The pandemic really is survival of the fittest—even when it comes to something as simple as putting on makeup. We do miss getting dolled up, but who else feels relieved with being unrecognizable in a face mask? Oh, the joys of incognito mode.
Wearing lipstick and highlighter underneath your face mask is a lost cause nowadays. No, it’s not like we’re going to bid them farewell forever, but for now, they’re just smearing your mask. And who sees them anyway? Lo and behold, welcome your new HBIC: the eyes. Take it away, girls.
Aside from saving up loads on other beauty products, the eyes truly take centerstage when it comes to the face. Eyelashes, eyebrow products, mascara, and eyeliner were among the most-purchased beauty tools in 2020, and we are not surprised. The eyes, Chico. They never lie.
As we perfect our ~smize~ while things are still not back to normal, we round up six local beauty brands that have the best eye-makeup essentials.
RELATED: Face Mask Etiquette: The Dos and Don’ts When You’re Out in Public
NÉW LOUNGE – Eyelash extensions
Some people experience claustrophobia when undergoing the lash extension process, but trust us, it’s worth the try! NÉW Lounge includes consultation with their lash technicians in case you’re unsure which lash shape to get and can last for almost 2-3 months depending on how you take care of it.
Branches: Greenhills, Alabang, Sgt. Esguerra, Mother Ignacia, Las Piñas, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao. They also offer home services.
STROKES BEAUTY – KeraLift, Microblading
If you prefer to keep your lashes au naturel, Strokes Beauty can give you a KeraLift—a keratin-infused lash lift treatment. They also specialize in microblading and launched brow products last year, and most recently, their velvet lipsticks.
Branches: Greenbelt, Vertis North, Shangri-La Plaza, One Uptown Residence, Molito Lifestyle Center. They also offer home services.
THE GOOD BROW – Eyebrow products
For those who just aren’t ready to commit to eyelash extensions yet, The Good Brow has products that help you maintain its bushiness—and they’re all under P500! They have everything from brow pencils, brow soap, tinted pomade to lash and brow growth serum. You can get them online here.
HUEOBSESSION – Water-activated colored liner pots
Obviously, we have Euphoria to blame for the wild eye makeup trend (despite being out for a year and a half). Thankfully, those colorful eyeliner looks you see on Pinterest are now achieveable thanks to local brand Hue Obsession. Warning: they glow in the dark, too! You can get them here.
HAPPY SKIN – Eyeshadow sticks, Brow pens, Liquid eyeshadow
Not only are they known for their cruelty-free makeup, they’re also big skincare devotees. Their recent collaboration with Kathryn Bernardo is what pastel dreams are made of. Oh, and we’re taking home all the liquid eyeshadow please. You can get them here or through Beauty MNL.
ISSY AND COMPANY – Gel and liquid eyeliner duo, Brow pencil and refiner
The best part about this local makeup line? They’re all under P400 and they encourage boys to try makeup too, because why not? Even beauty guru Manny Gutierrez approves of their quality products. You can add to cart here or through Beauty MNL.