Skincare is an easy obsession to fall into. It could start as a small feel-good reward at the end of a long day, or as a solution to a specific concern (wrinkles, dullness, acne, etc.). Some of us even go as far as trying out the full 10 Korean skin care steps to get soft, smooth, radiant-looking skin! In all this pomp and pageantry though, we often neglect that other used and abused part of our face: the lips.

We use drying matte lipsticks, forget to drink enough water, eat spicy, sour, or greasy food, and do some lip-biting when nervous or obsessing on a flaky bit of skin. Our lips regularly take a beating, so it actually makes sense to incorporate products in our beauty regimen to make sure that they stay healthy. There’s a lot more out there than just our standard lip balm, so we put together several treatment options and tried one nightly to find which solution takes the cake!

Kiehl’s Scented Lip Balm #1 in Pear (P535 at Kiehl’s)

This is a standard petroleum-based lip balm. It lends a velvety, coated feel on the lips with the addition of a slight sheen. In the morning, it doesn’t feel like there’s a lot of moisture left over from the overnight application so it may be more appropriate to use this (and reapply it) throughout the day. The formula sits well under other products though so you can apply a coat before putting on a drying lipstick formula.

Nivea Lip Butter in Vanilla Macadamia (P129 at department stores)

Lip butters offer more moisture in a thinner, more emollient form compared to balms. It has none of the waxiness of solid lip balms, and it doesn’t feel oily at all! I find the Vanilla Macadamia scent particularly comforting for bedtime use, and the resulting softness of the lips lasts well into the next morning. If you hate the thick, heavy feeling of regular lip balms, go for lip butters instead!

The Saem Eco Soul Lip Oil in Honey (P320 at Althea Korea)

Have you ever shopped for face serum with the assumption that the formula would be a gel or liquid but then it turns out to be an oil instead? Well, the reverse happened here. I expected lip oil to be slick and greasy as the name suggests. However, I was surprised to put on what felt more like lip gloss. Eco Soul has the high-shine and slight tackiness of a good-quality gloss.

Initially, I felt silly wearing this before bed but my fears were unfounded as the formula turned out to be quite moisturizing. I woke up feeling like moisture was locked in, and the tackiness had faded into a velvety texture. Also, the honey scent (which is actually flavorless) smells like breakfast cereal. Yum!

Petitfree Oil Blossom Lip Mask (P400 at Althea Korea)

I was expecting a bouncy, whipped, jelly-like lip texture but it felt more like a traditional lip gloss with the heaviness of an extra thick balm. It has more tackiness than the lip oil, and there is a strong floral scent that strikes me as a little bit strange to have on the lips. It smells more like something that you should be spraying on your body instead! The next morning, the texture feels similar to your average balm but I feel like it doesn’t particularly add or lock-in moisture.

Pure Smile Choosy Lip Pack in Peach (P40 at Althea Korea)

I thought the packet would contain a lip-sized cotton sheet mask but I was surprised to see a cellulose-like hydrogel patch instead! I followed the instructions to leave the moist, silicone-like pack on the lips five minutes but it honestly felt bitin for something that is supposed to be a deep moisturizing treatment.

Aside from the interesting sensation of having a cool, jelly-like patch covering my mouth, it didn’t actually feel like I was soaking up a whole lot of moisture. The formula even stung on the edges of my lips. Perhaps this would be more suitable going over another layer of lip product to help keep the treatment from evaporating too quickly.

And the winner is 

The most cost-effective lip treatment with the most long-lasting effect is the Nivea Lip Butter! My lips stayed super soft and moist until the next morning, and the available scents are all crowd-pleasers. The runner-up is The Saem Eco Soul Lip Oil for doubling as a moisturizing layer that can be worn day and night. It’s also available in Berry and Grapefruit scents, in case you want something fruity.

Have you been kind to your lips? What steps and overnight treatments do you use to keep them soft and flake-free?

Yep, you heard it right - this one is one of those hidden gems at the drugstore! We actually featured the Deborah Milano Absolute Lasting Liquid Lipstick (P649) last October as one of our 10 most long-lasting drugstore makeup picks, but never really got around to doing a full feature as we only had a single shade. Yes, yes, excuses, but here's a review finally! 

Before, when people asked me what the most long-wearing lipstick I've ever tried is, I'd always say that it's the  Make Up For Ever Aqua Rouge Waterproof Liquid Lip Color. It had to be applied in two steps: the satin base that sets like cement must be swiped first, to be followed by the clear gloss. It works because the gloss moisturizes the drying color base, and "seals" it in much like a nail polish top coat would. This is truly water and transfer-proof! It's my go-to when I know I won't be able to retouch much during special events or a long day of errands.

The catch? It's around P1,300. That's why I was surprised to find something that performs exactly like it in Watsons for only P650! The packaging of Deborah Milano is similar - nay, identical - to the MUFE liquid lipstick. It works and feels exactly the same way too! The wear time of the DM lipstick is about 6-7 hours without retouching, and will barely fade after a full, oily meal. It also does not transfer on cups and skin, same as the MUFE.

To maximize the formula, try not to apply lip balm before the first coat of color so that it will set properly. The gloss coat will take care of any dryness (unless you have severe chapped lips in which case you shouldn't be wearing something like this) without the sticky feel! Then, enjoy the rest of your life as you frolic without worrying if your lipstick is smearing after that leg of lechon.

I have three shades here. Shade 07 is almost the exact same color as my lips, which makes it my ideal nude! Shade 09 is a berry-ish mauve that's versatile yet eye-catching. Shade 11 is a deep red with some fine gold sparkle - I wore this a lot during the holidays. The colors when freshly applied are demi-matte while the gloss adds a healthy amount of shine. Do note that you can't wear just the color or your lips will protest. It is waayyyy too drying by itself! You can wear the gloss as is though, or on top of other colors.

Overall, I highly recommend the Deborah Milano Absolute Lasting Liquid Lipstick to anyone who's looking for a bulletproof lip product. There are plenty of pretty shades available! I'm really loving 07 as it's a beautiful nude on me. Perfect for chill days and smoky eyes!

What do you think of these lipsticks? Have you tried one already?

Deborah Milano is available inside SM Beauty and Watsons stores.

Gone are the days when we can actually spend an hour or more in front of our vanities doing our makeup. Traffic in the metro is just insane, so unless you’re able to do your full makeup in the car while stuck in EDSA, a five-minute face before you leave the house is a practical life skill. It's like knowing how to do your taxes or plan for your groceries!

This time, we’re doing a fresh and youthful FOTD popularly called the “polbo and lip tint” look. It’s inspired by Ellen Adarna’s no-makeup makeup at last year’s Star Magic Ball, which was refreshing amidst all the faces that had been contoured and highlighted to perfection. It’s easy but pretty - perfect for on-the-go, busy girls who want to keep their look natural and their makeup light.

Here's what you’ll need!

• Eyebrow mascara
• Brightening concealer
• Lip and cheek tint
• Oil-controlling pressed powder
• Lip balm

Step 1: Brush up your brow hairs with an eyebrow mascara like Happy Skin Glam Squad Arch Definer & Brow Mascara (P949 at happyskincosmetics.com). If you already have full or thick brows and your hair is not colored, you can opt to use a clear brow gel instead of a tinted one to simply fix the hairs in place.

