If you still aren’t all shopped out, we’re bringing you more beauty goodies to be excited about and to add to your Christmas wishlists! From a rumored new franchise, fun gift treats, smashingly gorgeous eyeshadow palettes, and the possible creation of Kylie Jenner highlighters, this week’s roundup has everything you need to know about the latest in beauty. Let’s dive in!

Image via Sokoglam

We've been hearing whisperings lately about a new Korean beauty franchise coming to the Philippines. If you've been to South Korea, you may have visited Olive Young at least once! It's like Watsons, but with even more beauty choices. According to our sources, it will come in first or second quarter of 2017. We can't wait to shop there! 

Image via Beauty Bar

Bootie(s)licious

We love one-stop stores for beauty, especially if they’re online, and even more so when they offer special perks! Beauty Bar’s online shop is holding a cute little holiday gift exchange called the Beauty Booties, and you won’t want to miss out on these special goodie bags. A purchase worth at least P5,000 gets you a ton of even more beauty treats that include TheBalm Instain Blush, Nuxe beauty oil, Burt’s Bees lip balm, and a glam pair of falsies! It’s the perfect treat for yourself after buying gifts for everyone else, so head on over to Beauty Bar ASAP!

Image via Althea PH

Cos(RX) we can

We’ve been stalking one of our favorite online stores since we heard about the Powerpuff Girls makeup collab, and now we have yet another reason to shop at Althea! Cult skin care favorite CosRX is the newest brand addition to this K-beauty haven, so you can now stock up on bestsellers like the One Step Pimple Clear Pads, the Ultimate Moisturizing Honey Overnight Mask, and the Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Power Essence. Plus, Althea is treating beauty lovers to an extra 20% off on CosRX products to celebrate the brand’s arrival!

A video posted by Raychel Newton (@makeup_maven) on Nov 22, 2016 at 12:10pm PST

Face full of food challenge?!

Think you’ve seen it all when it comes to beauty? We’ve seen the ‘Not My Hands’ challenge, the ‘Full Face of Liquid Lipsticks’ challenge, and even the different versions of the ‘Hundred Layers’ challenge that we’ve stopped squirming in our seats even after “challengers” apply yet another layer of mascara. But apparently, these memes have nothing on the newest trend to go viral online: the Face Full of Food Challenge!

Instagram user @makeup_maven's final look

Self-taught makeup artist Raychel Newton’s crazy challenge is just the thing for makeup lovers slash food fanatics, and the result is actually quite stunning. Apparently, you can look this good after applying cocoa powder, flour, gelatine, and a Snickers bar to your face! If you do decide to try it out, please don’t do it at a buffet and do tag us in your selfie. ;)

Image via People

Pretty little palettes

Attention: Pretty Little Liars fans! The show may be over but we’ve got great news worth getting excited about. Show star Shay Mitchell (who is Filipino-American, btw) is releasing her very own collaboration with Smashbox! YASSS QUEEN!

Image via People

The actress, model, Instagram Queen and Youtuber is set to release seven new eyeshadow palettes for a limited edition collection called Cover Shot: Eye Palettes. Save for the Matte palette, each one will have a good mix of shimmers, glitters, and matte shades that are perfect for any look. There’s a palette for everyone: Ablaze (perfect warm/burgundy), Bold (bright rainbow colors), Golden Hour (autumnal and purple hues), Matte (cool toned mattes), Metallic (gorgeous shimmery shades), Smokey (the perfect holiday palette complete with a gorgeous Emerald Green), and Softlight (baby pinks and light hues). The palettes will be retailing for $29 each and only available online at Sephora.

Full story on PopSugar

Image via Instagram/kyliejenner

Highlight on fleek

If you’re still gushing over the new limited edition release of Kylie’s makeup brushes, we gotta tell you that there’s something else to make the Kardashian-Jenner fan in you squeal with joy! Teen Vogue has just made an amazing discovery: Kylie Jenner might just be expanding her makeup empire to include a new product. As per Teen Vogue research, a trademark was filed last June for something called Kylighter, which will cover both “face and body highlighters” as well as accompanying brushes. With her growing fashion line and flagship store nearing completion, Kylie is clearly serious about cementing her name in the industry. We’re definitely eager to see her take on a highlighter kit!

Full story on Teen Vogue

Have a great weekend, ladies! Have you got any news to share?

Did you catch the Black Friday sale at Sephora PH? If you missed it or have been feeling too intimidated about shopping there, you’ll be happy to know that there are actually great picks to be had for just under P600! No need to wait for another sale to score these babies, and you can do a mini haul with just three items to qualify for free shipping. Sounds like a good deal, right? If you’re ready to try shopping at one of the most-loved beauty retailers in the world, make sure to keep an eye out for these pocket-friendly finds!

Sephora Collection Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover (P308 for 50ml)

Ever had an eyeliner that was so budge-proof and hulas-free that it worked a little too well? Or a mascara that gave awesome results but takes you forever (and 10 shed lashes) to remove? If you’ve been stepping up your makeup game with long-lasting products, make sure your cleansing routine has caught up as well. This waterproof eye makeup remover dissolves even the most stubborn of formulas with ease and takes away ALL traces of makeup. It doesn’t irritate the eyes so even contact lens wearers can use it safely. It also contains the ingredient Procapil, which helps to promote natural lash growth!

Sephora Collection 12hr Contour Eye Pencil (P441)

It’s hard to find an eyeliner with as wide a range of colors as this one by Sephora’s in-house brand! They have an amazing array of 33 bold and vivid shades to choose from, and deemed as the best eyeliner available at Sephora by shoppers. It’s not hard to see why, either: the creamy formula glides on easily, and lasts all day. It stays well even on the waterline! The pencil is beautifully pigmented, and available in matte and shimmer finishes. Trust us: it's difficult to not want to get this in every color!

Zoeva Luxe Cream Lipstick (P553 for 3.8g)

With its sleek, chrome-inspired packaging and incredible formula, we were pretty shocked to learn that this luxe-looking tube cost less than P600! It’s so pigmented, creamy, and moisturizing that it can easily pass as a coming from a higher-end brand. The shade Venus Phase is a flattering combination of coral and pink that could definitely work for all skin tones.

Sephora Collection Long Lasting Brow Pencil in Medium (P503)

What’s beauty shopping without throwing in a brow product or two? Pencils are still the easiest (and quickest) way to fill and define arches, and we like how the formula for this one is buildable. You can make your brows as soft or dark as you want by simply changing the pressure of your stroke, and applying more to sparse areas. Use the brush on the cap to groom hair into place and diffuse any obvious deposits of color.

3CE One Color Shadow – Shimmer (P503 for 2.5g)

Did you know that Sephora carries Korean brands as well? If you haven’t yet tried anything from Three Concept Eyes, this eyeshadow provides a great intro to the brand. Highly pigmented and finely milled, it finishes to a soft, suede-like texture. Saturn is a beautiful, slightly edgy but wearable reddish-purple color that looks elegant, especially for evening events.

Eyeko Mascara Off Eye Makeup Remover Wipes (P462 for 10 wipes)

We just love the portability of makeup remover wipes but most of them aren’t potent enough to remove eye makeup. Not this one though - these wipes are formulated with a bit of olive oil that essentially allow you to double-cleanse in a more convenient format. It removes all traces of makeup and contains aloe extract to soothe and moisturize the delicate skin of the eye area.

Zoeva 222 Luxe All Over Shader (P486)

We’ve always loved Zoeva’s brushes but if you want to try them before committing to a set, add this brush to your cart. It’s a hand-crafted, multi-functional brush that can apply eyeshadow, contour the eyes, and highlight the brow arch! The bristles are crazy soft, making them super comfortable to use on the eye area, and it even comes with its own little brush bag.

Percy & Reed Mini Smooth Sealed & Sensational Volumising No Oil Oil For Fine Hair (P469 for 15ml)

Say goodbye to frizz and baby hair! This non-greasy formula tames errant strands into submission, and nourishes and repairs them, too. It even gives a boost to thinning hair as it makes our tresses feel smooth and volumized even with just the tiniest bit of product.

Oscar Blandi Hair Lift Mousse Travel Size (P570 for 2oz)

Not only does this hair mousse smell sooo good, it also does a fantastic job at giving volume! It provides a good yet not stiff hold to styled tresses, and gives the appearance of a thicker, fuller mane as well. And if you feel like your ‘do is beginning to go limp, you can pack this travel-sized canister into your purse and refresh as needed.

