Ask any makeup artist, beauty editor or woman what’s on their to-do list when they travel, and one of the sure things on that list is shopping (or hoarding, for that matter) for beauty products not available in Manila.
Luckily, thanks to some enterprising folks and the Internet, some of these “cult” beauty products from abroad are easily available to us with a simple click of a mouse.
And with Christmas fast approaching, gift shopping online is far less stressful than dealing with heavy traffic and fighting hordes of shoppers in the mall.
While most online shopping beginners are daunted by the thought of giving their credit card details to just any website, what’s important is to check out the reputation of the site you are visiting to ensure a hassle-free shopping experience.
But if you’re really not comfortable with the security of the site, some local sites offer other payment options like PayPal, bank deposit, or cash on delivery (COD).
I’ve tried a few online sites which have some impressive offerings. These are www.seektheuniq.com, https://digital-traincase-makeup-boutique.myshopify.com/, www.zalora.com.ph and https://facebook.com/frenchmacaroonsonlineboutique.
Some brands and products worth trying:
La Roche-Posay Anthelios XL
The sun-care range recommended by most dermatologists, the Anthelios XL range is touted as the best because of the brand’s high SPF; and it works even for extra-sensitive skin with its fragrance-free and paraben-free formulas.
Clarisonic
For the skincare savvy, Clarisonic is a cleansing system that’s supposed to remove as much as six times more dirt, oil and makeup than regular cleansing. It also helps reduce lines and pores, and increases the absorption of your skincare creams. A bit pricey, but loyal users claim this has made a big difference on their skin. This isn’t for everyday use, though—go easy if you have extra-sensitive skin.
Embryolisse
Since its launch in 1950, this French pharmacy staple has become, for many beauty insiders, the gold standard for facial moisturizers. Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentre has been used a cleanser and makeup remover, as makeup primer, and even as a hair-styling aid. This might be a bit heavy for our tropical climate, but if you have dry skin or traveling to colder destinations, this is one of the best there is.
Bioderma Créaline H20
Bioderma’s famous Solution Micillaire water cleanser is both thorough and gentle, making it a staple for models and makeup artists. One sweep is all you need to remove all traces of dirt and makeup. If you’re traveling in colder climates, this cleanser is highly recommended, as it won’t dry out your skin like foam rinse-off types.
Lucas’ Papaw Ointment
A staple in Australia, Lucas’ Papaw Ointment has beneficial ingredients that work wonders for sunburn, itchy bug bites, minor wounds and chapped lips. What’s even better is that it is made from safe local products in Brisbane, including locally grown fresh fruit like papaya. You can apply this on dry feet and cuticles as well, and it even lasts overnight if you need relief while you sleep.
Zoya
A well-known toxin-free brand of nail polish, Zoya has become a hit with its wide color range and reasonable price. The hard-to-find textured formula PixieDust remains popular with nail polish addicts.
Seche Vite
Hailed as the fastest-drying top coat by magazine editors. If you’re a nail polish addict like me, this helps make your manicure last longer.
Innisfree
One of the brands sold by Korean cosmetics giant Amore Pacific Corporation, the Innisfree line has a more “natural” approach, like the use of ingredients such as olive and volcanic clay. The brand’s Green Tea Seed Serum is popular for its lightweight texture and moisturizing properties.
Naruko
One of Vanessa Mayuga-Santos’ (aka #thevainmama on Instagram) discoveries on www.seektheuniq.com, Naruto, a skincare line from Taiwan, is slowly gaining fame for its effective products at affordable prices. The line’s most popular variant, the Tea Tree Oil-Out line, is recommended for oily skin and removing blackheads. If you have sensitive skin, the brand’s Facial White Illuminating Cotton Pads has a textured cotton side that gently exfoliates, and a silk side that massages your skin.
Mustela
Another popular French pharmacy brand, Mustela’s natural formulas are not only effective for babies; the brand is getting raves from adults as well. Mommies love to use the brand’s Hydra-Stick (as a lip balm) and Body Lotion, while the PhysiObebe No-Rinse Cleansing Fluid also doubles as a makeup remover. For skin irritations, I often reach for the brand’s Stelatria Purifying Recovery Cream. This brand is also available at some retail outlets. But sometimes I opt to buy this online, since it’s more convenient, plus the price is the same.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios XL and Lucas’ Papaw Ointment are available at https://digital-traincase-makeup-boutique.myshopify.com/; Clarisonic is available at https://facebook.com/frenchmacaroonsonlineboutique; Innisfree, Naruto, Embryolisse, Seche Vite, Bioderma Crealine, and Mustela are available at www.seekthuniq.com; Zoya is available at www.zalora.com.ph.
E-mail the author at frontrowedit@gmail.com.