Step 2: Apply brightening concealer on the undereye area to keep those dark shadows at bay and look like you got your full beauty sleep. The recently launched Happy Skin Bye Bye, Blues Brightening Concealer in Light Beige (P899 at happyskincosmetics.com) is a great option! You can also apply a bit of the concealer down the center of the nose for a subtle highlight effect.

Step 3: Fake a natural flush with a lip and cheek tint. The Skin Genie Lip and Cheek Stain Alive in Tulip Red (P80 at beautymnl.com) is one of our cheap beauty thrills for this purpose. Apply on your cheeks and lips and blend, blend, blend!

Step 4: Lightly dust powder all over the face to set the concealer and even out the complexion. Use a large fluffy brush for a more natural finish. Oil-controlling powders like the Avon Belle in Bloom Ideal Oil Control Pressed Powder in Neutral (P199 on sale at avonshop.ph) are particularly helpful to keep shine at bay for longer.

Step 5: Pat on a lip balm like the In Her Element Nourish & Cleanse Balm (P595 at inherelement.ph) over the lip tint for that trendy glossy lip look. You can also apply it on top of your cheekbones for a natural glow and added moisture!

It actually took me less than five minutes to get done, and I’m pleased with how well it makes me look for just a tiny bit of effort. The power of makeup, indeed!

before and after

The PV girls have been obsessing over Korean beauty since last year, and we’re so glad that the K-beauty wave is here to stay! It’s gotten such a huge following over the past few months that another website has set up shop to indulge our lemmings. Meet Yeppunonnie, an online shopping destination from the Korean words “yeppun” (beautiful) and “onnie” (big sister). Unlike other retailers, however, Yeppunonnie will be open to wholesale purchases to support their vision of making the Philippines “a nation of confidently beautiful and happy women.”

Koreans have some pretty interesting makeup techniques as their approach to beauty is pretty different from the more mainstream Western practices that we’re used to. At the soft launch of Yeppunonnie, we learned that instead of applying foundation in a downwards motion (supposedly to brush any fine facial hairs down and thus create a smoother-looking appearance), Korean makeup artists recommend applying foundation starting from the neck going up to help prevent sagging skin. Considering how ageless Korean women seem to look, this tip surely merits looking into!

The site is already live! You may visit them at www.yeppunonnie.ph and get updates over at their Facebook page.

While last year’s trend was covering up every flaw and pore, this year is all about lighter bases that show some skin! In the eternal summer that we experience here in the PH, we could really do without that heavy feeling that normally comes with using a full coverage foundation. While it makes us look perfect and flawless, too heavy foundations can also appear and feel mask-like. They also don't look so hot when viewed up close and personal. Not to mention that it’s more likely to cake throughout the day!

So, do you really need a full coverage foundation? The truth is, you might not actually need as much as you think. We’ve listed the top reasons women use to justify the heavy coverage on a regular basis, and how you can start changing up your makeup game into one that allows you to embrace your imperfections and your skin to breathe.

Reason #1: I already have a foundation that I love and I don’t want to stop using it.

Solution: Thin out your coverage with moisturizer.

We know the struggle of finding that perfect foundation, as well as needing to scrounge up funds before being able to shell out for a new bottle. Instead, why not just thin out the coverage of your favorite foundation by mixing it with a bit of moisturizer? You can control the coverage depending on the ratio of foundation to moisturizer you use (more moisturizer = less coverage). This way, you can still enjoy the benefits of your favorite foundation while  letting your natural skin peek through. You can even take it up a notch up by making your own cushion!

Reason #2: Sheerer formulations slide off my face.

Remedy: Use a primer.

Adding a primer can seem like an additional step but if foundations can’t seem to stay put on your face, then it’s worth the extra effort and offers a better solution versus just packing on product. A PV favorite is Benefit ThePorefessional Matte Rescue Gel (P1,600 at Benefit) - it’s a bit pricey but a tiny amount is all that’s needed for the whole face. If you’re on a budget, try our primer picks for under P500.

Reason #3: I want to cover my pores.

Remedy: Try a sheer foundation that illuminates your skin.

Adding more coverage is not the answer to covering up pores. Instead, go for a light face base with pore-blurring properties. We love Benefit ThePorefessional Pore Minimizing Makeup (P1,700 at Benefit) for this. In addition, pore-blurring powders like Benefit ThePorefessional Agent Zero Shine (P1,600 at Benefit) can also help.

Reason #4: I have blemishes I want to conceal.

Remedy: Apply concealer only where you need it.

As someone with extremely oily skin, trust me when I say that concealers have a better chance of staying put all day compared to a long-wearing foundation. The heavier formula and more intense pigmentation makes it easier for blemishes to stay hidden all day, too! I’ve found that MAC Pro Longwear Concealer (P1,250 at MAC) can survive my 16-hour workdays and extremely oily skin. The price is worth it because the tiny amount you need makes even a small bottle last forever! Other cult faves are the NARS For the more budget-conscious, Pink Sugar Our Li’l Secrets Concealer (P299 at SM Beauty) is a PV favorite because the tiny tube packs heavy coverage and sets like cement!

Have you ditched your heavy face bases for something more light, comfortable and natural? What products would you recommend for that second skin feel?

Heads up! If you or someone you know loves shopping at Estee Lauder, you shouldn't miss their yearly Gift Time. This February they have a new tote and pouch design that I've really been enjoying for my casual days out lately. The zebra print is cute and a touch sporty according to how I style it! You can get the pouch and skincare set for free at a minimum purchase of P6,000, and both the pouch and tote with a minimum purchase of P7,000. 

The travel pouch includes luxe sizes of the following: Perfectly Clean Foam Cleanser/Purifying Mask, Micro Essence Serum, Advanced Night Repair Serum, Advanced Time Zone Moisturizer, Advanced Time Zone Eye Cream, Double Wear Zero Smudge Lengthening Mascara, and Pure Color Gloss in Jealous Blush. These products should set you up for your next trip, or just let you sample some of Estee Lauder's best-sellers! I love bringing the travel tube of Perfectly Clean Foam Cleanser as it is powerful enough to remove light makeup on its own; I don't have to tote a separate makeup remover if I don't want to make space for it.

This offer is available in Estee Lauder counters at Rustan’s Makati, Rustan’s Shangri-la, Rustan’s Alabang, Rustan’s Gateway, Rustan’s Cebu, SM Mall of Asia, SM Megamall, and SM Aura only until February 28. Catch it while you can! ^_^

Did you feel the love in the air this Valentine’s? Well, you certainly will when you see this week’s beauty roundup! From a timeless Hollywood actress looking absolutely fresh-faced for her newest endorsement, to an iconic animated character getting her own lipstick, these stories are going to have you swooning!

