Skin is In: 8 Must-Have Summer Beauty Essentials

Summer is finally here! So whip out those bikinis and show off your voluptuous curves. Whether by the poolside or wading in the cool, crisp waves of the world’s most exquisite beaches, no day is ever wasted when it’s spent soaking up the sun in complete relaxation.

But while you may feel confident to flaunt your washboard abs and toned physique, summer will throw a lot of obstacles your way to keep you from looking your best- the sweltering heat, scorching sun, skin-damaging UV rays, humidity, and salt water. 

Thankfully, Unilever has everything you need to keep your cool and looking fresh all summer - and it all comes at incredibly affordable prices. From sunscreens to moisturizing skin lotions, refreshing body bars, gentle cleansers and even whitening creams with SPF; all these are expertly crafted, dermatologically-safe formulations meant to nourish, hydrate and pamper your skin from deep within.  They give you that the extra boost of protection that sun glasses, beach hats and umbrellas simply cannot do.

Get that radiant summer glow without sacrificing your skin. Shield yourself and your loved ones from excessive exposure to UV light, which is known to cause age spots, premature skin aging, sunburns, and, in extreme conditions, even skin cancer.

Here are 8 of the most affordable skin care products from Unilever that you shouldn't leave home without. With stunning #SummerReadySkin, get ready to seize the summer.

1. POND’S AGE MIRACLE DAY CREAM

Restore the soft, suppleness of your skin with the intensifying moisture-day rich cream. Formulated with Intelligent Pro-Cell Complex™ and SPF 15 PA++, Pond’s Age Miracle Day Cream protects you against damaging UV rays and aids in the rejuvenation process of skin cells, helping reduce fine lines, wrinkles and age spots over time. Restore your youthful radiance and look 10 years younger in just 7 days. 

2. PONDS’S WHITE BEAUTY DAY CREAM

Keep fresh as a rose even under the harsh summer conditions with Pond’s White Beauty Cream. The breakthrough skin care solution, which harnesses the soothing essences of Korean Ginseng and Saffron, whitens and evens out your skin tone, giving it that rosy white glow in just 7 days. It works by purifying the skin from deep within and bringing out that luminous glow that will have heads turning on the beach. Unlike other creams and moisturizers that are sticky, Pond’s White Beauty comes in a Powder Finish, which leaves your skin feeling soft and smooth in an instant.

3. POND’S ACNE CLEAR WHITE 10-IN-1 FACIAL WASH

Let Pond’s revolutionary Acne Clear White 10-in-1 Facial Wash work overtime, while you relax in the shade. With one easy, gentle cleanse, the multi-tasking formula calms skin, zaps blackheads and whiteheads, smoothens roughness, tightens pores, reduces dullness, controls oil, fights acne, reduces blemishes, calms skin and whitens skin. Say goodbye to acne and oily skin this summer, and hello to brighter, whiter radiance.  

4. POND’S MEN ENERGY CHARGE FACIAL WASH

That same boost of energy that you love getting from your favourite brew can now benefit your skin. Especially made to address men’s skincare needs, Pond’s Men Energy Charge Facial Wash harnesses the power of coffee bean extracts to get that bright, energized skin. The derma-tested safe formula instantly cools and minimizes pores, while removes the dullness and haggardness from your skin. Restore that healthy active glow with Pond’s Men Energy Charge.

5. DOVE BAR

When your skin is sun-parched, especially during the summer, no other beauty bar moisturizes better than Dove. As the most recommended brand by dermatologists, Dove provides your skin the daily pampering it needs. With its ¼ moisturizing cream, Dove deeply nourishes and restores skin. Get smooth, glowing skin in just 7 days with Dove Beauty Bar.

6. ESKINOL FACIAL DEEP CLEANSER

Feel confident with your linis-kinis face this summer thanks to Eskinol Facial Deep Cleanser’s deep cleaning technology. Derma-tested safe for everyday use, Eskinol removes the stubborn pimples, blackheads and whiteheads, which prevent you from feeling your best. Take the cotton ball challenge and see for yourself!

7. VASELINE WATER-BASED SERUM

Make this your best summer ever, and step out into the sun with Vaseline Water-Based Serum. It offers SPF 30 & PA++ for ultimate sun protection, and comes in a water-based, non-sticky formula. What’s more is that it is enhanced with Vitamin B3 that gives you whiter skin. Confidently #SeizeTheSummer with Vaseline Water-Based Serum.

