Isabel Gatuslao is one of the most sought-after graphic designers in the country with her work showcased in some of the local scene’s most iconic brands and names. Her passion for design was evident since she was young but her path to her current career success took a long but colorful route. She completed her degree in Interdisciplinary Studies at the University of St. La Salle in Bacolod and she then packed her bags for the big city, Manila, where she first started out in the hotel industry and eventually found her way to graphic design at the age of 28. To date, she has worked with renowned brands like Medicard, Daphne Oseña-Paez, National Book Store, Dove and the School of Fashion and the Arts (SoFA), to name a few.

Isabel eventually launched her eponymous stationery line with two collections so far – Anglophilia and Dynasty. Her paper products can be found at National Bookstore and Powerbook branches as well as her online store here.

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1
Hair: Dove Hair Fall Control
Because I get enough sleep and eat on the go, my hair really takes the fall for it, literally. I’ve been using Dove hair fall control and so far, it’s been working.

2
Cleansing: Dr. Li from Bacolod
I’ve been on this ritual since I was 15. Everything is sent to me, taped and bubble wrapped from Bacolod. The fonts on the packaging drive me crazy but my Mom who is about to become 70 in 4 months and my Lola who will be 90 in 2 months look like this because of this treatment don’t.

They have not had any plastic surgery. I believe!

3
Treatment: Derma E Tea Tree Oil
This is a little miracle in a bottle. It’s a zit zapper!

4
Primer: MAC Prep + Prime
Foundation: MAC Select Sheer Liquid & Pressed
When I find something that I like, I’m stuck to it forever. This is the best foundation ritual for me. MAC Prep + Prime is the glue! No need to retouch your foundation the whole day. The MAC liquid foundation I use is a sheer so it shows your skin’s natural texture. I use the MAC stippling brush to apply the liquid foundation because… no hands on the skin! The pressed powder keeps everything in place.

5
Eyebrow Pencil: Laura Mercier in Brunette
Tweezer: Laura Mercier + Tweezerman
Eyebrow Brush: Laura Mercier
Sharpener: Laura Mercier
If there’s one brand that does eyebrows well it’s Laura Mercier. Their pencils are great, plus, this is the best sharpener I’ve ever tried.

6
Blush Brush: Shu Uemura 20 Pony
I keep all kinds of natural blush colors but the best product is really MAC. I’m a MAC loyalist (obviously). Their products just work!
Also in photo is Nars blush in Orgasm and Smashbox blush.

7
Eye Liner: MAC Smolder
Mascara: MAC Extended Play Lash in Black
Eye Shadows: MAC Carbon and Nylon
I’m a smokey eye fanatic. This is really all you need to achieve it. Nylon is applied in the inner eye to for contrast. So your eyes pop out!

8
Red Lipstick: MAC Lady Danger
Red Lipgloss: MAC Morange
Red Lipliner: MAC Entertain Me
I’ve always been into the red lip but I’ve been experimenting with the orange-y red lip. This combination is the most fun!

9
Lipstick: Bobbi Brown Carnation
Lip Liner: MAC Subculture
Ok so the red lip is for special occasions only. When I go to meetings, this is my default lip combination.

10
Fragrance: Ralph Lauren Ralph
Only because I’m inlove with Nacho Figueras (the Polo guy) and I want to smell like the woman version of him.

11
Book: Crazy Sexy Diet by Kris Carr
The past three years have been the most stressful but I’m trying to change it by adapting this new lifestyle. I know it’s cliché but I still believe that beauty on the inside is what you eat and how you sleep. I’m buying a juicer later! Wish me luck!

as told to divasoria

Grace Barbers-Baja is the posh blogger behind the Spoiled Mummy. She writes about her food discoveries, homemade recipes, travel adventures, entertaining tips and other accoutrements of a charmed life. Prior to leaving the corporate world, she was involved in advertising and events for a large firm where she honed her skills in planning and hosting celebrations.

Now, a mother of 3 and residing in Manila, she dedicates her time to her children all under the age of 10 and managing the household. She loves travelling with them wherever and whenever their schedules allow, exposing and educating them to the different cultures and cuisines of the world.

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Just like any woman out there, I have my own list of bath and beauty essentials. Some were bought here, some were given as gifts, while some were ordered from friends and family abroad.

I am a makeup junkie as well, as I love to try new things every now and then. But I am also loyal to the ones that have been proven to be effective in addressing my skin concerns.

Here are some of my favorite beauty products :

I have color-treated hair, so my shampoo and conditioner have to be the ones for colored hair as well. I like this Vitamino of L’oreal since it doesn’t dry out my hair and it preserves my hair color for a very long time. Notice that they’re in giant sizes? It’s because I have long and thick hair — which means, I use up a lot of shampoo and conditioner everyday!

I have been using Dove soap since I was 12. And because this is my favorite soap, I cannot afford not to have them, and therefore I hoard them! Most of the time, I buy from S and R, which sells DOVE in many different scents! My fave? The Shea Butter!

