Welcome to the Metro Beauty Awards 2024!
For this round of winners, we're zeroing in on the best body care products and favorite fragrances of the season! Just as much as we give attention to the skin on our faces, the same goes for the rest of our bodies. We give it the TLC it needs with body washes, lotions, scrubs, treatments, and more—all equally important in building a good routine. As for fragrances, these picks may be personal, but we're here to give you an idea about what scents are worth getting a second spritz of. As the new year beckons, it's probably time to discover your new signature scent. We hope this list offers you the inspiration you need.
Metro Beauty Awards 2024: Best Body & Fragrance Finds
Check out our list of the best body care and fragrance finds below:
BODY CARE
"At first, I didn't think it would have any effect on me but with continued use, I noticed that the parts that i used this product on did seem lighter and brighter. It'll just require you to do an extra step as you need to use this with a loofah or a towelette and it might sting a little but the result it gives makes the effort worth it." - Chin Ann Obiedo, Contributing Beauty WriterSHOP HERE
"I love this product!I brought it with me to a beach trip to make sure my legs are smooth and hairfree. They delivered on thier promise that in 10 minutes your hair will rinse and rub right off with water. It didn't leave my skin irritated. The foaming technology isn't just a gimik. It helps with even application. There may be a bit of a learning curve on your spray technique depending on your preference. Overall, would recommend!" - Olivia Estrada, Contributing Beauty Writer | Available at department stores
"My nails have gone through a lot this year as I've experimented with many different kinds of nail polish, nail extensions, stick-ons, and more. I've seen it weaken after some time, and I needed it to return to health. This was a godsend! It's pretty straightforward—just apply like nail polish, and be diligent with it to see results!" - Kate Paras-Santiago, Beauty EditorSHOP HERE
"Cetaphil is an icon in the skincare industry, so it is no surprise that its Moisturising Lotion variant delivers. Great for sensitive skin, highly moisturizing, scent-free—everything you want from a no-fuss, hardworking product for your entire body." - Kate Paras-Santiago, Beauty EditorSHOP HERE
"I've reached the point where I really do not like the smell of traditional acetone. Perhaps the strong scent irritates my sense of smell, so I try to avoid it at all cost. This innovation by Curated Colors is a great solution for that—it's non-acetone based yet powerfully removes nail polish effortlessly." - Kate Paras-Santiago, Beauty EditorSHOP HERE
"This product immediately nourishes the hands. It's a potent little tub that does the job ad it advertises: creaminess personified in one pot." - Randz Manucom, Fashion EditorSHOP HERE
"Every time I use this shower gel, I feel an intense freshness, thanks to its combination of revitalizing peppermint and grapefruit. While its cooling sensation is perfect for the summer, I find that it energizes me in the mornings and gets me ready for the day ahead! Such a shower treat!" - Kate Paras-Santiago, Beauty EditorSHOP HERE
"I'm a huge fan of anything cooling, so this was a no brainer winner for me. The difference lies in its long-lasting ability to keep your body cool with just a few spritzes!" - Kate Paras-Santiago, Beauty EditorSHOP HERE
"Lavender is an ingredient that draws me in, as I value rest and relaxation. Snake Brand was able to perfectly incorporate it into the"eir cooling powder—giving you a perfect combination of freshness and a relaxing scent. Stock up on this summer staple, STAT!" - Kate Paras-Santiago, Beauty EditorSHOP HERE
"There are many kinds of lash extensions in the market today. If your preference is the light and wispy kind, I recommend checking out Tokyo Glam. I specifically tried out the Glam Lash where short and long lashes are applied alternately, creating that natural-looking effect. You still get the volume you want but the lashes don't feel heavy which I often hear people complain about when getting lash extensions. What's even better for is that Tokyo Glam now offers the revolutionary LED Lash Extensions, a service that utilizes advanced LED light technology to ensure durability, with lashes lasting 1.5 to 2 times longer than traditional lash extensions." - Grace Libero-Cruz, People EditorBOOK HERE
"Tropicana Natural Coconut Soap has a wonderful scent, like a creamy ice cream, that feels refreshing. It lathers nicely and leaves the skin feeling smooth and well-moisturized. Unlike many other soaps, it doesn’t dry out the skin and keeps it soft for longer. The light coconut smell stays on your skin even after bathing, keeping you feeling fresh. Overall, it’s a great choice for anyone wanting a gentle, natural soap that smells amazing." - Randz Manucom, Fashion EditorSHOP HERE
