO curl and coat your lashes, DON’T just leave them sticking down

Opening up your eyes can do a great deal in making you look less tired. It’s also the quickest way to fake alertness, as curling and coating your lashes takes less than two minutes!

Try: Fashion21’s Eyelash Curler or the Shu Uemura Eyelash Curler. For mascara, check out our staff favorites!

DO match your lipstick and liner, DON’T go for a darker liner than your lipstick shade

It’s one of those subtle things that can make you feel like something is off. When the perimeter of your lips is darker than the center, it draws the vibrancy away from the lips and makes it look like your lips are lacking moisture. Take your cue from the Korean gradient lip and diffuse the more vibrant color from the inside out.

Try: Essence Lip Liner In The Nude with Pink Sugar HD Lipstick in Naked

DO flush your cheeks with some color, DON’T just leave them hanging

When you’re tired and sleep-deprived, your face looks more grey and sallow because of poor blood circulation. Thankfully, there’s blush to the rescue! Match it with your lip color for a more coherent FOTD.

Try: Pink Sugar Sweet Cheeks in Miss Independent. This is the perfect matte peach blush!

So there you go! I hope you liked my half-and-half demo. If you avoid these makeup booboos, no one would be the wiser that you’re just running on caffeine. Any more tips to share?

In the Philippines, we're more used to seeing and patronizing affordable Korean brands. I think that's great because you get such nice quality at a price that your wallet won't bite you for! Korea is a beauty manufacturing powerhouse. So imagine this: if the products are already so good even when they're inexpensive, how much better can they be when they're on the premium end of the spectrum?

Well, that's the answer that AboutFace.PH is more than ready to give you. They brought in NoTS (Noble Through Skincare), a popular premium brand in Korea that aims to give us beautiful, elegant skin as opposed to a trendy look. They claim to invest in R&D more than marketing, in the efficacy of the products instead of cute or fancy packaging. They also use the best ingredients, naturally-sourced, to create their formulations. It's a young brand as it was only operated in 2012, which explains why it isn't as popular yet.

I thought NoTS looked interesting and expensive the first time I saw it, but I was not ready to fall in love with their foundation in particular. The Silk Glow Stick Foundation (P1,699 at AboutFace.PH) is a cream formula that gives skin a flawless, petal-like finish. It's a mid to heavy coverage foundation that also boasts of SPF30 PA++! I thought at first that its darkest shade No.23 (hay Korea) would be way too light on me at first swipe, but it actually works out when I set it with a thin layer of powder foundation. It adjusts to my skin enough that it registers well even on HD photo and video.

Staying power is superb and very little does go a long way. I buff it with a dome/oval brush to get it to go on my skin seamlessly. I gave the lighter shade, No.1 to Den (our Managing Editor) and Tessa Prieto-Valdez complimented her on her skin when we did an event last month! It's one of those things you have to see to believe. Luckily, I've got it on video! Here's a look I did with the foundation. 

Right? RIGHT? I've been using this base since April (well when I'm not reviewing a new one anyway) and it's one of my favorites. 

I also have the NoTS Once Finishing Cream (P1,799 at AboutFace.PH). This is a primer-slash-in-betweener that acts as an extension of your skincare, with SPF30 PA++ to boot. It has a ridiculously light texture that hugs the skin in this whisper-thin layer. True enough, it makes foundation go on much smoother and your base less prone to fading. I don't use it as often though because my foundations already have either SPF or great staying power! This is more of a must-have for others who don't layer their bases as much. 

Finally, I have the NoTS Lip Shimmer Gloss (P1,299 at AboutFace.PH) which I quite like for traveling and super casual days. It's a tinted balm I can just swipe on without looking. It's super hydrating on the lips, as well! I love how the color actually stains if I've worn it for about an hour, so there would be some left over even when after I eat. ^_^ It's a lovely product but yes, quite pricey.  

The stick foundation though, whoot! You have to try it out one of these days if you're loving how it applies and the beautiful finish. Come check out AboutFace.PH soon while these products are on sale!

This story is brought to you by AboutFace.PH.

I guess you could call me a "tech rebel". I had a Zune while everyone else was listening to their iPods, prefer to use a heavy laptop over a Mac Air, and swapped a brand new 4S for an older version Android after complaining about iOS for a week. I did, however, miss the effortlessly pretty pictures the iPhone took! Since I started working with Project Vanity, however, I realized that no level of photo editing was going to improve my sucky phone camera attempts at product photography.

Fortunately, ASUS Philippines sent over their Zenfone 2 Laser 5.5 S, a sleek smartphone which had been touted as an SLR that can fit into your pocket! But before we go into that, let's quickly go over how it looks. The first thing you'll notice is the HUMONGOUS display. In fact, 72% of the entire phone body is just the touchscreen area, which is absolutely perfect for watching Project Vanity's latest videos (wink!) in incredible detail. I love minimalist designs so the three tiny buttons at the bottom keep the look sleek.

The unit I received came in Sheer Gold - admittedly not as pretty and feminine as the rose gold iPhone, but that's honestly not my style. The muted sheen of gold looks classy and sophisticated with the brushed metal backing. The phone designers also really put a lot of thought into user experience: the power button is located at the top of the phone while the volume rocker is at the back right below the camera. This makes everything accessible regardless of which hand you're using, so the phone is apparently quite a hit among lefties!

Inside: USB cable, plug, earphones, and rubber covers

One of reasons why I'm extremely loyal to Android is its ability to let you customize your phone display and processes to your heart's content, and with the Zenfone's built-in Zen UI, managing all that personalization has gotten so much easier. This is a major point for me as I generally have to keep track of a million things all happening at the same time, and I rely on my phone to help me stay on top of the chaos. With the Zen UI, you can easily select and apply pre-made themes, program motion-triggered shortcuts to your most used apps, create distinct work and play user profiles, and take advantage of the various security features. The Android Lollipop 5 platform makes sure that everything runs smoothly and no lags occur even if you switch between multiple apps. 

CUSTOMIZED HOME SCREEN. I'm currently using the Earth Day icon pack (free from Zen UI) and this cute photo I found in their extensive Wallpaper collection. Clock and weather widget comes with the phone while the calendar is by Simple Calendar.

I've never been the type of person to take a lot of pictures, and this phone helped me realize why. How many times have you experienced reaching for your phone to snap a memorable moment, only to have it lag and capture a series of unidentifiable blurs? A good number of my photography attempts with old cameras looked like that: backs of heads, after-jump shots (when people have already landed!), moving objects suddenly too far away to recognize.

The Zenfone's Laser Auto-Focus feature has finally remedied that! Instead of having to waste precious seconds, the camera almost instantly focuses on your subject with an ultra fast (non-detectable to the human eye) laser beam. It sounds like something sci-fi, but that's how sophisticated the technology is. The phone's PixelMaster 2.0  camera automatically adjusts in just 0.03 seconds, even when shooting in low light situations.

NATURAL LIGHT. Got my Project Vanity Girl Boss Glam Kit! This photo is completely unedited -the sky was overcast so it looks a bit dark, but you wouldn't have guessed phone camera given the level of detail and overall quality!

