Tired of Trying Skincare Trends That Don’t Work? Read This First

As rising costs force Filipinos to be more deliberate about where they spend, so are skincare choices—with consumers looking for products they can rely on to support their skin health over time. Rather than a cosmetic luxury, skincare is now regarded as a necessity for personal wellness.

However, navigating physical retail aisles and online platforms can be difficult because buyers must deal with competing claims, complex scientific jargon, and a constant influx of new ingredients.

This demand for clarity and science-backed solutions drove the 8th annual National Healthy Skin Mission at SM Makati, which was organized by skincare brand Cetaphil in collaboration with premier retailer Watsons and SM Beauty under the theme "Healthy Skin Deserves No Compromise". The initiative gives consumers direct access to clinically tested products designed to address specific skin needs.

“We see firsthand how the skincare landscape is evolving. Today’s shoppers aren't looking for quick fixes or trend-driven routines anymore. As the country's leading destination for health and wellness, we are proud to be the trusted bridge that connects shoppers directly to clinically proven, dermatologist-recommended solutions like Cetaphil.” ~Pat Muyco, Group Senior Category Manager for Watsons

The event was made even more inspiring by insights from skincare and industry experts, who shared important reminders about understanding our skin, proper skincare, and why sensitive skin requires special care. We also heard from Anne Curtis, who discussed her own skincare journey and experience with Cetaphil.

“We are committed to helping more Filipinos achieve healthy skin by changing how they choose clinically proven skin care. As a sensitive skin expert and category leader, Cetaphil brings skin science and dermatological expertise through products that consistently work to add more value to consumers’ health and wellness journey.” ~Mark Sarmiento, Business Unit Head for Cetaphil

Don’t compromise your skin health with quick fixes 

Making intentional skincare choices has become especially important for Cetaphil Brand Ambassador Anne Curtis as her skin adapts to the demands of a busy lifestyle, from long days on set and frequent makeup application to changing environments.

“There’s so much going on online, so it’s important to know that the brand you’re using is something you can trust because it is certified by experts. Don’t compromise your skin health with quick fixes or following trends. You deserve to take care of your own skin, but it’s also important to educate yourself about what’s available.” ~Anne Curtis, Cetaphil Brand Ambassador

Dr. Chesca Quinio-Calayag also adds that having healthy skin isn't about doing the longest routine or chasing every new ingredient that comes out. 

“It’s more about choosing products that are proven to work, gentle enough to protect your skin barrier, and effective enough that you don't have to keep replacing products that disappoint you.” ~Dr. Chesca Quinio-Calayag

Meanwhile, Dr. Sella Umali-Adasa reminded consumers to stop consuming products that leave adverse reactions.

“Healthy skin shouldn't come at the expense of irritation. If your skincare constantly leaves your skin feeling tight, stinging, or uncomfortable, that's not something you should simply accept as normal.” ~Dr. Sella Umali-Adasa

The mission also emphasizes the importance of understanding that healthy skin is not always perfect. According to Abe Mationg, Head of Marketing for Cetaphil, consumers should feel empowered to make choices based on their skin’s needs. 

“It’s mainly about making informed choices and listening to experts. All of us are different, so our skin isn’t perfect all the time. Sometimes you wake up feeling differently about your skin. But what’s important is to be gentle with yourself and have the right skincare for your skin type.” ~Abe Mationg, Head of Marketing for Cetaphil

The National Healthy Skin Mission at SM Makati is open to the public until August 31, and includes interactive installations, dermatologist consultations, and science-based skincare guidance.

Learn more about dermatologist-certified care by following Cetaphil PH on Instagram and Facebook. Cetaphil products are available nationwide at Watsons and SM Beauty stores, or online via Watsons Online.

Out and About with Cetaphil Sun: #GotYouCovered While You Touch Grass

In a society where being continuously online is the norm, more Filipinos are experiencing the effects of digital weariness. Long hours in front of computers, fast-paced routines, and limited access to peaceful locations have left many people feeling both overstimulated and detached.