8. VASELINE INSTANT FAIR LOTION

Say goodbye to tan lines with Vaseline Instant Fair Lotion. It has micro-reflectors that make skin 4X fairer instantly, so you don’t have to worry about uneven skin tone. Vaseline Instant Fair Lotion is also infused with Vitamin B3 that gives you fairer skin over time, and triple sunscreen to safeguard you against harmful UV rays. Thanks to Vaseline Instant Fair Lotion, you can achieve that healthy white glow and a fairer, even skin tone in just one application.   

Catch all the celebrity ambassadors: TOni Gonzaga, Xian LIm, Julia Barretto and other this March, until the end of April, as they show off their glowing #SUMMERREADYSKIN in Unilever’s first-ever summer station ID on ABS-CBN.  You can also watch the video in the link below:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FZyqYT8KPQ

Watsons Switch & Save: Enjoy more by spending less

Thanks to generations of wise mothers, Filipinos have been raised to become smart, practical shoppers, always in pursuit of the better deal, the bigger discount, the best value. When it comes to following a budget at home, while it is common for many to scrimp on luxuries like eating out and shopping, personal essentials like toiletries, medicine and vitamins should never suffer from the budget cuts.

In order to be a successful budget-saver, heartthrob crooner and new Watsons ambassador Christian Bautista believes that one should recognize the value of true savings. 

There is a clear difference, he insists, between being frugal and being cheap, and a difference between saving and scrimping. While scrimping is getting by (uncomfortably, at that) with barely enough, smart saving is about choosing the better value, getting the most by spending less.

“(In my own definition and understanding), saving is preparing for the future. It is sacrificing just a little bit so that you and your children can enjoy in the future. Scrimping, on the other hand, denotes something more negative. It is an attitude that’s based on fear. I prefer to save so that I can enjoy,” he adds. 

As the new ambassador of Watsons Switch and Save campaign (he joins other ambassadors Tessa Prieto-Valdes, Patty Laurel-Filart and Iya Villania-Arellano), Bautista believes in the commitment of Watsons to make quality products more accessible to the Filipino consumer.

“You shouldn’t feel that you have to spend an arm and a leg for your personal essentials,” he says. “As an artist, I stock up on mouthwash, toothpaste, charcoal toothbrushes and breath strips and other things since I sing. Watsons offers all of these. And these are not just any cheap alternative, they are good quality that can match what’s in the market. Maganda at mas mura (It’s good and cheaper),” he reveals, adding that he’d rather save on toiletries so that he can splurge on his other passion, which is travelling. For his next trip, he hopes to walk the streets of his favorite city again, London. With Watsons, he knows he’ll be one step closer to achieving that dream vacation.

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In fact, by switching to the Watsons Label products, like Bautista, smart shoppers can get anywhere from 30 percent to 80 percent savings. By bringing down prices, Watsons allows consumers to stretch their purchasing power so they can spend more on their other needs, wants and luxuries like a new phone or car, or a much-deserved vacation.

 Branded vs. Generic

Karen Fabres, Watsons senior manager for marketing, recognizes the hesitance of some Filipinos towards buying generic brands. “There’s the misconception that generic brands are inferior, but abroad, especially in the US, the majority buys generics. Unfortunately, in the Philippines, only a small percent do, so they’re missing out on a lot of savings,” she shares.

“Watsons is able to provide them at more affordable prices because we use formulations that are off-patent and which have already been proven effective. When launching new medicine, innovator brands have to raise prices to ensure ROI to cover the expenses of their marketing, research and such. This is not the same situation for generics, which have already been proven and tested safe,” she adds.

“A lot of our customers take maintenance meds. But according to some studies, the average Filipino consumes only around 50 to 70 medicines in a year, where it should be 365 (one for each day). The reason they don’t take their proper dosage is because their budget is limited. Imagine, if they switched to generics, they can save money and be able to take their medicines accordingly, allowing them to live a more fulfilling, quality life,” shares Victoria Encarnacion, marketing director for Watsons Personal Care.  