LOW, LOW LIGHT. It was actually much darker out when I took this photo but the camera's auto adjust made it look brighter. A bit grainy still, but impressive considering that there was barely any light.

Fancy features aside, the 13MP rear camera takes pretty great shots while the 5MP front camera does a decent job of helping your #selfie game. If you're more into groupfies though, the Zenfone has a Selfie Panorama mode so you don't need to "compress" to fit into the frame. I'm still figuring out the best ways to use the camera but there are 12 different shooting modes to choose from, including Slow Motion and GIF Animation, which certainly make photography a lot more fun! And because the phone runs on a 3000mAh battery and supports up to 128GB external memory, you should be able to take a lot of great shots before you need to plug in.

If you're looking to take better photos with your phone camera, you should definitely consider getting the Zenfone 2 Laser 5.5 S. And I've saved the best part for last: this phone is just P9,000! I was stunned when I saw the price tag on this one - with all that cool tech, I was sure it was somewhere in the 5-digit price range but it's apparently a pretty fantastic yet affordable option. My "search for the incredible" ends here.

Follow ASUS Philippines on Facebook, and find their store partners on their website.

We hug them, we kiss them, we get our faces pretty close to theirs so they better be taking good care of their skin! Seriously though, we PV girls are pretty obsessive about our skin care that we try to make sure that our loved ones are taking care of themselves, too. Getting men to do this can be a particular challenge (some just vehemently refuse to put anything on their faces) but some of us have had a bit of luck making a convincing case for following a regular skin routine. So today, we're letting you in on what our dads, husbands, boyfriends and brothers have on their vanity!

Liz: When I first met James, the only "beauty" product he used was the basic Safeguard soap. This was, obviously, unacceptable! He actually has pretty good skin before but now I'd like to think it's even better. I can't make him use moisturizer or sunscreen (ugh) but he does love nice cleansing products. His staples are the Shiseido Speedy Perfect Whip, Lux Body Wash, and Himawari Oil in Shampoo. He's also a huge fan of the Pantene 3-Minute Miracle Conditioner since it makes his hair look sleeker!

Every so often I'd force him to mask up with me. It's our bonding time. Leaders of course is the best sheet mask brand, but when he's got blocked pores I make him use the Origins Charcoal Mask. <3 You know what, one of these days I'd make him write about his skincare routine and how it's like dating a beauty person mwahahaha.

Den: I honestly can't relate when women can't get their men to use skincare - my husband is so into it that at one point, he had three kinds of moisturizer and an eye cream! These days he swears by the Burt's Bees Anti-blemish Solutions line, Nivea Q10 Plus Anti-wrinkle Extra Protection Day Care, and occasionally swipes from my Laneige Water Bank Moisture Cream Ex. He uses virgin coconut oil to shave, and has his own concealer from Artdeco.

Kim: My boyfriend of six years is loyal to Kojie San. He's been using the stuff for years, and I've witnessed how it cleared out his acne marks from puberty and gave him stellar skin in general. I've also gotten him into a nose pack (Clear Nose White) and sheet mask (Etude House) habit. The couple that does skincare together, stays together?

Stacie: My brother suffered from acne for a few years, making him extremely OC with his skin. Currently, he uses Master Anti-Pimple Facial Cleanser after washing his face with a regular foaming cleanser. His routine consists of cleansing three times a day, a tip we actually got from our mama. He also goes for a facial cleaning once a month and visits his dermatologist whenever he has skin concerns.

Katsy: I have only ever gotten Mark to try out the a few products once (which he "reviewed" here) but that's about it. I am still in the process of convincing him to use skincare of any kind. Sadly, no progress yet.

Rae: Except for VMV Hypoallergenics SuperSkin 3 toner, my husband doesn't have skin care staples. He just uses whatever I place on the sink. Sometimes I do ninja moves when he's asleep and apply serum or gel moisturizer on his face. His skin responds well to the Laneige Perfect Renew Serum. Haha! My goal now is to get him to use sunblock regularly. He's paler than me and burns easily.

Angela: My handsome dad loves putting on Nivea sunscreen on his face every day. I think that's the reason why he doesn't look his real age!

Jorj: My husband's low maintenance, to say the least. The only skincare product he uses is Likas Papaya, which has been a staple in his routine (of just washing his face and whole body with soap) since he was in college. He likes it because it brightens his face. He had a bad case of acne in high school, but he doesn't have marks. So, yes, Likas Papaya actually works!

Are the men in your life conscious about their skin care? How do you convince them to try products?

They say curiosity killed the cat. In my case, though, curiosity led me to pots of beauty gold. I’m a “drugstore” girl through and through, so my beauty runs are always directed at the aisles of well-known and loved affordable brands. Lately, though, I’ve stepped away from my usual locations and have tried going Korean. My runs have been satisfactory, as one would expect. But I found that there are wonders to be discovered in places where you don't really expect to get your beauty shopping done.

Bench is still a go-to for many Filipinos for sartorial needs, but the brand has been branching out widely into beauty. They have carried cosmetics before: I was a teen when they first released their Pretty When Pinched Lip and Cheek Tint (P180), which was a more affordable version of the coveted The Body Shop tints.

They've since added so many new products to their roster that you can create an entire look using items from the brand. Their Paint Box BB Two-Way Cake (P250) has a lot of rave reviews online, but their Cream Blush (available in Strawberry and Cherry Blossom for P169 each), Golden Kiss Bronzer (P139) and Frosted Pearl Highlighter (P139) caught my attention. They glide on easily and are well-pigmented! You can check out their complete makeup line in their online store.

Image via ForMe Facebook page

While fashion brand ForMe has yet to release a complete beauty line, their current selection of fragrances, nail polish and lip products are too cute to ignore! The packaging is fun and girly, and they are incredibly inexpensive. If you’re looking for a fresh new scent, try out one of their colognes or eau de toilettes (P148 to P398). I love the smell of green tea, so I gravitated toward Happiness In A Bottle Green, Green Tea All Over Mist. You can also keeps your lips soft and smooth with a super duo like their Lips Like Sugar lip scrub (P98) and ForMe lip balms (P98).

Image via minahearts.blogspot.com

So, yes, H&M has a beauty line but they haven't arrived in the PH yet (sniff). In the meantime, you can already shop for some nice beauty tools! They have individual brushes (P149-599), a travel brush kit (P999), egg-shaped sponges, powder puffs (P99-149), and makeup bags (P349-599). They also have press-on nails for when you’re feeling adventurous but don’t want to commit. I'm all over how pretty these brushes are though, and got even more excited to try them when I found out that they're rated 4.2 on Makeup Alley!

You may already know this, but it’s still worth mentioning. Daiso is the bomb! It’s not just the mecca of cute, cheap stuff, it’s also a haven for beauty lovers. Here's a secret: the PV team hoards their brow pencils! They have different kinds available (and we unfortunately don't know what the brand names are) but Katsy uses the sword-cut one to achieve smokey brows, while Liz discovered the retractable fine tip one from her haul. So the next time you need a cheap dose of Japanese beauty, swing by their beauty section.