First Aid Beauty Face Cleanser (P536 for 2oz)

Even we can barely believe that something as light and gentle can remove waterproof makeup! Somehow, it actually works, and that’s only the first in its long list of advantages. The whipped texture makes it easy to use, works even for sensitive skin, and promises a pH-balanced formula that helps prevent breakouts. Yes, this cleanser has everything we need and more!

Spot something that made you curious? What other under P600 finds have you seen on Sephora?

This story is brought to you by Baby Foot.

The secret to baby smooth feet? Forget the spa - foot peeling masks do the job better, and for much less money. The queen of them all is Baby Foot, a Japanese brand that has made headlines in Vogue, Good Housekeeping, Today, Refinery 29, Buzzfeed, and XOJane. It's easy to see why. Photos of gross peeling skin practically falling from feet make for a compelling story but the results - literally, baby smooth feet - make it all worth the temporary yuckiness.

If it's your first time to try Baby Foot, here's what you need to know about the process! We promise that it's not as scary or inconvenient as it looks.

1. It doesn't hurt while you're masking. At all. Photos of snake-like shedding can make anyone with even the most solid constitution balk at the thought. But it really shouldn't cause you any pain as it will only affect the layer of dead skin! While your feet soaks in the mask for 30 minutes (not more), there's just a cool, squishy sensation. 

Of course, if you have particularly sensitive skin, it's still best to do a patch test before going all in. Apply the Baby Foot liquid between your toes and wait for about 15-30 minutes to see if there's any reaction. It goes without saying that you shouldn't use this product if you have open sores or wounds on your feet.

2. You don't peel immediately. The Big Peel will happen about 3-5 days from application. Until then, your skin will just feel tight but otherwise normal. Just be patient until you peel. When it starts, resist the urge to pick out the sheets of dead skin and also try (hard) not to freak other people out with it!

3. You can still do sports or work out while peeling - just wear thick socks! The peeling shouldn't affect your normal physical activity (or lack thereof) as long as you wear thick socks to protect your feet from chafing. Do note that callouses will be slightly thinner because of the process, so if you prefer to keep them, you might want to skip this mask.

4. You need to use oil-free moisturizers while peeling so as not to interrupt the process. Seeing so much skin fall off might inspire you to use heavier moisturizers but that's actually counter-intuitive. You want the dead skin to come off. Don't waste a good moisturizer to interrupt the peeling! Go for alcohol or water-based foot creams/lotions instead.

Ta-dah! Smooth feet in one use.

5. Baby Foot has holiday promos starting today. It's the perfect time to try the brand as you'll be getting freebies with each purchase. If you buy one Baby Foot pack (any size) at Beauty Bar, you receive their Smoothing Gel for free. If you buy two, you'll get their delightfully campy fuzzy socks to catch all your peeling skin while you sleep or walk around the house. ;) This promo is available in all Beauty Bar stores while stocks last. ^_^

Hope you found this post helpful! Would love to hear about your Baby Foot experience as well! 

For the last Project Vanity Kit of the year, we wanted to bring you something that would serve you well in your holiday parties and reunions. Whether you're going for a polished, sleek daytime face or a dramatic evening look, this curated beauty pouch is picked especially to elevate your routine! The Naughty and Nice Kit (P1,450 for almost P6,000 worth of products at The Store or at BeautyMNL) is the perfect year-ender gift for yourself, whether you've been good or bad.

It contains the following products:

K-Palette Lasting 2Way Eyebrow Pen (P895 in stores). Draw the brows of your dreams using this super natural brow best seller! Go heavy or light according to your mood - it will still look good. The kit contains either shade 01 or 02. 

Holika Holika 24HR Auto Eyeliner (P235 in stores). Naughty or nice, it's your eyes that carry your smize. Line them with this rich black eyeliner from a cult Korean brand famous for its tongue-in-cheek look.

Jordana Sweet Cream Lip Color (P399 in stores). Matte lip lovers will enjoy these new shades from Jordana! These set ultra matte and stay on for hours comfortably. The kit contains either the Sweet Marsala (a deep wine red) or Rose Macaron (a soft pink).

Flormar Loose Powder (P399 in stores). Your good girl gone glam look isn't complete without a setting powder that will smooth out your skin and help your makeup stay on longer! Bake it until you make it!

Essence 2-in-1 Eyeshadow & Liner (P279 in stores). Look lovely and alive with these easy to use crayons! Just draw and blend with your fingers and you're ready to rumble. The kit contains either the Go Bronze (a pretty bronze) or She's Got The Mauve (a taupey mauve).

Strip Manila All Off Wax - Brazilian Gift Certificate (P1,598 in stores). First time? Upteenth time? Getting a brazilian at Strip is the best way to go bare down there! They work clean and fast, so it's a comfy experience. They're OC about hygiene too, which is why you never have to worry who's been using their sheets and tools.

Browhaus Brow Construction (P648 in stores). Get your brow act cleaned up with our favorite service from Browhaus! Expect your arches to be threaded to perfection by a professional brow architect.

My Amazing Hair Secrets Travel Kit (P1,048). Big hair don't care is the mantra of this innovative brand. Prep your hair with this trio to get them blow-dry ready in half the time! It contains the travel-sized (29.5ml) Shampoo, Conditioner, and Quick Dry Spray.

Ellana Makeup Brush Cleaner (P400). Have you been a very bad girl when it comes to cleaning your makeup brushes? Well, then, make it up to your skin by keeping your tools hygienic with Ellana's instant cleaner!

The Naughty and Nice Kit has different shades as mentioned above. We can't guarantee that you'll get your desired shade, but please just email us (marielle [at] projectvanity.com) and we'll see if we have remaining stocks. You can get this from the Project Vanity Store or over at BeautyMNL for only P1,450! Hope you like it! <3

If you have more requests for the Project Vanity Kits next year, please let me know in the comments and we'll see what we can do!

For an everyday go-to lippie, pinks and nudes are usually the popular choices. We get it - they’re easy to apply, go with most outfits, low maintenance, and don’t call attention to themselves. But sometimes, we just want to add a bit of drama, and a dark, bold lip is the easiest (and quickest) way to go!

It does take a bit more confidence to rock a deep-colored lip versus a my-lips-but-better shade so if you haven’t gotten into it yet, we have tips to get you started. Even the PV girls have different levels of “darkness” that we’re actually comfortable enough to wear out, so check our faves to find one that will make you come to the dark side!

Liz: I can go pretty dark, because life is too short to worry about how good or bad a lipstick will look on me! I'd try any color at least once outside the house. The one I'm wearing here is a black (ish) lipstick from Katy Perry's collab collection with Covergirl. It's called Perry Panther. Love the name! The shade's pretty interesting too, as I don't have a black lipstick in my collection yet.

Kim: The Sleek Matte Me in Vino Tinto is about the darkest shade I can work with. I'm a nude girl through and through but I do enjoy the occasional burgundy and deep wine lip!

Karla: I personally love a bold dark lip! My favorite shades are MAC Antique Velvet, MAC Rebel, Colourpop's Tulle and Jeffrey Starr's Androgyny. A simple eye look and a bold lip speak loads! If you're afraid to rock a super dark lip, start out with berry-toned lipsticks. I also love the Colourpop metallic liquid lips!

Gett: I looooooove a dark bold lip! The boldest I've gone is wear a dark blue lippie, which was NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream in Moscow. I think dark lippies are versatile in that you can pile it on or sheer it out depending on its tones! But since I'm away and I only have a couple of lippies on hand, I'm showcasing MAC Rebel, my fave purple berry.

Katsy: I honestly find dark lipsticks harder to wear than nudes or reds. One wrong swipe and it will just bleed all around your lips, plus there's the slightly goth factor. BUT! I love how a deep color looks on me and everyone else. It's instant glam in a tube, a character you can easily step into. I've tried dark purple, deep wines, and even black once but for my current dark lipstick of choice, I'm going dark brown with Colourpop's Lippie Stix in Hollywood Blvd (Matte X formula). Even though it's supposed to be dark, it doesn't wear super dark on me that I can't wear it out on a normal day. I think I can even wear this to meetings as a "power" lipstick.

Stacie: The darkest lippie I can wear is Pink Sugar x Project Vanity's These Lips Don't Lie in Nothing to Wear. I prefer wearing it as a gradient lip rather than a full lip color to decrease its darkness and to make it wearable for an everyday look!

Marielle: The darkest I'd dare to go at the moment is MAC Instigator, and I'm still trying to figure out different ways to pull it off. When I first swatched it, I was instantly attracted (and challenged!) by how the vampy blackened plum contrasted against my pale skin.

Charlie: I love deep berry shades and own a couple but the darkest lippie I have is actually a dark chocolate brown color. I purchased Colourpop's Lippiestix in Pitch after a lot of thinking and I don't regret it. It's a challenging Nutella color but it looks really pretty.

