Growing up, I had this mindset that fair skin is a beauty standard that we should all achieve at some point. As a kid, I was surrounded by glutathione advertisements. During reunions, my relatives pinpoint how “maitim” [dark skin complexion] I am, and then they will proceed to suggest whitening products for me to try. Back then, TV shows often featured fair-skinned protagonists and superheroes. The lack of representation of powerful morena characters had an impact on me most especially when I started hitting puberty, where comparisons are frequently made, and body insecurities are at their peak.
"The lack of representation of powerful morena characters had an impact on me most especially when I started hitting puberty, where comparisons are frequently made, and body insecurities are at their peak."
Back in 6th grade, I remember being very hesitant to get my make-up done in salons. More often than not, their foundations are three shades lighter than my actual skin color and the options for their lip colors best suit fair-skinned girls. You know, the typical shades of pink and bright red. The result? Instead of feeling pretty and confident on special occasions like my elementary graduation, I felt unattractive because of uneven make-up and contrasting lip color. It got to the point where I didn't want to wear make-up anymore because I was convinced make-up didn't do much for me.
Timeskip to the present time, I am already way past the phase where I don’t like my skin color. The discourse regarding colorism in the Philippines has made noticeable and significant progress. Like me, many Filipinas are now proud to flaunt their morena skin. The beauty market took action and improved their products into becoming morena skin-friendly.
"The discourse regarding colorism in the Philippines has made noticeable and significant progress."
Fenty Beauty, a cosmetics brand launched by Rihanna, is considered one of the pioneers of diversifying make-up shades, especially foundations. The brand focuses on inclusivity by offering a wide variety of foundation shades that caters to almost every skin tone.
Of course, our local make-up brands will not be the last ones to join this revolution. The Filipino cosmetic industry has also come a long way in stepping up to cater to the demand for a wide option of shade range. Here are some Filipino-owned brands that took the initiative and challenge to fill this morena complexion gap present in the local make-up industry.
Colourette Cosmetics is the first and leading make-up brand in the Philippines that openly advocates women empowerment, inclusivity, and diversity. The brand also takes pride in its goal to enhance Filipinos’ features rather than concealing them. Colourette offers a variety of lippie shades that perfectly fits our natural complexion. Plus, they also specialize in multi-purpose make-up. I own two of their Colourtints, and I can vouch that it further brings out the glow of my morena skin!
If you are looking for more options, Scout Beauty also offers morena-friendly lippies that are affordable, long-lasting, and flattering for Filipina skin tones. These lip products are ideal for your everyday look as you have an option if you want to have a wash of color or you just go all out with its pigment! Blushbomb is a must-try from their cosmetic line having just the perfect formula and shades for golden-skin women out there.
Going to the bases, GRWM Cosmetics has recently launched Radiance Tint, a creamy concealer with 12 shades that ranges from fair to deep. The line also took note of the undertones of the Filipinos. Reviews attest that its formula is very formidable and long-lasting, which is perfect for the Philippine climate. Moreover, the formula also contains moisture-locking properties that help maintain a fresh look throughout the day.
GRWM Cosmetics has truly taken a big step in improving the game of make-up bases locally. The brand has also announced that these 12 shades are just their initial release, and they might offer another set of shades in the following year. I was not able to try these yet because they were always sold out in the market, but I am eyeing getting my hands on these concealers soon!
Admittedly, there is still a big room for improvement to be filled by the local make-up scene, but on the other hand, it is clear how the industry is taking the necessary first steps to close these gaps. From being limited to a lighter spectrum of shades to establishing local brands to accommodate the need and demand of Filipinos for diversity and inclusivity when it comes to skin complexion. It is also important to note how the issue of colorism in the Philippines is slowly being taken out of the present generation. Indeed, it is about time to fully embrace the natural color of our skin and ditch the thought of conforming to the shades of Western beauty standards.
"Admittedly, there is still a big room for improvement to be filled by the local make-up scene, but on the other hand, it is clear how the industry is taking the necessary first steps to close these gaps."
PHOTO: GRWM Cosmetics from spot.ph
"Indeed, it is about time to fully embrace the natural color of our skin and ditch the thought of conforming to the shades of Western beauty standards."
Graphics by: Sofia Vinuya
A great blog, it has a lot of useful information to me.
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Same feeling as hindi maputi. Ganda ng article <3