I usually go to 7-11 for quick snacks but it never occurred to me to check out their beauty section until recently. They have Ever Bilena products, which makes it easier for me to stock up on their eyebrow pencil. They also carry iWhite, a Korean brand that so many PV readers keep talking about in the comments! I've yet to try something from them and was amazed to see that their products ranged from sunblock to sheet masks. If you've been curious to try the iWhite BB.Holic BB cream that Liz raved about but can’t find it at Watsons, snag it while you’re on a coffee or siopao run.

See, it actually pays to be nosy, especially when it’s about beauty. Have you visited a store and gotten surprised that they have beauty stuff there, too? Share your discoveries in the comments!

It breaks my budget-beauty heart that insanely good skin costs a ton of money. I know, I know. Certainly it’s possible to achieve great skin at a budget, but if I’m really being honest, I think rich people just have it so much better even in beauty. After all, don’t we say “kutis mayaman” and “looking like a million bucks” to compliment a person who looks great? Being financially loaded equates to better access to a healthier lifestyle, better food, fresher air (no need to commute!), and the best of the best beauty products and treatments. So, if you have the cash to spare and you’re ready to invest for that rich girl skin, go for these next-level skin care practices!

Upgrade to luxury skincare

I love drugstore makeup but I shell out when it comes to skincare. Because I can’t have it both ways, I choose to invest in my skin rather than spend on a covetable lipstick or eyeshadow palette. And it's not just a marketing ploy either: the reason why luxury skincare products cost so much is because they’re the fruits of cutting edge research. They don’t just take care of your skin, they transform it. 

Try: Shiseido White Lucent Line, Estee Lauder Nutritious Line, and Impress by Kanebo

Invest in a sonic brush cleanser

The common denominator in the bathroom of rich amigas is a sonic brush cleanser. Our hands work well enough in cleaning our faces, but if you’ve ever tried a sonic brush cleanser, you’ll fall in love when you see and feel the difference at first use. Cleansing brushes can penetrate deeper into the epidermis for a more thorough, deep cleanse. In that sense, it can easily beat your breakouts and blocked pores into submission and can provide a cleansing and exfoliating experience at once.

Try: Clinique’s Sonic System Purifying Cleansing Brush (P5,600)

Use a powerful serum

Serums are like moisturizers on steroids. Compared to the regular stuff, they are formulated with smaller molecules so they can penetrate your skin deeper and quicker. They also contain a higher concentration of active ingredients, hence they’re usually the most expensive item in a skincare line. If you want to solve a skin problem and solve it fast, serums are definitely the way to go!

You've probably heard of serums as part of the Korean 10-step skincare regimen but if that's way more commitment than you're ready for, you can upgrade the cleanse-tone-moisturize-SPF regimen by adding a serum and an exfoliator. And so you don't get confused when to apply what product, read up on our nifty guide to skincare layering!

Try: Estee Lauder Advance Night Repair Concentrate (P4,800) and Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate (P2,880)

Pick up a masking habit

They have become a staple in every beauty junkie’s arsenal, thanks to the instant quick fix that they offer. While they are individually inexpensive, a sheet mask habit is not cheap by any means as masking thrice a week can easily cost you your monthly internet subscription bill! But alas, we have definitely and hopelessly fallen in love. Everyone on the PV team has a mask they swear by, and if you need more convincing, I've detailed my #OneDayOneMask Challenge experience (spoiler alert: it was soooo good!)

Try: Leaders Insolution Coconut Bio Mask (P148), Banila Co. It Radiant Lace Hydrogel Mask (P240), Proud Mary Ampoule Masks (P140), Kracie Hadabisei All in One Mask (P795 for 40 sheets)

Count on the experts

Now if you have some serious cash to blow, then expert treatments are the way to go. Products can give you excellent skin overtime, but treatments like the Revlite, Fractional Laser, and Diamond Peels from Facial Care Centre will give you noticeably better skin after just one session. Granted they cost a serious amount of cash, but they are miracle workers that would yield longer lasting results (including permanently smaller pores!). And if you’re a soon-to-be bride, opting for this pampering route will probably keep you glowing well after you've said I do!

What’s your take on going the luxury route for skincare? How many of these steps are you already doing?

This story is brought to you by Facial Care Centre.

As a regular reader of numerous beauty blogs for over two years now, I’ve learned that the online community is where you go to get the scoop on the latest products out in the market. But if you’re not the type to get caught up with a passing fancy - no lemmings here! - then you’re better off with products that stand the test of time. And you know what? The Internet isn’t missing suggestions for that, either. We’ve seen makeup and skincare items that have sterling reputations, and they still get honorable mentions in media outlets even years after their release.

And so, here’s a list of the cult favorites you have to try at least once in your life to investigate the surrounding buzz once and for all.

Nivea Creme (P69)

The blue tin is so iconic that Nivea hasn’t even changed the packaging  to keep its look a classic. As a little girl, I remember seeing my mom using this to moisturize her face, but I now know that Nivea Creme is versatile enough to use on the whole body. Admittedly, it is on the thick and heavy side, so it’s more ideal for cold, dry weather or extra dry skin.

Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey (P1,100)

This enduring beauty was first introduced to the scene as a lipstick shade in 1971, but was re-done in the 80’s as an Almost Lipstick (tinted balm/gloss) instead. In retrospect, excellent decision! It’s the versatility of the reddish, plummy tint on just about anyone’s lips that has given it a reputation for transforming into a customized color for each user.

Cetaphil Cleanser (P127)

It’s hard to beat something that’s been trusted since the 40’s! Cetaphil is the top-to-toe cleanser that’s a derma standard. You can use it to remove makeup, wash your face and body, as well as your nether regions. Cetaphil’s ingredients are so gentle, it can soothe skin that’s in the midst of a flare-up. It’s practical to have one around the house for those blasted days when your skin simply refuses to play nice.

Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer (P1,950)

In the days before the breakout success of BB creams, there was the tinted moisturizer. Arguably the most famous one... ever, Laura Mercier’s award-winning skincare-slash-makeup product is a favorite to many a celeb on their days off. The light coverage and the ensuing glow make for an excellent base for a no-makeup look.

Shu Uemura Eyelash Curler (P1,000)

Still going strong! Other than the cleansing oil, the Shu Uemura lash curler is the product from the Japanese brand with instant recall. It’s considered the curler with the most versatile comfort fit across various eye shapes, so there’s less tendency to accidentally pinch eyelids or rip out lashes. They say the secret is in the black pads that have just the right thickness for that perfect curl angle.

Estee Lauder Pleasures

Before there was Modern Muse, we had Pleasures. It may have made its debut in 1995, but the timeless fragrance still gives off a fresh, floral impression today. Who could forget the ad campaigns through the years featuring Liz Hurley, Caroline Murphy, and Gwyneth Paltrow? I remember a relative bringing home a bottle as pasalubong, and my mom and I sharing it (...or fighting over it) for special occasions.

Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner (P1,450)

The new millennium was met with a futuristic buzz and the birth of Bobbi Brown’s signature eyeliner. The inky deep colors last all day, and it changed the game for non-pencil eyeliners. The formula is a buildable pigment-saturated gel, but it doesn’t feel heavy on the lids. The collection has now grown to 13 regular colors, and Bobbi Brown still launches limited edition shades along with seasonal collections.