Angela: I only have about one or two tubes of dark lipstick and I'm still encouraging myself to wear them. I love nudes but dark lipstick is a statement look! My darkest one is the Colourpop Ultra Satin Liquid Lipstick in Frick 'n Frack. It gives my lips a smooth and matte deep berry color. I love it and really should wear it more often.

Are you a dark lippie fan or thinking about becoming a convert? How dark and deep can you go?

When I think of the women I write for, I don't just see numbers. I think about what you'd be delighted to read, excited to discover, and actually use everyday. I think about what kind of value I can offer you - maybe not to change your life in a major way (only you can do that), but to make that change more accessible by changing what you think about your own kind of beauty. Whether it's designing a lipstick that will make you feel like you woke up pretty, getting you a hand-picked kikay kit for much less, or doing a workshop about interesting techniques, I want you to know - really know - that you can be beautiful and confident on your own terms.  

When the time came for me to make something new, I thought of creating skincare. It has to be something for busy women, like you and I. It has to be simple and effective. It has to be a nice experience everyday, something that will elevate what you already do in your routine.

And so In Her Element was born. 

In Her Element aims to make simple skincare for busy women. It's made from all-natural ingredients and contains no fillers. It is cruelty-free (we test only on ourselves) and proudly handmade here in the Philippines! The first product under the brand is the Nourish & Cleanse Balm (P595 for 30 grams) which offers two primary functions: it revives dry patches of skin and removes waterproof eye and lip makeup without drying the area.

Unlike other petroleum-based balms which simply seals moisture under the layer, the Nourish & Cleanse Balm's main ingredient is coconut oil. It hydrates and smoothes skin effectively, as it is a moisturizing oil. It is said to have anti-oxidant and anti-bacterial properties as well. The In Her Element Balm also features Beeswax, Cocoa Butter, Choco Vanilla Oil, and Vanilla Oil - all nourishing for the skin - and Organic Red Colorant to create a lovely pink shade (although it's colorless when applied). It smells like sweet vanilla!

You can use it as a lip balm. I love it as a primer for my lipstick so that my lips don't get dry (especially useful under mattes)! It's also great for parched and scaly cuticles, elbows, and heels. 

Another feature is that it can remove waterproof eye and lip makeup. When you massage the balm on your skin, it has the ability to melt even the toughest formulas. Just wipe it off with tissue before proceeding to your normal cleansing routine! Here it is in action:

I do hope you can try the Nourish & Cleanse Balm out soon! Currently, we are only selling via the In Her Element website (Inherelement.ph), but we'll have more locations next year. ^_^ Please do follow us on Instagram (@inher_element) and Facebook for more updates. We'll definitely have more products soon.

I'm honestly feeling a little emotional right now as I've been working on this for half a year. I just really want to say thank you for reading this, and checking out In Her Element. Would love to know what you think, as always!

I have a growing suspicion that if the Project Vanity team were to pool all of our sheet mask stashes together, we’d have enough to fill a large suitcase! We’re so crazy about sheet masks, we pretty much hoard them every time we spot them on sale. Not only are they a nice, effective boost to our regular skincare routine, but the act of masking in itself feels like 20-minutes of blissful pampering after a busy day. At an average of about P50 per mask, it’s honestly not a cheap habit to have, so we’ve found seven ways to make the most out of each one!

Tailor your mask

If you encounter a mask that doesn't quite fit your face, don’t hesitate to cut away! 20 minutes is quite a long time to be bothered by an imperfect fit, and you may be missing out on fully absorbing the essence if the mask isn’t fully in contact with your skin. To make fit it to your face shape a bit better, simply cut it horizontally, along the same line as the flap for your nose. This should allow you to better position the placement of your mask over your eyes and mouth, especially if your face is smaller or bigger than the cutout.

Don’t hate, refrigerate

I once had a friend complain to me how uncomfy and sticky masking can feel. I told her to pop the mask in the fridge before use and she now looks forward to her masking sessions. The cold sensation of the essence feels very soothing particularly if you’re hot and tired. This trick is a must if you use undereye mask sheets - it deflates puffiness and lessens the appearance of dark circles!

Metal masking

When I first saw that Estée Lauder came out with the Advance Night Repair Concentrated Recovery PowerFoil Masks, I freaked out a little before eventually warming up to the idea. By putting a foil barrier on top of your mask, you lock all the moisture down thereby creating a more efficient facial essence delivery system. Now we all can’t afford to spend $20 on a single mask so thank God for DIYs and Althea!

Two is better than one

If you check our collections, you’ll notice that we don’t just hoard one type of mask. That’s because no one mask can address all our issues with just one product, and the needs of our skin can actually change on a daily basis. So until we find that magical mask that solves all problems, we’re happy to do double masking! The idea is to use one mask after another, so your skin can get all the treatments that you need. And because your skin will already be moist from the first mask session, the second one actually penetrates the skin better because there are no dry barriers to overcome. Not only will this fast track your way to perfect skin, your face will also thank you for the intense hydration!

Complete the package

Ever feel like your eyes and lips are feeling a little unloved compared to the rest of your face because of your sheet mask habit? Don’t leave them hanging; if your sheet mask doesn’t use an include a flap to cover these areas, just use separate eye and lip masks for these areas underneath your regular mask. Multi-masking cuts the wait time if you’re looking to speed things up!

The final touch

Did you know that the best time to use a sheet mask is actually AFTER applying all your skin care? That’s right: after the essences, serums, moisturizers, etc. is when your mask should be going on so that it can seal all that goodness in.

Leftover essence is a mist opportunity

Most masks will have quite a bit of essence left in the packet after you’ve done masking, and we’re thrifty enough to ensure that this precious liquid isn’t simply thrown away. Apply the remaining essence all over your body for an intense moisturizing treat, or grab a clean, empty spray bottle and transfer the essence in. Et voilà! You get a nice facial mist that serves as a great (and easy) pick me up whenever your skin starts to feel blah. For more viscous essences though, dilute it a bit with a bit of added distilled water or another mist like Avene Thermal Spring Water, otherwise it may simply clog the nozzle of the spray bottle.

Do you love sheet masks as much as we do? What are your favorite masks, and how do you make the most out of every use? We want to know what your mask-imizing techniques!

Dry, oily, combination, troubled - doesn’t matter what your skin type is, you still need to apply moisturizer regularly! As a dry-skinned gal, my need for it is quite obvious but if you’re oily and worried about looking like a greaseball, you actually oil up less if your skin is well-moisturized. Choose from a traditional cream formula or the more lightweight gel; both work fine. You can get some pretty good ones for less than P600 but if you can afford to splurge, we encourage you to do so! The ingredients are normally a lot more potent than cheaper versions, and they’re great for pampering your skin, too.

Liz: Kanebo has this amazing concept called double moisturizing. It involves applying a lotion - something that mimics the water-soluble hydrating particles in our skin cells - and then sealing it in with an emulsion or cream to prevent the moisture from evaporating from the skin. It's genius! Currently I am mad about the Kanebo Impress Lotion II and the Impress Emulsion II together. These are quite pricey, but their new line - just called Kanebo - has less expensive yet similar versions.

Den: I love the Laneige Water Bank Moisture Cream_Ex but since going on a skin care diet, I’ve been using the Juice Beauty Stem Cellular Anti-Wrinkle Moisturizer. It feels a tad bit heavier in comparison but I don’t mind because my skin has been feeling drier than usual. I like the mild plant-like scent and the hygienic packaging mechanism that pumps out the amount I need instead of having to scoop it out of the jar with my fingers!

Stacie: I tend to switch from product to product often but my moisturizers should always be in gel form. For the past year I have been loving the Mamonde Rose Water Gel as an all over moisturizer. I use it on my face, body and even hair! I like that it's not sticky yet it moisturizes enough to fit my needs. It also has a fragrant non-artificial rose scent!

Angela: I really like Garnier Light Complete Multi-Action Whitening Serum Cream. It has consistently worked for my skin ever since I was a teenager. It lightens my dark spots and helps prevent my skin from getting pimples. It never oils up on me but actually makes my skin look like it has translucent powder! I just wish it's more moisturizing because I tend to have tight skin around my eye area due to lack of sleep and the cold weather. When I experience that, I switch to Burt's Bees Anti-Blemish Solutions Lotion which I really love as well. It's surprisingly super moisturizing and it has never caused my skin to break out.

Kim: The Bliss Triple Oxygen+C Energizing Cream is the most amazing moisturizer ever! While I was on this stuff, I admired my skin every morning for how soft, radiant, and bouncy it was - that must be what it was like to have K-idol skin. It plumps and perks my skin up like a charm, and it's surprisingly light and non-greasy despite being richly moisturizing. It's a pricey number but it did last me five months of day and night use.