Image via People

You wouldn’t believe that she’s 49

Celebrities have always been a popular option for endorsing beauty products and this case is no exception. What we do love is that Neutrogena’s latest face perfectly reflects the brand’s own timelessness and reliable performance. Exuding class and a flawless look, Nicole Kidman now joins fellow brand ambassadors Kerry Washington, Jennifer Garner, Kristen Bell, and Hayden Panettiere as Neutrogena’s newest endorser! Kidman says that the key to her amazing skin is really down to three letters: SPF. Her first Neutrogena commercial will air at the 2017 Oscar Awards, and we honestly look forward to seeing what this partnership means for the brand!

Full story on Elle

Image via wunderground.com

Another goodbye?

Another bit of sad news, PV Girls: it looks like L’Oreal is looking to cut yet another favorite from their beauty portfolio. The cosmetics giant has confirmed that they aim to sell The Body Shop chain, which they acquired in 2006. The brand is known for using all- natural ingredients and tying up with environmental advocacies but L’Oreal has disclosed that the cut will give the brand better opportunities to continue to fully develop as a company. No word yet if this sale will mean yet another pull out in the Philippines – please, God, no! We’ve known (and loved) TBS since forever!

Full story on BBC

Image via Althea PH

Add a spring to your step

We may not actually have this season here in the tropics but Althea Philippines is making us feel the gorgeously pastel season of spring! Our fave online K-beauty source is offering an additional 10% discount code on Spring collection products, which means you can get more stuff for less! I’m definitely eyeing the Missha x Frida Kahlo foundation compact (P900), The Banila Co. Prime Primer Blur (P1,060), and the Peripera Ink Moist (P430) – has anyone tried these yet? The discount only applies while stocks last, so better start filling that cart, girls!

Image via PopSugar

Mermaid Meow-zah!

Remember when we totally freaked out about Katy Perry’s Collection with Cover Girl Cosmetics? Well, the Pop Kitty Cat is launching yet another amazing collection with the brand, and it’s got our inner mermaids flailing with excitement! The new collection, which is set to debut some time in the coming months, is inspired by the ethereal and colorful vibes of the mythical creatures that the singer is a big fan of. The lineup includes four new eyeliners, four new lipstick shades, and two shadow-highlighter duos!

Images via PopSugar

Adorably called the Katy Kat Pearl Collection, the dual-ended Katy Kat Eyeliners ($8) include a smudger tip to soften the edges of green, black, metallic black, and white liners. The Katy Kat Pearl Lipsticks ($8) are a set of magnificently pastel pearl shades like Blue-tiful Kitty (baby blue), Purrty in Pink (baby pink), REDdy to Pounce (true red), and Apricat (coral orange). What looks to be the game-changer for the collection is the Katy Kat Pearl Shadow + Highlighter ($8), a cream shadow that doubles up as the perfect metallic color on the lids and for popping a highlight on the cheeks! It comes in Tiger’s Eye (champagne) and Tiger Rose (rose gold). Is anyone else freaking out?!

Full story on PopSugar

Images via Glory.News

Ruby Who? It's Betty Boop!

Oh. Em. Gee. Step aside Ruby, Betty is in town! MAC Cosmetics has just made an announcement that has all us red lippie gals bubbling with excitement – they’re coming out with a new red lipstick inspired by one of the sexiest cartoons ever, Betty Boop! Although Ruby Woo is a cult classic and constant staple in many a ladies’ purse, MAC has decided to take the red lip game a step further by bringing in the MAC Betty Boop Red Lipstick. The bright cherry red lipstick promises to be flattering on all skin tones, and was released on the MAC website for $17 on V-day. I personally cannot wait to get my hands (or should I say lips) on this gorgeous beauty!

Full story on Allure

Image via buro247.sg

The prettiest highlighter we ever did see

This rose is pink / violets are blue / I want this highlighter / and you will, too! Lancôme’s latest creation, the La Rose a Poudrer, is hands-down the most ridiculously gorgeous highlighter in the world. Undoubtedly the star of their limited edition Absolutely Rose collection, the perfection that is this product has made us weak in the knees. Priced at $60, the powder highlighter is cleverly packaged in between those silky petals and is said to give a “lit from within” glow in a single swipe! Lancôme’s spring collection also features a cotton candy pink shadow and lip palette ($50), and a pearlescent white eyeliner ($26). I’m not personally fond of roses but this beauty would make for an even more memorable farewell purchase from Lancôme.

As you guys may know, Lancôme is pulling out, but it's pretty easy to order abroad depending on how badly you want it. 

Full story on Refinery29

Image via facebook.com/maybellinephilippines

Pillowy soft and powdery smooth

If matte lipsticks squeeze the moisture out of your pout and leave them feeling suffocated by a heavy formula, Maybelline Philippines may just have the solution. The brand is offering a special discount on their revolutionary Powder Matte lippies! Get P100 off from February 17 to 19 exclusively at Watsons stores nationwide, and test out Maybelline’s most lightweight lipstick formula for just P199. There are 15 shades available and the nudes look really promising. Are you hoarding? Which shades will you be getting?

Header image via Airfrov

The latest beauty curio to come out from China is here, and it involves instant eyebrows. You may have seen the viral video going around on Facebook with women literally stamping on their brows. Fortunately I was able to find a seller and immediately pre-ordered the Shezi Printing Perfect Brows (P350 + P50 shipping)! I thought that even if it didn't perform as promised ("accurate and convenient") it would still be a fun experiment.

But surprise, surprise, it works! The shade I got isn't anywhere near close to my hair nor does the stamp create the brows of my dreams, but for a 3- to 5-second effort, the stamped-on makeup doesn't look too bad. I tried it on other people too and it's nice enough for those who maybe don't want to spend too much time applying their brows everyday. Or learn how to, for that matter.

This time, instead of photos, I decided to do a video showing how these stamps perform. Enjoy watching, and I would love to know what you think!

PS I purchased this from a Facebook seller, in case you're interested in buying. I can't guarantee anything so purchase at your own discretion. 

We can’t seem to stop raving about K-beauty; there’s always a new brand to discover or much-raved about product to try out! We’ve definitely been impressed with the stuff that we’ve tried so far and some of us have even discovered HGs from these SoKor imports. Today, we’re trying out bases from W-Lab, whose 3D Face Shading Stick earned top raves from our editor Liz. The brand is apparently known for their base products so we’ve been looking forward to trying more of their stuff. We got our hands on three of their bestsellers so read on and find out if you should add these on your must-buy list!

The W-Snow CC Cushion (P1,050 via Althea Korea) is the most premium of the brand’s four cushion compacts because it has the most benefits: SPF 50+++, hydration, blemish coverage, cooling sensation, airy touch, anti-aging, and whitening. The compact is a lovely matte white and comes with a tight seal to preserve the product before first use. I actually had to make an effort to peel it as it did not come off easily! Marielle awarded this as Most Comfortable To Wear in her cushion compact showdown and I have to agree with her observations.  

The texture is light, runny, and easy to blend. You can also really feel the cooling effect upon application! It does not offer full coverage but you can build it up on the areas with extra redness or darkness, like under the eyes and sides of the nose.

Bare skin (left) and after applying the CC Cushion (right)

In the photo above, I’m wearing Shade #23 in Snow Beige with no concealer or setting powder. It is not an exact shade match as most Korean cushions come in lighter shades but I can make W-Lab’s #23 work for my NC35-40 complexion. I like that it brightens up my face and lasts an entire day on my dry-normal skin.