I am quite loyal to VMV when it comes to my facial wash. Time and again, I find that their hypoallergenic formula is the best one that suits my skin. I use the Cleansing Milk in the morning and the Re-Everything Cleansing Cream (which is sort of like a scrub) at night.

-After cleansing at night, I use the VMV Retinoic Acid Superskin 1 as my toner. This complements my VMV facial wash.
-The Heliocare Ultra Spf 90 is my daily facial sunblock. I never leave the house without this!
-The La Prairie Advanced Marine Biology Eye Gel is my current eye gel. I like that it hydrates, nourishes and de-puffs the skin under my eyes — perfect for my big eyebags! I must say though that for eye gels or eye creams, I don’t compromise. La Prairie is the only brand for me. To me, this is THE most effective and THE only solution to my dark and puffy under eye skin. I must have tried all the different La Prairie eye cream lines, since I have been using this brand since I was in my early 20’s!
-Celeteque Advanced Anti-aging Cleansing Oil – is my go –to makeup remover when I am on the go. I like that it comes in a small, handy bottle that fits my bag. But the best thing about this product? It’s very affordable!
-Mario Badescu Drying Lotion – is my ultimate pimple doctor! Whenever my skin gets clogged and breaks out, I apply this on the spot at night and the next day, it’s miraculously gone!

-Nivea Firming Body Lotion has been my body lotion for many years now. I like that it contains Co Q10 and therefore has that firming ability – which is what we ladies look for in our skincare and beauty products. And because I tend to over moisturize (ie. I use a lot of lotion day and night), I need to find a brand that’s practical and easily available. Nivea just fits the bill for me.
-Home Health Almond Glow – this is my massage oil! I get my weekly massages at my favorite spa and even though the spa has its own massage oil, I insist on using my own. I’ve been using this brand for so long and I find that this has the best texture and consistency for a body oil. I love that it’s organic too and has a nice, fresh, clean almond scent!
-Shu Uemura Cleansing Oil – Hands down, this is still the best make up remover out there. Especially, if Im wearing thick and heavy makeup, I find that this is the only one that can remove every deep seated dirt and particle on my face. The only downside? The hefty price tag.

-Dior Liquid Foundation is my favorite liquid foundation. It blends easily on my skin and has a very light texture.
-Nars Multiple Stick is my daily blush. It has a natural shimmer to it, that gives me just the right glow.
-Benefit Benetint is a liquid blush I also use alternately with the Nars Multiple Stick. It’s perfect for daytime because the color is not too harsh.
- Shu Uemura Loose Powder is what I use to set my Dior Liquid Foundation in place. Even though they are 2 different brands, I find that they are able to complement each other perfectly.
-Bobbi Brown Bronzer is my bronzer of choice. Whether for day or night, I use this; I just vary the intensity of application. I love that it comes in many different shades of bronze which makes it practical and useful as an eye shadow palette too.
-MAC Studio Fix is my powder foundation for those days that I find my face oily and I want to skip the liquid foundation. This is the only one that gives me a great, matte coverage day and night.
-Smashbox Halo Yellow Correcting Hydrating Powder is my “secret” powder for my eyebags. I learned to use this yellow powder from a trusted makeup artist who taught me that the only way to correct dark circles under the eyes, is by applying yellow powder on top of it!
-Naked 2 Urban Decay is also my makeup artist’s favorite eyeshadow palette. This has all the different shades of neutral colors – perfect for day or night. I order this from my sister in law from the States.
-Eye of Horus eyeliner is one of my favorite eyeliners to date. It stays put without leaving a crease, and it also smudges easily if you want that “smokey eyes” look. This brand I get from www.glamourbox.ph.
-YSL Touche Eclat is my favorite concealer which I buy when in Hongkong. I like that it comes in a pen form, which makes handling and application easier. I use this whenever I feel the need to conceal my dark eyebags and to brighten my dull skin!
-Maybelline Mascara was, is and will always be my favorite mascara. It’s cheap, affordable and available everywhere. It’s water proof and makes my eyelashes look longer and thicker.
-MAC Girl Boy Eyebrow Mascara is something I just discovered recently — again from my favorite makeup artist. I like that the color is light brown so it lightens my brows naturally to match my hair color.
-Armani, Shu Uemura, MAC eyeliners. I rotate my daily eyeliner amongst these brands (aside from the Eye of Horus mentioned earlier). So yes, you can tell, I collect them!
-Shu Uemura eyelash curler is everyone’s favorite and so is mine! I have long but thin eyelashes, and it’s only with the use of this eyelash curler that my stick thin lashes curl and look thicker than usual.
-Makeup brushes from Shu Uemura, MAC and Bobbi Brown. I invest on my brushes because I know if I get good, quality ones (although pricey), they will last me for a very long time. In fact most of my brushes in my collection, were bought 10-12 years ago!

as told to divasoria

I don’t normally recommend fragrances because I think my taste is really just ordinary and my nose quite plebeian. I remember in the 90s, I always got perfume as gifts and most of them purchased from the duty free store. hehehe. I remember having the whole Calvin Klein range – CK One, CK Be or whatever variation. Also, clinique happy, tommy girl, issey miyake..but at the end of that decade, nothing really stuck with me and I always went back to childhood favorites Nenuco and Denenes.