Despite being a bit wary of generic medicines, Filipinos are still very smart shoppers, with specific wants and standards from their products. Today, they are more discerning when it comes to shopping admits Encarnacion. “They no longer want just generic soaps and lotions; they look for anti-bacterial, moisturizing, whitening, etc. They look for variant products that provide more function.” To address the growing demands of the evolving market, Watsons has diversified and come out with new variants to their current list of products, delighting budget savers everywhere.

Another trend that Encarnacion is seeing is the fact that consumers are gearing towards a more active lifestyle, with Filipinos placing more importance on their health and taking vitamins even before they get sick.

Actress, singer and aspiring athlete Iya Villania is one of those who look to Watsons for help, to support and sustain her new healthy living. “I’ve been a Watsons girl for two years. Prior to becoming an ambassador, suki na ako. I buy a lot of its tissue, makeup stuff, and especially Watsons Foot Ease gel cushions.” With the savings she enjoys, she is able to allot more to her other activities and indulgences like training for marathons, shoe shopping, eating out, and travelling with her husband Drew.

“I’m really not that big of a spender. While others would invest in designer bags, I prefer backpacks.Nakakahiya nga kasi parang ako lang yung actress na hindi nagdedesigner bag. And when it comes to travelling, I won’t travel Business Class. Don’t judge if I’m in Economy!” shares the radiant beauty.

Iya and Christian are only two of the many Watson shoppers who have learned to switch and save for better deals. Even if they’re successful and they have the means to buy the best and the most expensive personal care products in the market, they think about their purchases and know the importance of saving up for what matters most.

Christian puts aptly into words what Watsons and many budget-savers believe and strive for: “Life is short. Balance your life in both work and play. Save and enjoy.” Indeed, with Watsons, you can spend less to enjoy more.

Dove Beauty Summit: Real Women, Real Beauty

At the first Dove Summit, the industry’s beauty leaders, celebrities and bloggers gathered at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza Harbor Tent to celebrate real beauty. In crisp white outfits — the style choice we were advised to wear — and fresh, perfectly painted faces, we were ready to parade into the immaculate, white lounge and make merry. But before we could catch up and fully appreciate each other’s Instagram-worthy outfits, a slight change of plans.

“Please return to your rooms and remove all your makeup,” said Lexi Schulze-Berenguer-Testa, our bubbly host. Laughter ensued, smiles broke out. But as the minutes dragged on, a subtle but still palpable nervousness began to set in. “Even mascara? Or lipstick? Everything?” we asked.

Most women seemed game to play along, but there was an undeniable number who seemed hesitant. One divulged that even her husband has never seen her without makeup.  (She would wake up before sunrise just to pretty herself up).

Apples Aberin, the PR head of Unilever, gently urged the rest, as she stood onstage sans makeup. Underneath the bright klieg lights, she wasn’t shy to admit that it took a little bit of will power for her not to reach into her purse and pullout her concealer. “Unmasking is an emotional journey,” admitted Apples. “But you can become comfortable, too. Our wrinkles and laugh lines tell a story.”

If Aberin, a stalwart in Philippine fashion and modeling and one of the most recognized executives in the country, needed the security, the armor of makeup to feel better, what more us regular gals?

In a country where women have been recognized as the most beautiful in every major international beauty pageant, and in the metropolis where thousands of “selfies” are uploaded by the second (enough for Time magazine to proclaim Makati City and Pasig City as the “selfie” capital of the world), one would believe that Filipinas are not only confident, but they should have a better, healthier self-image. But the unfortunate fact is that only seven percent consider themselves beautiful. A shocking statistic, indeed.

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In a global survey conducted by Dove, with the participation of 6,000 women, in 20 countries, including the Philippines, it was found that “two out of three women felt pressured to be beautiful. And one out of two women felt critical of themselves. In the Philippines, 93 percent of Filipinas don’t even like the way they look,” stressed Mian Datu-David, Unilever marketing manager for skin.

Hoping to tip the scales and change the statistics, Dove steps in with its Real Beauty, Real Care campaign. As the leading brand in personal care, Dove believes that real beauty can be found in every person. And through its wide range of personal care products: Dove Skin, Dove Hair and Dove Deo, Filipinas can get the real care that they deserve. “We aim to inspire women to realize their personal potential for beauty. Dove believes that every woman has a potential to be her most beautiful self and that is what real beauty is all about,” Datu-David said.