The Lovely Face Cream (P880 via Althea Korea) promises a fair skin tone, smooth and long wear, and sun protection. It comes in a single shade, which is a pale, light pinkish beige.

While it does brighten up my normally yellowish skin tone and covers the redness of my face, the shade is much too light for me. I have to color correct it with a darker powder if I want to be able to use it. The formula has a somewhat thick consistency and tends to emphasize dry areas.

Bare skin (left) and wearing Lovely Face Cream (right)

The formula might be better for oily skin types, and the shade is definitely more suited to fairer skin tones. It can also be used as a color corrector and instant brightener for yellowish skin tones before applying foundation.  

The White Holic Cream (P640 via Althea Korea) promises immediate whitening, a natural look, blemish coverage, and moisturizing properties. The texture is almost watery, and I admit that I was initially scared by how it came out from the tube looking so white!

Applied Whiteaholic on my left hand

Upon application though, it gave an almost translucent finish to my skin. It did not cover like the Lovely Face Cream but created a soft, almost IG filter-like finish on my face. It reminds me of sheer, whitening lotions that moisturize the skin and make it look instantly brighter with just one application.

Bare skin (left) and wearing Whiteaholic (right)

Overall, I am happy with the three W-Lab products and I understand why they are bestsellers from the brand. I also did not break out from using any of the three products. I would choose the W-Lab White Holic Cream over the Lovely Face Cream though because it fits my dry skin condition better. I also often find myself reaching for the W-Snow CC Cushion for days when I can’t be bothered with concealer and powder application!

Have you tried anything from W-Lab? What you recommend we try next?

I've already featured the Zoeva Cocoa Blend Palette (P1,106 at Sephora.ph) in passing, but this time I wanted to talk about it a little more. It deserves a conversation - in my opinion, it's one of the best palettes you can get at that price range in terms of quality and color selection! There are so, so many neutral palettes out there but there are only a few mid-range palettes that can keep up with your next stage eyeshade ambitions. 

I actually reviewed the Zoeva Caramel Melange Palette previously and found it lacking in terms of the shade selection. They were much too similar when worn, so I only pick it up when I'm looking for a specific color. The Zoeva Cocoa Blend is a completely different story though; it has ten great workhorse colors that can take you from day to night, anywhere to a casual coffee date to a wedding, if you will.

Like the Caramel Melange, each color is incredibly smooth and satisfyingly pigmented. They look great even without an eyeshadow base although I would still recommend using one just to make sure they stick on all day! Here are my swatches and a look I did with the Cocoa Blend.

Gorgeous, right? There are no "filler" shades here! There are cool shades and warm shades that play off well together, as well as transition shades to keep the look unified. Beans Are White and Infusion looks similar in the swatch, but Infusion has a cooler purply tone and gold flecks. Beans Are White is a darker cocoa with a matte finish.

The sleeper hit for me is Sweet End, a pale rosy beige with fine gold shimmer. I thought it'd be too pale for my skin tone at first, but it makes for a pretty novel brow bone shade or as a lid wash. I don't have anything like it in my (extensive) collection!

Here's a look I did with Cocoa Blend yesterday. I wore this to an event so I wanted a dark, bold look that would show up in photos. I actually shot a get ready with me video for this but I just haven't edited it yet sorry! It should be up on the Project Vanity YouTube Channel next week.

I used Delicate Acidity on my lid, followed by a thick smudged line of Infusion near my lashes. Then, I applied Substitute For Love on my crease, then blended it up with Sweeter End. I love how it turned out!

Overall, I highly recommend the Zoeva Cocoa Blend Palette to just about anyone who's still on the lookout for a gorgeous neutral yet striking eyeshadow palette. Granted, the colors aren't particularly unique if you have a bunch of other neutral palettes, but I feel that Cocoa Blend does a fine job of curating the best, most universal eyeshadow shades for any occasion. Currently it's out of stock at Sephora, but just have yourself waitlisted as they restock pretty regularly. ^_^

Let me know what you think! What is the best, and I mean THE BEST eyeshadow palette you've ever tried?

This story is brought to you by Silka.

It's exciting to plan for our next trip, but sometimes we can get *too* excited when packing for it. An over-zealous packer would throw everything into the luggage last-minute and pray that the words "excess baggage" will not be mentioned at the check-in counter later on. A smart traveler, however, knows how to pack smart so she can fit in everything that she needs - and no more!

If you're already planning your next trip, conserve some space by streamlining your skincare kit. You only need six basic products after all! Plus points if you can snag some travel-sized goodies from your favorite brands instead of transferring things in leaky bottles. Remember, you can't bring more than 100ml of liquids inside your carry-on! Here are some of our recommendations.

Cleanse

You need to cleanse your hair, body, and face no matter where you're off to, so you'll need only three separate products.

Shampoo. Choose one that can remove dirt and oil effectively without drying your scalp. Most brands would sell sachets, but you might want to collect sample bottles from high-end brands so you can just refill them as needed. You can easily find small travel sets (with conditioners) in airports! I like these ones from L'Occitane since the bottle is so cute and, more importantly, secure!

Body soap. Instead of bringing liquid body wash, soaps are a lot more convenient and less messy to travel with. Silka has sachet soaps that are only 65 grams - the Moisturizing Milk Soap with Avocado Oil smells especially luscious and don't dry out the skin. It's only P21.75, too! It's smaller than a passport but should be good to use for a weeks' worth of showers.

Facial Wash. The best facial wash for traveling can remove light makeup and sunscreen. Pick a gentle one that can cut through the accumulated dirt on your face without destroying your moisture barrier. I stock up on the travel-sized Estee Lauder Perfectly Clean Multi-Action Foam Cleanser during their GWP promos!

Nourish and protect

A vacation, as you ladies might know, isn't an excuse to take a break from moisturizing and protecting your skin from the sun! You'll need an overall body lotion, a nighttime moisturizer, and a tinted sunscreen for daytime.

Body lotion with SPF. If you're bringing lotion with you, you might as well make sure it has SPF. The Silka Premium Moisturizing Milk Lotion with Avocado Oil (P45 for 50ml) not only provides deep hydration without the stickiness - it also provides SPF23! It's small enough to bring inside your purse so you can retouch every 3-4 hours for maximum protection. Yep, you need to retouch your sunscreen during the day as the protection wears off!

Tinted sunscreen. You can certainly use a colorless sunscreen if you prefer your foundation to provide full coverage, but if you have fairly good skin and just need a little help, you can get through your morning routine faster with a tinted sunscreen. It should also provide moisture and a bit of glow, like the Avene Tinted Cream with SPF50. 

Facial Oil. In the evening, you'd want your skin to recuperate from the stresses of the day by using a nourishing facial oil right before bedtime. I recommend oils at night as they don't require skincare layering - something like the Herbivore Botanicals Balancing Facial Oil is more than enough to keep skin charged with moisture as you sleep, for an authentic daytime glow.