However, in the last ten years, I’ve generally used a mix of these three scents – the original marc jacobs classic from 13 years ago(I think it’s now discontinued but I have a sealed bottle as a gift), l‘eau Serge Lutens and Santa Maria Novella’s Gardenia acqua di colonia.

Since I do get bored with my own scent choices, I was thrilled to have been invited to preview Jimmy Choo’s new fragrance “Flash”.

Although at first I felt like whatever Jimmy Choo made – may it be bags or shoes or perfume – weren’t really meant for a woman like me, I thought Flash smelled amazing and unexpected. The perfume opens with pink pepper, tangerine and strawberry as it zooms into white floral notes(which I love!) and ends with a powdery and woods-y base note. It’s very feminine, sophisticated and modern. I personally like it because it doesn’t assault your olfactory yet it’s precise and not too cloying either.

Jimmy Choo FLASH comes in 40ml EDP (PHP2,650), 60ml EDP (PHP4,350) and 100ml (PHP5,700) sizes. Jimmy Choo FLASH will be available in select department stores beginning June 2013.

Noee Ronquillo-Guzman is Singapore-based engineer in charge of configuration and requirements management of the city-state’s MRT electrification project. In her spare time, she is an experienced web developer, accomplished chef and budding fashion enthusiast. On top of all of that, she is a dedicated wife and young mother.

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Over the years, my maintenance regime has evolved to something that is quick and simple and practical.

There’s no one product that I stick to so what I will introduce here is what is currently in my counter now. There is a lot of Human Nature products in my bathroom since I discovered it just last year. The social enterprise behind it feeds my conscience’s social responsibility, plus it’s a cheaper alternative to Mama Mio, the brand I was using before for paraben free stuff. And like I said for the sake of being practical, when I do my purchases, i try to buy in bulk to save time.

In the shower, I use loreal anti dandruff shampoo because my scalp gets flaky easily. After shampoo, I use Human Nature Hair Mask. I love the scent – it smells like a spa.

For my body, I use Human Nature Kids Shampoo and Body wash because I like the scent too. And this product is something my whole family uses. (Hubby says it makes his hair soft.) I alternate that with Neutrogena Rain Bath.

For my face, I use different facial washes. In the shower I use the Human Nature facial strawberry scrub because it smells like edible strawberry and the exfoliants are bigger so I feel like it’s more effective.

After shower, I use Mama Mio Tummy Rub Oil for my thighs. I used this when I was pregnant to avoid stretch marks. And despite everyone telling me stretch marks from pregnancy is inevitable, I used it and guess what – I don’t have stretch marks.

For my face, I use Human Nature Balancing Facial Wash. I guess, it’s safe to say that I like beads on my face. I alternate that with Proactiv deep cleansing wash which also has beads.

I use the HN Cleansing oil to remove my makeup and Simple Eye Make up remover when I have Giorgio Armani Eyes to kill mascara on. I got the mascara from my friend Celina. Before this I was using Loreal Extra Volume Collagene.

Ever since I was a teenager, I’ve always had problem skin. So Proactiv is something I have been using on and off since is early days. But only this year did I finally discover how to use it in a way that it’s actually effective for me. I read about The Regimen on Acne.org. The regimen is pretty much basic stuff and what I have been doing for more than a decade. The clincher was the amount of Benzoyl Peroxide I should apply – generous. I used to follow the label that says apply a thin layer. Apparently applying more than a thin layer made so much difference for me. The generous amount will definitely dry up normal skin but since mine is oily, with this I feel I have normal type skin. On weekend nights I moisturise with SKII Aqua Physics (not in pic) before bed. The regimen from acne.org didn’t mention about using toner. I used to use SebaMed Deep cleansing facial toner but now I only use it occasionally.

Flawless skin avoided me for the most part of my life, and when I turned 30, ageing didn’t help my case. Although I subscribe to pixiwoo on Youtube for make up tutorials, I can’t for the life of me apply decent eye make up. I realised that I need and am better of with a no-makeup-makeup-look. So my make up routine is also simple.

I use Laneige Snow BB cream in No 23 Sand beige. This cuts my make up routine in half because it’s moisturizer, sunscreen in one. Plus it has medium coverage which I like. It lasts long by itself and lasts even longer if I pat on my Mac Studio fix in NC30 to finish it.

On bad skin days, or when I need more coverage, I use Mac Studio finish concealer in NC 30 and Make Up forever Matt Velvet +

For my everyday lips, I’m using Giorgio Armani Lip Maestro in 501 which I got from Celina’s wedding goodie bag. The color intensity is great! For an evening look I use my Guerlain lipstick. I love the color too. And the case comes with a mirror so I can touch up anytime.