Carmex Lip Balm (P140)

Keep your lips soft and plump in any weather. Carmex is the heavy-duty stuff! Originally developed in the late 30’s to deal with cold sores, the brand eventually became a lip balm go-to for its year-round versatility. With the success of the original formula, the line has since expanded to include a squeeze tube packaging and the handy twist-up lip balm tube.

Max Factor Creme Puff (P633)

Though the name brings to mind a certain cream-filled dessert, Max Factor’s Creme Puff Pressed Powder is known in makeup artistry circles for being the trusty movie star makeup in the golden age of Hollywood. Glamorous dames like Joan Crawford and Judy Garland benefited from the flawless look that Creme Puff’s creamy-matte finish was able to give. Pro MUAs still turn to this tried-and-tested, finely-milled powder foundation for coverage ranging from light setting powder to theater-level makeup.

Bioderma Micellar Cleanser (P1,900)

The French have the most no nonsense approach to skincare, and they’ve brought us a makeup remover that doesn’t beat around the bush. Bioderma dissolves non-waterproof makeup in a snap, and you can choose a formula depending on your skin type. This is the brand that made micellar water a must-have for any makeup lover's vanity.

How many of the products on this list have you tried? What's still on your list? Let’s complete our beauty bucket lists together!

by Charlie Esmerna, contributor

When I suffered from a really bad case of chemical burn in high school, my dermatologist didn't immediately prescribe an ointment or some kind of product to soothe the red tomato color my cheeks were sporting. The first thing she did was to (playfully) chastise me for not applying sunscreen regularly! Confused, I made my case worse by telling her I thought sunscreens were only applied during the summer and when going for a swim because they’re expensive (this was before I learned that there are budget picks available).

I was never more wrong.

Applying sun protection daily is as necessary as brushing your teeth and washing your face. The sun and its harmful rays can do a great deal of damage on unprotected skin, whether rain or shine or indoors. Your skin becomes more vulnerable to irritation, develops dark spots and wrinkles faster, and puts you at risk for a life-threatening disease like skin cancer.

We're spoiled for choice at the large number of sunscreen options in the market now, so there's really no excuse to be skipping on this skin-saving habit. And don't think for a second that the SPF in your makeup is enough. You can't "layer on" SPF to add it up so unless you apply foundation so that it's thick enough to completely mask your skin, you still need to use a separate sunscreen and reapply as needed.

That said, using makeup that contain SPF can offer you an extra bit of protection and extend its wear. Plus, they cut off a bit of your prep time in the morning since they’re not just sunscreens. Here are some of our favorites.

SAVE: I used to think all sunscreens felt like thick and sticky lotions that took forever to dry before Biore UV Perfect Bright Milk SPF50+ PA++++ (P380 at department stores) proved me wrong. It has a watery formulation that makes it easier to get absorbed by the skin. It’s non-greasy, has a soft powdery finish, and gives the skin a slight brightening effect. Putting it on is like applying primer, highlighter, and powder all in one go! It sits tight on the skin even when other products are applied over it, allowing perfect makeup application.

SPLURGE: Want to brave a glowing, barefaced look? This Bobbi Brown Illuminating Face Base SPF25 (P2,650 at Rustan's) might just be what you need. This creamy base is slightly iridescent and makes the skin look radiant and healthy. It has a low SPF but it makes your skin smooth and easier to work with, allowing you to layer on products without a hitch.

SAVE: In a time when finding a shade that matched my skin tone perfectly seemed impossible, L’Oreal True Match Super Blendable Makeup SPF17 (P600 at department stores) came to light and it was the greatest thing. Ever. This medium-to-heavy-coverage foundation can be a saving grace when you need your spots covered and you only have a few minutes to spare. Because of its slightly runny consistency, it blends and sits on the skin quite well, creating a silky and smooth face base.

SPLURGE: If you’re having trouble keeping your foundation intact, try Shiseido’s Sun Protect Liquid Foundation SPF43 PA+++. This water-resistant face base boasts of a fairly high SPF and works great on oily skin. With a light to medium coverage, it would be a perfect foundation to wear when going out, commuting, or working under humid weather. It also has a thin formulation, which makes it easy to apply.

SAVE: On lazy days, BB creams are great lightweight options. When I first swatched Maybelline’s Super BB Cream SPF50 PA++++ (P399 at department stores) on my hand, I was a bit hesitant because it looked a little thick and heavy. But upon application, I discovered that it's virtually weightless! It has a slightly matte finish and medium coverage that allows me to skip concealer. 

SPLURGE: For something light yet powerfully hydrating, Bobbi Brown BB Cream SPF35 PA+++ is a great option. It has buildable coverage and a creamy, easy-to-blend texture. Staying power is quite good, plus it has a dewy finish that would look flattering on normal to dry skin.

SAVE: Many lip balms work wonders on chapped lips but offer zero sun protection. Nivea’s Med Protection Lip Balm SPF15 (P90 at department stores) can do both! Apply this before swiping on your fave lippie to keep your lips moisturized and protected. Want something with a hint of color? Check out PV’s other lip balms choices with SPF here.

SPLURGE: On days when the sun feels particularly cruel and merciless, better amp up your lip protection if you don't want a chapped pair. Most lip products generally just have basic SPF (around SPF10-20), so reach for the VMV Hypoallergenics Armada Lip Balm SPF60+ (P770 at VMV stores) for days that are just sweltering. This lip balm does have a bit of shine that it can pass as a gloss. Wear it over or under your lipstick - just make sure to put it on!

As much as these products do a great job of offering additional sun protection, makeup that contains SPF usually don’t photograph well. Protective ingredients like zinc oxide can create a white cast that becomes particularly obvious with flash photography. If you expect to get your photo taken (we're thinking "special event" not "selfies at the beach"), you may want to avoid makeup with SPF.

Got any more makeup faves that help protect against sun damage? Share them in the comments!

When I first heard of dry brushing, I thought it was a miracle worker. A simple and cheap 5-minute trick that can unclog pores, give you smooth skin, detoxify your body, and reduce cellulite? Sign me up! But once the initial excitement died down, I figured that the supposed benefits of dry brushing seem too good to be true. So I decided to do some deeper research to know: is this science speaking or just another Internet myth? 

What is dry brushing?

As the name suggests, dry brushing is simply the practice of running a dry bristled brush all over your body. It is an ancient beauty ritual that originated from India and it’s believed to heal and detoxify the body through the skin.

The claims

The supposed claims are as grand as they go. Proponents of dry brushing say that this technique can increase blood flow and circulation, flush away toxins, and strengthen the immune system all while giving you the skin of your dreams. Benefits were also said to include muscle toning, cellulite reduction, fading out stretch marks, treating back acne, and smoothing out the skin for a relatively cheap cost. But which among these are actually true?

The science

Unfortunately, there’s no scientific evidence that links dry brushing to its believed benefits for banishing cellulite, toning the muscles, and detoxifying your body. However, medical experts unanimously agree that it helps give you smoother skin by unclogging pores and sloughing off your dead skin cells. The massaging motion also helps to improve your lympathic system, and can increase blood flow and address bloating. This results can make you feel more rejuvenated and energized temporarily, thanks to the stimulation.