A good skincare strategy no matter where you're traveling in the world is important if you are to maintain great skin. ^_^ Thankfully, Silka has our body care needs taken care of with travel-sized products that are easily accessible. Try 'em out soon!

From talking about daring to go makeup-free or donning it full-on, to sexual harassment and consent, the female body seems to be the hot topic of discussion these days. Even though it has exposed the backward and sometimes twisted views of some people, I think it’s high time that we stopped whispering about our bodies as though they were something to be ashamed about!

Here at Project Vanity, we’ve started a series called The Sex Talk to educate women about what they need to know about their bodies to help them make healthy decisions. We talk to medical experts who provide accurate and factually-grounded information but there are some things that science doesn’t quite have an answer for.

Today, the PV team weighs on what we think is the best time for to have your first time, which, like it or not, is a huge deal for many women. There are no right or wrong answers here; we only hope that what we have to share will help others make the best decision for them.

Liz: Age, for me, isn't as important as preparedness when it comes to the first time. Different women (and men) have different pre-conditions, but never mind all of that - at the very least, one should know how sex actually works and how to deal with its side effects, like disease or pregnancy. It's not romantic, I know, but it helps to research first and talk to someone you trust before your first ever sexy time. 

I think it's also important to understand that sex isn't intrinsically bad - it's ideally a healthy expression of your affection for someone you care about. Do it when you're mature enough to understand that, enough not to harbor feelings of guilt or worthlessness. Sex is something you do, and it doesn't necessarily define your value.

Den: I think the way our culture puts such an emphasis on virginity weighs very heavily on women, so that having sex for the first time becomes memorable even when the act itself isn’t all that pleasurable. At least emotionally, I think women do prepare themselves for it whether consciously or not. If you find yourself with a partner that you are sexually (and not just romantically) attracted to, best to start educating yourself about how to do it safely and consider bringing a condom or two. Sounds weird but that way, when the opportunity presents itself, you can make it “the right time” because you’re prepared. Don’t just rely on your partner; be proactive for your own safety.

Kim: Kapag walang tao. Kidding aside, I think it's more of deciding on the right person than just the right time. Unless I know and trust a partner well enough to co-parent a child, I'd prefer to keep my legs closed. Sex isn't equal babies, of course, but it's an intimate experience that I would not want to share with someone I can't see as a potential life partner.

Crystal: It would be really romantic to talk about doing it with the right person, waiting until marriage, etc. but I believe that monogamy isn't for everyone, especially among young adults. More importantly, it's about being emotionally and mentally ready. Being mentally ready involves having a clear idea of what doing the deed actually entails - what are the risks involved like pregnancy and STDs, and being responsible enough to protect yourself. Also just as important is being emotionally ready. One should do it because she really wants to, not to crave attention or because he/she is being manipulated or pressured into it.

Gett: It's not so much about the right time but more of if you and your partner are both ready for it. You both have to educate yourselves on the consequences that sex can bring (i.e. pregnancy, STDs), and to know how you can protect yourselves from these risks. You also have to be mature enough to communicate with the other on your needs and expectations.

Claire: Moral and religious beliefs aside, both men and women should engage in sexual activities only when they're ready for its possible consequences - physically, emotionally, and mentally. Women always have more to consider; both sexes are at risk to STDs but only women have to worry about getting pregnant. It's just the way the human reproductive system works! And of course, mutual consent should be present always.

Angela: I agree with Kim's answer. It's best when you know that you are with the person you want to spend your life with and when that person wants the same thing. I know a lot of people have different opinions on this topic and I respect whatever they may be. But for me, the right thing to do is consider first if you both want to do it already and take into account both your own values, faith, health, readiness, and maturity. Then you can decide when the right time is.

Stacie: I asked my mom and Mama Chan said, “At night!” The right time will be when both parties knows their responsibilities. I'm not just talking about heterosexual relationships here; responsibility is not limited to pregnancy and STD. Concerns on emotional and mental health matters just as much or even more than the physical consequences one faces before, during and after sex.

I guess the right time is also when you know you're ready to face the sneers of the conservative, something that I believe hinders our society from accepting a more liberal state of mind. Personally, I would rather wait until marriage. I currently don't have any dating experience and am not planning on having one anytime soon. I have other things up my priority list!

Marielle: When both parties fully understand the massive responsibility it entails, then they can go ahead and do the deed. That encompasses the risk of unplanned pregnancy, disease prevention, and the like. Dapat kayang panindigan. If you and your partner are faced with difficult decisions and awkward announcements, can you both handle it together? Or is there someone who will flake?

And here's some food for thought: As it is, there are already a lot of adults who are iffy about commitment. What more for young adults who are not hardwired to commit at that age? It's a time for finding yourself, not limited to who you should be (sleeping) with. It sounds like a cliche, but it's best to enjoy that time and be assured that there will be plenty of sex to come—pun intended—when you're finally ready for it.

Katsy: I honestly believe that the right time to sleep with somebody is when both parties are fully aware of the consequences and potential changes that the action may yield. That whatever happens, they are ready to face it. Whether they grow closer, or farther apart from doing the deed, both have to be physically, mentally, and emotionally strong and prepared to survive as sleeping with anyone sort of stays with you for the rest of your life.

Charlie: I think the “right time” is relative to the point when both people are ready—whether that’s emotionally, physically, or mentally. I agree with Katsy. Sleeping with somebody is going to trigger life changes or blur lines in both the parties’ lives, or chances are, maybe it even won’t. But if consequences do happen and if they’re truly ready to face that after they do it, then maybe that’s the right time.

When do you think is the right time to have sex? How do you think should women prepare for it? Let's keep the discussion friendly!

Living in the city is no picnic. All too frequently, we find ourselves scampering out of the house in the morning to beat the rush hour traffic that we don’t always have the time to nail down our morning beauty routine. Sometimes we end up taking shortcuts to get through it faster but some of these habits might be harmful for your skin. If you find yourself guilty of one or more of these, it’s time to kick the habit!

Bad habit #1: Taking hot showers

Sure, a hot shower feels so good in the morning but hot water can dry out the skin. Stick to a warm shower with a temperature that is just slightly higher than room temperature. It also helps to limit the length of time you are exposed to heated water by turning off the shower in between rinses, plus you conserve water. If you must have a hot shower, though, you can help compensate for the dryness by adding an in-shower moisturizer to your routine like the Nivea In-Shower Conditioner (P124 for 100 ml at department stores).

Bad habit #2: Skipping facial cleansing

So you did your 10-step Korean skincare routine the night before and you might think that you can get away with just splashing your face with water the next morning? Wrong! Skin oils continue to accumulate even while we sleep so it’s best to cleanse the face again in the morning to clear our skin and allow maximum absorption for our morning beauty products. There’s no need to deep clean; a simple cleanser (like these under P500 picks) will do. Just make sure you’re doing it correctly!

Bad habit #3: Picking on your blemishes

Staring at your reflection as you brush your teeth in front of the bathroom mirror can suddenly make you aware of a surprise zit or two. I know it’s hard but resist the temptation to pop them! The resulting wound can leave your skin vulnerable to bacteria and even delay its healing, leaving you stuck with a blemish for longer. Leave the zit-popping to the professionals and apply an acne patch over it instead. We love the CosRX Acne Pimple Master Patch (P170 for 24 patches at theskincarecurator.com) which treat pimples quick and allow them to heal without leaving marks.

