Blog posts of '2018' 'March'

The thing about skin care regimens is that they only work if they are well-suited with your skin type. Otherwise, no matter how much you put on your face they will never work. So, the question now is: Do you know your skin type? If yes, then are you 100% sure?

Well, if not then you’re in luck because you’ve finally found the one article that’s going to tell you.

Deep wrinkles

Visible pores

Sagging skin

Blemishes (hyperpigmentation, dark spots, whiteheads, and blackheads)

Lack of luminosity and firmness

Appears more rough, dull, transparent, and fragile

Almost invisible pores

Dull, rough complexion

Appearance of red patches

Less elastic skin

Visible lines

Easily peels, cracks, itches, irritated/inflamed

Rough, scaly skin

Dry/normal on the T-zone but oily on the U-zone of the face

Not too dry/oily

No or few blemishes

No severe sensitivity

Barely visible pores

Radiant complexion

Looks greasy, thick, coarse, and shiny

Prone to blackheads and whiteheads

Enlarged pores that tend to break into acne

Oily on the T-zone but dry/normal on the U-zone of the face

Vulnerable to zits, pimples, acne, and cystic acne

Large pore size

Overreactive skin

People of this skin type tend to break out more often than their peers.

Now that you know the characteristics of each skin type, have you finally figured out what yours is? I bet with this knowledge in hand, you’ll be able to get the perfect regimen for your skin care. And if you need any more help, sales associates in our stores can help you get the right product combinations to achieve that clear, glowing skin!

Keen to try our products for yourself? Head to our stores at SM MOA, SM Megamall, SM Southmall, SM North EDSA, Ayala Malls The 30th, or our Fairview HQ. You can also visit our website, Facebook or Instagram pages to know more. 

Here at V&M Naturals, we greatly uphold the importance of taking care of the environment no matter where we are and what we do. And as we know our dear customers share this same mission, we thought of partnering with Maynilad in their Plant for Life initiative.

Maynilad’s Plant for Life is a reforestation and afforestation program that aims to help stop the environmental degradation that is threatening the reliability and quality of water. Since the start of the program in 2007, 436,000 saplings have already been planted in Bulacan, Muntinlupa, and the Manila Bay Coastline – where mangroves now grow. Mangroves absorb up to five times the amount of carbon into the soil compared to other forest trees, which is especially needed in the highly-polluted metro.

In line with this, we are encouraging everyone to join simply through shopping! For every P1,500 worth of purchase, one mangrove tree will be planted to curb – and hopefully stop – pollution in the city. Who knew shopping could have such a great effect on the environment, eh?

And as we celebrate Earth Month this April, we are giving 20% off purchases that include any of our featured items (except for ultimate favorites Exofobomb, Bare It All, CPC+G Oil, Bikini Bomb, and Witch Hazel Toner)! So, get ready because not only do you get your well-loved items at a discounted price, you also help in preserving the planet for the generations to come.

Keen to try these products for yourself? Head to our stores at SM MOA, SM Megamall, SM Southmall, SM North EDSA, Ayala Malls The 30th, or our Fairview HQ. You can also visit our website, Facebook or Instagram pages to know more.

You may well be living under a rock if you have not heard all the rave about the Himalayan salt, which is now seen both in kitchens and spas. So, what are they exactly?

The Himalayan salts are large, rock, crystals of salt mined from areas close to the Himalayas, usually in Pakistan. These have a rosy hue due to trace minerals such as magnesium, potassium, and calcium. They are said to have been formed about 4 billion years ago and are believed to have the remnants of the primeval sea, making them about 99% pure.

Due to its composition, the pink Himalayan salt is believed to have good effects on the body. Some of these include the ability to relieve respiratory problems because of its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. This quickens mucus clearance and cleans the air of virus or bacteria. The inhalation of salt to remedy ailments, or halotherapy, has been done for millennia and been proven very effective.