Should you do it?

If you have dry, sensitive skin – STAY AWAY. You’re better off sticking to creamier body scrubs. Zen Zest makes amazing ones that are just P150. If you have normal to oilier skin however, there’s no harm in giving it a try. It gives you smooth skin, relaxes your muscles, and really does boost energy (at least based on my experience). I’ve been a little lazier with my yoga practice in the morning and dry brushing has become my fun, lazy-girl alternative!

I love Vanilla Cream and Cotton Flower!

Where can you buy a brush?

It’s not as popular a method here as it is in other countries, so our choices are unfortunately limited. I bought this brush with natural boar bristles from Watsons for P219. They also have a smaller brush without the white massagers that retails for P129. Other options include Earth Therapeutics (P450 at Beauty Bar), The Body Shop, and MUJI (P900+). You can also scour PCX, Landmark, and Lazada for generic variants that come at different price points.

If you want to test the waters first, you can try this technique with a loofah or a slightly abrasive wash cloth.

This image from DiscoverMe pretty much covers it.

How do you do it?

"From the bottom to your heart" is the key phrase to remember when dry brushing. Start from your feet and move towards your heart in long, fluid strokes. Do the same thing for your arms, starting from your finger tips and brushing down once you reach your neck. For your abdomen, go around in a counter clockwise motion.

The brush should feel firm against your skin but never painful. Ease the pressure in more sensitive areas such as your chest and neck and don’t pass over any area too much as you might over exfoliate and damage the skin. I’d say less than 10 strokes should do the trick!

The best place and time to do this is in your shower before you wash yourself as sloughing off dead skin could be messy. This way, you can also get the maximum moisturizing benefits of your bath products since you’re applying it on fresh, healthy skin. Don’t forget to moisturize after with a lotion, multipurpose gel, or in-shower moisturizer!

In summary, dry brushing WILL:

• Help you achieve smoother skin through exfoliation
• Prevent acne by unclogging pores
• De-stress you because of the massaging motion
• Aid the lymphatic system
• Temporarily increase your energy because of blood flow stimulation
• Address bloating
• Save you money on body scrubs (!!!)

However, it will NOT:

• Treat your cellulite
• Fade your stretch marks
• Firm your body permanently
• Make your body get rid of toxins

Have you tried this technique before? How did you like it?

Sources: TIME, Greatist, PhilStar, WellnessMama

Who here hasn’t slept through their morning alarm? I certainly have, and I don't care to count how many times I've had to speed through my entire morning routine in a tizzy to avoid being late! While the absolute necessities like showering have to be done, there are things we'll probably have to skip like a 10-step skincare routine or a full #FOTD-worthy makeup look. Short of applying my makeup in the car, my go-to is a 5-minute makeup look. On top of that, we'd like to share a few tips to rush our makeup - beautifully, of course - for the next time we overuse that snooze button!

Tip #1: Start the process the night before

Wait, what? Did I just tell you to start putting on makeup the night before? Actually, I'm referring to the skin prep that would leave you with a better canvas for tomorrow's makeup! Exfoliate, don a sheet mask, apply your creams and serums, that sort of thing. Layer your skincare to your heart’s content, then wake up the next morning with brighter, softer skin that won't need as much foundation or concealer. There wouldn't be any need to layer highlighters or extra finishing powders too!

Tip #2: Plan your look ahead

Just like how you prep your outfit for tomorrow, why not plan the makeup that will go best with it as well? Certain outfits call for certain looks but in case you don’t need a full face daily, laying out the makeup you will use for the day or the week still helps. This is especially useful if you have drawers filled with makeup! Try curating a makeup pouch containing your go-to products for the week. You can change it up every few days or just add more lip colors if you want variety.

I like to think about what I'm going to wear while I'm in the shower, so I'm I can avoid randomly trying on different things while I'm getting dressed.

Tip #3: Focus on one facial feature instead of doing up everything at the same time

Speaking of makeup looks, selecting a focal point makes for a faster routine. When you focus on just one feature, you will be able to cut down the time trying to get everything as polished as possible. Our most common choices are polished brows or a pop of color on either your eyes or lips. Personally I go for the lipstick route, either a bright red or a trendy dark lip, while keeping my brows as natural as possible.

Tip #4: Make multi-tasking your keyword when makeup shopping

Nothing multi-tasks quite as well as the ABCD face bases that already include coverage, moisture, brightening, and SPF. They're such a beauty staple that the PV staff each has a BB cream or two in her kit. Even better are those in cushion form for a more efficient application and portability! Reach for lip and cheek tints while you’re at it. They save time since you don't have to reach for two separate items, and thus take up less space in your kit. We've found a bunch of REALLY good ones under P500, too!

Tip #5: If all else fails, keep it minimal.

If you really only have a few minutes to look extra beautiful, honestly, you don't need a lot. A minimal look is just as much of a statement as a full face of makeup! My basics for my daily face usually include a skin-brightening base, a long-wearing concealer (for eyebags and blemishes), and a brow grooming kit. No matter where you're headed, these are good staples for achieving a refined and polished look. 

I also got this great tip from an Elle article for rushed makeup mornings: If you can only bring JUST THREE makeup items on a deserted island, what would these be? Your answer will reveal what you consider to be your basics. 

Do you practice any of these tips? How do you speed up your makeup routine?

Makeup is so much more than what it makes you look like or how well it works. It's about what it makes you feel. Even if you're a casual makeup user, what you put on for the day reflects what you want to feel like. Natural, bright, and professional like Bobbi Brown? Trendy and intense like MAC? Sublime and elegant but with an edge, like NARS? Practical but classy, like L'Oreal? Brands sell more than product. They also sell an image that you buy to feel like a different, better version of yourself in varying degrees.

As such, this image - a story, if you may - is part of the price you pay when you purchase a piece of makeup. The more expensive a product is, the stronger the brand has to be in order to justify the cost. Formulation and packaging are better than cheaper versions, but for many of us the difference to cover the jump in pricing is not enough. Brands have to be able to convince us that a 30 dollar lipstick is better than a six dollar one.

There's a squad of strategies they use to capture our imagination. One of them is simply putting a name on it - could be a person with decades of beauty expertise (Bobbi Brown, Laura Mercier, Elizabeth Arden, Francois Nars, Estee Lauder etc.), a celebrity, or even something as abstract as a narrative that their market can intensely relate with (MAC, Urban Decay, Benefit, Happy Skin, etc.). 

So don't be surprised that Kylie Lip Kits, which sell for 29 dollars, are almost identical to ColourPop liquid lipsticks which are only 6 dollars. The founders of the manufacturing company admitted to it already, which of course made some people feel salty because they've been "duped" into buying (or even just wanting) something so expensive when they could've gotten it for much less.

But think of it this way: if people just wanted a superb formula in pretty colors, then there are so many cheaper products out there to love. Perhaps they already even own a few! If they wanted to be cool(er) though - someone who owns a sold-out color at a certain price level, hand-picked by one of the most famous celebrities in the world - then they get exactly that in a Kylie kit.