Responding to the growing need to unplug and reconnect, Cetaphil Sun hosted the Cetaphil Sun Crawl, titled Out and About with Cetaphil Sun: Expert Sun Protection #GotYouCovered, a thoughtfully curated day of outdoor experiences designed to encourage presence, movement, and meaningful connection, all while remaining protected from the sun.

The Cetaphil Sun Crawl, inspired by the growing "touch grass" movement, reimagines common outdoor experiences as opportunities to recharge without fear of sun harm. Because being outside should not be a source of concern, especially when your skin is protected by #GotYouCovered experts.

A Morning in Motion

The day began with a brief morning run, which set the tone for an exciting start outside. Led by fitness coach Cass Salandan, the visitors, who included fitness personalities, outdoor enthusiasts, and lifestyle content creators, were directed through an approachable yet stimulating exercise meant to get them moving.

A full-body warm-up preceded the 20-minute LIIT (Low Intensity Interval Training) workout, which concluded with a squat-and-shuttle. It ended with a focused cool-down to return participants to a condition of relaxation. The event prompted participants to reconnect with their bodies, to move with intention rather than intensity.

Wellness, Slowed Down

From dance to mindfulness, visitors moved into a Wellness Wind Down in Washington Sycip Park, where the tempo slowed and the focus switched inward.

Carina Silverio, yoga coach and mindfulness teacher, led the class, which began with a gentle welcome and grounding practice to help participants settle into the room. This was followed by guided movement and breath work, which are basic, accessible activities that help to relieve tension and bring awareness back to the body.

Participants next engaged in an outdoor connection exercise that promoted reflection and presence in both the environment and the group. The event ended with silent repose and integration, allowing for serenity, which is often lacking in daily routines.

Expert Conversations

The day finished with an intimate supper, which brought guests together for meaningful discussions about modern wellness and skin health.

Dermatologist Dr. Gaile Robredo-Vitas emphasized the growing importance of balance in today's hyperconnected environment. As people seek more purposeful offline experiences, even basic outdoor activities such as strolling, dining outside, or spending time with friends can greatly boost overall well-being.

However, in a nation like the Philippines, where UV exposure is a daily occurrence, these brief outside experiences have a cumulative effect on the skin. Prolonged exposure can cause sensitivity, dehydration, early aging, and long-term harm.

Dr. Robredo-Vitas noted that good sun care today extends beyond protection. It must also promote hydration and reinforce the skin barrier, particularly for individuals exposed to heat, pollution, and urban pressures. Gentle, well-formulated solutions are essential for reducing irritation while maintaining comfort for everyday wear.

Finally, skin protection should feel empowering, not restrictive. People can confidently spend more time outside, fully immersed in real-world experiences, thanks to modern, science-backed formulations that are lightweight and gentle on sensitive skin.

#GotYouCovered Wherever You Go

The Cetaphil Sun Crawl serves as a reminder that "touching grass" does not mean stepping off the grid, but rather achieving balance in little, everyday ways. Whether it's a morning run, a peaceful stroll in the park, or simply getting outside, these purposeful behaviors can break the cycle of digital tiredness.

With Cetaphil Sun, outdoor time becomes what it should be: liberating, simple, and stress-free. Because caring for your skin allows you to stay longer, connect deeper, and completely experience life outside of the screen.

Cetaphil Sun is available at all leading retailers like Watsons and Mercury Drugstore, and in all leading e-commerce such as Shopee, Lazada and TikTok Shop.

 

ABOUT CETAPHIL

Cetaphil is a globally trusted skincare brand developed by dermatological experts and backed by over 75 years of scientific research. Known for its gentle yet effective formulations, Cetaphil is designed to care for even the most sensitive skin—strengthening the skin barrier while addressing everyday concerns such as dryness, irritation, and environmental stress.

With a commitment to advancing skin science, Cetaphil continues to innovate with targeted solutions that support skin health at every stage of life.