Timeless Luxuries to Love at The Shang

A lady wants many things but what she yearns for most is to be remembered and appreciated. Needless to say, with Valentine’s Day just around the corner, choosing the perfect gift for her – one that clearly expresses all that that cannot be articulated in mere words – becomes a challenge. Fortunately, Shangri-La Plaza, the country’s top upscale lifestyle destination, offers a variety of luxury gifts and items, fitting for this season of love. 

While the typical dozen red roses, chocolates, and stuffed toy animals may bring a smile to a loved one’s face, nothing brings the same sparkle to her eyes as the brilliance of exquisite fine jewelry. Truly, every girl deserves to feel like it’s Valentine’s every day.  

Fall in love with these mesmerizing pieces from renowned jewelry brands and heirloom makers: Jewelmer, Golcondia, My Diamond, Rustan’s Silver Vault, Diamantaire, and Stardust. From simple statement pieces to more intricate creations, find everything that her heart desires –and more – only at this unique shopping address.

1.     Golcondia: Diamonds Are Forever

Mid-Level 2/3, East Wing

Taking its name from the region in India, fabled for its most perfect diamonds, Golcondia fulfills the same promise of producing only the most flawless specimens. The first showroom of its kind in the country, Golcondia has perfected the science of diamond making and has elevated the art of design with its handcrafted “jewels of everlasting love.” Compared to mined diamonds, Golcondia’s stones are 100% conflict free and are cultured in a controlled environment. Much like orchids that are cultivated in a greenhouse, cultured diamonds are grown in replicated conditions that result in the same stunning product. Thus, Golcondia diamonds are not only sustainable and the more socially responsibly choice, but they are chemically, physically and optically equal to mined diamonds in every respect.

And it becomes all the more exciting as even ultra-rare diamonds–those that come in pink, blue and yellow hues–can be cultivated. As seen in the showroom, the vivid tints and brilliance of each colored Golcondia diamond are unparalleled; a sign of true luxury. Share this exquisite beauty by gifting your loved one with the limited edition 18K rose gold LOVE bracelet, which comes with a solitaire pink cultured diamond. This stunning personalized gift comes at an unprecedented value, available only for the month of February.

2. Diamantaire: Shine Bright like a Diamond

Level 2, Main Wing

Here at Diamantaire, with its dazzling selection of designs, you can be assured that each piece is one of a kind as no design is ever duplicated. From bracelets to studs, dangling earrings and pendants, Diamantaire does not shy away from its use of precious gems and diamonds. Featuring diamonds of varying sizes, set in gold along with sapphires, rubies and emeralds, the array of elegant designs will have every girl swooning. Sky’s the limit when it comes to creativity, which is why each piece deserves to be displayed on a crown or paraded on a runway, and not simply tucked away in a jewelry box to be gazed at. Diamond connoisseurs will also have to calm their beating hearts once they chance upon Diamantaire’s prized creation- the stunning 10-carat heart-shaped stud earrings (a whopping 5 carat each!). With playful creations that inspire and excite, how can a girl not be absolutely smitten?

3. My Diamond: My One & Only

Level 1, Main Wing

Known for its wedding bands and engagement rings, My Diamond consistently produces pieces that are truly timeless; nothing too audacious or over embellished. One such example is the Unity Ring, a chic, seamless design that marries the masculine and feminine halves of a couple. The ring features a single white gold band with a 0.4- carat solitaire diamond (for the lady) that slips into another ring formed by two outer bands (for the gentleman).Uniting to form one special ring, no design better embodies the beauty and nature of a commitment. Aside from commitment rings, My Diamond also offers a staple of necklaces, dainty pendants and bracelets.

4. Stardust: Romancing the Stone

Lower Ground Level, Main Wing

With over 20 years of experience, Stardust helps breathe new life into family heirlooms by restoring the luster of well-loved jewelry. Specializing in repair and cleaning, Stardust treats every piece that passes through their skilled hands with utmost care, respecting both the sentimental value and heritage of each. Aside restoring jewels to their original glory, Stardust also offers their own made-to-order creations, designed by owners/ mother-and-daughter tandem, Marina Jocson and Shereen Ivy Soriano. While the former describes her style as “classic elegance”, the latter’s designs showcase more modern lines and sensibilities.