Himalayan salt is also able to balance the body’s pH level, which in turn has a great effect on your immunity and digestion. It is also rich in electrolytes and sodium that gives off direct benefits to the blood’s pH.

And if you suffer from not getting enough sleep, then the Himalayan salt may just be the answer to this dilemma. It has so much mineral content that incorporating it into your meal can induce a deeper and more restful sleep every night.

So for that well-needed relaxation, that will surely help you in unwinding and be confident the procedure will not harm your body in any form, then choose any product from our Himalayan Line!

Get the Himalayan Salt Lamp to purify the air in your home, as it emits negative ions that help in killing bacteria and reducing radiation. This also is greatly effective in promoting a deep sleep for those suffering from the likes of insomnia or anxiety. Be ready to have your mind, body, and soul revitalized with this product!

If your relaxation takes in the form of taking a bath, then no need to soak in heavily chemicalized products because you can opt for our Himalayan Salt Bath Soak. Not only will it effectively loosen up your muscles, it can also alleviate allergies, regulate stress hormones, and promote concentration.

And the newest addition to the line, the Himalayan Salt Inhaler, which is perfect in aiding the likes of asthma, allergies, hay fever, and sinusitis. This device works to clean the entire respiratory tract through the salt's antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

The Himalayan salt is not just for decoration. It is one of those products that do not only look appealing but has massive benefits for our bodies and health. And if you’re like us who value our wellness, then you would seize this chance to get your own fix of this product to achieve a better well-being.

Keen to try these products for yourself? Head to our stores at SM MOA, SM Megamall, SM Southmall, SM North EDSA, Ayala Malls The 30th, or our Fairview HQ. You can also visit our website, Facebook or Instagram pages to know more.

Oils on oily skin? Not something I would do but had to try, as I take part in the #14DaystoVNMSkin challenge. Especially since I had to use 7 products every day. Again, not something I often practice. But then why did I decide to agree to this? Simply because I have faith in natural products, which I have been using for months now. So, I figured, why not try the very brand I work for since it’s all natural anyway? And that’s exactly what I did.

THE REGIMEN (First Impressions)

Shades Of Shave

Shades of Shave has a light consistency on the face and I found that after rinse, it does not give that squeaky clean feeling that I don’t particularly like. It also doesn’t have a stinging sensation, unlike other brands I’ve tried. Moreover, this cleanser has a subtle citrus smell, similar to that of a pomelo, which is a great plus. After use, it doesn’t dry my skin but makes it feel clean and light instead. Pro tip: leave for 2-3 minutes to hydrate the face.

Witch Hazel Toner

The Witch Hazel Pore Perfecting Toner does exactly what it promises, it is gentle to the skin (didn’t give me any more breakouts than I already have) and cleanses the skin further. It, too, doesn’t sting in each use. This comes in a spray bottle, which I find amazing since 2 spritzes are enough for my entire face. Lastly, it has an amazing floral scent that is very refreshing.

CPC + G Oil

CPC+G Oil is surprisingly not at all oily, rather it has a water-like consistency that is very light and is quickly absorbed by the skin. I find this very hydrating and even has a good subtle citrus smell. Also, a little goes a long way since two drops of it is enough for the whole face already.

Total Potion

The consistency of Total Potion Tamarind Insta-Lift Serum is quite heavy, like gel. This made me feel like I’m putting so much product on my face, as it weighs down my skin a bit. Although it has a subtle smell that I didn’t like at first (similar to burning plastic but this becomes unnoticeable when used regularly, plus the odor doesn’t stay on the face for long), I love how it is absorbed easily by my skin. With just one application – 2 drops are enough for the whole face – my face already felt soft to the touch!

Eternal Pearl

Eternal Pearl has got to be my most favorite moisturizer thus far. Not only does it hydrate the face very well, it is very easy to apply and a little of this product is enough for the entire face (a pea-size amount is literally all you need)! It doesn’t hurt that this product smells so amazing, which adds to the feeling that my face is already healthier. However, its consistency is a bit too thick as well, especially since I apply it after Total Potion.