For my cheeks, I use NARS in orgasm and MAC mineralise skin finish natural in medium deep to show where my cheekbones once were.

And if I have time to spare, I use Loreal Wear infinite eyeshadow in 805 as a brow bone highlighter. I’m probably the only one who notices the difference but it makes me feel made up.

as told to divasoria

Celine Tang is the Sales and Marketing head for their family business. Prior to moving back to Manila a few years ago, she studied at Parsons and subsequently worked in New York City.

She is also the co-founder of Three Point Retail Concepts, the company that brought in Alex and Ani Accessories to Manila. She loves to travel, read and eat her way around the world.
****

I stumbled upon John Frieda Frizz-Ease Shampoo & Conditioner when I was living in New York and although it’s meant for frizzy hair, it works well on my fine, straight hair too. I only use the conditioner once or twice a week. I’m so obsessed with this shampoo! I alternate it with the Kiehl’s Superbly Smoothing Argan Shampoo as a clarifying option whenever I feel like my hair needs a break. I’m not picky with bath washes. Right now I’m using this Kiehl’s Nashi Blossom & Pink Grapefruit wash I got for Christmas. The Neutrogena Body Oil is probably the best moisturizing oil I’ve ever tried. It leaves my skin soft and supple without feeling greasy.

I’ve also always wanted beach-y, tousled, out-of-bed hair but have had flat, pin-straight hair since birth so I need lots of layers, which I get from Celeste Tuviera at Symmetria Salon. She gives the most amazing cuts.

I use quite a bit of product on my hair to give it “grit” and “volume.” If I have time, I use the Beach Babe Sea Salt Spray (Lee Stafford) and Bumble & Bumble Texture hair (Un)dressing cream together then curl the ends of my hair with a GHD Styler (second best hair investment, next to a haircut). For parties, when I need to blow-dry and style my hair, I spritz Aveda Brilliant to prevent heat damage. Elnett Satin Hairspray keeps my hair in place without making it too stiff.

If I only have 5 minutes to spare, I use the Aveda Phomollient foam on damp hair and let it air dry. It gives my hair volume and texture. For really lazy days, I use the Not Your Mother’s Clean Freak Refreshing Dry Shampoo to soak up the oil in my hair—this one smells like baby shampoo.

I’m not too picky when it comes to facial cleansers. I use Shu Uemura Cleansing Oil, different Kiehl’s cleansers like Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser, then Cetaphil for those days when my skin becomes too dry for the other cleansers. To remove eye makeup I like using Johnson’s baby oil. I’ve been using the Clarisonic Mia for almost a year now (after it was recommended by my friend, Yessa) and I love how you see all the dirt get stuck to the brush. I can only use it every other day though or else my skin dries out.

When it comes to moisturizers I like using the unscented Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentrè in the morning and the calming Aesop Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Hydrator at night. When my skin becomes so unbelievably dry due to abrupt changes in weather, I use La Prairie Skin Caviar Luxe. Another inevitable product that comes with aging is the eye moisturizer. I’m loving Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Eye because it lessens dark circles and reduces puffiness at the same time.

For everyday makeup, I need quite a few items, as I can look very pale and washed-out: K-Palette Eyebrow pen, Cle de Peau concealer (perfect consistency for covering dark circles), Giorgio Armani Second Skin Blush, MAC’s Opulash (sucker for cute packaging) and Diorsnow UV Shield with SPF 50 to reduce skin pigmentation. I use Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Pressed Powder throughout the day whenever my skin becomes oily.

For nights out I replace the UV shield with moisturizer and a little Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation. Sometimes I smudge eye kohl (MAC Eye Kohl or Covergirl Liquiline Blast Liner) around my eyes or I blend in the colors from the MAC eye shadow palette. I also use a lot of lip balm since my lips tend to get a bit dry. La Mer lip balm is one of the best I’ve tried so far.

I’ve been going completely nuts over lipsticks lately since it’s the easiest way to look made up. Some of my favorites are Tom Ford Crimson Noir (brilliant red), Make Up For Ever Rouge Artist Natural N15 (perfect neutral for work), and MAC Scarlet Ibis (fiery orange-red).

I do my own nails to justify buying the polish. Current favorites include – Deborah Lippman’s Supermodel (Dree Hemingway line), Chanel’s Vertigo and Essie’s Set it in Stones.

I’m big on scents, especially their packaging. I love how light the Chanel Beige is and the cap of the bottle is magnetized too) It smells fresh and floral—perfect for the hot and humid Manila weather. For nights out, I use the heavier Chanel Coco Noir.

as told to divasoria

In this day and age of the “selfie”, you wonder if being camera shy is still prevalent?

I personally have been a little more wary of photos – I feel like I always look very awkward and become more hypercritical of myself. So when I saw this new Dove video – I totally could relate.

Women in the world, even if they admit it or not, feel an overwhelming urge to be one’s biggest critic. With Dove’s commitment to showing off real feminine beauty, their campaigns focus on encouraging confidence in celebrating a woman’s true beauty from within just like this one.