5. Jewelmer Joaillerie: Pearl of the Orient

Level 3, Main Wing

Working on the design philosophy that “poetry is in the details,” Jewelmer elevates the art of fine jewelry to brilliant new heights by celebrating French design and Filipino sensibilities. Bringing to the forefront our national treasure, the coveted golden South Sea pearl, Jewelmer continues to capture the hearts of the young and the young-at-heart with its versatile “Watch Me” design that can be worn on the wrist or around the neck; and the auspicious “888” design, which proudly makes use of 8 golden South Sea pearls and 8 diamonds; available in 8 designs. Ignite or rekindle a love affair with these wearable pieces of art.

6. Rustan's Silver Vault: All that Glitters

Level 2, Main Wing

It is love at first sight once you step into Rustan’s Silver Vault. With its thoughtfully curated pieces, chosen from the latest collections of renowned international brands like Hermès, Roberto Coin, Marco Bicego, Mikimoto, and Yvel, among others, Rustan’s Silver Vault presents only the best for its most discerning clientele. Whether it’s gold, diamonds, polished stones or luxury watches, one can be assured that you can find the perfect gift to suit any occasion or any woman. Undoubtedly, it will be a match made in heaven.

Heart Evangelista: Ready for her Closeup

A mere two weeks away from her wedding day, it's not hard to imagine that there are a million and one things that are going on in Heart Evangelista's mind. Wedding preparations. Honeymoon planning. Family reunions. (Eep! She admits that she hopes to see her mother and father (reportedly still a bit disappointed with the engagement) at the church and reception.) But during the Closeup Diamond Attraction launch at the art-deco inspired Blackbird restaurant, she looked nothing less but calm, cool and confident.

With a dazzling smile that can easily launch a thousand ships, Heart proudly shares her newest role in the Closeup family as its ambassador for Closeup Diamond Attraction, one of the 2015 best beauty picks that promises brilliant pearly whites in an instant. (She first joined the Closeup family 11 years ago when she teamed up with TV heartthrob John Prats.)

"I'm so glad to have Closeup Diamond Attraction in my beauty arsenal, because it highlights my smile. Nothing compliments your overall look better than a dazzling white smile, because it gives you that boost of confidence and it completes your total look," she shares with host Teresa Herrera. "A smile is your best accessory!" she exclaims as she turns to her groom Sen. Chiz Escudero, who nods in agreement.

Closeup Diamond Attraction is available in all leading supermarkets

Inspired by the latest technologies in cosmetic dentistry, the toothpaste formula works by utilizing Blue Light Technology, which is activated through a blue covarine foam, that neutralizes the yellow tones on teeth, instantly making teeth look whiter and brighter," shares renowned cosmetic dentist Dr. Cecile Infantado.

She adds:" And unlike other whitening treatments available in the market (a trip to the dentist for this particular treatment can cost anywhere from P15,000 to P25,0000), Closeup's Diamond Attraction is easy on the pocket and is safe for everyday use. And added benefit, there's no annoying teeth sensitivity (pangingilo) that usually comes with the typical whitening treatments."

Tips for a fresh, radiant look
By celebrity makeup artist Xeng Xulueta

1. To instantly transform accentuate your eyes, create the perfect brow with K-Palette's Real Lasting Eyebrow Liner. Strong brows add structure and easily removes years from your face.
2. Brighten your pearly whites with a quick brush using Closeup's Diamond attraction.
3. To make your smile even brighter, add a dash of ruby on your pout. Darker shades like pantone's color of the year, Marsala, or NARS 'velvet matte lip pencil in Dragon Girl will instantly make your smile pop out.

Sofitel Philippine Plaza: Health & Wellness

Photo from www.sofitelmanila.com

Scents of chrysanthemum float through the warmly lit open space while the sophisticated simplicity of the Asian-inspired spa with bamboo details and lulling water fountains set the tone for a serene salon experience. And here at the Philippines’ newest medical tourism destination, Sofitel Philippine Plaza’s Philippe’s Salon, LeSpa and The Zen Institute – only the latest and the best in medical facilities and beauty expertise are offered. 

"We wanted to bring in only the best,” says Sofitel’s general manager Goran Aleks about the luxury hotel’s grand plans to position itself as a medical tourism destination. “We did our research in Manila and found that the most knowledgeable celebrity hair salon was Philippe’s Salon, Manila’s premiere luxury salon, and for medical spa, (it) was The Zen Institute.”