Bad habit #4: Applying products in the wrong order

Skin care can get expensive; it would be a waste if we don’t get to maximize its effectivity. The general rule is to apply starting with the thinnest consistency to the thickest, otherwise the lighter formulas may not be able to penetrate the other layers of product. If you’re still unsure about when to apply what, check out our guide for layering skin care!

Bad habit #5: Tugging on your eyelids

Having to get up even when you don’t want to leave bed sucks but don’t rub the sleep out of your eyes! The skin in the eye area is the thinnest part of our face and also the most delicate. Rubbing, whether upon waking up or as you apply your eye cream, can stress your skin and cause unnecessary fine lines in the long run. Splash your face with water instead and use your ring finger (which has the least amount of strength among our fingers) to gently pat the eye cream on. Don't have one yet? We've shared our fave products for our peepers!

Bad habit #6: Foregoing moisturizer

Even as an oily-skinned gal who struggles with her skin every day, I’ll be the first to tell you: yes, you still need to put on some moisturizer! No matter your skin type or how hot and humid the weather feels, there is just no excuse for skipping this step. If you don’t like the heavy, sticky feeling of creams, try a gel formula. They’re water-based, lightweight, and easily absorbed by the skin, making it perfect for people on the go.

Bad habit #7: Ditching sunscreen

If you haven’t incorporated sunscreens into your daily routine yet, it’s the single, most important skin care product in your entire routine. Aside from the anti-aging benefits, it’s your best protection against skin cancer! Formulas like our favorite Biore Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF50 PA+++ (P420 at leading department stores) no longer have that sticky feeling, white appearance, or annoying scent. You can even buy sunscreens on a P500 budget. Remember that although your makeup may have SPF, you’ll have to apply a whole lot of product to get that amount of protection, so it’s still best to use a dedicated sunscreen.

Bad habit #8: Neglecting your lips

We nitpick every pore and wrinkle on our faces that sometimes we forget that our lips need some TLC as well. Just like the rest of our skin, they can also experience dehydration. Aside from regularly applying lip balm, you can actually show your lips some love by putting a bit of your favorite serums and moisturizers on them as with the rest of your skin! You can also prime your lips with something like the In Her Element Nourish & Cleanse Balm (P595 at Inherelement.ph) so your fave lip colors won't dry out your kissers.

Bad habit #9: Using dirty makeup brushes

Cleaning makeup brushes can be such a chore sometimes but neglecting to do so can undermine all the good skin care work you’ve been doing. Makeup brushes can get loaded with bacteria, oil, and dirt that can clog your pores and cause breakouts. You can always use baby shampoo or make one yourself. No time to deep clean your brushes? Clean your brushes in a jiffy with quick solutions like Ellana Minerals Cucumber Melon Makeup Brush Cleaner (P400 at ellana.com.ph) or Pure Instant Color Cleaner Solo (P275 at suesh.com).

Which bad morning habits are you guilty of?

Sources: Stylecaster, Byrdie, Bustle

Being around fellow beauty lovers is great fun and our group chats are often very lively. My one complaint though is that their recommendations give me serious cravings for new products! While it would be so awesome to have all the moolah to tick off everything on our beauty wish lists, I think that part of what makes a new purchase so enjoyable is knowing that we’ve earned it. I’m personally not looking to get anything new but I asked my fellow PV girls about the product they’re planning to buy next. Here’s a quick list of our current lemmings!

Crystal: I have been eyeing a Chloe perfume (P5,000~ at Rustan’s Beauty) since forever! I love almost all of the scents from the signature collection and would be delighted to get my own full-sized bottle! I don't usually like rose scents but Chloe just does it so well. It's sophisticated but young at the same time.

Marielle: I want to grab a bottle of La Vie est Belle (P3,500 at Rustan’s Beauty) before Lancôme leaves the Philippines! Last Christmas, I had to pass by their counter to run an errand for a relative, and I was able to catch a whiff of what smells like the kind of sophisticated woman I want to grow up to be!

Image via ebay.com

Katsy: I am in love with the Shiseido Snow Beauty Powder (P4,000~ at Shiseido). It's a translucent finishing powder that you can wear during the day, and also at night over your skincare! I've always wanted to go out with just skincare and sunscreen on but my face looks a tad greasy without anything on top. I feel like this powder will solve that, not to mention the to die for packaging that will definitely up the pretty factor of my vanity!

Charlie: I’ve had quite a good run with Maybelline’s Eye Studio Color Tattoo in Bad to the Bronze and I’ve been on the lookout for a similar product. Moonshot’s Jelly Pot in Deia (P1,117 at Sephora.ph) is something I’ve been hearing a lot about and when I saw that it was available at Sephora, I got super excited because I really want to try it out. The price tag is pretty steep for me as I rarely purchase single eyeshadows that go over P200 a piece but I'm really curious about it as the swatches online look amazing and it’s said to be water-based and have a cooling effect.

Jenn: At the top of my shopping list is the Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder (P1,750 from Rustan's Beauty). I was initially hesitant because of the price but having tried it for several times has completely changed my mind. I'm impressed with how it compares to my other setting powders! The powder gives the perfect finish - neither too white nor too powdery - and actually did extend the wear of my makeup.

Stacie: My foundation game needs a serious upgrade! I've been saving up for a bottle of either Too Faced's Born This Way Foundation (P 2,351 from Sephora.ph) or Estée Lauder's Double Wear Stay in Place foundation (P2,400 from Estée Lauder). The price and performance of both foundations are almost similar so I've been having a hard time deciding which one to pick. I'll save up first and choose then!

Angela: I promised myself that I would buy a really good foundation this year. I've tried the Double Wear Stay-in-Place foundation (P2,400 from Estée Lauder) from my favorite brand Estée Lauder, and I've loved it ever since! I got a week's worth of sample and it just covered up all my blemishes without looking heavy or cakey. It lasted all day, too, which is what I'm looking for in a foundation. It's expensive so I’m cutting my budget on some of my other purchases.

Gett: I'm quite slap-dash with my daily makeup but I'm mad for lippies, hence my decision to splurge on one! I've been eyeing a Chanel or a Tom Ford, but I also reaaaaaally want Charlotte Tilbury's Bond Girl (P1,500~).

Kim: I've been pretty content with drugstore foundations in the past but I think it's high time for me to invest on a luxe foundie. Now that I spend long hours outside of the house, I need something that's going to wear beautifully all day long. The Make Up Forever Ultra HD Foundation (P2,700 at MUFE) has been on my list forever!

How about you--what’s on your shopping list? If you have tips for saving up, do share them with us in the comments!

Gone are the days when we can actually spend an hour or more in front of our vanities doing our makeup. Traffic in the metro is just insane, so unless you’re able to do your full makeup in the car while stuck in EDSA, a five-minute face before you leave the house is a practical life skill. It's like knowing how to do your taxes or plan for your groceries!