Will I buy one for myself? I've been sent a couple, and I loved the formula of the lip liner and liked the liquid lipstick well enough. Magazine editors, beauty biz owners, and other friends never fail to ask what my lip color is even if they didn't know it was the coveted Kylie Lip Kit! At 29 dollars, they're not too bad since each product is essentially just 14.50 dollars (outside of shipping and taxes). You can even buy the lip liner and liquid lippie separately now at 14 usd!

But at local reseller prices, well, only get it if you badly want it. At P2,200- P2,500, you must be totally into the cool factor of the product before it makes sense. Otherwise, just get a ColourPop lippie. Or a Sleek Matte Me at P450. Or even Pink Sugar at P349. There are options. Go for the one that makes you feel the way you want to feel, is my advice. 

Let’s face it: Makeup can be an expensive hobby. Even a full face of drugstore makeup can easily amount to at least P1,500 and to compare, that’s about 15 value meals! Every so often though, we still buy products that are on the pricier side because they've proven to be worth the hype.

Products like the P2,200 Guerlain lipstick, P5,000 Lorac shadow palette, or even P1,700 Origins masks are already major splurges for me because I'm still a student but I recently learned that what I thought were luxuries are nothing compared to the priciest beauty products in the world. Better take a seat and prop up your chin - these price tags will make your knees weak and your jaw drop!

Image via townandcountrymag.com

Givenchy Le Soin Noir Lace Face Mask, $330

The Givenchy Le Soin Noir Lace Face Mask set contains four individual packs of lace sheet masks, which make each sheet around P4,000. It’s formulated with black algae sap concentrate, golden sap and marine spring water, which minimizes the signs of aging and supports skin renewal. It promises firmer skin and a smoother and brighter complexion after use.

Tip: If you love the pretty lace design, you can try Banila Co’s Lace Hydrogel Mask Sheet instead (P240 each).

Image via silverkis.com

Estee Lauder Re-Nutriv Ultimate Diamond Revitalizing Mask Noir, $340

This P16,000 two-step mask includes a custom-crafted brush and the mask itself, which is made with concentrated levels of Estee Lauder’s exclusive Black Diamond Truffle Extract, which is sourced from a very rare type of mushroom. Aside from its rarity, the ingredient is prized for its ability to fight skin aging. This product is currently not available locally.

Crème De La Mer, $465

La Mer is well-known for "The Miracle Broth", a concoction of sea kelp, and minerals that took 12 years to perfect. Its skin moisturizing and healing powers are so legendary that Crème de La Mer can fetch as much as P22,000 for the biggest sizes. You also check out its equally as expensive sibling, the Gel de La Mer, which is the better option for oily skinned gals due to its lighter texture. 

Image via spacenk.com

Artis 10 Brush Set, $355

Dome brushes are fast gaining popularity for their multipurpose application, and this particular brand has created its own cult following. A single Artis brush ranges from $35 to $75 (P1,600 to P3,500), depending on the size, so the set of 10 brushes looks almost like a steal at ~P16,500. Each brush features CosmeFibre bristles, which were designed to "blend makeup on a microscopic level without holding on to the product". They also claim that Artis brushes. on average, have 3-10 times as many individual fibers as conventional brushes so they feel denser and more plush.

If you haven't seen a dome brush in action (and can't imagine how it's supposed to be used all over your face), check out Liz's FOTD using a Nippon Dome 6 Face Brush.

Image via laurencemagaly.com

Orogold 24K Nano Night Recovery Elixir, $1,000

The Orogold 24K Nano Night Recovery Elixir is just one of the products in the Orogold 24K Nano skin care line. This concentrate contains essential oils and other nutrients to create a smoother skin texture, as well as actual flecks of 24 karat gold. Gold is used as anti-aging ingredient, and the inclusion of those tiny particles are said to help brighten skin.

Image via osswaldnyc.com

La Prairie Platinum Rare Cellular Cream, $1,140

La Prairie is currently taking over the internet with their Skin Caviar Foundation, which is relatively cheaper at $215. The platinum cream claims to be a skin-transforming formula that recharges the skin's electrical balance with pure platinum to prevent aging, protect the skin's DNA, and replenish moisture. La Prairie says that platinum is impervious to time, incapable of being oxidized by air, and so, so precious that all the platinum ever collected in the world could fit into a single room. But honestly, I’m not so sure about putting platinum on my face.

Image via dnaindia.com

Guerlain Orchidée Impériale Cure Face Treatment, $1,550

If you're wary of applying metals (precious or not) to your face, then maybe plant extracts are more up your alley. This face treatment by Guerlain is composed of four gold-encased vials of 0.5oz two Renew and two Revitalize formulas. There are special instructions on how to use these vials according to your skin type, which are good for a month's worth of treatment. Infused with Imperial Orchid Molecular Extract, the set claims to achieve firmer and more radiant skin, with less fine lines and wrinkles. And if your eyes are bulging from having only enough product for a month, take note that it is recommended to use the treatment twice a year. 

Image via hoppingo.com

Guerlain Diamond Lipstick, $62,000

Released in 2007 and made with 18k gold and about 200 diamonds, this is the epitome of luxe packaging! You can choose any lipstick shade you want for this bullet, and they also offer free refills. Somehow I don't think I'd ever spend that much money on lipsticks in my entire lifetime.

Image via azature.com

Azature Black Diamond Nail Polish, $250,000

This nail lacquer contains 267 carats of black diamonds but only one bottle was ever produced. Azature actually created cheaper versions of this, with bottles that contained one black diamond each and retailed for $25.

Image via livingflashily.com

H. Couture Beauty Mascara, $14,000,000

Count those zeroes then think about the estimated shelf life of mascara. Yup, I couldn’t believe it either. The company H. Couture is no longer around but they did leave an impressive mark for selling a $14M mascara. The 18k gold tube is studded with 1000 of the finest Swarovski crystals and 2,500 blue diamonds. It also came with a lifetime of refills but I can't seem to find any reports on how the product actually performed.

I still can’t believe that there is a market for outrageously expensive makeup and skin care, and I wonder if they were worth the splurge! Some of the products on this list are expensive mostly due to the packaging though, so I hope the formulas themselves were also of HG quality.

What's the most you've ever spent on a beauty product?

Eyebrows are intensely personal to each of us. There's a different combination of shape, color, hair growth, hair thickness, even bone structure for every person, which is why brows can be such a tricky area to master! There's no one way to do eyebrows perfectly. It really depends on the look you want and the time you have.

I normally only require one product for my eyebrows for a daily look; could be a pen, pencil, wax, or powder depending on what I need to try out at the moment. When I'm going to events though I always spend the time to layer different formulas to get more photogenic brows - meaning, they are visible and on fleek even on video or flash photography. I notice that if my brows are too natural, they disappear in very bright or dark lighting! So yes, thicker brows are non-negotiable for certain occasions. 

Layering products also makes brows stay put, even in hot and humid weather. I'm a huge fan of the K-Palette 2-Way Eyebrow Liquid as you know. When it comes to pencils though, my favorite has to be the Eye of Horus Brow Define in Dynasty (which has been a staple in my kit for a year now)! Love the color and softness. I also love setting my brows using the mascara end of the Eye of Horus Brow Perfect. This tinted mascara manicures my brows and softens them even more so that they don't look harsh, even with so many layers.