Marula Oil

I started having doubts after applying Marula Oil for the first time. As I said, putting oils on my already oily face is not something I do for skin care. The fact that it has a very heavy and thick consistency and smells very organic (in short, I didn’t quite like it), add to the questions swirling inside my head. But I soldiered on and continued because I’ve heard the greasy feel will eventually pass with regular use.

Emu Oil

Good thing I only use this Emu Oil for spot treatment because I don’t think I would have wanted to put any more oil on my face after the Marula Oil. The consistency is thick and heavy, has an organic smell, and is color white, not the usual golden-yellow I’m used to seeing. It also contains small particles, which made me think at first that the product given to me was expired. I was told, however, that the more sebum there is then the better the formulation. Again, I banished all doubts and continued through my regimen.

THE RESULT  (First 7 Days)

DAY 1

Woke up feeling greasy! This continued all throughout the day in the office and I wanted so much to put powder but I was afraid the makeup formulation will interfere with my morning regimen (Yep, I do it night AND day). I have a feeling this has something to do with the fact I used two drops of Marula Oil instead of just one. Either way, that first day was a greasy one. The smells of Total Potion, Marula Oil, and Emu Oil were still noticeable albeit not as much as the last night. What I really liked about this first day is the fact that the Emu Oil was able to significantly diminish the size of some of my pimples. For someone as impatient as me, this is a great thing!

DAY 2

There is less grease in the morning, may be due to the fact I reduced Marula Oil to just one drop. I still have very oily skin in the office, however, but I still didn’t put any powder (although I was told it is okay to do so). Acne continues to diminish in size while the smells I hated that first application has become increasingly unnoticeable.

DAY 3

I woke up with no grease whatsoever on my face! The oils I’ve put the night before were completely absorbed by my skin. I still got oily skin, something I know I wouldn’t be able to get rid of after just three days, but I weirdly feel like the oils are good and healthy ones. Also! I received my first compliment from a co-worker, saying she can see improvements in my skin. With this in mind, I continued through my regimen.

DAY 4

I noticed my skin feels softer and smoother while washing it with Shades of Shave. Also, by this day, my face absorbs all the oils faster (I had to reapply the Emu Oil when I get to the office, something that has not happened in the last 3 days). And, amazingly, I didn’t feel as greasy during the day unlike before!

DAY 5

One of my bigger pimples on the chin has healed a bit, while the one on my forehead was completely treated. There is no grease throughout the day, no matter the amount of Emu Oil I put on my spots. Products are more quickly absorbed by the face compared to the day before.

DAY 6

Pimples continue to heal. The Emu Oil is absorbed by my skin about 1 hour or less after application. Despite all the products I use every day, morning and night, my skin doesn’t feel weighed down at all.

DAY 7

I had quite huge pimples the night before on my jaw area and their sizes have diminished significantly! However, there are still a couple ones that have not healed as completely. The Emu Oil I used for spot treatment has already been absorbed before I get to the office. Also, I am fairly convinced that the oiliness of my face has reduced and I wasn’t just imagining it these past couple of days.

THOUGHTS

I’d say that I did not expect as much difference when I first started the regimen. If anything, I even thought it wasn’t going to take effect on me because I firmly believed then that oils and oily skin are not a good combination. However, I’m happy to be proven wrong. The fact the Emu Oil lived up to its promise of healing acne in just days (if not hours), to me is already amazing. I’m quite used to natural products that take days, if not weeks, to take effect so this to me is a great discovery.

There are still 7 days before the challenge ends and I’m quite excited to see how it is going to turn out. I hope you join me for the reveal of the overall results of this challenge.