Aleks explains that as a world-class hotel, they wanted to offer a really great beauty, health and wellness package to guests. “If you’re having something (cosmetic) done, might as well be pampered in the process,” Aleks beams, “And here at Sofitel, we cover all the bases.”

Photo from www.facebook.com/PhilippeTordjmanSalon

Philippe’s Salon: A French Touch

Philippe’s Salon and its staff, led by celebrated French hair artist Philippe Tordjman, brings artistry into hair care, using the very best and latest in hair care techniques and technology. As L’Oreal’s Artistic Ambassador in Asia, Tordjman has personally styled Hollywood celebrities like Antonio Banderas, Justin Timberlake, Jojo, Julio Iglesias, Meg Ryan and Melanie Griffith – just to name a few. He has even attended to heads of state like former President GMA and US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton when she visited the Philippines. 

From cutting to coloring to styling, Tordjman boasts that his fully equipped salon and internationally-trained staff is prepared to take on any task, even the most daunting and under the most stressing of conditions like weddings. “Anyone who is getting married can be really pleased because we can organize everything at once. Before it was a one-year preparation but now we can do treatments on the day itself if needed.” If the bride wants to turn from a brunette to a red head on her magical day, Philippe can ensure that her dream comes true. 

Must Try: Keratin Complex Smoothing Therapy

Philippe’s Salon is one of the few salons worldwide that offers the Keratin Complex Smoothing Therapy, the number one smoothing system in the world developed by world-renowned stylist, salon owner and television personality, Peter Coppola. The treatment infuses natural keratin deep into hair’s cuticle; taking care of 95 percent of your hair’s frizz and 60 percent of its dryness. By removing all of the impurities, the Keratin Complex Smooth Therapy leaves your mane silky smooth and manageable with an evident added shine. 

The Zen Institute: Feeling of Zen

LeSpa and The Zen Institute (located within the LeSpa) is where the best of massage therapy and medical technology meet. Advocating a holistic approach to beauty and wellness, Dr. Mary Jane “MJ” Torres-Valdecañas, head doctor, does not only offer natural, non-surgical and non-invasive beauty solutions like facial contouring and body sculpting, but also helps develop weight management programs for her clients, educating them on nutrition and diet. 

Must try: Resonax

Europe’s latest non-surgical technology for face and body sculpting called Resonax is every hectic businesswoman’s dream treatment because the procedure can be squeezed into your coffee break. The Resonax introduces electrode doses into the body that hasten the process of dissolving fat and help tighten the skin, Dr. MJ explains. Used in combination with the weight management program of SoFit, Sofitel’s fitness center, Resonax can instantly trim inches off from the waist, abdomen and face. Lipotherapy treatments such as Resonax will entail around 5-12 sessions but sessions can be customized to fit the client’s schedule. 

Spatastic: LeSpa

At LeSpa, clients can delight in a combination of traditional pampering rituals and modern treatments set in the tranquil Asian setting. Exclusive signature treatments and pampering body rituals, using unique French techniques and premium French products can be enjoyed further by booking the exclusive spa suites, which have spectacular views of the Manila Bay. LeSpa offers numerous non-therapeutic procedures designed to encourage feelings of wellness, from soothing facials that leave the skin looking firmer and radiant to stimulating massages and body treatments. 

Must Try: Mayon Wrapsody & Kerala’s Smile

The Mayon Wrapsody, one of Sofitel’s unique traditional treatments, is an hour and a half long massage that uses clay from our own Mayon volcano. The remineralising volcano clay wrap aids in increasing body temperature, which in effect helps increase body metabolism. The treatment also utilizes the combined benefits of natural skin-lightening calamansi and papaya scrub to detoxify, soothe and attain balance. 

On the other hand, Kerala’s Smile treatment eliminates muscular tension, fatigue, body heat, digestion problems as well as rejuvenates one’s body from jet lag. The signature soothing entails a remineralising and stimulating rubdown that’s finished off with a foot massage using a Kansu bowl. An additional benefit is that it is said to improve sleep quality.

Fortunately today, “A beautiful woman doesn’t have to choose between living a great life and looking 10 years younger – but living a great life can lead to looking 10 years younger.” Sofitel Philippine Plaza’s beauty and wellness triumvirate: Philippe’s Salon, LeSpa and The Zen Institute – the newest medical tourism destination – won’t hesitate to pull out all the stops to make sure that a woman is beautiful, inside and out. 