So! I made a video of how I currently do my eyebrows for interesting occasions. ^_^ I also made GIFs to break down the process. I'd love to know if you like this tutorial format!

PS Yes I have a small pimple on my eyelid. 0_0 Sorry about that!

Step 1: Clean and brush up your brows before putting any makeup on them. If you do your brows after foundation, they get caked on by product which makes them look ashy. Wipe them with tissue or cotton buds, then brush them to remove whatever remains. Brushing also reveals the true shape of your kilay so it's easier to shade them later on.

Step 2: Outline your brows according to your desired shape. Of course, you still have to generally follow the shape and existing hair you have on there. I like making my kilay thicker and longer, as it makes my wide face appear a bit smaller. Use broad strokes and a feather light hand to outline! I like using pencils or pens for this.

Step 3:  Fill in your brows using small, quick strokes as if you're drawing on tiny hair. In this part of the process, you don't want to create any obvious lines. You'll need to follow the hair growth, too, so as to mimic the natural appearance of hair. With a spoolie, remember to break down any heavy lines you might have formed!

Benefit Ka-Brow is out now!

Step 4: Use a dark shade to create the illusion of depth and thickness. This is a tricky tip, but so, so useful once you get the hang of it! You don't need to do this if you have thick brows but if you have sparse ones like mine, it's a lifesaver. So. The dark shade (about two shades darker than your filling-in color) must be applied in precise points where you need to fake more hair - that would be right on the inner brows, arch, and the tail. If you thicken your brows like I do, you might also want to apply also on the area where there is zero hair. 

I actually use black eyeshadow for this! It's just like painting, where you create shadows to make an object look more dimensional. I also currently love the new Benefit K-Brow Cream-Gel Color in 04 Medium (just out this week!) which stays on forever and is the perfect shade for the job. Stays on forever too! Please refer to the video to get a closer look.

Step 5: Arrange your brows into place and seal everything together with an eyebrow mascara. I prefer an almost clear one at this stage. The Eye of Horus browcara has an excellent wand and texture, since it breaks down product a little bit to create smoother brows that go in a neat direction. You know how sometimes eyebrow makeup tends to get clumpy or bunchy? A clear mascara can flatten them to create thick but still realistic brows like below. 

If you make mistakes or go beyond your desired shape, use clean cotton buds to mop up the area. ^_^ And that's it! Hope you enjoyed my tutorial! Let me know what you think, and if there are any specific ones you'd like me to do next!

Imagine taking your daytime look all the way to an evening affair, and looking every bit as fresh as when you first applied it. Wouldn't that be awesome? There are so many tips online on how you can have that longevity with facial sprays and retouching techniques but I found out that the best trick is to simply to layer AND dry them on properly! Let me explain.

Before getting to the makeup part, it's important to review our skincare prep. Always remember: good skin equals better makeup. Regular exfoliation removes dead skin cells to reveal the brighter skin underneath, while keeping your skin adequately moisturizes makes it easier to apply makeup and avoid dry patches. If you're prepping for a special occasion, you can even make use of a sheet mask for an instant glow. Make sure to layer your skin care in the correct order so your skin absorbs all the benefits! Wait for your skin care has fully set and dry before applying your makeup.

Then put on your basic layers: primer (for face and eyes), foundation, eye makeup, concealer, powder, and setting spray. Of course this product list can change depending on your preferences! Some BB creams already offer decent coverage while cream to powder foundations remove the need for powder after (unless you have oily skin, which in that case, do set with powder). But here's the trick: whatever products you use, make sure that each layer dries fully and settles in before applying the next product!

You may need to wait a few minutes for each layer to fully dry, but if you don't have the time or patience, Liz let us in on her recent secret: you can blow dry your face. No kidding! Just put your hair dryer on the cool setting, point it towards your face, and watch your makeup set quickly. This is similar to the baking technique, only faster. By letting each layer of makeup set before adding on to it and removing sweat completely, you are reducing the chances of your makeup slipping and sliding. 

If your blower doesn't have a cool setting, you can use an electric fan but it just takes a bit longer. You can also use the hot setting to kind of melt the makeup down even more to create a smoother finish. This is especially useful if your makeup becomes accidentally caky after layering. Just don't use blow hot too long!

Try this out and let us know how it works for you!

Loving your skin as it is is better than any beauty product in the world. There's nothing like the feeling of utter confidence when walking inside a room full of beautiful people and finding nothing wrong with yourself - knowing that you belong there, in spite of what other people might say. 

Now this kind of certainty only comes with the eventual realization, as you grow older, that you are beautiful as you are. Perhaps not in a way that everybody appreciates or perhaps not in the aspect you wish to be, but your kind of beauty is something you will always have with you. 

That being said, trying to improve your appearance according to a certain standard you wish to follow is not necessarily a bad thing. You have every right to decide how you look like and how to influence the way others perceive you. After all we live in a society shaped by ourselves and people around us; we can get swallowed by it, we can defy it, or we can choose to play by its rules to achieve our goals.

So yes, if you want lighter or whiter skin, then by all means - go for it. Don't let others make you feel guilty about it. As long as you maintain your health, don't harm anyone in the process, and make an informed decision then the way is clear. Do what you think you need to do to be happier and more competitive.

Okay, I rambled a little there, but I actually wanted to discuss the difference between lightening and whitening. I am a little peeved to admit that I didn't know until last week that they are actually two separate things. To be fair I don't really read up on whitening/lightening as it's not an area of interest for me but yes, they are not the same pala. So what sets them apart?

Lightening

Lightening involves achieving a lighter complexion by inhibiting melanin production or using natural exfoliants. The process may be slower, but it is generally understood to be healthier because it sets your skin back to its fairest possible shade. So for example, if you’ve had lighter skin before but you turned darker because of sun exposure and a lenient skincare routine, lightening products can get you to your original color again.

Kojie San has a lightening range which uses kojic acid to help prevent melanin from forming. Their soap, body lotion, moisturizer, and toner also exfoliate skin and this contributes to an instant lightening effect (which I’ve talked about previously).

Whitening

Whitening on the other hand usually involves some method of bleaching your skin to force it to an unnatural level of fairness. It may involve harsh chemicals or strong oral treatments (sometimes even delivered direct to the bloodstream) that may pose risks of skin burns, hypersensitivity, and hyperpigmentation. When whitening, always consult with a licensed professional.

Which should you go for?

Lightening is safer for your skin whereas whitening can cause some damage. I personally would not recommend whitening procedures, but of course, if you prefer a drastic change in your skin color then it may be the way to go. Just make sure to read up on the procedure you want to do and go to a clinic or dermatologist you can trust! Please, please don’t buy products or treatments off the Internet.

As for me, I’ve become a huge fan of the Kojie San Lightening Soap in particular as it helped me even out my dark knees, base of the neck, and even my armpits (a little bit). I have documented this. Did I get lighter? Yes. I’ve tanned quite a bit because of tennis but the soap + the Kojie San Lotion definitely helped me maintain my natural color. I’m still not fair but I have the skin I want for myself. 

So there you go, hope you found this useful! ^_^ Let me know your thoughts on whitening or lightening the skin!