"GynePro's Ultra Protection Feminine Wash is said to be perfect for "red" days, aka days when you have your period. I like that it emphasizes this, because we ladies need that protection from bacteria, odor, itch, and irritation. It's also OB-GYNE prescribed, so that's a plus for me! This is definitely staying in my shower!" - Kate Paras-Santiago, Beauty EditorSHOP HERE
"The Vitanature+ Anti-Blemish Natural Bar Soap is a great option for anyone with acne-prone skin. It works particularly well for targeting bacne, helping to reduce breakouts and control excess oil. The 1% salicylic acid is effective without being too harsh, and I noticed a visible improvement in my skin’s texture after consistent use." - Raff Colmenar, Art DirectorSHOP HERE
"Luminisce Holistic Innovations launched their EXION line of treatments in a big way this year—highlighting the machine's 4-in-1 technology that offers a V-shape face via tightening and lifting, body toning, and even intimate area rejuvenation. I tried both treatments for the face and my arms, and I can say that a single session already gives a noticeable difference. This machine is a winner for those who want to maximize the effects they want, minus the numerous treatments and machines that often take a lot of time." - Kate Paras-Santiago, Beauty EditorBOOK HERE
"I've lost count of how many compliments I received for my Aurora Nails! I regularly get my nails done, and it's nice to play up my routine with something dressier like this style. I think it's perfect for the holiday season, too; it adds that much-welcome dazzle to a party look and elevates a casual ensemble. Aurora Nails is, as its name suggests, inspired by the Aurora Borealis; the beautiful glow and iridescent colors of which are recreated on the nails using chrome powder on gel nails, topped off with nail film paper to achieve the shimmering, color-shifting effect. This style can be done with nail extensions, or if you already have long nails like I did, the nail technician can just do an "overlay" which also makes the process a bit faster (the whole thing takes around 3 hours, so you really need to allocate time for it)." - Grace Libero-Cruz, People EditorBOOK HERE
FRAGRANCES
"The aldehydic scent may immediately shock you as you first put it on, but I am a fan of scents that smell really clean and crisp. It gives you a strong detergent soap-like scent which truly gives you the straightforward clean vibe it desires to achieve. Fresh, powdery, with top notes of Aldehydes, Bergamot and Mandarin, middle notes of Peach, Orange Blossom, Violet, Rose, Lily of the Valley and Jasmine, and base notes of Sandalwood, Frankincense, Iso E Super, Vanilla, Musk and Heliotrope. Some may hate it, but I personally think it's an interesting pick to add to your collection." - Kate Paras-Santiago, Beauty Editor SHOP HERE
"This fragrance recently got a facelift with a new bottle, although I would have to say that I already liked its original one. The chic FAR AWAY line of fragrances by Avon is affordable luxury at its best. 'Beyond the Moon' is a favorite as it's infused with Belle de Nuit, a nocturnal flower that blooms in full in moonlight. The longer you wear this white floral scent, the more comforting and sophisticated it smells." - Kate Paras-Santiago, Beauty Editor SHOP HERE
"I was immediately drawn to its vintage-looking bottle, but even more so with its fruity floral fragrance. The scent is unisex, and features top notes of May Rose, Red Berries and Bergamot; middle notes of Peach, Magnolia and Jasmine, and base notes of Amber, Patchouli and Musk. It's the perfect daily spritz signaling a great day ahead!" - Kate Paras-Santiago, Beauty Editor SHOP HERE
"Made for lovers of the Big Apple, Bond No. 9's New York Forever evokes a celebratory spirit as it in fact highlights the brand's 20th year! The Oriental Gourmand perfume features a top note of Cinnamon, middle notes of Patchouli and Vanilla, and base notes of Amber, Honey, Moss, Labdanum, Earthy Notes and Musk. Spicy, earthy, and truly unique!" - Kate Paras-Santiago, Beauty Editor SHOP HERE
"It’s a popular and highly rated perfume for a reason. As far as women’s fragrances go, it’s less on the delicate side—which I personally prefer—but not overpowering in spite of the triple vanilla combo. It wears nicely throughout the day, tho a bit heavy to carry around in your handbag because the flagon is hefty. It feels and smells very high quality, which is what you’d expect from such a brand. Definitely a good entry from Burberry in the fragrance department." - MJ Jose, Contributing Beauty Writer SHOP HERE
