Have you been out and about in Manila recently? How did our signature, scorching heat burn your skin this time?
Summer, as all Filipinos know, is an intensely warm season. If you make the mistake of exposing yourself to the elements, say hello to sunburns, heat stroke, pre-mature aging and—God forbid—skin cancer. Apart from lathering on the sunscreen, I’ve recently tailored a foolproof way of keeping my skin feeling and looking hydrated during this time of the year.
The power of water
Cleansing water has been a thing nowadays, and I recently converted to it when I started using the La Mer Cleansing Micellar Water. One of my favorite luxury skincare brands has jumped the bandwagon and produced a powerful sea cleanser that micro-emulsifies makeup, sweeps away grime, and hydrates the skin.
Powered by micro-capsules, La Mer’s H20 is infused with signature marine nutrients and its signature Miracle Broth. No need to rinse: All you need to do is moisten a cotton pad with a few drops and gently sweep all over your face, neck, and eyes until the pad comes clean.
Speaking of waters, I’ve been a longtime fan of the Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Water. It is free from the usual problem-triggers—silicone, alcohol, and oils—so it makes using it a lightweight, carefree application. In just one spritz, its built-in electrolytes rejuvenate my skin. I’m not worried by long days anymore because I know my dry skin can easily be attended to thanks to this.
All about dew
Busy women know this struggle too well: Events and appointments scheduled outdoors require heavy-duty makeup. Hence, I always recommend the Koh Gen Do Makeup Color Bases. Enriched with hyaluronic acids, ceramide, and hydroliyzed silk condition—all hydrating ingredients—this base prevents makeup from smudging and melting while still softening skin.
Proceed by patting on the Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation with SPF 15 for full yet natural-looking coverage. Follow it up with the Perricone MD No Blush Blush for a subtle, rosy glow that feigns a sun-kissed look. Then apply some trusty Benefit High Beam liquid highlighter onto your high points to add some dewy sheen.
Emphasize your eyes next with the Dior Addict It-Lash Mascara so you look refreshed and awake. If you want extra pomp, give your peepers a subtle, precise cat-eye with Écriture de Chanel Eyeliner Pen Effortless Definition. Finish your look off with a Smashbox Lip Gloss in a shade you like. I recommend an Old Rose hue like this one.
