So far I have raved (and ranted a wee little bit) about Human Heart Nature and Snoe Beauty – two new and exciting local beauty brands that are making waves here and abroad as well as owning a very significant share of my wallet. The third brand in my book is Venus and Mars or simply V&M, a name that has long been a bazaar fave and cult hit to consumers looking for organic, good quality yet affordable skin care. Founded on emu oil, the “miracle oil”, V&M has since expanded to mineral cosmetics and even an organic spa. I list below my top 3 can’t-live-withouts:
1. Pure Fully Refined 100% Emu oil. It all begins and ends with this. Dubbed the miracle oil, emu oil is said to be ” the ONLY natural oil that is closest to the human skin components, thus it has the ability to cure almost any type of skin ailment, and is also the fastest penetrating oil.” This is essentially the base for most V&M products, but can also be used alone as what they call an “active.” Personally, this worked for me as the cure to stubborn dark crooks and crannies (think elbows, lip corners, sides of the nose, etc), itches and insect bites. My first test for this oil was to apply it modestly on an old childhood scar I have on my finger, earned when I so smartly tried opening a small bag of Peewee with a kitchen knife. In less than a week, the scar was noticeably fading that I had to immediately stop using the oil. For sentimental reasons, I actually want to keep that scar. Sells at P475 for a 30ml bottle and P755 for 50ml. A little bit goes a long way so even the smaller bottle lasts eternity.
2. Bare It All (BIA) emu cream. This one is my absolute favorite. To call it a lotion is too primal. This multi-tasker is the answer to cracked heels, post wax/shave chicken skin on legs and underarms, and even fatigued limbs when used as a massage cream. I always get the minty version. It’s the only thing that can make me turn down the air condition during the sultry summer days. Try the 100g tub for P285 or be generous with the 300g one at P695. Since it’s all natural, you won’t ever feel like you’re slathering yourself with mineral oil and cosmetic perfume – because you aren’t – without getting any lasting moisture. I know you know what I mean, Marks and Spenser, Bath and Body and Victoria’s Secret. I’ve turn up my nose on you since I fell in love with my BIA.
3. Smooch Lip detox. One swipe and I knew it was love. I met this lip balm wonder when I was brokenhearted from so many failed lip balms, both the organic and chemical-happy kind. The soothing mix of peppermint and emu oil hit the spot, and it was good bye, chapped lips. Itty bitty qualm: the tube melts if the temperature rises, and the container could be a LOT sturdier. Competitive with other organic brands at P205 and available in minty or regular. From my BIA preference above, you know I like my puckers smothered in peppermint too, so I enjoy the minty version.
V&M sells their skin care and organic make up line exclusively through direct dealers and bazaars, through their spanking new website, online shopping hubs Zalora and the Mall, and through their organic spa Mod Lei. Hoarding is a legitimate sport for V&M fans. You are highly encouraged to join.