Crystal: I am loving The Body Shop Vitamin E Aqua Boost Sorbet which I got in a limited edition packaging. I have super oily skin so I need a moisturizer that really leaves no greasy feeling whatsoever, and this feels like I have nothing on! I like the mild, soothing scent, too. I will definitely repurchase.

Claire: I love how The Body Shop Vitamin E Aqua Boost Sorbet melts into my skin. It's a sorbet that somehow has a gel-like consistency. Combined with its refreshing scent, it has easily become my favorite moisturizer so far. I can't vouch for its 48 hour claim, but I can say that it works well on both the dry and oily areas of my face.

Gett: Lightweight gel moisturizers are the way to go for me! I love how light they are on my oily skin while still leaving my face moisturized. My faves are Nature Republic Fresh Green Tea 80 Cream and Aloe Vera Soothing Gel.

Charlie: Nature Republic's Aloe Gel has been my favorite moisturizer since the day I tried it. I've already emptied several tubs of this because it's so refreshing to use and it works well with my oily skin. I love that it dries easily (so I can use it day and night), and that it's not sticky. I stock up on this whenever I can.

Marielle: My fave is the StriVectin Multi-Action Restorative Cream. I can feel how it creates a barrier on the skin, but it doesn't feel heavy or sticky. There's almost a balm-like texture to it, making for a great night cream to seal the rest of my skincare in!

Katsy: My first real moisturizer love was The Body Shop's Vitamin E Moisturizer. I was obsessed! I must have gone through at least 5 tubs of it, and that's just for the night cream. Then the whole I-want-try-more phase kicked in and I've been trying different moisturizers since. I will still go back to TBS in a pinch though! Currently I'm on Laneige's Water Bank Moisture Cream. Used alone, it's okay but with the Laneige Essential Power Skin Refiner Moisture and the Laneige Essential Balancing Emulsion Moisture, my skin feels super moisturized! The routine was able to withstand negative degree temperatures in Korea last November. My skin didn't peel or feel parched at all.

Jenn: Back when my skin was super oily, Laneige Water Bank Gel Cream was my Holy Grail. It was like a tall cool drink for my skin. I'm loving right now my Merphil Multinutrition Moisturizer. My skin absorbs it quickly even though it's not gel type and it makes my skin feel plump and healthy. During bad breakout days, I turn to the reliable Avene Skin Recovery cream to calm my skin.

How have you been keeping your skin nourished and healthy? What are your favorite products for treating dry patches and other dry skin concerns?

Editor's Note: We believe that virginity, birth control, and sex are still opaque topics here in the Philippines. A discussion about these things with our parents mostly involves them telling us never to have intercourse or get pregnant until we're married. However, that is hardly a deterrent for women to make unwise choices. At Project Vanity, our ultimate goal is to empower women by providing them information about their own bodies so they feel more confident navigating their world.

In The Sex Talk, a new section here at PV, we aim to consult with doctors and experts about common questions we feel should be answered by women, for women.

Unless you’re lucky enough - or unlucky enough, depending on your perspective - to have had an awkward talk about The Birds and the Bees with your parents, odds are you ended up learning about how the reproductive system works from friends, movies, or even a graphic romance novel. Sadly, those sources aren’t always the most reliable, especially when taboo topics are concerned. Our conservative culture also restricts much of the discussion on the act of sex itself rather than dealing with the specifics like how the female anatomy works. As such, one of the most misunderstood topics is the hymen and its role (or lack thereof) in a woman's virginity.

To help us navigate this sensitive topic, we got some help from Dr. Rowena Rivera, an OB-GYN at The Medical City and instructor at the Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health. She explains, “The hymen is just a membrane, which can be thin or thick, and covers the opening of the vagina. It really has no purpose, no protective function. It’s just part of the anatomy that covers the vaginal opening.”

Each woman's hymen is also unique . She tells us that some hymens only partially cover the vaginal opening while others cover the the entire opening but have small holes in them. Some women are even born without any hymens at all, while others have hymens that fully block the vaginal opening and prevent menstruation from exiting the body. With an imperforate hymen, a woman can already be in her late teens and still not experience having a period. It can result in painful monthly cramps, and requires surgery to rectify.

An Intact-ful Discussion

Ever wondered about the status of your hymen? There are two ways to find out. First, you can ask your OB-GYN on your next checkup to have a look for you. He or she can tell you what it looks like and how much of the vaginal opening it covers. You can also opt to simply take a look at it yourself! Self-examination may seem weird or intimidating at first, but as Dr. Rivera states, it’s useful to learn about your own personal anatomy.  It's your body - why be disgusted or uncomfortable with it?

To check your own hymen, get into a comfortable position, spread the labia (the outer folds of your vagina), and use a hand mirror. You’re basically looking for a bit of tissue immediately surrounding the vaginal canal; it’s hard to describe exactly as it looks different for different people.

Different kinds of hymens (Image via Wikipedia)

Breaking Barriers

Now that you know what the hymen is and what it looks like, let’s discuss the many stories and ideas that surround this little piece of tissue. In the highly romanticized version, the hymen is usually depicted as “the last barrier” between a woman and her first penetrative sexual experience. “Losing” it is sometimes pleasant, sometimes painful, and sometimes a bit bloody.

In real life, however, that same fragile membrane is fairly easy to tear, even without sexual congress. “Strenuous activity such as biking or horseback-riding can break the hymen,” says Dr. Rivera. “Menstrual cups and tampons can also have the same effect.“ But have no fear; the breakage won’t have any negative effect on you. In fact, you might not even feel it! And if your hymen is perforate to begin with (most usually are), you should have no trouble inserting tampons, menstrual cups, and other objects.

Given how easy it is to break the hymen, assuming that you have one at all, we asked Dr. Rivera if it could be considered as an indicator of one’s virginity. She tells us: the reality is that there is currently no other physiological manifestation of having already engaged in penetrative sexual activity. And even then, it can be dicey. “There is no definite way to know if the lack of a hymen is specifically caused by a penis or something else,” she explains. The doctor can inspect and describe whether the hymen is intact, but won’t be able to say for sure if the patient has been sexually active based on the hymen’s state.

Since the hymen is an unreliable indicator for sexual experience, it’s a bit disturbing to realize that a lot of people still prize it as proof of a woman’s virginity. In some parts of the world, the state of one’s hymen may even be a matter of life or death if a society’s cultural traditions encourage violence against “impure” women. Here in the Philippines where a woman’s virginity continues to be “highly prized”, Dr. Rivera shares that she has had patients who go to great lengths to show that their hymens are still intact.

Building Walls

For women who (for personal or medical reasons) wish to have an intact hymen, they can ask their doctor for a hymenorrhaphy or hymen reconstruction surgery. It’s a surgical procedure where remaining tissue are stitched together to recreate the barrier to the vaginal canal. However, this procedure only works if there is enough of the hymen tissue to work with. The hymen can disappear altogether due to exercise or regular sexual penetration, so this surgery isn’t always viable.

There is also a product called the Artificial Hymens that can be inserted into the vagina prior to sex. The prosthetic membrane contains safe dyes that are released during penetration to simulate bleeding. Sounds intense, but the “hymen restoration project” is actually a thing, especially where conservative partners are concerned.

We’d like to know what you think: is the status of your hymen something that bears much weight in your life, or was it something you cared about before sex? Would you ever consider “faking it” for a partner?

Image of Dr. Rowena River courtesy of The Medical City

Facial mists are a great add-on to any routine, with different benefits depending on what your skin needs. A good mist can keep your makeup looking fresh and on for longer, and it will also treat your skin in the process. Looking to get into the misting habit? Check out these five facial mists we love, even more because they're so affordable!

For moisture: Nature Republic Aloe Vera 92% Soothing Gel Mist (P260 at Althea PH)

The Nature Republic Aloe Vera Soothing Gel has been one of our favorite multitasking gels, and now we have a more convenient way to reapply it on the go! The spray is light and refreshing, and gives skin that plump, rehydrated feel. If you’re in an airconditioned office all day, this mist can prevent your skin from drying out without the greasy feel.

For sensitive skin: Avene Eau Thermale Thermal Spring Water (P500 for 30mL at select Watsons and Mercury Drug stores)

Sometimes, there’s really nothing better than a dose of water. Granted, this is spring water which is naturally enriched with vitamins and minerals, but the very short ingredient list is ideal for those with sensitive skin. The water is so famous for its skin-soothing and hydrating properties that it works even in treating eczema and other skin disorders. Use it to prep your skin before makeup and after it to make your look more "lived in". Keep in mind though that this skincare essential doesn't have any extra ingredients prolong the wear of your makeup.

