The infamous multistep routine is a blessing on most days, but on the warmest of them, I can’t help but feel like a moist, layered cake.

 

We’ve got climate change to blame and while I understand that there are far worse things (i.e. typhoons) this brings, it’s still significant to note how a big phenomenon can affect people in the smallest ways.

 

Hence, how can we adapt to the country’s hotter weathers? Try this approach I’ve taken recently.

 

Keep your skincare lightweight.

 

Daytime routines should contain less and be built on gentle, light and effective items.

 

 

It is refreshing to use the Bioderma Sensibio H20 Makeup-removing Micelle Solution in the morning. I feel a bit better about my skin (a.k.a. not breaking out and only peppered by hyperpigmentation). It’s also a good alternative to cleansing oils when removing makeup in the evening.

 

When I need to bring out the big guns, I use the Ciracle Anti-Blemish Foam Cleanser to keep doing what last night’s acids try to do: keep my skin clear and fight off the zit-causing bacteria. Infused with brightening rice ferment filtrate and sophora japonica flower extract, this helps calm troubled skin.

 

Ditch creams, opt for gels.

 

Pair your lightweight cleansing routine with gel-based and oil-free products that help with moisturizing. It’s wrong to think that just because we live in a place with a humid weather, we won’t need the extra hydration. In reality, we need it more.

 

I love the convenience brought by my It’s Skin Power 10 Effector Serums. I’ve heard mixed reviews about its effectiveness, but so far, my Licorice, Arbutin, and Propolis serums are perfect for keeping my skin bouncy and glowing.

 

For those who like products in larger packaging, the new Scinic Centella 100 All-In-One Ampoule that comes in a pump bottle is value for your money. Top off your routine with the hardworking Bioré UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence with SPF 50 PA+++ to protect you from the harsh rays outside.

 

 

Wear heavy-duty yet long-wearing makeup.

 

This is where it gets tricky. Asian makeup (read: Korean, Japanese, Taiwanese), like the BB cream, is usually made with a dry and windy climate in mind. Not to mention, most of these come in limited fair shades that don’t suit other darker Asian skin.

 

Thankfully, the Korean-made Eres Tú Peptide Special BB Cream adapts well to skin like ours. It comes in a single shade—yes, I can hear your thoughts from here!—but don’t mistake it for not being wearable. Lightweight and beneficial for its antiwrinkle peptides, this new product blends well on the skin without making it look too pale and ghostly.

 

For some color, adopt the “Igari” trend without overdoing it especially in this weather. Say all you want but the Ever Bilena Cheek Blush in Raisin is one of the most pigmented and flattering shades I’ve worn since I started putting color on my face. Wears a long time on the cheeks, a pot is so affordable, you might want to grab Honest and Earth for a sun-kissed glow. —CONTRIBUTED