First published in PeopleAsia Magazine.

Oh Boy Obagi: Skin Miracles

Pricking and pinching, layering and peeling, slathering and steaming — we’ve all heard the “tricks” and “quick fixes” to control our wild breakouts or cover up our fine lines, and most of us have met it with failure. And this is not surprising, says Aimee DeMarais, pronounced “de meh-ray,” international education and training manager of Obagi Medical Inc., as these products, may they be topical lotions and ointment creams, only solve the problem superficially. Obagi, on the other hand, takes a revolutionary turn, inspiring the trend in skin health care today by introducing a milder, less risky therapeutic approach to skin-aging by going beyond the skin’s surface and actually treating living tissue.

“Obagi is perfect for Filipino skin because it’s specifically formulated for Asian and Mediterranean skin,” says DeMarais. Having educated and trained Obagi professionals, doctors and distributors for over three years and having seen the results of Obagi medical skincare first hand, DeMarais stands by the brand exclaiming that “it had truly taken off years from my face.” And with her beautiful sun-kissed glow and the fresh youthful glance of a young 20-year-old (she is 34), one does not have to think twice. (She uses the Obagi Nu Derm system in her daily skin regimen.)

With her hectic schedule, traveling for assignments that allow her only to stay a few days at a time in each country, the strawberry blonde bombshell says that looking picture perfect is never as tedious as it was before. With her healthy skin, all she needs is just a whip of lip gloss and a pat of color on her eyes and she’s done!

She traveled recently to the Philippines for Obagi’s 11th anniversary to educate the market on the new hot products of the Obagi skin care line. She shared her company’s exciting innovations to the excitement of dermatologists and patients in attendance.

The Elastiderm eye treatment and the Elastiderm décolletage system are two of the most anticipated products as they target the next concerns of skin-aging — the sagging skin and wrinkles under the eyes, face and neck. By using a revolutionary bi-mineral complex called Copper Zinc Malonate, the Elastiderm eye treatment works to help restore the elasticity around your eyes and reduce visible fine lines and wrinkles in as little as two weeks. As we age, the elastin and the collagen which are responsible for our skin’s tensile strength no longer produce at the same rate so our skin becomes weaker and starts to show the unsightly lines. The Elastiderm system replenishes both skin components by stimulating cells to produce them faster, giving the eye area the ability to bounce back so that skin looks, feels and acts younger. Say goodbye to paralyzing botox! 

Another product that is a welcoming relief to a population of patients is the Rosaclear system, which is the only complete therapeutic system specifically tailored for rosacea patients. Though rosacea is a harmless cosmetic condition which causes facial eurythema (redness), it can be quite uncomfortable for the patient. It is more common among Caucasians but it could also affect people of ethnicities with it being three times more common in women. The Obagi Rosaclear system effectively treats the redness through the use of calming and anti-inflammatory agents, minimizing the signs of rosacea resulting in a clearer, calmer and smoother complexion.

One of the other treatments that is a must mention is the Obagi Blue Peel, which is the first controllable chemical peel engineered by Dr. Zein Obagi himself. Named after its patented blue base, the Obagi Blue Peel has received much acclaim for its new, far milder, multi-staged skin resurfacing system which has become the alternative to much riskier, harsher skin peels on the market. The chemical peel works by removing the topmost layers of the skin revealing fresh, younger looking skin. Used in conjunction with the Obagi Nu-Derm System, the Obagi Blue Peel uses trichloroacetic acid (TCA) which is the active ingredient used by thousands of doctors to treat acne, rosacea, wrinkles, fine lines, age spots and photo damage. Though it will leave a slight bluish tint on your face for up to a day and the peeling process days after may become a bit unsightly, the visible results will however outweigh the inconveniences.

Obagi systems can and will show results, may your skin condition be a minor or major problem, because they treat the damage at the cellular level and the systems are tailored specifically to suit each patient’s needs. While Obagi seems to be the solution to all our skin problems, Obagi systems are not quick fixes, DeMarais says. She stresses, “It’s a rejuvenation process. It’s a type of maintenance (therapy) that takes commitment on the part of the patient.”