For longer makeup wear time: L’Oreal Infallible Pro-Spray x Set Makeup Extender Setting Spray (P500 at leading department stores)

This setting spray has been raved about for keeping makeup on even through the hottest, sweatiest days! It has this micro-mist feature that covers your face evenly. You only need to spray it once, right after you’ve put on your makeup. It’s especially for long days when you’re too busy to touch up and need your face to stay put well into the evening!

For oily, acne-prone skin: Yadah Anti-T Mist (P295 at Beauty Bar)

Struggling with oily skin and acne? The Yadah Anti-T Mist contains salicylic acid that helps soothe troubled skin. Spritz it on after cleansing whenever you feel the pimples coming in! This also comes in handy as a mid-day refresher especially when you feel your face greasing up. Just sop up the excess oil with an oil blotter and tissue first, and spritz.

For a midday pick-me-up: Skin&Lab Cooling Down Vitamin Toner & Mist (P450 at Althea PH)

On days where your face feels lackluster due to stress, here’s a little skin pick-me-up! Spritz this Vitamin Toner & Mist all over your face, and let it refresh you with its lovely citrus scent. It also acts as a light toner to help keep your skin hydrated.

Have you gotten into misting? What’s your fave facial mist? Let us know in the comments!

It was a tough call, as usual, but the Project Vanity Team voted and the winner for November is Catch Ofilada! Congratulations! Please email your address to den [at] projectvanity.com on how you can claim your prize. ^_^

I wanted to make this Commenter of the Month gift a little special, since it's almost Christmas! I included a LOT of products that should cover your makeup and skincare needs well into mid-year next year. Hah, just kidding, I'm sure you'd use these up sooner! Seriously though, I hope you like the CoM set this month - whoever wins it will def enjoy it!

Here's what's in the set! 

Shiseido Ultimune Power Infusing Concentrate, K-Palette Real Lasting Eyebrow, Celeteque CC Micro-Hydrating Powder, Celeteque Concealer, Revlon Dramatic Definition Mascara, Essence Eyebrow Pencil, Essence Lipstick, Benefit Lollitint (sample), Snoe Cleansing Syrup, Inglot Face Blus, Lip Addict Lip Plumper, two Kocostar Slice Mask Sheets, Novexpert Anti Age Cream, Essence Big Lashes Mascara, Snoe Pout Pow Lip Nectar, Burt's Bees Deep Cleansing Cream and Nourishing Facial Water (travel-sized).

So! It's the same mechanics as before. Every month, we'll pick a commenter on Project Vanity. She must be able to leave useful comments, such as sharing feedback about a product we reviewed. It can be a "thank you" comment, or maybe a really good question (we love good questions). A big factor would be the frequency of the reader's comments. Does she always visit? Does she read through the site? At the end of the day though, we always value quality more than quantity. Consistency is key. 

Comment away! Am hoping to hear from you. We'll pick the winner by the second week of January 2017. ^_^

Photography by Samantha Gonzales

We’ve always taken a strong stance against fake makeup here at Project Vanity. To prove a point, we decided to get a counterfeit Kylie Lip Kit to see how it compared to an authentic product. Our editor Liz originally planned to swatch it on her lips (after applying a ton of primer for protection) but the weird reaction she got just from the hand swatch made us say NOPE. Nope. And another nope! See what we mean:

The skin supposedly absorbs much of what’s applied to it, and considering the chance of actually swallowing the product if applied to the lips, we decided to play it safe. We recommend that you do the same because, short of paying for a very expensive testing procedure (we asked and got quoted P250,00 per product), there is really no way to know what quality and sanitation standards were applied (if at all) in the process of making these products.

What if you are really on a tight budget, though? We get that a lot of beauty lovers want to experience what it’s like to own a popular product, but the truth is, the experience of using a fake is probably nowhere near similar to using the real deal. The good news is that there are great dupes available that approximate the performance and experience of using more high-end products, and many are from affordable local brands! Before you get lured into shelling out even just a small amount for a product that could be fake, check out these affordable alternatives!

Instead of buying fake Ben Nye powder, try the Nichido Final Powder (P150 at department stores). Just like the famous product, the Nichido Final Powder is available in a variety of shades so you should be able to find one that suits your skin tone. It’s so affordable, it may actually be cheaper than purchasing a fake!

Instead of buying fake Urban Decay Naked eyeshadow palettes (there is no Naked4 and beyond as yet), get the Ever Bilena Uncover Eyeshadow Palette (P375 at department stores). The shades of this palette are quite obviously inspired by the Urban Decay Naked 3 Palette (my personal favorite among all the Naked Palettes), and the pigmentation is actually pretty good for something so cheap.

Instead of buying fake Kylie liquid lipsticks, get the Pink Sugar Lip and Cheek Tints (P349 at SM Beauty). We’ve heard that the fake Kylies can sell for as low as P80 apiece in Divisoria but as our experiment proved, the ingredients used are sub-standard and can have a weird effect. On the other end of the spectrum, we’re big fans of the Pink Sugar Lip and Cheek Tints because of the great shade colors, awesome texture, and ability to stay put all day!

The Kylie-ish Pink Sugar Sugar Tints

Instead of buying MAC powder foundation, get the FS Cosmetics Two-way Cake (P525, P350 for the refill only at SM Beauty). This product is already a cult-favorite because of its medium to heavy coverage, awesome staying power, and wallet-friendly price tag. Of course, it’s also easy to find the right shade match as the large selection of shades are made to suit all Filipina skin tones, whether mestiza or morena.

We're proud of the lovely shades of the Pink Sugar x Project Vanity lip crayon line (P399) <3

Instead of buying fake MAC lipsticks, get lipsticks from Pink Sugar, FS cosmetics, Nichido and Ever Bilena. There are many local brands that even make great lipsticks for as low as P75! You can expect them to glide on the lips quite easily and deliver good pigmentation that is comparable to more expensive brands.

Instead of buying fake NARS blushes, get Ellana Mineral Blushes (P299 at Ellana Cosmetics). They’re made from mineral makeup, and have the same fine pigments and shimmers as NARS blushes in our humble opinion. The powders are blendable, buildable, and able to last for at least 4-5 hours.

Instead of buying fake Benefit Brow Zings, get the Celeteque Eyebrow Defining Kit (~P300) which has a similar wax and powder combo. The textures of both products are the same, plus Celeteque has some beautiful shades too! We love the Deep Brown duo for Filipina brunettes.

These brands may not look or feel as glamorous as high-end products, but you can be assured that they follow standard regulations to ensure quality and consistency. Even if you just have a little cash to spare, save it up, and either treat yourself to the real thing or these quality, affordable dupes instead! Please don’t spend your hard-earned money on questionable makeup that puts your skin and health at risk. Buy trusted local products instead, and get exactly what you're paying for.

This is the year I truly, unequivocally, understood the power of masks. Whenever my skin throws out a curveball now, my solution would always involve a mask or two. Have I got dull, dry, and/or troubled skin? Sheets are my BFF. Too oily with blocked pores? Mud is my best bet. I might have gone on a masking rampage this 2016 but I have no regrets!

I am pleased to find out that Origins is once again ready to fuel my - erm - addiction with two recently released mask formulas that take my little habit to the next level. Meet the RitualiTea line! It features the new Cleansing Body Mask and Powder Face Mask in four different variants: 

• Mind Over Maté for normal skin - With Yerba Maté & Citrus, it revitalizes as it helps clarify. Skin feels invigorated. Looks clear, vibrantly alive.
• Feeling Rosy for troubled, reddened skin - With Rooibos Tea & Rose, it helps replenish skin to leave it feeling positively rejuvenated, youthfully soft and smooth.
• Oolong La for oily skin - With Oolong Black Tea & Chai Spices, this gently exfoliates and helps absorb excess oil. Skin looks and feels clean, clear and smooth. 
• Matcha Madness for dry skin - With Matcha & Green Tea, it helps revitalize and restore a smooth, even texture. Skin feels relaxed and renewed. 

At the launch, I got to choose what to take home. I went with the Mind Over Maté with Yerba Maté & Citrus since I love citrus-scented skincare!

The Mind Over Maté Invigorating Cleansing Body Mask (P1,850) is a delight to use in the shower. It has the kilig orange scent I look for to perk up my mood but more than that, it exfoliates my skin gently and thoroughly with sugar beads. Very little goes a long way - I just need a 25 cent-sized amount per limb! Surprisingly, it produces a rich lather so I can use it as a regular body wash but when I want to maximize it as a mask, I leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing.