This time, we’re doing a fresh and youthful FOTD popularly called the “polbo and lip tint” look. It’s inspired by Ellen Adarna’s no-makeup makeup at last year’s Star Magic Ball, which was refreshing amidst all the faces that had been contoured and highlighted to perfection. It’s easy but pretty - perfect for on-the-go, busy girls who want to keep their look natural and their makeup light.

Here's what you’ll need!

• Eyebrow mascara
• Brightening concealer
• Lip and cheek tint
• Oil-controlling pressed powder
• Lip balm

Step 1: Brush up your brow hairs with an eyebrow mascara like Happy Skin Glam Squad Arch Definer & Brow Mascara (P949 at happyskincosmetics.com). If you already have full or thick brows and your hair is not colored, you can opt to use a clear brow gel instead of a tinted one to simply fix the hairs in place.

Step 2: Apply brightening concealer on the undereye area to keep those dark shadows at bay and look like you got your full beauty sleep. The recently launched Happy Skin Bye Bye, Blues Brightening Concealer in Light Beige (P899 at happyskincosmetics.com) is a great option! You can also apply a bit of the concealer down the center of the nose for a subtle highlight effect.

Step 3: Fake a natural flush with a lip and cheek tint. The Skin Genie Lip and Cheek Stain Alive in Tulip Red (P80 at beautymnl.com) is one of our cheap beauty thrills for this purpose. Apply on your cheeks and lips and blend, blend, blend!

Step 4: Lightly dust powder all over the face to set the concealer and even out the complexion. Use a large fluffy brush for a more natural finish. Oil-controlling powders like the Avon Belle in Bloom Ideal Oil Control Pressed Powder in Neutral (P199 on sale at avonshop.ph) are particularly helpful to keep shine at bay for longer.

Step 5: Pat on a lip balm like the In Her Element Nourish & Cleanse Balm (P595 at inherelement.ph) over the lip tint for that trendy glossy lip look. You can also apply it on top of your cheekbones for a natural glow and added moisture!

It actually took me less than five minutes to get done, and I’m pleased with how well it makes me look for just a tiny bit of effort. The power of makeup, indeed!

before and after

The PV girls have been obsessing over Korean beauty since last year, and we’re so glad that the K-beauty wave is here to stay! It’s gotten such a huge following over the past few months that another website has set up shop to indulge our lemmings. Meet Yeppunonnie, an online shopping destination from the Korean words “yeppun” (beautiful) and “onnie” (big sister). Unlike other retailers, however, Yeppunonnie will be open to wholesale purchases to support their vision of making the Philippines “a nation of confidently beautiful and happy women.”

Koreans have some pretty interesting makeup techniques as their approach to beauty is pretty different from the more mainstream Western practices that we’re used to. At the soft launch of Yeppunonnie, we learned that instead of applying foundation in a downwards motion (supposedly to brush any fine facial hairs down and thus create a smoother-looking appearance), Korean makeup artists recommend applying foundation starting from the neck going up to help prevent sagging skin. Considering how ageless Korean women seem to look, this tip surely merits looking into!

The site is already live! You may visit them at www.yeppunonnie.ph and get updates over at their Facebook page.

While last year’s trend was covering up every flaw and pore, this year is all about lighter bases that show some skin! In the eternal summer that we experience here in the PH, we could really do without that heavy feeling that normally comes with using a full coverage foundation. While it makes us look perfect and flawless, too heavy foundations can also appear and feel mask-like. They also don't look so hot when viewed up close and personal. Not to mention that it’s more likely to cake throughout the day!

So, do you really need a full coverage foundation? The truth is, you might not actually need as much as you think. We’ve listed the top reasons women use to justify the heavy coverage on a regular basis, and how you can start changing up your makeup game into one that allows you to embrace your imperfections and your skin to breathe.

Reason #1: I already have a foundation that I love and I don’t want to stop using it.

Solution: Thin out your coverage with moisturizer.

We know the struggle of finding that perfect foundation, as well as needing to scrounge up funds before being able to shell out for a new bottle. Instead, why not just thin out the coverage of your favorite foundation by mixing it with a bit of moisturizer? You can control the coverage depending on the ratio of foundation to moisturizer you use (more moisturizer = less coverage). This way, you can still enjoy the benefits of your favorite foundation while  letting your natural skin peek through. You can even take it up a notch up by making your own cushion!

Reason #2: Sheerer formulations slide off my face.

Remedy: Use a primer.

Adding a primer can seem like an additional step but if foundations can’t seem to stay put on your face, then it’s worth the extra effort and offers a better solution versus just packing on product. A PV favorite is Benefit ThePorefessional Matte Rescue Gel (P1,600 at Benefit) - it’s a bit pricey but a tiny amount is all that’s needed for the whole face. If you’re on a budget, try our primer picks for under P500.

Reason #3: I want to cover my pores.

Remedy: Try a sheer foundation that illuminates your skin.

Adding more coverage is not the answer to covering up pores. Instead, go for a light face base with pore-blurring properties. We love Benefit ThePorefessional Pore Minimizing Makeup (P1,700 at Benefit) for this. In addition, pore-blurring powders like Benefit ThePorefessional Agent Zero Shine (P1,600 at Benefit) can also help.

Reason #4: I have blemishes I want to conceal.

Remedy: Apply concealer only where you need it.

As someone with extremely oily skin, trust me when I say that concealers have a better chance of staying put all day compared to a long-wearing foundation. The heavier formula and more intense pigmentation makes it easier for blemishes to stay hidden all day, too! I’ve found that MAC Pro Longwear Concealer (P1,250 at MAC) can survive my 16-hour workdays and extremely oily skin. The price is worth it because the tiny amount you need makes even a small bottle last forever! Other cult faves are the NARS For the more budget-conscious, Pink Sugar Our Li’l Secrets Concealer (P299 at SM Beauty) is a PV favorite because the tiny tube packs heavy coverage and sets like cement!

Have you ditched your heavy face bases for something more light, comfortable and natural? What products would you recommend for that second skin feel?

Heads up! If you or someone you know loves shopping at Estee Lauder, you shouldn't miss their yearly Gift Time. This February they have a new tote and pouch design that I've really been enjoying for my casual days out lately. The zebra print is cute and a touch sporty according to how I style it! You can get the pouch and skincare set for free at a minimum purchase of P6,000, and both the pouch and tote with a minimum purchase of P7,000. 

The travel pouch includes luxe sizes of the following: Perfectly Clean Foam Cleanser/Purifying Mask, Micro Essence Serum, Advanced Night Repair Serum, Advanced Time Zone Moisturizer, Advanced Time Zone Eye Cream, Double Wear Zero Smudge Lengthening Mascara, and Pure Color Gloss in Jealous Blush. These products should set you up for your next trip, or just let you sample some of Estee Lauder's best-sellers! I love bringing the travel tube of Perfectly Clean Foam Cleanser as it is powerful enough to remove light makeup on its own; I don't have to tote a separate makeup remover if I don't want to make space for it.