Join the conversation at #MyBeautifulSelf
Share what you think at facebook.com/dove

Rita Nazareno is the Creative Director of S.C.Vizcarra, a family business her grandmother started in 1925 and is known for their finely woven luxury bags and home accessories. Rita also designs her own line of contemporary woven bags under ZACARIAS by S.C.Vizcarra. Prior to her current position, she was Creative Services Director of the NBC-affiliate in Houston and Senior Producer at FOX11 in Los Angeles where she received an Emmy Award and 6 PROMax Awards.

Rita continues to work in film and video. She has a Masters in Film and Video from Academy of Art in San Francisco and a Masters in Design Management from London College of Fashion. Rita is a proud breast cancer survivor.

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Every day, I use:

Shiseido O40 Powder – I’ve been using this for 20 years. Darn, I’m a creature of habit.

MAC Viva Glam I & III – Depending on how I wake up, I go for either the darker shade III or the brighter, sexier I. I used to live by MAC’s Taupe eons ago – I just recently thought that maybe I should go back to it. Makabili nga.

Shiseido Integrate Twist Up Eyeliner Pencil – Bought it from a convenience store, similar to a 7-11, in Japan and now can’t live without it. No need for sharpener.

Acca Kappa – My sister got the scent for me for Christmas 4 years ago and luckily, she’s been giving the same gift ever since. It’s such a low pro, androgynous scent. My best friend’s husband and my dad smelled it recently and they now use Acca Kappa as well.

Rene Furterer Modeling Paste – Can’t live without it, especially with my hair the way it is.

EUBOS moisturizer for my face – It repairs, fills and hydrates. And great for sensitive skin.

EUBOS cream bath oil, Cetaphil moisturizing soap and Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion – Most gentle that I’ve found out there.

Alcohol – Pacifies my germophobia.

Maui Babe Browning Lotion – I’ve been trying to swim a lot lately and have been using this fabulous product from Hawaii (smells so good too). I had a friend who once commented that albino did not suit me – so I took heed and am now going for a bit of a nice brown tan. Ang layo ko pa.

And in my bag, I always have Aronamin Gold multivitamins (B vitamins plus great for hangovers!) and lip balm. And sunglasses. I stopped using sunglasses for many years, after a Feng Shui Master told me I should stop wearing them because I got luck from the sun and sunglasses will just filter the luck. But a few months ago, I just decided to go back to wearing sunglasses since ang sakit na ng mata ko sa araw – plus I’m sure the squinting isn’t helping me any.

For when I do decide to put on a little something more:

NARS Palette: So compact and everything is there + Shiseido Dual Balancing foundation.

For my nails:

Nailcutter: Japan has the best nailcutters. Doesn’t get purol.

Started having my nails done at my mother’s and she has this Orly gel thing. It is a bit too high tech for me but I’m enjoying my colors: Plum Noir and Naughty. I also have my nails done at Third Eye Wellness where they have vegan nail polish (my favorite: Magnetic). There are days when they offer a free tarot card reading when you get a manicure. Coolest thing ever – painted nails and raised consciousness in 1 hour flat.

as told to divasoria

Vanessa Mayuga-Santos is a former model, VJ, sportscaster, luxury brand specialist and PR manager. She has worked with prestigious brands such as MTV Asia, GMA network, Guerlain, YSL, Jurlique and Decleor. Her most recent post was heading PR for Louis Vuitton Philippines where she successfully helped plan the flagship store re-opening in the highly-publicized event at White Space in 2011.

Currently, she is a full time wife and co-owner of Stella by Tala, a clothing line for young girls she recently launched with her cousin. One of her biggest hobbies is beauty and wellness and has slowly grown her social media presence under the tag #THEVAINMAMA with her monthly Q&A column for Glam-O-Mamas, her product reviews for Glamourbox and her beauty commentary on her personal instragram/twitter/facebook.

Her newest “baby” is being the purveyor of beauty and business partner for the new beauty section of Seek The Uniq which has just gone live last July 10th.

****

FACIAL CLEANSERS

TONY MOLY Snail Foaming Cleanses – Surprisingly cool and refreshing. I use this when I am on my TONY MOLY moisturizer rotation.

PONDS Cold Cream & PONDS Facial Wash – Sometimes the simplest things work best. Ponds cold cream is the BEST makeup remover hands down. Beats all the fancy “cleansing oils” in the market (Honestly, just spend your money on a GOOD MOISTURIZER!! Cleansers are just basics.) Just follow up with the facial wash for squeaky-clean goodness….PS – I DO NOT BELIEVE IN TONING. I FEEL IT IS AN UNNECESSARY STEP FOR ADDED SALES (AT MY AGE)… MAYBE WHEN I TURN 50, I’LL RE-CONSIDER. 

ST IVES Apricot Scrub – Again, this is an old time favorite since high school. Although recently, Ive been using as a body scrub as well!