The only problem would be that the formula sort of stiffens in storage, so Origins recommends that the tube be run under warm water to get it ready for use. Otherwise, it's pretty straightforward to squeeze out.

I enjoy how smooth and soft my skin feels after a full body masking session. It's a treat for me whenever I'm stressed out!

The Mind Over Maté Invigorating Powder Face Mask (P2,400) is another fascinating development from Origins. Made primarily from ground oats infused with tea and citrus powders and oils, it is not a clay mask. I think it's my first time to try an oat mask! Oats are famous for their skin calming and hydrating properties so this makes sense. The other ingredients help to brighten the skin, as promised in the label.

It's easy to use: I just mix a 1:1 ratio of powder and water in a clean saucer then I apply it with either my fingers or a facial brush. It sounds like extra hassle I know, but the whole process is relaxing and actually quite quick to do! The mask sort of bubbles up a bit which is fun to watch and makes it easier to apply. The texture, when mixed properly, is supposed to be fluffy and thick. I leave the mask on for ten minutes and then rinse it off with running water.

My skin feels soft and bright immediately, and whatever angry pimples I have seem to calm down a bit after the mask. I just have to note that the mask smells like - and I'm not kidding - soup! Like barley soup, perhaps, with some aromatics. While the Mind Over Mate powder starts off with a citrus smell, the Origins description mentions that it really does smell more earthy and aromatic when wet. It doesn't bother me but I wish it smells like the body mask throughout the process. It is strange to be putting soup-smelling mask on my face but hey, if it's supposed to be like that then it should be fine!

Overall, I enjoy both the Body Mask and the Powder Mask. I've been using both as a treat to my skin regularly since I got them almost two months ago! I like the ceremony involved, which I feel really sets these products apart from quicker applications. How about you, what do you think of incorporating a body mask and powder face mask in your routine? 

Origins is available in SM Makati, SM Megamall and SM Mall of Asia

Product photography by Samantha Gonzales

A pet peeve of ours is how our Filipino elders greet us with a comment about weight. This is especially true when we meet up with relatives we haven't seen for quite some time. The conversation usually starts with a remark on our appearance like, "Hija, tumaba ka yata?" or worse, "Ang taba mo na pala!"

Cue cringe. It's not something we want to hear from anyone as a first impression, at any time of the year really, except if you’re actually trying to gain weight. While we wish it isn’t the first thing they notice about us, there are ways to keep those unflattering comments from being said in the first place! No outrageous diets here. As always, we turn to beauty to help us smile and say with confidence, "Tita, di po ako tumaba. Water weight lang yan!"

Get rid of the bloat, stat

Soaking in epsom salt is said to be good for the body and help lessen the appearance of bloat. At the very least, it can treat you to some much needed relaxation during the busiest time of the year!

For best results, go on a low carb, high protein diet and scrap the junk (sugar and soda at least) from your meals at least two weeks before the big event. Upping your water intake is surprisingly an effective way to get rid of bloat as well, as staying well-hydrated signals your body that there’s no need to retain extra water.

Take note that the diet option is only a short term plan; this process can get you started in losing weight but only healthy eating habits and regular exercise can help you maintain it in the long run!

Try: Zenutrients Epsom Salt Scrub (~P138.00), both available at www.zenutrients.com.ph)

Massage it all away

Aside from feeling like the ultimate pampering treat, a full body massage offers the physical benefits of improving blood circulation and digestion. It relieves sore muscles as well as anxiety, so you can enjoy a rejuvenating beauty sleep the night before. You can also try dry brushing to get your blood flowing and your skin glowing, while a facial massage can get rid of puffiness at the very least.

Try: Zenutrients Comforting Massage Oil (P358), Oryspa Energising Oil and Holiday Oil (P265/125ml at www.oryspa.com), The Body Shop Oils of Life Intensely Revitalizing Sleeping Cream (P1,695 at The Body Shop stores)

Load up on skincare

If you aren’t using any yet, switch to products that can give your skin a radiant glow, and also reduce puffiness and inflammation on your face! A week before the festivities kick into full gear, customize the 10-step Korean skin care routine to suit your skin condition or at least start using a sheet mask daily. Both will go a long way in making your skin look soft, smooth and dewy! If you’re pressed for time and need next-day results, you can try these overnight fixes instead.

Try: Bobbi Brown Extra Face Oil (P3950/30ml), Laneige Moisture Water Bank Skincare (P2,750 for Holiday Moisture and Basic Set), Avon Anew Clinical Infinite Lift Targeted Contouring Serum (P1,499), Laneige White Plus Renew Eye Cream (P2,050), Leaders Stepsolution Mela-Tox (P148), Innisfree Capsule Recipe Pack (P90 via Althea Korea)   

Bring your makeup A-game

Creating a slimmer face is so easy with makeup! Just make your eyes look bigger and contour your facial features for added definition and a more V-shaped jawline. L'Oreal made a useful video for our reference:

Making the eyes bigger is usually helpful with some mascara on curled lashes and nude eyeliner on the bottom waterline. For evening events, dazzle them with smoky eyes that look so dressy and dramatic, they’ll be too impressed to notice anything else! 

Pro tip: false lashes go a long, long (get it?) way in making your face look smaller. They extend your eyes so it looks like the area is more narrow than it is!

Contouring is usually applied on the sides of the nose and on the cheekbones. Don’t worry – it CAN look completely natural if you apply it correctly! The key is to blend just enough to create a subtle yet effective shadow without ending up brushing it all off from your face. So, keep practicing!

Try: Pink Sugar Eye Candy Eyeshadow Palette (P699), Avon Ideal White Essence Foundation (P349), Happy Skin x Glam Squad Contour & Color (P1,399), Bohktoh One Lashes (P160 via BeautyMNL.com), Bohktoh Eyelash Adhesive Glue (P550 via BeautyMNL.com), L’Oreal False Lash Superstar Mascara (P500), Estee Lauder Pure Color Long Lasting Lipstick (P1,500)

Dress to the nines

Choosing the perfect outfit definitely helps in getting a slimmer appearance. Start with shapewear underneath to flatten flabby areas on your belly. Don’t dress too loose or too tight: you want your outfit to still allow you to join the holiday eating marathon because life is way too short to miss out on that!

Try: Avon High Waist Boyleg Shaper (P1,100) and deep-colored slim, stretchy pants

As long as we’re healthy and happy, gaining some weight is okay. Just flash those who ask with a smile, and show them how it’s done by paying them a real compliment! Enjoy yourself and remember that getting criticized for how you look says more about the commenter than you.

Have you guys got more tips on how to deal with "tumaba ka!" comments? Do you just let it slide or do you fight back?

The year is almost over, but the onslaught of developments in the beauty industry is not slowing down. Here's what's been happening in the past week!

Greenery for new beginnings (and fresher vanities)

Brace for a brighter year ahead as Pantone has called it in: Greenery is the color for 2017. The yellow-green shade symbolizes new life and a fresh start. It has a vibe that’s uplifting and energizing, and the vibrant nature-inspired shade reminds to relax, take a deep breath, and not let stress take over. It’s only fitting that Leaders Teatree Relaxing Skin Renewal Mask and the Nature Republic 92% Aloe Vera Soothing Gel (P245 at Nature Republic) sport this refreshing color as they treat your skin to plant-derived goodness!

If you’re a little more daring and want to incorporate Greenery into your makeup look, check out Colourpop's Telepathy Eyeshadow Pigment ($5 at Colourpop) or cover up redness with the green corrector in Catrice Allround Concealer (P379 at SM Beauty).

Full story on Pantone

Image via teenvogue.com

The “Boobie” Blender

Cheekily called the “boobie” blender for its similarity to the material used for bra inserts, the Silisponge is the latest product that beauty lovers are raving about. The $9 tool was developed by Molly Cosmetics (from Hong Kong), and is made from silicone and thermoplastic polyurethane. The clear, gel-like sponge is deemed to be better than a regular beauty sponge because it doesn’t absorb the product (so you save makeup) while blending your makeup into a smooth and flawless finish. Cleaning is such a breeze, too, as it only needs be rinsed and patted dry to make it less susceptible to damage.

If you’re unable to get yourself one, vloggers have come up with a rather strange-looking alternative: actual silicone bra inserts, which are cheaper and easier to get compared to the Silisponge. While these bra pads are usually much larger and may require cutting and shaping to perform like a beauty sponge, they supposedly work just as well!

