We all have our favorite beauty products. I have three—skincare, foundation and scents, with skincare as the most important.

 

The earlier and more diligently we take care of our skin, the less we will need those expensive procedures later on; and we don’t have to use heavy makeup to cover flaws. At home, I use at least six different moisturizers, depending on my skin’s need.

 

I also try most of the products that are sent for testing. The ones I am wary about, I first test on my hands before using them on my face. Last week, I received four of the most luxurious new products out there. Yes, they are all amazing—and they all fall under my fave categories.

 

La Prairie Cellular Swiss Ice Crystal, Cream Dry Oil

 

As much as the holidays are a magical time for us, it can also be a most stressful one. These products help your skin deal with stress. La Prairie Cellular Swiss Ice Crystal Cream and Cellular Swiss Ice Crystal Dry Oil featuring Swiss Ice Crystal Complex help the skin renew itself and become more resilient. They are designed to address such harmful elements as climate extremes, pollution, constant travel, lack of sleep and anxiety. Coincidentally, all these factors are present to a higher degree during the holidays.

 

Cellular Swiss Crystal Cream is an age-defying complex that strengthens the skin and helps it acclimatize to changing weather. At first I didn’t think I needed this, but I realized many Filipinos actually stay in air-conditioned rooms, which has dry air that’s very bad for our skin. And then, when we step out of the air-conditioned rooms, it’s hot and humid.

 

With continued use of this product, I noticed that my skin improved, gaining a more luminous quality.

 

It promises younger-looking skin, soft and supple texture, and fewer lines and wrinkles.

 

I also enjoy using the dry oil, which I recommend to women who have just bought a new tub of moisturizer. Using it before the moisturizer will increase the efficacy of the beauty cream.

Hermes Épice Marine

 

When it comes to scents, I think there should be only one judge of what’s good or not, and that, of course, is your nose.

 

I don’t like scents that smell synthetic. I have a few brands that I love, one of them being Hermes. The brand’s latest scent is Épice Marine, an accord of spices, sea spray and ocean waters. The scent is brisk, warm, stimulating and exhilarating. Although unisex, I find this more ideal for strong, adventurous men who are both rugged and elegant.

 

Guerlain Tenue De Perfection Foundation

 

To say that I’m obsessed with this brand is an understatement.

 

For over a decade, I have been using its star product Meteorites. I use it all the time on my bare face or on top of makeup.

 

Thus, I was excited to receive a bottle of its new foundation. Like moisturizers, I have a couple of favorite foundations that I use alternately.

 

Fortunately, my excitement was not unfounded. Guerlain’s foundation spreads out easily and evenly, and stays on for 16 hours! It’s perfect for the holidays and for every busy woman who has to run around from day to night.

 

I enjoy products that have lasting power since I don’t like touching my face. So, yes, this new foundation is a must-have.