Welcome to the Metro Beauty Awards 2024!
Skincare has grown significantly in the past few years, with brands innovating at hyper-fast speed due to the increasing market demands. Ever since well-being took center stage in our lives post-pandemic, customers have become more informed, and are more knowledgeable than ever about what works for them and what doesn't. But amid the abundance of products in the market, there can still be a sense of overwhelm and confusion as to what is worth buying for not. That's what we're here for—to try and test hundreds of skincare products and let you in on what we think is worth you hard-earned money. We're real people with real skin concerns, and here we let you in on our honest thoughts and reviews. We hope this list helps you get your skincare routine in order for the new year ahead!
Metro Beauty Awards 2024: Best Skincare Finds
Check out the winners for Best Skincare Finds:
"If you're looking for new Korean sheet masks to add to your skincare routine, these #OOTD Hydrating Serum Sheet Masks are a great discovery! Packed with powerful ingredients that aim to plump, brighten, nouris, firm, and soothe—these are the answer to tired, dull skin." - Kate Paras-Santiago, Beauty Editor | Available at Beauty Bar
"As with most retinol based products, this claims to boost the production of collagen and elastin to bring out a more youthful glow. It did not trigger any adverse reactions from my end; the retinol concentration is quite low and ideal for beginners. It has a watery texture, too, which makes it sit very lightly on the skin." - MJ Jose, Contributing Beauty Writer SHOP HERE
"This amazing new product by The Aivee Clinic promises to restore the skin's barrier, and restore it did! For me, I found the texture to be cloud-like, very lightweight, and watery upon application. It covers the skin with a film of hydration and moisture, and gradually restores the skin's health. A little goes a long way with this Ceramide Cream." - Kate Paras-Santiago, Beauty Editor SHOP HERE
"You can count on Japanese skincare brand Anessa to create a night sun care product post-sun exposure. They're that thorough. I tried using this on a beach trip—I wasn't exactly sunburnt (I take SPF seriously), but I did feel like it provided relief after a full day of sun exposure. This doesn't just give relief, it also nourishes our skin, and assists with whitening and preventing wrinkles." - Kate Paras-Santiago, Beauty Editor SHOP HERE
"I used these during a time when my skin was really in a bad state, and every single one of these helped heal my skin from irritation. I love that there's a dedicated product for day—the Triple Oat Serum, Oat Gel Moisturizer, and the Nourishing Daily Moisturizer with Sheer Tint SPF30. For evening, I get to switch to night restoration mode with their special Re-Hydrating Night Cream. A complete routine that's gentle yet effective!" - Kate Paras-Santiago, Beauty Editor SHOP HERE
"Whoever said that to have good skin, you have to spend a fortune hasn't tried Avon's ANEW Skin Renewal Power Cream. For a fraction of what you would typically spend on a luxury tub of cream, this anti-aging pick promises powerful benefits from its Protinol Technology, a formula that restores years of collagen loss to your skin. It has a light texture, and is easily absorbable by the skin when used at night. On a budget? This one's our pick!" - Kate Paras-Santiago, Beauty Editor SHOP HERE
"The Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Aqua Fresh Rice + B5 SPF 50 PA++++ is a fantastic sunscreen that checks all the boxes for me. It has a lightweight formula that absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving any greasy residue, making it perfect for daily use. I love that it’s great for sensitive skin—no irritation at all." - Raff Colmenar, Art Director | Available at Watsons
"The cream is the perfect last step for a nighttime skincare routine. It's thick and moisturizing without a strong smell. It is easily absorbed and not too greasy. I love that the main ingredient is Vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant which can protect and repair my skin even if I am exposed to everyday pollution and sun damage." - Randz Manucom, Fashion Editor SHOP HERE