Full story on Cosmopolitan

Image via wwd.com

Victoria’s Firsts

For the very first time since the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show debuted, fashion’s favorite Angels landed (and strutted their stuff) on the catwalk of Paris! Themed “A Very Private Affair,” the girls donned Victorian-inspired glittered and bedazzled lingerie (among other themes), and completed the ensembles with a dramatically different beauty look. Also for the first time entirely, the Angels traded their lush lashes and bronzed skin for over-the-top gray cat eyes with a hint of bronze. Makeup artist Tom Pecheux took inspiration from the signature Angel wings and used Max Factor products to pair the heavy eye makeup with dewy skin and glossed full lips.

Full story on Teen Vogue

Image via Teen Vogue

Round 3 for Glossier Funding

In 2013, beauty brand Glossier began a funding venture to build retail stores and to boost their international introduction. They’ve since come out with several great skin care products, and they show no signs of slowing down. Recently, Glossier’s founder and CEO Emily Weiss took to the blog to talk about how investments have played an important role in allowing her to build her “Crazy Idea”. The latest round of funding will be going to two new product category launches, their own physical store, and (finally) Glossier going international! We’re definitely excited to see more growth from this brand, and look forward to finally being able to try their products! 

Full story on Glossier

Image via theodysseyonline.com

Lip Lab Love

As Bite Beauty’s Lip Lab’s video circulated on social media, I was one of the many who wished for a ticket to New York just to visit the lipstick haven and have a go at making my very own customized lippie! I mean, what beauty addict wouldn’t? The Lip Lab is the answer for all who have had trouble finding the perfect shade to match their personality or just the ideal shade to wear.

Image via Huffington Post

The process requires booking an appointment at the Lab (at least two weeks in advance!), consulting with the lab artist, then choosing the color, pigments, finish, and scent with their assistance. The whole thing actually takes just about 10 minutes, and the experience is completely free. Each lippie costs around $36 and you can have as many customized lippies as you want! If you’re heading to the East Coast any time soon, you now know where you need to make a stopover.

Full story on Huffington Post

The Lizly What A Lovely Eyeshadow Palette (P460 at Althea) came out a couple of months ago as an Althea exclusive and, I hear, has become one of the Korean e-commerce site's instant best sellers. The richly pigmented swatches online are so pretty plus the colors are perfect for the holidays! I can see why it got a lot of interest online. But does it actually perform as good as it looks? 

Well, yes! For P460 you get six equally pigmented shades that are warm and gorgeous on the lids. They go on smoothly and are a dream to blend even without primer. They stay on a decent amount of time by themselves (maybe about two hours without primer) but improve vastly with a good eyeshadow base. Fall out could be a problem, but as long as you tap your brush to get rid of the excess, you'll be fine.

I wouldn't say this is a palette you can create a complete look with though. All of the shades have shimmer (though finish is more satin), and there is no brow bone or contrast shade. Lovely Day, an *almost* matte light brown, could pass for a transition shade but barely. I still need to pick up another palette just to finish and refine whatever I come up with the Lizly palette.

All the shades are beautiful as a lid wash but combining them together doesn't create much of a contrast. Lovely Heart could be worn on the crease to create a purply smoky eye - for daytime.

Wearing Lovely Girl on the lids, Lovely Heart on the crease and lower lids, and a bit of Lovely Night on the outer v

But what am I really grumbling about? The Lizly What A Lovely Eyeshadow Palette offers great value for those who are looking for an easy-to-wear palette with colors they can use FOREVER. You can create great daytime eyes with just a single color from the palette! 

I suppose if you're an eyeshadow freak and want All The Colors in one palette, this isn't for you. Otherwise, the Lizly is a great selection for eyeshadow beginners (and mavens) who just want something that looks great in less time.

Since Althea and the Project Vanity Team love you so much, we're giving away TEN of these palettes over on Instagram! The mechanics are easy:

1. Follow Althea (@altheakorea) and Project Vanity (@projectvanitycom) on Instagram.
2. Re-share the video above on your Instagram with the caption, "Joining #ProjectVanityxAlthea 's eyeshadow giveaway! My eyes are so ready to get pretty everyday."
3. Contest is only until December 31. Winners must shoulder shipping to their PH address.

Good luck, all! <3

Maintaining a manicure can be a bit of a challenge if you wash the dishes or even just do a lot of typing, so if you need to replace some polish in between parlor appointments, we have a DIY to make removal super easy! All you need is a small jar, a sponge, a pair of scissors, and a bottle of nail polish remover. I used an old moisturizer jar (sometimes it pays to save your empties) while the sponge is just a cheap one from a grocery store. Let's begin!

Step 1: Stuff the sponge into the jar. Use the scissors to trim it down if it’s too big. You want to avoid overstuffing it as there should be enough room for your finger to fit in as well.

Step 2: Pour in just enough nail polish remover to saturate the sponge. If it gets too dry, you can add more nail polish remover.  Make sure that the lid of your jar closes tightly as nail polish remover easily evaporates.

Step 3: Stick your mani in! Allow the sponge to completely cover your nail and soak for a few seconds. You can also try wiggling your finger a bit if you have stubborn varnish on. This eliminates the need for soaking a ton of cotton balls in polish remover, and is especially useful for those hard to remove glitter polishes!

After soaking, it’s a good idea to give your fingers a quick rinse with water and to slather them with moisturizing lotion after. Remember to allow them to dry completely before applying a fresh coat.

Already know this easy hack? How did it work for you? What other DIY tutorials do you want to see here on Project Vanity?

Micellar water is finally having its moment. This year alone, four new brands were added to the Philippine market! If you aren’t sure that it's the right makeup remover for you, we have a full discussion on what micellar water is and how it works. But which brand makes the best one? We rounded up the most budget-friendly MWs we could find in the market and pitted them for the ultimate swipe test competition!

Editor's Note: I've been a HUGE fan of Bifesta for years now, but I recently heard that the Japanese brand is pulling out of the PH. Yes, cue the ugly cry! We didn't include it here since it is no longer easily accessible. - Liz

Cost per mL (the Garnier bottle that I have is the small one but it would be cheaper for the 400ml bottle)

To keep everything as uniform as possible, I picked eight of my most used products to approximate what my daily face looks like. I decided to swatch everything on my arm so that my face doesn’t get rubbed raw from all the testing (the things we do for love of Project Vanity). Here’s what I used for the throwdown!

Happy Skin Glam Squad Contour & Color, Urban Decay Naked 2 Eyeshadow Palette, Inglot HD Lip Tint, Eye of Horus Goddess Pencil, Make Up For Ever Aqua Smoky Lash Mascara, MAC Studio Fix Concealer, L’Oreal Brow Artist Chisel Straight, Happy Skin Don’t Get Mad Get Even Liquid Foundation

Biore Micellar Cleansing Water (P189 for 90ml / P2.1 per ml, at Watsons)

Biore is one of the most popular cleansing waters in Japan, but at P2.1/ml, we certainly want to get value for our money. It removed most of the makeup in one swipe, save for the waterproof eyeliner mascara as well as the formidable matte liquid lipstick. In the end, I needed to do six passes or swipes to get it all off completely. Not bad though!

L’Oreal Micellar Water 3-in-1 (P225 for 250ml or P0.90 per ml, at the beauty section)

I was happy to see that the L’Oreal Micellar Water 3-in-1 is available in two variants – a blue one for oily skin, and a pink one for dry skin types. At P0.90/ml, it’s a sulit multi-purpose product for cleansing, removing makeup and soothing skin in just one go. Most of the makeup was already gone after the second swipe, but I had to make six more passes to completely remove the waterproof mascara and liquid lipstick.

Maybelline Micellar Water (P199 for 200ml or P0.99, at the beauty section)

Did you know that the Maybelline Micellar Water quickly sold out within days of its release? As one of the first affordable micellar water brands that came into the market this year, almost everyone I knew got a bottle or two! Does it deliver? It did well for normal makeup but long-wearing formulas such as the eyeliner and the liquid lipstick are more challenging to remove. It took me a total of 12 swipes to finally get everything off.

Simple Micellar Cleansing Water (P499/200ml or P2.49 per ml at Watsons)

The internationally-lauded Simple Micellar Cleansing Water excited many beauty lovers with its arrival on the Philippine scene. The brand is a fave of Lisa Eldridge and Gwyneth Paltrow, so I wanted to know if the raves were true! The results did not blow me away though: waterproof makeup refused to budge completely until the tenth swipe. The up side is that Simple's mild formulation makes it a great pick for those with sensitive skin!

Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water (P149.75 for 125ml and P249 for 400ml / P1.20 or .62 per ml, at Watsons, SM beauty section, and supermarkets)

Released just last month, the Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water immediately proved itself as a tough contender. Assuming you purchase the larger 400ml bottle, this is as cheap as micellar water can get at just P0.6225/ml! Considering the super affordable price tag, I was ready for a performance that would lump it somewhere in the middle. Well, guess what: I could have actually stopped at just two swipes! It's a powerful makeup remover that takes everything off cleanly without any residue.

In every competition there can only be one left standing, and we found a clear winner in the Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water! It completely removed all traces of makeup fast and easy, including the notorious waterproof liner, mascara, and liquid lipstick combo that the other micellar waters struggled with. Garnier is currently also the most affordable option in the drugstore. It definitely deserves the sash, scepter, and crown for the Most Effective Micellar Water in town!

Ranked in order of easiest to use

Do you use micellar water? Did your favorite brand come out on top? What other product comparisons would you like to see on Project Vanity?

Hi PV Team! My name is Cheska and I'm 20. I've had good skin for most of my life so I never really had a skincare routine even though I love makeup. Since I joined the workforce this year though, I don't know, my skin just went crazy! Maybe it's the long daily commute from my house to my office that did it. I now have pimples all over my face and I don't know what to do. I would love any advice!

Hi Cheska! I'm sorry to hear that! My first advice is to ease back on the makeup use for now and start maintaining a basic yet mild skincare routine. The Internet might tell you to go for acne drying treatments like salicylic acid, tretinoin, or tea tree oil, but those harsh solutions should be your last recourse - not the first! And don't get me started on lemon juice, baking soda, and other popular home remedies. They might irritate you more and add scaly, red skin to the existing issue.

In my experience, cleansing the right way helps a lot in dealing with acne. I know, it sounds like such an impossibly simple solution, but you'd be surprised by how much of our acne is caused by poor cleansing! Just imagine all the dirt, oil, and bacteria stuck on your skin all day just doing the devil's work. On top of that, wearing makeup (especially the long-wearing, water-resistant kind) and not removing it thoroughly causes the product to sink into your pores, blocking them and causing your skin to react. Imagine layers and layers of that just sitting on your skin and coating it with a layer of nastiness impervious to just normal soap!

So yeah, cleansing correctly is a good first step. I recommend double cleansing since you like to wear makeup. First, take everything off with a gentle makeup remover like the Cetaphil Cleansing Cloths (P230). I like to focus around my nose where the makeup settles and my chin where I use heavy coverage products. Wipe your eyes gently - no rubbing! - to take off eyeshadow, eyeliner, and non- waterproof mascara. I love these Cetaphil cloths because they are efficient, scentless, and feel so smooth on skin.

Once everything is gone, massage a peso-sized amount of the Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser (P115/60ml, P188/118ml, P376/250ml, P684/473ml) all over your face and rinse with water. You can also wipe it off with a clean dry cloth, if you wish. This cult fave cleanser is a dermatologist fave for a reason! It’s ideal for all skin types, even for the most sensitive skin as it's mild and non-irritating. Pro tip: it can also be used as a body wash if other cleansers are too harsh!

Double cleansing adds an extra step, but I promise it will do wonders in keeping your skin healthy and clear. ^_^ You can use a toner and moisturizer afterwards to keep your skin hydrated. I've been doing this for years so it's automatic for me already and yup, it's well worth the time and cost! However, if your pimples persist, it might be time to see a dermatologist. Give this a try first though, and let me know how it goes!

By the way ladies, Cetaphil has a special promo this holiday season! If you buy two bottles, you can get one for free - the whole set is P778 only. This is available in Watsons so drop by soon before stocks run out. If you're a fan of the iconic Cetaphil cleanser and stock that stuff for your sensitive skin, now is the time to get hoardin'!

This story is brought to you by Cetaphil. The promo is per DOH-FDA CCRR Permit No. 745 s. 2016. 

With Christmas just around the corner, all the holiday sets have already been released, snapped up, and (possibly) wiped out. Our beauty-seeking energies are now focused on finding out what exciting things are in store for 2017! We heard about some exciting new releases that are worth checking out, another addition to our list of must-visit beauty stores, and a makeup brush venture that we’re hoping will become a staple. Are you ready for this?

Image via Benefit Cosmetics Philippines

Happy HAUL-idays!

It looks like Santa is granting everyone’s wish lists this year. To celebrate their 5th birthday, Benefit Cosmetics is treating everyone to an amazing sale! Enjoy 20% on ALL Benefit products and start stocking up your staples. Haul enough of your favorite primers, eyebrows, and mattifying sticks to last you the whole of 2017 while racking some major savings. This is only until tomorrow so shop away, loves!

Image via Happy Skin

Cool, Calm and Clean

Happy Skin has always been about skin-loving cosmetics so it seems only inevitable that they come out with something that all makeup lovers need: a good brush cleaner! The Come Clean Conditioning Brush Cleanser (P499) promises to thoroughly clean your brushes while keeping them soft and in tip-top shape, so you don’t end up applying makeup with unhygienic tools. Infused with aloe vera and disinfecting tea tree oil, you should consider adding this to your makeup vanity to help prevent nasty breakouts. Check out the Happy Skin stores and grab a bottle!

Images via Colourpop Cosmetics

Colour(pop) Me Surprised

Okay, let’s take a moment to first check ourselves (and our wallets). Did you get a chance to avail of the free international shipping of Colourpop Cosmetics a few weeks ago? Well, if that didn’t tickle your fancy, this might. The affordably amazing brand just announced something fantastic: they’ve started making brushes!  

Although the brushes aren’t for sale “ala carte” the brand is having a promo that allows you to receive a FREE BRUSH when you order two eye shadows. Choose between a fluffy blending brush or a precise shader brush, or get four eye shadows to receive both! Now the catch was “while supplies last” but we’re hoping that these rose gold beauties become a mainstay product by next year. To be on the safe side, better put in your orders, quick!

Full story on Refinery29

Image via PopSugar

Not All That Glitters is Gold

Brace yourselves, ladies: there’s a new glitter shadow in town and it’s beyond fabulous! Stila has finally joined the sparkly bandwagon and has come out with shadows that promise to basically turn your eye lids into disco balls! Inspired by the 70’s disco era, the Magnificent Metals Glitter and Glow Liquid Eye are serum-like shadows that promise a pigmented pearl finish without the sparkly fall out of your usual glitter shadows.

There are 10 shades to choose from, but we’ve got our eye on the Gold Goddess (true gold), Rose Gold Retro, Diamond Dust (true silver), and Molten Midnight (glittery black). A limited edition violet and baby pink shadow will also be released exclusively on Sephora and Ulta! Priced at $24 each, they launch on December 26 on Sephora, and in exclusive retailers on January 7. Who’s ready to get their glitter on?

Full story on PopSugar

Image via Refinery29

Just in the NYX of time

Okay, our title is kinda cheesy but this new product from NYX needs no real introduction. The super affordable and well-loved brand is launching a new line of foundations called the Total Control Drop Foundation. Ingeniously packed with a drop dispenser, you can have total control of coverage, thickness, and finish so your base can be easily customized to your skin’s current needs. And with 24 shades to choose from, this foundation can match a ton of skin tones!

Priced at $14, it is so much cheaper than the other dropper style foundations on the market. NYX will also be releasing a special synthetic curved brush ($14) to buff in the foundation. The Total Control Drop Foundation comes out on December 28, and hopefully it’ll be available in the PH by early 2017!

Full story on Allure

Image via musingsofamuse.com

The Future is Looking Locked and Bright

Our favorite tattooed makeup maven is back with something that’s definitely going to go straight into our online shopping carts next year. Kat Von D Cosmetics has just teased another exciting addition to her makeup line – the Lock-It Brightening Powders! The complexion brightening powders come in seriously pretty shades like Peach, Petal and Golden (banana shade), which are sure to give you her signature bright under eye flawless look. Set to be released on January 10 on the Sephora website, we’ll be sure to keep our eyes open and our shopping carts at the ready!

Full story on Bustle

Welcome to Kylie’s Kingdom

It’s finally here! The much awaited, highly anticipated Kylie Cosmetics Pop-Up Store has finally opened in Topanga, California. The lines have been crazy, with people who got in line the night before opening and endured hours-long wait to get in. The shop will be open every day until December 23 so customers can get their hands on whatever Kylie merchandise they want. From every lip kit shade (see that GIANT wall of lip kits?) to her Kylie Shop merchandise, we imagine it’s hard to get out without buying anything. From caps to shirts, and phone cases to calendars, the Kylie Shop is branching out into basically, everything. Kylie has shown herself as a great talent, with the store design, layout, and concept all coming from her. Talk about girl boss!

Full story on Glamour

Header image via Bustle