CURE Aqua Gel – Yes I got suckered and joined the bandwagon on this CULT exfoliant. Still debating though if the “white flakes” are really from my skin or just the gel transforming. I actually tried it on my bathroom door and white flakes still came off!! HMMMM….

ETUDE HOUSE Wonder Pore Mask – I LOVE masks simply because they are pure fun.  My daughter calls me “MOMMY MUMU” when I put this on and I chase her around the room. But it also actually works. I use it once a week and my pores feel much tighter.

TIPS:
a) I like clay mask better than sheet masks (they penetrate deeper) and
b) Pop this baby in the ref and when you apply the mask there is a delicious cooling sensation.

SPA & WELLNESS

JIVAMUKTI China Gel- YOGA has become such an important part of my life. I apply this gel before class and it gives an amazing cooling sensation while I am practicing. Perfect for sore muscles and can even double as a salve for mosquito bites.

ZENNUTRIENTS Massage Oils – I get weekly home massages to de-stress and I pamper myself by using the best massage oils. My favorites are ZENNUTRIENTS “Ginger RX” and “All Is Well”. They are all natural and also come in a mini roll-on, balm, and cooling spray versions.

SHUDH Hair Oil – SHUDH means “peace”. This is a homemade blend crafted by Sue Sahijwani personally for me. It is meant or relaxation and hair thickening. I use it when I get massages and apply also before yoga classes to keep my hair in place instead of hair gel.

HAIRCARE

*As you can see shampoo & conditioners are a personal obsession!! I’ve shared before that you must rotate brands every 3-5 days in order to get the best benefits. My current favorites are:

ZENNUTRIENTS GUGO SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER – This is one my favorite local brands and is honest organic goodness that really adds much needed volume to my fine hair. I invested in the 1 liter sizes as this pair is a regular in my rotation. Love also the real gugo barks floating inside the bottle – adorable.

DOVE Damage Solutions Hair Fall Rescue Shampoo & Conditioner – DOVE is also one my current favorites as this is the only “anti hair fall” that really worked for me. After only 5 days, my hair was full of luster and volume.

VIDAL SASSOON IONIC TRAVEL HAIRDRYER & BRUSH – The best hair dryer in the market. A must need for fine hair like mine. The brush was a GWP (love freebies!) and works perfectly with the dryer.

FINESSE Hair Mousse & Hair Spray

I love old school products – makes me feel young. These keep my hair in place.

PANTENE CLINICARE Hair Volumizer – I discovered this made in Japan hair volumizer in Mannings in HK. Love secret finds. I used to use PHYTO volumizer spay but this is a third of the price and works just as well.

SKINCARE

ESTEE LAUDER Advanced Time Repair Night Serum & Advanced Repair Eye – Skincare is most important in the evening as this is when your skin cells regenerate. I use this serum and eye cream every night with whatever current cream I am using (you DO NOT have to use all the same brand; just test for any reactions). This night repair serum is magic in a bottle.

ESTEE LAUDER PERFECTIONIST SERUM and Advanced Time Zone Night Cream & Eye Cream – This is the perfect anti-age regimen for me now. I am 35 and need some “time repair” magic. Has worked wonders. SECRET TIPS: a) Use the night cream day & night (it is so much better than the day cream), b) Use Perfectionist Serum as a base for a BB cream for a flawless finish.)

TONY MOLY Snail Cream Premium Moisturizer & Eye Cream – In my search for consumer brands that are effective yet still have a luxury feel, I discovered this quirky Korean Brand. After researching more about it, I mustered up the courage and tried the SNAIL moisturizer and eye cream. I am totally sold! Perfect light texture and my skin feels so healthy. Great value for money too.

GUERLAIN MIDNIGHT STAR & MIDNIGHT SECRET – Guerlain is close to my heart as it was the first beauty brand I launched in Manila. This is a my “secret combo” for beauty radiance.

MIDNIGHT STAR – One caplsule as a make-up primer. Instant radiance boost and sets make-up for hours. Protects your skin against cigarette smoke and pollution. I only use this for very special events.

MIDNIGHT SECRET – it is sleep in a bottle. You apply to a clean face and sleep only for 3-5 hours and its like you got an entire’s night sleep. This is not for regular use, only for beauty emergencies. TRIVIA: We sold the most number of Midnight Secret bottles in the world, when we launched the brand in Manila in 2006.

Gillette Razor & Gatsby Shaving Foam Gel – Unwanted hair is a non-negotiable. I just love the cute pink Sensor Excel for women I found in S&R and the Gatsby Foam gel works well and moisturizes at the same time.

DOVE Body Lotion – Dove is the “moisture expert” and this lotion is my recent favorite.

COLGATE Optic White Toothpaste – Who does not want a pearly white smile?  This one works wonders.

ZENNUTRIENTS Lemongrass & Eucalyptus Mosquito Spray – Dengue is a big fear especially when you are a mom. I have a GALLON industrial size of this spray that the whole family uses. It is oil free and 100% organic and safe for the kids.