"This is a godsend for my sensitive and acne-prone skin. It has become my go-to for days when my skin needs to rest and rebalance, and get its equilibrium back. This powerful formula addresses redness, lack of hydration, and is infused with prebiotics that feed good bacteria in the skin." - Kate Paras-Santiago, Beauty Editor SHOP HERE
"My skin really loves this product! It gives a smooth canvass to any of my bases-- makes my makeup last longer and product lays better. It's definitely worth the splurge!" - Chin Ann Obiedo, Contributing Beauty Writer SHOP HERE
"The first time I tried this, I immediately felt the difference and saw the appearance of my skin change. It's that potent! No wonder the label advises usage of up to once a week for new users. You can slowly add more days to your routine when your skin has become more used to its effects. It lightens, evens out skin tone especially for dark spot sufferers like myself." - Kate Paras-Santiago, Beauty Editor SHOP HERE
"Meet my newest obsession! This moisturizer and sun protection product in one has become my ultimate BFF when it comes to no-fuss skincare! It has no strong scent, is very lightweight and blends onto the skin easily, has no white cast, is very moisturizing (lasts all day!), and best of all, protects my skin from UV rays. This is a keeper!" - Kate Paras-Santiago, Beauty Editor SHOP HERE
"I started using eye cream since I was about 18 years old, and have never stopped since. So I can safely say I know the difference of what works and what doesn't. This one does. It's lightweight yes very hydrating around the eye area, and makes you wake up with refreshed, rested-looking eyes." - Kate Paras-Santiago, Beauty Editor SHOP HERE
"Clinique took its hydrating Moisture Surge to the next level with this gel cream. Immediately, you see the results—skin is seriously hydrated and that hydration lasts long. It's infused with Aloe bioferment+hyaluronic acid and contains a blend of vitamins C and E not just to moisturize but nourish as well." - Kate Paras-Santiago, Beauty Editor SHOP HERE
"Finally, a skincare with a fuss-free application to target specific fine lines near the eyes and lips. It easily glides and instantly hydrates the targeted areas." - Randz Manucom, Fashion Editor | Available at Clinique boutiques
"If you're looking for a product that does more than just color-correct, Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Color Correcting Treatment is a game-changer. The green-to-beige formula works wonders for neutralizing redness, giving the skin a more even tone with just one application. It does an excellent job of evening out my complexion. It’s definitely a must-have if you struggle with redness or irritation." - Randz Manucom, Fashion Editor SHOP HERE
"Consider your lips as an extension of your skin—in this case, Dr. Jart+ created a lip mask formula that's meant to be worn overnight. It softens, nourishes, hydrates, moisturizes the lips while you sleep." - Kate Paras-Santiago, Beauty Editor SHOP HERE
"One can never go wrong with a trusted Korean skincare brand! It's effective in making my skin moisturized and plump. You just have to apply a thin layer evenly on your face and wait a bit for your skin to soak and absorb the lightweight and gel-like formula. It has a mild scent that is refreshing, perfect to end your self care day." - Randz Manucom, Fashion Editor SHOP HERE
"I'm a big believer in Elizabeth Arden's Ceramide Capsules—I love their Daily Youth Restoring Serum as well as their Visible Brightening Spot Correcting Night Capsules! Both of these have been staples in my routine. This time around, their Retinol+HPR Ceramide Capsules contains ingredients that target aging signs, soothes irritation, and firms and strengthens the moisture barrier. I make sure to pack these in my travel kit wherever I go!" - Kate Paras-Santiago, Beauty Editor SHOP HERE
"Apart from making sure I get enough hours of sleep every day, I complement my sleep routine with a powerful skincare regimen to avoid premature skin aging. One of the brands I consider my go-tos for this endeavour is Estee Lauder and its Advanced Night Repair line. Their Overnight Treatment Cream envelopes my skin with a layer of product that works hard to make my skin look like I have complete sleep every single night!" - Kate Paras-Santiago, Beauty Editor SHOP HERE