This offer is available in Estee Lauder counters at Rustan’s Makati, Rustan’s Shangri-la, Rustan’s Alabang, Rustan’s Gateway, Rustan’s Cebu, SM Mall of Asia, SM Megamall, and SM Aura only until February 28. Catch it while you can! ^_^

Did you feel the love in the air this Valentine’s? Well, you certainly will when you see this week’s beauty roundup! From a timeless Hollywood actress looking absolutely fresh-faced for her newest endorsement, to an iconic animated character getting her own lipstick, these stories are going to have you swooning!

Image via People

You wouldn’t believe that she’s 49

Celebrities have always been a popular option for endorsing beauty products and this case is no exception. What we do love is that Neutrogena’s latest face perfectly reflects the brand’s own timelessness and reliable performance. Exuding class and a flawless look, Nicole Kidman now joins fellow brand ambassadors Kerry Washington, Jennifer Garner, Kristen Bell, and Hayden Panettiere as Neutrogena’s newest endorser! Kidman says that the key to her amazing skin is really down to three letters: SPF. Her first Neutrogena commercial will air at the 2017 Oscar Awards, and we honestly look forward to seeing what this partnership means for the brand!

Full story on Elle

Image via wunderground.com

Another goodbye?

Another bit of sad news, PV Girls: it looks like L’Oreal is looking to cut yet another favorite from their beauty portfolio. The cosmetics giant has confirmed that they aim to sell The Body Shop chain, which they acquired in 2006. The brand is known for using all- natural ingredients and tying up with environmental advocacies but L’Oreal has disclosed that the cut will give the brand better opportunities to continue to fully develop as a company. No word yet if this sale will mean yet another pull out in the Philippines – please, God, no! We’ve known (and loved) TBS since forever!

Full story on BBC

Image via Althea PH

Add a spring to your step

We may not actually have this season here in the tropics but Althea Philippines is making us feel the gorgeously pastel season of spring! Our fave online K-beauty source is offering an additional 10% discount code on Spring collection products, which means you can get more stuff for less! I’m definitely eyeing the Missha x Frida Kahlo foundation compact (P900), The Banila Co. Prime Primer Blur (P1,060), and the Peripera Ink Moist (P430) – has anyone tried these yet? The discount only applies while stocks last, so better start filling that cart, girls!

Image via PopSugar

Mermaid Meow-zah!

Remember when we totally freaked out about Katy Perry’s Collection with Cover Girl Cosmetics? Well, the Pop Kitty Cat is launching yet another amazing collection with the brand, and it’s got our inner mermaids flailing with excitement! The new collection, which is set to debut some time in the coming months, is inspired by the ethereal and colorful vibes of the mythical creatures that the singer is a big fan of. The lineup includes four new eyeliners, four new lipstick shades, and two shadow-highlighter duos!

Images via PopSugar

Adorably called the Katy Kat Pearl Collection, the dual-ended Katy Kat Eyeliners ($8) include a smudger tip to soften the edges of green, black, metallic black, and white liners. The Katy Kat Pearl Lipsticks ($8) are a set of magnificently pastel pearl shades like Blue-tiful Kitty (baby blue), Purrty in Pink (baby pink), REDdy to Pounce (true red), and Apricat (coral orange). What looks to be the game-changer for the collection is the Katy Kat Pearl Shadow + Highlighter ($8), a cream shadow that doubles up as the perfect metallic color on the lids and for popping a highlight on the cheeks! It comes in Tiger’s Eye (champagne) and Tiger Rose (rose gold). Is anyone else freaking out?!

Full story on PopSugar

Images via Glory.News

Ruby Who? It's Betty Boop!

Oh. Em. Gee. Step aside Ruby, Betty is in town! MAC Cosmetics has just made an announcement that has all us red lippie gals bubbling with excitement – they’re coming out with a new red lipstick inspired by one of the sexiest cartoons ever, Betty Boop! Although Ruby Woo is a cult classic and constant staple in many a ladies’ purse, MAC has decided to take the red lip game a step further by bringing in the MAC Betty Boop Red Lipstick. The bright cherry red lipstick promises to be flattering on all skin tones, and was released on the MAC website for $17 on V-day. I personally cannot wait to get my hands (or should I say lips) on this gorgeous beauty!

Full story on Allure

Image via buro247.sg

The prettiest highlighter we ever did see

This rose is pink / violets are blue / I want this highlighter / and you will, too! Lancôme’s latest creation, the La Rose a Poudrer, is hands-down the most ridiculously gorgeous highlighter in the world. Undoubtedly the star of their limited edition Absolutely Rose collection, the perfection that is this product has made us weak in the knees. Priced at $60, the powder highlighter is cleverly packaged in between those silky petals and is said to give a “lit from within” glow in a single swipe! Lancôme’s spring collection also features a cotton candy pink shadow and lip palette ($50), and a pearlescent white eyeliner ($26). I’m not personally fond of roses but this beauty would make for an even more memorable farewell purchase from Lancôme.

As you guys may know, Lancôme is pulling out, but it's pretty easy to order abroad depending on how badly you want it. 

Full story on Refinery29

Image via facebook.com/maybellinephilippines

Pillowy soft and powdery smooth

If matte lipsticks squeeze the moisture out of your pout and leave them feeling suffocated by a heavy formula, Maybelline Philippines may just have the solution. The brand is offering a special discount on their revolutionary Powder Matte lippies! Get P100 off from February 17 to 19 exclusively at Watsons stores nationwide, and test out Maybelline’s most lightweight lipstick formula for just P199. There are 15 shades available and the nudes look really promising. Are you hoarding? Which shades will you be getting?

Header image via Airfrov

Red is the color of love, of passion, of blood. It's the color that gives us life and inspires us to action when we feel defeated by our circumstances. This is why the PV Team loves red lips: it's a quick way to brighten our day and our skin even when the odds seem impossible! For the first kit of the year, we've curated three lipsticks that will rekindle the passion you have for the things that matter to you. The Project Vanity Passion Kit is also our very first mini kit, and only retails for P600 at The Project Vanity Store (projectvanity.com/store).

Here are the details!

The Everyday Pink Red

Revlon has new colors under their best-selling Ultra HD Line (P575), and one of them is a wonderful pink red called Kisses. This is a perfectly wearable shade that should be versatile enough to wear for all your daytime engagements. In person, it has more of a reddish tint and a brown undertone - it's super flattering for morenas!

The Fun, Outgoing Red

TheBalm's Read My Lips Lip Gloss in Wow! (P675) is one heck of a showstopper. A glossy cherry red, Wow! is a beautiful, instantly brightening color that will make your skin come alive. If you're digging the K-Beauty look with innocent eyes and stained lips, this gloss is a must-have in your kit!

The Sexy Red

The Pink Sugar Creamy Matte Lipstick in Diva (P349) is a classic deep, sexy red. Swipe it on for your dinner dates, or just wear it for your special someone - nothing but Diva! ;) We love the creamy texture and staying power of this demi-matte lipstick. We reach out for this often as it's a dupe for one of our fave shades from a high-end brand.

If you're loving what's inside our Passion Kit, grab it now for only P600 at the Project Vanity Store (plus P40 for shipping within Metro Manila and P135 for provincial locations). The total value of the kit is P1,799 including the custom pouch with my watercolor artwork. Have fun with your new lipsticks!