ADD TO CART: 9 under-the-radar self-care items

I can see you spending your payday long weekend going from one online shop to another. Don’t feel guilty! We’re doing the same thing. I won’t judge you on making those purchases. Go ahead and type “Mine” in the comments section of that cute pop-up.

What I’m here to do is to give you some insider info on skincare and personal care products. They’re the type that I’ve tried and loved to a point that I don’t even want to share them with you. You know the types of items, right?

Thinking it over, I let my editor’s duty take over and created this list. Some items here have just been released and will soon be favorites. Some have been available for a while but seem to be sleeper hits. All of them are necessary in your check out page.

#1 Belo Underarm Whitening Cream

You’ve probably tried so many whitening products at this point for your underarms. None of which have worked. Perhaps it’s because none of them have the magic ingredients of alpha arbutin and hydroxyphenoxy propionic acid. These are in this affordable product that absorbs quickly, is not sticky, and works in two weeks!

Available via BeautyMNL.

#2 Love Beauty And Planet Tea Tree & Vetiver Body Wash

There’s something special in the subtle scent of vetiver that’s relaxing and luxurious. It reminds me of overnight stays at a hotel. You get extra pampered with tea tree oil, a known antibacterial and antimicrobial ingredient.

Available via Lazada.

#3 Bio-Oil Dry Skin Gel

One tiny dot of this moisturizes and relieves dry, tight-feeling hands caused by frequent (but necessary!) handwashing and the harsh cleaning agents we use. You can also use it to care for any other dry areas on your body like elbows and knees. Spot this as one of Martine Cajucom-Ho’s picks on her Instagram!

Available at Watsons.

#4 Hada Labo Deep Clean & Pore Refining Face Wash

You’ve heard Hada Labo’s Hydrating Lotion and the hype that comes along with it. Friends who have visited Japan tell me of its cult status in the country, as they show me the Hada Labo hoard they brought back home. As a woman with oily skin, I was a bit hesitant to try the brand until I spotted this facial wash. With Japanese green tea and bentonite clay, this leaves the skin refreshed. It also soothes any irritation and helps in drying up active pimples.

Available via The SM Store on Lazada.

#5 Close Up All Around Fresh 

I’m a fan of Close Up since it doesn’t leave a harsh sting in my mouth. But that doesn’t mean to say it leaves your dental care lacking. This new line that comes in Cool Mint and Soothing Menthol assures a deep clean as it fights bacteria, lifts plaque, and prevents cavities.

Available at select personal care shops.

#6 Snail White Glow Potion AHA·BHA Toner

There are many advantages to an AHA/BHA toner. You can see how they lighten spots, smoothen the skin, and give you that natural glow in a few days. There is one disadvantage to them, however. They’re so effective that they often are sold-out quickly! So when SnailWhite, one of Thailand’s leading skincare brands, brought their Glow Potion to the Philippines, a lot of people found an alternative to their holy grail AHA/BHA toners. Yours truly included.

Available via Beauty MNL.

#7 Ambi Pur Fabric Refresher and Antibac Spray 

A little before I head out for some errands, I spray this on my cloth mask to keep the germs away. It’s a ritual that at first didn’t know I needed, but now is an extra precaution I’m glad to take. Use it also for your clothes, towels, and curtains!

Available via Zalora. 

#8 NIVEA Fair & Glow MicellAIR Cleanser 0% Alcohol

I’m partial to using micellar water to cleanse off light makeup. I’m also very particular how it shouldn’t have alcohol in it because that makes my skin dry. This one from Nivea’s new Blooming Pink Range steps it up with Hokkaido Rose, so you get some antioxidants every time you use. Your skin receives some nourishment without the sting!

Available at Watsons.

#9 Posh Nails Nail Wraps

You have to stop me from raving about this. It’s the dummy-proof way to cool nail art. You can buy a pack and stick to the given theme or buy a couple and mix and match the prints. (Pro tip: Paint a clear top coat over them so it can last up to a week!) It’s an affordable way to get a professional-looking manicure. I’m hoarding a few packs for future trips.

Available via Shopee