"Face Republlic nailed this one! Blooming Essence Rose Mist is multi-functional and perfect for on-the-go people. It can be used any time of the day, under or over make up or just a refresher. It instantly hydrates and gives a nice glow to my face. It doesn't sting and gentle even for the sensitive areas of my face. It gives off glass skin, dewy look without the greasy feel and overshine." - Randz Manucom, Fashion Editor SHOP HERE
"This product makes my skin feel very soft and moisturized without being too greasy. It is thick but not heavy and a little goes a long way. I use in the morning and at night and there is no stickiness or icky feeling any time of the day." - Randz Manucom, Fashion Editor SHOP HERE
"This gentle essence is a great additional step to your skincare routine. Right after cleansing and toning, I like to use this to prep my skin for the next thicker layers I will be applying. It has a subtle scent that relaxes me and helps me enjoy the regimen even more. It softens and nourishes skin, helping repair it in the long run." - Kate Paras-Santiago, Beauty Editor SHOP HERE
"For sun protection, I always go for lightweight formulas, no white cast, and superior protection. This pick from Korean brand Innisfree ticks all boxes and truly delivers on its promises. It moisturizes while protecting from the sun, so it's a great product to use daily." - Kate Paras-Santiago, Beauty EditorSHOP HERE
"Three things I look for in a vitamin C serum: moisturizing, brightening, and most importantly, something that won’t irritate my skin. Innisfree’s Vitamin C Green Tea Enzyme Brightening Serum ticks all the boxes. After just one week of use, this serum made my skin look visibly brighter and healthier. My new favorite vitamin c serum for sure!" - Raff Colmenar, Art Director | Available at Innisfree boutiques
"If you're looking to add an extra step to your skincare routine, the Innisfree Green Tea Seed Hyaluronic Serum is a solid choice. It does a great job of moisturizing and leaves my skin feeling soft and hydrated. I’ve been using it in the mornings and nights, and it's a nice boost to my routine." - Raff Colmenar, Art Director SHOP HERE
"The Innisfree Vitamin C Green Tea Enzyme Brightening Pad is like a stronger, more convenient version of the Vitamin C serum, and it definitely delivers when it comes to brightening the skin. After using it, my skin looks more radiant and healthy, which is always a nice boost. However, I’m personally not a fan of brightening pads—they just don’t feel as customizable or effective for my skin as serums do." - Raff Colmenar, Art DIrector SHOP HERE
"As far as niacinamide and hyaluronic formulations go, this is pretty standard. It does the work for sure, but nothing earth-shaking. Felt light on the skin and easily absorbed. Good to have on your shelf if price s a concern as it's in the affordable range." - MJ Jose, Contributing Beauty Writer SHOP HERE
"At my age, I find that a simple three-step skincare routine just won't cut it if I need to maintain my skin's youthfulness. I need formulas that work hard at helping keep wrinkles and fine lines at bay, especially when life gets very busy and stressful. A little help from serums and boosters such as this pick from Korres does the trick. I like that you just need a little to see a big difference." - Kate Paras-Santiago, Beauty Editor | Available at KORRES boutiques
"Even just one night with this cream, you'll instantly notice smoother, more hydrated skin in the morning. To me, it felt like giving my skin a tall glass of water! It's a rich, thick formula so it's definitely preferable to apply it at night and let it work its magic while you sleep." - Chin Ann Obiedo, Contributing Beauty Writer SHOP HERE
"I left the mask on overnight and woke up with healthier skin. In just one use, my skin looked plumper and felt more hydrated." - Red Dimaandal, Managing Editor SHOP HERE
"Comes in a beautiful baby blue cream cube! It's a mild formula with a water-like consistency but works wonderfully on my skin. It gives a punch when it comes to moisturizing my skin but very lightweight and doesn't give a greasy finish." - Randz Manucom, Fashion Editor SHOP HERE
"I find myself excited for exfoliation day because I get to use Happy Skin from Lush! It has very tiny particles that gently exfoliates my skin of dead skin cells, dirt, and grime, and leaves it happy and refreshed. The nutty scent is a plus, too!" - Kate Paras-Santiago Beauty Editor SHOP HERE