ZENNUTRIENTS Tea Tree Deo Spray – AMAZING. Keeps me fresh all day long and is gentle and organic while being anti-bacterial as well. This product is the BEST!

MAKEUP

FACE

HEY NATURE Black Diamond BB Cream – I am still on the fence about the entire BB/CC cream craze (Its basically just tinted moisturizer re-marketed as “skincare”)…I am currently using this as part of my test products for www.glamourbox.com. So far it has the best dewy finish, has skin firming properties, and does not feel cakey at all. The fact that it is an organic brand is a major plus as well.

GIORGIO ARMANI Powder Foundation – This is my one makeup indulgence. Quite pricey but quality is flawless and impeccable. TIP: Just get the compact once and stock up on refills. They are half the price.

GUERLAIN Terracotta Bronzer # 3 – The best bronzer in the world and was the first ever to be launched back in the 90’s. No shimmer just pure bronzing goodness. I mix this with my blush for contouring.

NARS Blush in Orgasm- Hands down the best natural blush color for day and night; the glow of love is the best. haha

MAC Hydrating Mineralized Facial Spray – I spray this right after putting on my make-up to set it. Keep a bottle in my bag at all times also to stay fresh all day long.

EYES

EYES OF HORUS Organic Mascara – This was the first product I reviewed for www.glamourbox.com. It is amazingly effective and long lasting for an organic mascara. My lashes stay pristine the whole day (up to 12 hours!). Removal is so easy too as you just need a simple foaming cleanser.

MAC Studio Fix Concealer in NW25- This has been my best friend since high school. It is the only concealer that works for my dark circles.

MAC Eye Pencil in “Stubborn Brown” – I’ve tried tons of eyeliners but this shade is the best for me and lasts the whole day.

MAC Eyebrow Duo Palette – Eyebrows are so critical as they define the shape of your face. I love this new duo from MAC.

Chanel Eye Shadow Duo – Am quite simple when it comes to eyeshadow and generally only use this for evenings. I just blend two colors (1 light and 1 dark) to brighten up my eyes.

YSL Touche Eclat – One is sold every 5 seconds around the world. Instant pick me up. Just apply a little underneath your eyebrow crease, on the tip of your nose, on your forehead and BLEND. Instant radiance!

SHISEIDO Eyelash Curler – Tools are just as essential as products. This is the one of the best investments you can make. Sometimes I just curl my lashes and don’t put mascara when my lashes need a rest.

LIPS

MAC Lip Conditioner – Any lipstick will not cure chapped or dry lips. I use this as an overnight treatment when my lips feel extra dry.

GIORGIO ARMANI Sheer Lipstick in #201 – I only use this on special occasions or date nights. No need for a gloss. Shade is wonderfully sexy without being over the top.

ESTEE LAUDER Double Wear Lipstick in “Stay Rose” – Recently discovered this amazing long wearing lipstick. I use it for work days and it lasts the entire day. Finish is quite matte so I balance it off with a gloss.

VMV SHEER LIPSTICK in “Toasted Cherries” – I love supporting local brands – and VMV is amazing. This is 100% hypoallergenic and I use this on my mommy days.

CHANEL & DIOR Glosses – Am not too fussy with gloss; these are my current favorites bought at SASA. I just use a neutral gloss to set/balance my lipstick.

BEACH BEAUTY

MAUI BABE Browning Lotion – I just discovered this last May from KAROTITAY (Karrots Nazarenno) and I am a true believer. Instant tan in just an hour. Smell is amazing – it’s a blend of coffee and macadamia nut oil. I hoarded 3 bottles as they are always out of stock!

BEACH HUT Scalp & Hair SPF & CARMEX Lip Balm SPF 25 – Don’t forget your hair and lips need protection under the sun too.

VMV ARMADA Face Cover SPF 40 – As much as I love to tan, I also do not want wrinkles. The HAPPY COMPROMISE – use the BEST sunblock on your face before tanning. I love VMV as texture is light and melts into my skin.

HAWAIIAN TROPIC Sheer Sunblock SPF 30 - Tanning is great but you do not want to burn. I apply this as well all over before leaving my room…I alternate re-applying this with MAUI BABE… PROPER TANNING TAKES WORK.

HAWAIIAN TROPIC After Sun Aloe Gel – Peeling skin is just not a pretty sight. I apply this LIBERALLY for 2 weeks after being exposed to the sun.

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FRAGRANCE

Scent is such a powerful sensory experience. My beauty training has taught me the importance of a good fragrance and how each note/scent tells a story. My current favorites are:

MUSTELA MUSTI Cologne and Acqua Di Colognia – I use this on “MOMMY DAYS” to keep me fresh as my babies.

JO MALONE “Lime, Basil, and Mandarin layered with Blackberry Bay” – I use this for events or dinners out with friends.

GUERLAIN Herba Fresca – I use this for work days to keep me going all day long.

FLORIS LONDON EDT – This is actually my husband’s but I sometimes use it when I feel like something clean & masculine.