- Kristine Lucas, V&M Naturals’ Content Writer

Keen to try these products for yourself? Head to our stores at SM MOA, SM Megamall, SM Southmall, SM North EDSA, Ayala Malls The 30th, or our Fairview HQ. You can also visit our website, Facebook or Instagram pages to know more.

When it comes to matters regarding the skin, most of us are hesitant to try just any product or procedure for fear of some irreversible consequence. No matter how much research we do, we still don’t know what steps to take because of the many conflicting claims around the internet.

But let V&M Naturals clear the air once and for all by telling you about the three beauty routines you may be conflicted to try for yourself, as I was before I discovered what these ways are really for.

          1. Exfoliate

Cleansing is important but it does not remove deep-seated dirt causing havoc in your skin. Getting rid of these residues is the ultimate job of exfoliation and what better product to use than Clear y Rosy. This gentle scrub is infused with natural ingredients that will not only help in cleaning the skin, but also in hydrating it. Active ingredients such as Rosemary and Licorice Root Extracts smoothens and brightens the complexion by clearing the skin of blemishes, blackheads and dark spots.

          2. Boost

Now to make that newly cleaned and moisturized face more glowing, you would need a product that would help in lightening dark spots and heal any inflamed areas. This is exactly what Total Potion Tamarind Insta-Lift Serum is created to do. It also fights free radicals, hydrates dry skin and unclog pores for its Alpha Hydroxyl Acids. Tamarind extract is best for reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

          3. Protect

Lastly, the procedure that is mostly overlooked, is slathering on sunscreen. This is a highly imperative step especially living in a tropical country like the Philippines. For this step, it is best to use Keep Safe Sunblock that protects the skin from the harmful elements of the sun. Not only that, it keeps the face moisturized so you wouldn’t have to use so much products on your regimen. It is also infused with Tea Tree Oil making it ideal for oily and acne-prone skin. Lastly, and possibly the most amazing feature of this product, Keep Safe has the ability to blend to any complexion making it perfect for literally anyone!

See? All you need is one article to tell you exactly how these three steps can benefit your skin. Now, you can add these to your daily regimen for that clear, healthy and glowing skin you’ve always wanted to achieve. Oh, and don’t forget to use the products mentioned!

Keen to try these products for yourself? Head to our stores at SM MOA, SM Megamall, SM Southmall, SM North EDSA, Ayala Malls The 30th, or our Fairview HQ. You can also visit our website, Facebook or Instagram pages to know more.

There are 3 days left before Holy Week. And before you spend it solemnly with family or go beach hopping with friends, we have a couple of month-end treats for you!

First up, get 20% off your total purchase when you buy one of our featured products this March! Not only that. Get DOUBLE points for purchases made from March 23-28! 

That’s not all. For online buyers from these dates, we are giving one lucky customer a chance to win a Buy 1 Take 1 shopping spree this coming April.

I know how amazing that sounds but it gets better, with our RETAIL !!!

1. Enjoy 30% off when you buy any of March’s featured products on SM Megamall.
2. Like, Share, and Comment on our Rituals of the Earth Facebook video and get 20% off your purchase at our stores in SM North, Glorietta, SM Southmall, Ayala 30^th, SM Mall of Asia, Retail Lab at Powerplant, and The Park at Shangri-La.

So, what are you waiting for? Hurry and get the chance to hoard with 3 days left before the Holy Week! 

Keen to try these products for yourself? Head to our stores at SM MOA, SM Megamall, SM Southmall, SM North EDSA, Ayala Malls The 30th, or our Fairview HQ. You can also visit our website, Facebook or Instagram pages to know more.

Products that do more than what they’re supposed to are probably the best things one can find. I mean just look at the current model of phones; they not only allow us to call and text but also take pictures, listen to music, connect to the internet and so much more. Now, imagine an all-natural oil that serves more than just being a massage oil and is not just good for the body, but for the mind and the environment, too.