"If this striking bottle isn't enough reason to get curious, then allow its composition to do the job! Top notes are Black Pepper and Sage, middle notes are Truffle and Woodsy Notes, and base notes are Vanila and Frankincense. The fresh spicy scent is definitely for those who are experimental and out for some fun!" - Kate Paras-Santiago, Beauty Editor SHOP HERE
"A perfume that gets you compliments. The floral notes and musky notes blends well together so that's in the "Goldilocks zone"—not too sweet and not to strong. It's just right so it makes for a good day to night perfume." - Olivia Estrada, Contributing Beauty Writer SHOP HERE
"Inspired by forest bathing in Japan, the highlight of this scent is the Hinoki tree. Blended with elegant Cedarwood, this Cologne Intense has a very clean, woody, fresh theme to it." - Kate Paras-Santiago, Beauty Editor SHOP HERE
"Kayali's Eden Juicy Apple has a nice fresh, crisp fruit scent but overall, it's not unique enough for it to stand out. In addition, the staying power is not that great even when you do multiple sprays." - Chin Ann Obiedo, Contributing Beauty Writer SHOP HERE
"You wouldn't guess at first glance that this perfume isa floral woody musk. Flower Ikebana by Kenzo features a special ingredient Kumquat, and middle notes of Mimosa absolute and Sesame, as well as a base note is Hinoki Wood. The result is an endearing fragrance that brings unexplainable comfort to its wearer." - Kate Paras-Santiago, Beauty Editor SHOP HERE
"A modern icon of scent, APOM, or A Part of Me, is the perfumer’s genderless scent creation that’s inspired by his visit to Lebanon. It’s a flowery amber fougere that once worn, becomes a comforting white floral scent." - Kate Paras-Santiago, Beauty Editor SHOP HERE
"A perfume that will convert you into a floral lover. My gripe with floral scents has always been that it's overwhelming and too heavy. The Marc Jacobs Daisy Wild is none of those things. It's fresh, youthful, and it blossoms more and more throughout the day. The macadamia and sandalwood notes give it a nice balance. It's a great gateway perfume to get you into scents that feel more comforting and free-spirited." - Chin Ann Obiedo, Contributing Beauty Writer SHOP HERE
"I'm drawn to masculine scents when I want to switch things up. The Sunrise Pour Homme by Moncler is a great way to discover a new scent personality, with top notes of Bergamot, Pink Pepper and Lemon; middle notes of Suede, Sage and Indonesian Nutmeg, and base notes of Frankincense, Haitian Vetiver and Patchouli. It's a citrusy, fresh aromatic fragrance that grows on you as hours pass." - Kate Paras-Santiago, Beauty Editor SHOP HERE
"The scent of this perfume exudes a rich, dry, and sensual aroma that can be both earthy and clean. The fresh aroma with leather like appeal is good for everyday scent. It's perfect for those who appreciate depth, warmth, and a bit of sensual mystery in their scent repertoire." - Randz Manucom, Fashion Editor SHOP HERE
"The new addition to the Signorina line, the Unica draws fans from lovers of sweet scents. The oriental floral fragrance blends Mandarin Orange, Sugar Cane, Sea Notes, and Bergamot, Violet, and Patchouli, among others. The beautiful bottle is a bonus!" - Kate Paras-Santiago, Beauty EditorSHOP HERE
"I can't resist a fresh-smelling scent. The Body Shop's freshest, brightest musk is an instant favorite for me as it features notes of grapefruit, green lemongrass, and bright geranium. I also like that it's cruelty-free, is made with a recyclable glass bottle, and is classified as a genderless fragrance!" - Kate Paras-Santiago, Beauty Editor SHOP HERE
"I'm a fan of The Body Shop's Full Flowers collection—vegan, long-lasting floral perfumes that uses the whole flower: Petals, leaves, and stems! The Full Magnolia EDP is a bright, fruity-floral scent that highlights precious magnolia essential oil, extracted from hand-picked magnolia flowers in the Southern provinces of China. And like other fragrances from the brand, this bottle is made from recycled glass, with a cap designed to be more sustainable, made of naturally renewable wood and cork." - Kate Paras-Santiago, Beauty Editor SHOP HERE
"Tom Ford Black Lacquer is a bold, sophisticated fragrance with smoky top notes of leather and spice. It unfolds into a heart of rich florals with hints of patchouli and vanilla, adding a touch of sweetness. The base is musky and woody, giving it depth and staying power. Designed for evening wear, it’s an opulent, memorable scent that exudes confidence and mystery, beautifully packaged in a sleek black bottle. Ideal for those who enjoy complex, statement-making fragrances. Definitely a favorite for formal events and daring nights." - Randz Manucom, Fashion Editor SHOP HERE
Stay tuned for more of #MetroBeautyAwards2024!