With the air shifting and our calendars getting heavier, we tracked down the beauty essentials that stayed glued to our routines all month long.
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November hits differently — cooler days, busier nights, and that creeping sense that the year is about to sprint to the finish line. It’s the point where your skin needs more care, your glam needs more staying power, and your everyday routine demands products that won’t bail when things get hectic.
For this edition of NYLON Manila Picks, we’re spotlighting the beauty buys that earned their keep in November. These are the standouts that made our mornings smoother, our nights brighter, and our looks feel a little more effortless, no matter what the month decided to throw our way.
BIORÉ Aqua Rich UV Invisible Face Mist SPF 50 – luna zabala, marketing writer
As someone who despised the sticky, tacky feeling that the sunblock of my childhood would leave on my skin, learning to incorporate sunscreen into my skincare routine wasn’t the easiest thing. But after BIORÉ’s Aqua Rich face mist came into my life, all fell into place. From the mist’s easy application to its cooling properties, I actually find myself looking forward to putting it on. Now, when I step out, I feel ready to take on Manila’s harsh rays.
Geneo X Facial at Wunderskin Clinic – Bianca Lao, Sr. Brand Associate
This holiday season, I was lucky enough to be invited by Wunderskin to try their newest treatment offering: the Geneo X Facial—a next-level facial that harnesses four advanced technologies to stimulate collagen, tone facial muscles, and deliver a lasting, radiant glow.
Despite how high-tech it sounds, the Geneo X Facial is surprisingly simple and incredibly comfortable. It’s one of the most straightforward treatments I’ve tried, especially considering the results it promises. The session is quick, painless, and refreshingly informative; the staff walks you through each step and explains the purpose behind the technology—from Oxfoliation (a gentle exfoliation) to the collagen-boosting massage. Before the treatment begins, you’ll also have a personalized consultation where you can discuss your skin concerns, target areas, and even learn of your true ‘skin age’.
Since getting the facial, I’ve received countless compliments on how glowy and lifted my skin looks, reminding me of how everyone deserves the chance to treat themselves (yes you, bestie!) to a day of self-care, especially during the holiday rush.
Beginner-friendly, effective, and indulgent, the Geneo X Facial makes for an amazing gift to yourself (or even to a loved one) this holiday season.
Granhand Susie Salmon perfume – gelo quijencio, multimedia artist
I’ve been gravitating toward this scent so much this month. It’s light, airy, and musky. I love how it feels soft and comforting without being overpowering.
GRWM Cosmetics Bronzing Powder – Precy Tan, CS Copywriter
I like the GRWM Cosmetics Bronzing Powder in Boracay because it gives that effortless sun-kissed warmth without looking too heavy or orange. The shade works perfectly with my skin tone, and the powder blends like a dream, so I can build it up or keep it subtle depending on the look. It’s my go-to for adding a little warmth and definition to my face, whether I’m doing a full glam or an everyday look.
GRWM Lip Speak in Cheesecake Supremacy – Nica Glorioso, Features & Pop Culture Writer
This has been my go-to matte lipstick for the last three years, and while I know how much I loved it, I realized even more how much I relied on it when I lost it and basically couldn’t function makeup-wise. I immediately bought another one. The Lip Speak is matte, comfortable to wear, pigmented, and lasts forever on the lips. A true local makeup GOAT.
Issy Fat Gloss Key Charm – precy tan, cs copywriter
The ISSY Fat Gloss Key Charm makes touch-ups totally on-the-go. I have the Macabre Duo, so I always have a swipe of ghoulish mauve or glittery pink-and-silver sparkle ready. The shades are oh-so wearable, the formula is smooth and glossy, and the charm itself makes it feel like a little collectible. It’s perfect for tossing in my bag or clipping on my keys, so I’m never without an extra lippie.
Pixi On-the-Glow Blush Petite Blush – precy tan, cs copywriter
I’m obsessed with the Pixi On-the-Glow Blush Petite Blush because it’s the same glow I’ve loved for years in a size that actually makes sense for my bag. The full-size has always been a favorite, but it’s a little too big to carry everywhere. This mini version is perfect for on-the-go touch-ups, easy to blend, buildable, and gives that effortless, lit-from-within flush no matter where I am.
POSH Skin Multicolor Stars Pimple Patches – precy tan, cs copywriter
The POSH Skin Multicolor Stars Pimple Patches make dealing with breakouts feel a lot more playful. They actually work, calming and protecting blemishes while I go about my day, but the star shapes make them feel way less clinical. I can wear them at home, while running errands, or even under makeup, and they still work perfectly.
Vice Cosmetics ON THE DAILY Quartet – Precy Tan, CS Copywriter
As someone whose work bag is already way too heavy because of my giant touch-up pouch, the ON THE DAILY Quartet is a lifesaver. The blush and highlighter blend fast, the new brontour adds shape, and the tiny puff is perfect for fixing creases. Whether I’m rushing and doing my makeup in the car, running late for work, or sneaking in a retouch before an event, this little set makes everything easier. It’s small, practical, and actually earns its space in my bag.
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