Well, you can stop imagining because that product actually exists: V&M Naturals’ Ultra Nourishing Tonic All Over Body Oil. With native ingredients Sunflower seed, Meadowfoam seed, Rice bran, Olive, Safflower seed, and Almond, as well as infused with the likes of Bergamot, Peppermint, and Cypress, more benefits are produced as all these components work together.

So here are five ways the Ultra Nourishing Tonic can be used:

          1. Massage oil

Feeling tired from all the hassles of your busy life? This product is surely the one you need for that ultimate relaxation. Our Ultra Nourishing Tonic has a cooling sensation (only for the variant Lemon, Eucalyptus, Peppermint & Rosemary) that helps soothe sore muscles. It also works beyond that because it calms the nerves and helps in blood circulation. But best of all, its scent promotes mental clarity, as well as stress and anxiety.

          2. Body oil

When I say that the Ultra Nourishing Tonic is an all-in-one product, I mean it really is. Aside from helping you relax, this is also a good body oil to tone the skin and control body odor. Not something some other chemicalized brand can do eh? Additionally, it is also a good insect repellant but without that icky smell and texture. This can also reduce the appearance of varicose veins wherever they may be in the body. More than all that, it has properties that can naturally induce sleep for those who have a hard time going to bed.

          3. Facial oil

More and more creams are produced and sold in the market with the promise of making consumers’ skin smoother and more supple. But do they make your skin healthy? I bet not. Meanwhile, our Ultra Nourishing Tonic is a good cleanser especially for oily skin. You may think putting more oil on such skin type is ridiculous is ridiculous. However, that’s one myth this product will disprove because if anything, it can unclog pores and control oil production. Moreover, it can reduce the appearance of scars and other marks while moisturizing the skin in the process. Lastly, it has properties for that younger look as it lessens wrinkles and other signs of aging, as well as tightens the skin.

          4. Makeup remover

Oil-based makeup removers are known to be very effective at doing its job. But this Ultra Nourishing Tonic All Over Body Oil is the best at this because unlike other brands, this does not contain even the slightest chemical to help in the removal of makeup. Not only that, it has antibacterial properties, which protects you skin from any germ dwelling in your brushes. This oil aims to deeply moisturize the skin and feed it with vitamins and fatty acids that it needs. With this, you can be confident that no trace of makeup will be left on your face and that your skin was not harmed with chemicals but continues to be healthy instead.

          5. Shaving oil

This is not something most people will use for this particular purpose but the Ultra Nourishing Tonic is best used for shaving because it removes razor burns and ingrown hair for its ability to protect and hydrate the skin. Due to its greater glide element, the skin will surely have fewer cuts as well. Additionally, it does not contain any harsh chemicals that may clog the pores. Not only do you get to remove all those unwanted hair, but your skin is fed with nutrients that may be stripped off the in the shaving process!

Looking and feeling great are important because these can boost one’s confidence. But why would you get so much products for the purposes listed above when you can get it from one: the Ultra Nourishing Tonic All Over Body Oil. I say, switch now and see the results for yourself.

Keen to try these products for yourself? Head to our stores at SM MOA, SM Megamall, SM Southmall, SM North EDSA, Ayala Malls The 30th, or our Fairview HQ. You can also visit our website, Facebook or Instagram pages to know more.

They say that there is no shortcut towards that clear radiant skin we’re all after. It takes discipline and hard work, coupled with exercise, good diet, and V&M Naturals products (not sorry for the shameless plug). And if you’re reading this then you are one of us busy women who’ve had enough of the lengthy procession towards that. Little did you know that the secret towards this goal lies in just three easy steps.

You read that right; just three easy steps! This is perfect for women – and men -- who always have their hands full with work, minds busy thinking about the next thing to accomplish and feet towards that next big thing.

1. Cleanse

The first of this regimen is cleansing all the dirt that have entered you pores throughout your busy day, as well as any makeup residue. Shades of Shave is the best product for this step because not only does it clean your face, it also soothes any irritation and protects the skin from sun damage. In addition to this, it is infused with Sweet Orange, which improves circulation that would keep you feeling cool and calm after each wash.

