The world of skincare is fun—but it can also be ~confusing~ at the same time. Do you need a moisturizer when you've got an oily complexion? Is fragrance really that bad for sensitive skin? These were just some of the questions answered by skincare experts and dermatologists at Cosmopolitan Philippines and Dove's Dove Skinquiries: Ask the Experts event, which happened on September 30, 2022, at The Loft, Makati City. It was certainly a fun and insightful afternoon where Cosmo girls learned more about how they can take better care of their skin.
ICYMI, don’t fret—here's everything that went down at the beauty event:
1. Before anything else, attendees took a short quiz at the first station to find out what their *real* skin type is.
2. Right after that, these ladies had a one-on-one sesh with trusted dermatologists. When dealing with skincare issues, it's always best to consult an expert!
3. Time for a quick experiment!
The team behind Dove Philippines conducted an experiment using special papers that were made of proteins just like our skin. The team then placed these pink papers on a Dove Beauty Bar and ordinary soap. After leaving them on for a couple of minutes, the paper on the ordinary soap began to ~dissolve~. Woah! According to the experts, this demonstrates how harsh formulas damage the skin over time.
4. Later on, Cosmo girls got to unwind and mingle with each other over some delicious food and drinks.
5. Everyone was all ears during the panel discussion with skincare experts, beauty influencer Ruzzel Melendez and Cosmo.ph's Associate Editor Ira Nopuente, as well as dermatologists Dr. Mary Ann B. Jaraba-Singson, MD, DPDS, Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang, MD, DPDS, and Dr. Mara P. Evangelista-Huber, MD.
Fun fact: A healthy skin is actually slightly acidic. "Its pH level ranges from about four to six regardless of skin type," Dr. Lao-Ang explained.
That said, when looking for a cleanser, the dermatologist said that it's best to look for one that won't disrupt the pH level of your skin. Otherwise, it can lead to irritation and dryness. "Skin washes or cleansers with a pH level close to five are our best option for healthier, non-irritated skin," she noted.
Got oily skin? In case you're wondering, you *still* need a moisturizer in your life. "Oily skin can still be dehydrated," Dr. Evangelista-Huber explained. "Sometimes, our skin barrier opens up, and the water underneath escapes. That happens even in oily skin." Here's a tip we learned from the beauty pro: You can go for gel- or water-based moisturizers. Typically, these lightweight formulas are quickly absorbed by the skin so they won't feel greasy or heavy!
The panelists debunked *a lot* more skincare myths during the discussion. You can read more about it here!
See you at our next event, ladies. ;)
PHOTOGRAPHY: Ryan Ong and Deneb Villanueva