"While some people prefer to do three simple steps in their routine, I like to add a little bit more, like an essence or a lotion, and a mask from time to time. When it comes to lotions, Origins' Mega-Mushroom Treatment Lotion is a go-to for its soothing properties and ability to shrink the appearance of enlarged pores." - Kate Paras-Santiago, Beauty Editor SHOP HERE
"The Oxecure Ultra Gentle Facial Cleanser is perfect for your morning routine. It's incredibly gentle on the skin, so it cleanses without stripping away any of your natural oils. I love how refreshing it feels without leaving my face dry or tight." - Raff Colmenar, Art Director SHOP HERE
"I love a cleanser that gets the job done. When my face is feeling weighed down by dirt and excess sebum, this is my go-to. It's a breeze to use, smells clean and pleasant, and does not dry out my skin after every wash. It's pocket-friendly, too!" - Kate Paras-Santiago, Beauty Editor SHOP HERE
"This sun protection product is going straight into my summer must-haves for it has a very lightweight formula, has a nice cooling effect on my skin, and does its job of protecting my skin from harmful rays of the sun. A no-brainer winner!" - Kate Paras-Santiago, Beauty Editor SHOP HERE
"I'm not sure if I'm supposed to pit this against the "soft" version because I would need more time using them separate from each other to come to a decision, but it works just as well as its sister product. If I were to assess it as a standalone, I more or less have the same thoughts as below." - MJ Jose, Contributing Beauty Writer SHOP HERE
"My Shiseido skincare bias aside, this cream is something I would consider adding to a regimen rotation. It smells nice, it feels divine—as lightweight as is advertised—and the skin does feel firmer in the morning if you use it at night. Packaging is A+, too. It looks and feels luxurious and is a nice weight in the hand. You are getting what you paid for." - MJ Jose, Contributing Beauty Writer SHOP HERE
"Snail secretions are one of those strange hero ingredients courtesy of Mother Nature that really get the job done. Pair it with 24K gold, and you get a product that lives up to the hype and actually works. It’s an excellently formulated anti-aging cream that boosts radiance while reducing the appearance of acne scars and fine lines over time. The texture is lightweight and velvety, and the scent subtle and pleasant. I love how it adheres to my skin without “sitting” on it. No wonder it’s always sold out online." - MJ Jose, Contributing Beauty Writer SHOP HERE
"Give me a rose-scented makeup remover and I'm sold! But seriously speaking, this rich, thick cleansing butter by The Body Shop is one of the pleasurable steps in my skincare routine these days—it smells amazing, it's able to melt away all my makeup, and leaves my skin soft and smooth after!" - Kate Paras-Santiago, Beauty Editor | Available at The Body Shop boutiques
"It's incredibly lightweight and absorbs fast, but nothing to write home about if we're weighing it against similar formulations. Plus points to The Body Shop for using raspberry seed oil as its hero ingredient." - MJ Jose, Contributing Beauty Editor SHOP HERE
"There are many aesthetic clinics in the metro, but it’s not easy to find the best one to cater to your specific needs. I recently dealt with mild acne, and it’s so frustrating to apply makeup on skin that’s dry and has comedonal acne and pimple scars. In my search for the right clinic for me, I came across Velasco Medical Aesthetics and its Acne Clear Laser Facial. It helps dry up pimple breakouts and lightens dark acne marks. The idea of laser honestly scared me, but I put my full trust in the doctors at Velasco Medical Aesthetics. I appreciated how Dr. Erika Velasco really took the time to check my skin and understand what I wanted to achieve so they could tailor-fit the treatment to my needs. I’m impressed by the quality of their service and treatments. The Acne Clear Laser Facial treatment itself was very relaxing and felt gentle on my skin. I love how smooth and clear my skin has become post-treatment." - Grace Libero-Cruz, People Editor BOOK HERE
Make sure to check out our other winners' lists for the #MetroBeautyAwards2024!