2. Tone

After cleansing, make sure to use a toner that is best suited for your skin type. This will help in removing any more crud that hasn’t been washed off by your cleanser, as well as prepare your skin to receive all the benefits from all the succeeding products that you will use. An example of a good toner that is good for any skin type, just in case you are unsure of yours, is Rosewater + Aloe Soothing Toner. It has mild astringent properties that gently remove traces of dirt and residue, as it leaves the skin feeling cool and hydrated with regular use.

3. Moisturize

Lastly, a step that is as important as the first two but is often overlooked by many, is moisturizing. Cleansing and toning do remove dirt but they also strip away your skin of its natural oils. This is why it is necessary to replenish those lost essentials needed by the skin for its continuous protection. And what better moisturizer to use than Emu Oil, a natural oil with fatty acid that is closest to the human skin pH making it easier to repair any damage from within without clogging the pores. Truly, a miracle worker! 

There you go! The shortcut towards that healthy beautiful skin you’ve been dreaming to have. And with these products, you will surely be able to take care of your skin from the inside out.

Keen to try these products for yourself? Head to our stores at SM MOA, SM Megamall, SM Southmall, SM North EDSA, Ayala Malls The 30th, or our Fairview HQ. You can also visit our website, Facebook or Instagram pages to know more.

Wouldn’t it be so much better to know exactly what’s in your beauty regimen? To be in control of these components that will go onto your face that would potentially keep it healthy and radiant? Well, lucky for you because you’re about to learn essential oil recipes that would make your complexion, not only smoother but also more nourished.

You see, the thing about essential oils is that they already give such amazing benefits on their own – even in a small bottle – you’d be convinced it’s enough to use alone. However, the other thing about them is that they are better when mixed together. I mean, why settle for a limited amount of goodness from one bottle when you can enjoy so much more when blending two or three essential oils.

So here are 5 recipes that would address a number of your skin concerns:

1. Fight Acne

• Incorporate Lavender, Orange and Chamomile Oil onto Hazelnut Oil (Carrier Oil) for an effective cleanser that unclogs pores without making the skin oily. This combination has antibacterial properties, which can protect skin from pimple-causing bacteria.

• Strengthens and nourishes the skin while helping to reduce signs of skin aging because of its antioxidants.

2. Prevent Premature Aging

• Blend Frankincense, Ylang-Ylang and Hazelnut Oil (Carrier Oil) to firm and moisturize the skin, as well as reduce wrinkle and blemish appearance.

3. Relieve Swelling

• Combine 1 drop Chamomile, 1 drop Lavender and 30 ml Tamanu Oil (Carrier Oil) to reduce the appearance of redness and rashes.

• ¼ teaspoon of this blend is gentle enough to treat diaper rash for newborns.

4. Healthy-looking Hair and Scalp

• Mix Lemongrass, Peppermint, Chamomile and Argan Oil (Carrier Oil) to prevent scalp irritation, while it cleanses the skin and removes excess oils.

• Adds natural shine and softness to the hair

5. Soothe Foot Problems

• Infuse Tamanu Oil (Carrier Oil) with Tea Tree and Peppermint Oil to calm and improve the appearance of irritated skin caused by blisters, bunions, corns, etc. This mixture also eliminates odor-causing bacteria.

• Relieves dry cracked skin by improving moisturization

These are just five essential oil combinations using a handful of ingredients but already we can see just how much more benefits one can get. We’ve basically got everything we need in this world to better our bodies, ourselves. We just have to learn how to utilize what we have in order to get the full reward.

Keen to try these combinations for yourself? Head onto our stores at SM MOA, SM Megamall, SM Southmall, SM North EDSA, Ayala Malls The 30th, or our Fairview HQ. You can also visit our website, Facebook or Instagram pages to know more about our products.