GUERLAIN L’Instant EDP for “DATE NIGHTS” – This was the scent that my husband says made him fall in love with me  The story of the fragrance is such: “L’INSTANT” is the moment when a man realizes that you are “the one”.

GUERLAIN LIMITED EDITION PERFUME GOLD DUST – Beauty should bring fun & magic into your life. I used this gold dust during my wedding and other important occasions. Also recently, for the kids during the shoot for the “Stella by TALA” campaign. The kids all loved the “PIXIE DUST” and it truly brought some magic to the shoot 

CHINESE REMEDIES

*I love hunting for hidden beauty treasures and one of my favorite haunts are CHINESE PHARMACIES. These are my favorite finds thus far:

DAU NONG TRUONG SON – This was an amazing Binondo find that is a better smelling version of “White Flower”. Best for aches and pains.

ERASE Roll On Oil – The only thing that has worked the best in removing scars (from my disastrous cooking adventures).

ZHENG GU SHUI – I am a klutz and bruise easily and often. This is my savior. I just apply using a cotton ball day & night, and my bruises are gone in 2 days max. TIP: Don’t get the one with a roll on cover as it tends to get clogged after awhile. The basic version works just fine.

DOAN’S OINTMENT – Chinese version of a boo-boo balm I just discovered in Binondo. I used it on my hubbies bike wounds and so far so good.

**Some of Van’s favorite products can be purchased via Seek the Uniq**

as told to divasoria

I have been hearing about the online store “Seek the Uniq” all over my instagram feed and I decided to check out the store myself. I initially loved the kimono-type cover ups – it’s perfect for lazy people like myself It brightens up a drab work outfit instantly and adds color to my extremely neutral […]

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PHOTO CREDIT : WN by photographer Jay Yao Wawi Navarroza is a contemporary artist and photographer with her pieces exhibited in Europe, Russia, and Asia. Wawi is also multi-awarded, she has received numerous awards for her work, with Saturnine winning in the Ateneo Art Awards in 2007 and Polysaccharide a finalist in 2006. Abroad, she […]

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Dana Gutierrez is one-half of the body image warriors behind www.theplumpinay.com. She is a senior copywriter of a small boutique advertising agency. She is a retired pole-dancer, a make up artist wannabe, a swimsuit designer and a part-time model. She loves instagramming through the day and you may follow her @thedanahsoars. **** I use Ivory […]

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Patty Laurel-Filart is one of my Manila’s top events host and lifestyle bloggers (www.pattylaurel.com). She is also a faculty member of the Ateneo De Manila Communications Department where she teaches a Media elective class for college juniors and seniors. She is also a young bride, recently married to Patrick Filart of Thirty Six O media, […]

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Pam Basa-Siao is the woman behind the clothing brand Willow, available at The Ramp Glorietta, Shangri-la and Trinoma and SM Makati, Megamall, North Edsa and Cubao. She is also the blogger behind Run Around Girl and a member of Mommy Mundo SoMOms(Social Media Moms). On top of all of that, she is a young mother […]

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Mel Cuevas is the Finance head of her family’s hotel business. Prior to joining the family business, she completed her MBA at The Ateneo Graduate School of Business. She was also editor of Metro and LOOK magazine. This former editor may have left publishing a few years ago to focus on the family business, but […]

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Jin Perez is behind one of MNL’s most followed food blogs called jin loves to eat. It is the Metro’s virtual black book filled with food-related events and new restaurants. Previously based in Taipei and Hong Kong for a decade, Jin came back home to help run her family business. She also does food consulting […]

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Lame self-promotion post as I am notoriously shy and protective of my private and blogging life but as D puts it I will have to own up to it. So here it goes.LOL I’m in the latest issue of Northern Living and I talk about how I started blogging and successfully merging my two interests […]

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Isa Palabyab is one of the prettiest faces in Manila today. She is also a 2nd year medical student at the University of the East as she continues the family’s illustrious tradition in the field. **** Both my parents and my sister are dermatologists so I grew up being conscious with how I take care […]

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Jackie Go is a hands-on mom to two young kids and a homemaker. She is also behind the popular lifestyle blog “Go Jackie Go” and is a part-time tv commercial and print model. She aims to inspire woken that looking good doesn’t have to be expensive and that being a mom is not an excuse […]

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I haven’t done a full-blown glossy in a LOOOONG time and since I have significantly changed my regimen, I thought of doing one for this week! I honestly think my skin has never been better – smaller pores and well-balanced. And now that I’m in my mid 30′s(yes, you better believe it), I am willing […]

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Karrie Bitanga- Paillard owns a PR and marketing firm in Hong Kong called Imagindustries Ltd. which services luxury brands such as Aston Martin, Chanel, Jaeger Le Coultre, Lane Crawford, Moet Hennessy and other leading brands. She moved to Hong Kong in 2005 to work for Hong Kong Tatler organizing the Tatler Ball and magazine launches. […]

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