Kojie San is available at leading supermarkets, drug stores, and sari-sari stores nationwide. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram!

This story is brought to you by Kojie San.

I didn't always used to smile with confidence. I grew up with an underbite made worse by a botched dental job when I was a kid. I assumed that my parents wouldn’t spend on another dental procedure so I made peace with the possibility that I'd spend the rest of my life with bad-looking teeth.

But when I started working, I decided to get braces again to at least improve my bite. Doc Enna, my dentist, considered my case to be one of the most difficult she'd had to deal with. It’s bad enough that she had to fix an underbite, she had to correct botched braces as well. I didn't have much expectations but I was very satisfied with how my teeth looked after my braces were taken off, especially compared to several years back. My teeth were far from perfect, but look, no more underbite!

After braces, before veneers

My dentist, being the perfectionist that she is, encouraged me to look into veneers to further perfect my smile. I wasn’t really interested in getting them at first but after googling about veneers and seeing a million and one before-and-after photos, I reconsidered.

What exactly are dental veneers?

If you've ever wondered how celebrities always seem to have perfect teeth, this is their secret! Dental veneers are super-thin materials that are molded and bonded over the front of the teeth to improve their appearance. It’s a lot like gluing acrylic nails over real nails. When you get veneers, you’re essentially getting artificial enamel.

Veneers can change how the teeth look in terms of size, length, shape, or color. You can get them done to close gaps and to fix chipped and worn down teeth like I did. Veneers can also help make teeth look more aligned.

A sample of my dentist's veneer work on another patient (Image used with permission)

Veneers can either be made of porcelain or composite resin. Porcelain has the translucency of real teeth, doesn’t stain, is less prone to chipping, and can last up to 15 years or more. On the other hand, composite can get stained, is not chip-resistant, and only lasts for around three to five years. But, the latter is significantly cheaper! With composite veneers, you can recreate your smile at a relatively low cost.

I decided to get composite veneers mostly because my dentist DID IT ON HERSELF and it looked completely natural! All the while, I thought I was seeing her natural teeth! That gave me comfort because I was worried that I’d end up looking like I’m wearing false teeth.

I also thought that composite was the best option for me because I wasn’t fully committed to the idea. Composite veneers can be easily removed and re-done if you end up not liking the results, and I wasn’t sure what teeth size and shape to go for. Your dentist can make recommendations but you get to decide what size and shape your veneers will be, so it suits and flatters your face.

Unlike porcelain veneers that are made in a lab, composite veneers are done in the clinic and molded directly on the teeth in bespoke fashion. My dentist sculpted each veneer on my teeth like a master sculptor so if you decide to get veneers, make sure to go to a dentist who is a true dental “artist”.

Getting my new smile

Aside from finding a skilled dentist, it is also very important to find someone you can easily communicate with. In my case, my dentist made sure I knew everything I needed to know. She answered all my questions, and we exchanged a lot of pictures and Youtube videos to make sure we were on the same page on what I want done and what I should expect.

We planned on doing veneers only on four of my upper front teeth. So before the procedure, my dentist took my tooth shade to make sure that the composite she’ll use would closely match the rest of my teeth.

We agreed that the shade of my teeth is A1 (Image via teethwhiteningperth.net.au)

Before the composite is bonded onto the tooth, it is cleaned and an etching solution is applied to help the “glue” to stick. The whole prep and the procedure itself was easy-breezy. I didn’t feel any pain, but there was a slight discomfort from having my mouth open wide for a little over two hours.

Before the procedure

After the procedure - the change is subtle but my smile looks so much better!

As soon as the composite was bonded and sculpted, I was handed a mirror to check how I liked my new teeth. I requested for a few adjustments, and my dentist used a polishing tool to reshape the teeth to my preference. After I okayed the final look, she buffed my teeth to sparkling shininess! Here’s the final look:

Taken two months after the procedure

My two front teeth were lengthened and my upper teeth curve downwards now. I’m often asked if I could feel it on. The answer is nope! It just feels like my regular teeth.

Aftercare

Since composite veneers can stain, it’s advised to avoid dark-colored food and beverage. I can’t quit coffee though so I make sure to rinse well after drinking or follow my dentist’s recommendation to wipe my teeth with a table napkin. I know it sounds weird but it works. It’s been over two months and my veneers still match well with the rest of my natural teeth.

I chipped a tooth though because I grind my teeth at night so I now make sure to always wear my night guard to sleep. The chipped tooth was easily fixed, but I realized that I have to keep a record of what shade my teeth are and the type/brand of composite to use in case my dentist is not around and I need an emergency fix.

I also avoid biting into hard food like chicharon or tearing apart through tough meat with my teeth. Other than that, there’s no special care needed. I brush and floss as normal.

I hope this helps anyone else who’s interested in getting the procedure done. Getting veneers was one of the best decisions I've made, and my improved smile makes it even more fun to play with my favorite lippies!

If you’re interested for a consult with my dentist, you may reach her through 0925 750 1982 and look for Dr. Enna Neria-Balauitan.

I've had my eyes on the Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector for years, pretty much ever since I saw Lisa Eldridge rave about it - repeatedly, I might add. Finally I had the chance to acquire it at a recent Sephora PH shopping spree. It wasn't as easy a decision as it sounds; apparently, aside from its famous liquid formula, this highlighter also comes in cream and powder. So many shades, too! 

I ended up grabbing the Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed in Opal (P1,943). I thought I might use it occasionally, since highlighting is really not my jam, but now this powder is pretty much part of my routine! It's this unbelievably gorgeous golden champagne shade that reflects light on the skin the right way - meaning, it will only flash in a certain angle and will only look like silky satin otherwise. Imagine a freshly washed, still slightly damp face. That's how I feel it looks like on my skin.

I've tried oodles of other highlighters in the past, all of them quite likable and easy to work with. But many of them ended up too white, beige, or pink, so they stand out unnaturally on my warm skin. They also have this tendency to be gritty and uneven which makes the surface look bumpy. Opal is the perfect color and texture I didn't know I was looking for! See how tightly it adheres to skin.

I don't think the camera wasn't able to capture the flash, but yup the dewy-looking skin is all thanks to Becca

It also stays in one place for about 5-6 hours. Once I pat it on my lids, brow bone, cheekbones, nose bridge, or cupid's bow, it sticks there. If I want to concentrate light on an area, this powder will not budge. I use a finger, the MAc 217 or the cheaper equivalent to get a concentrated highlight. I use a fan brush if I want a more diffused finish.

When I want to use it as an overall illuminator, I get a big fluffy brush, pass it through a translucent powder, then pass it over the Becca powder before sweeping it on my face. This gets me the same effect as the Guerlain Meteorites. When I do quick no-makeup makeup, I always put some of this on my eyelids (to brighten my eyes) and nose bridge.

Overall, I think the Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed in Opal is worth the money as it will take me FOREVER to finish a pan. I love how it makes my skin look; I can see why it's become such a cult favorite over the years.

However, this is not worth the purchase if:

• You're all about the matte look.
• You don't see how a highlighter can fit into your routine, for lack of time, interest, or skill set.

Give it a try though. You just might find a new way to elevate your look, as I have. ^_^ Let me know what you think!