Local Filipino Brands Redefining Men’s Wellness and Grooming
Today, where self-care knows no gender, the landscape of wellness, grooming, and beauty is evolving to embrace everyone, regardless of traditional stereotypes. While women have long enjoyed a plethora of products catering to their self-care needs, it’s high time we recognize that men, too, deserve the same attention when it comes to looking and feeling their best.
While society has made strides in accepting the use of these products within the queer community, it would be helpful to extend this acceptance to men as well. Embracing diversity in beauty and wellness fosters a more inclusive society, where individuals are free to express themselves without fear of judgment.
Wellness and Grooming for Men
Yes, brands and products for men already existed in our store shelves like facial wash, body spray, and such. But the choices are so limited. With choices so limited, it is assumed that those are the only things that men need. Much like for women, men too have different hair and skin types that demand specific types of care and products. Men too experience the different types of environments that affect our bodies.
From the meticulous artistry of hair styling to the transformative realm of skincare and makeup, Filipino men are starting to embrace a broader spectrum of self-care, breaking free from stereotypes and embracing their unique identities. Here are some local Filipino brands that have taken that step towards acceptance in men’s body care needs.
Hair Styling with Maverick PH and Gaffer Manila
Maverick PH and Gaffer Manila have taken the local grooming scene by storm, offering innovative solutions for hair styling and beard care.
Maverick PH boasts a diverse range of hair styling products, from pomades to styling creams, ensuring that every Filipino man can find the perfect product for his hair type. Some of their products that you should look out for are their Pacific Sea Salt Texture Spray and their Volumizing Hair Cream, Gambit.
Gaffer Manila, specializing in beard care, brings a touch of sophistication to facial hair grooming with beard oils and balms crafted to perfection. One of their top selling items is their hair/beard grower Pogonotrophy, a Minoxidil 5% topical solution.
Revolutionizing Skincare with Celeteque, Apotheke, and Tikas
Everyone deserves a chance to have a great looking skin. That of course comes to those who takes care of their skin very well.
Celeteque, a household name, continues to dominate the skincare arena, providing effective and affordable products tailored for various skin concerns. Their commitment to quality makes them a trusted choice for Filipino men seeking optimal skincare solutions. An item worth trying is their Hydration Alcohol-free Toner and their Hydration Facial Wash.
Apotheke, a rising star, emphasizes natural ingredients, bringing a touch of local wisdom to skincare. I’ve actually tried their most popular product, the 10% niacinamide serum, which made my face much smoother. From gentle cleansers to nourishing serums, the brand invites Filipino men to embrace skincare rituals inspired by the bountiful offerings of nature.
Tikas, known for its meticulous approach, offers skincare solutions with a focus on authenticity and quality. They are also known for their 4-step skin care routine which consists of their cleanser, toners, serum, and moisturizer. Tikas invites Filipino men to indulge in a skincare routine that goes beyond the surface, promoting overall well-being through effective and thoughtful formulations.
The Artistry of Make-up: Issy, BLK, and Vice Cosmetics
Over on TikTok, Filipino men are embracing the transformative power of makeup, and local brands are leading the way.
Issy, with its vibrant and inclusive range, encourages men to express their creativity through makeup. The brand’s inclusive range of products goes beyond traditional beauty norms, allowing individuals to express themselves boldly. Issy’s commitment to diversity and self-expression resonates with those seeking makeup as a form of artistic freedom. You might like the Issy Active Skin Tint to start the day and the Issy Cleansing Butter at the end.
BLK has gained recognition for its minimalist approach, offering makeup products that enhance natural beauty. The brand’s philosophy centers on simplicity and elegance, making it an ideal choice for Filipino men who appreciate the art of subtlety in their makeup routine. BLK’s products seamlessly blend into daily life, emphasizing effortless beauty. Its worth it to check out their Universal Sheer Sunscreen Primer Stick and their Airy Matte Cushion Foundation.
Vice Cosmetics, founded by the irrepressible Vice Ganda, has become a symbol of empowerment, challenging traditional norms surrounding makeup. Accompanied by the brand’s motto “Ganda for All”, challenging stereotypes and encouraging Filipino men to embrace makeup without boundaries. Vice Cosmetics celebrates individuality and self-expression, proving that beauty knows no limits. An item worth looking at is their Burrfection Skin Tint.
Embracing Local, Embracing Diversity
These Filipino grooming brands go beyond providing products; they are cultural influencers shaping a narrative that embraces diversity and self-expression. Whether it’s the mastery of hair styling, the revolution in skincare, or the artistry of makeup, each brand represents Filipino excellence.
It’s time to break free from stereotypes and embrace a future where wellness, grooming, and beauty are for everyone. Men are not exempt from the desire to look and feel their best, and the evolving landscape of inclusive brands is proof that the times are changing. So, gentlemen, it’s time to embrace your glow, nurture your skin, and prioritize your wellness without apology. After all, beauty knows no boundaries, and everyone deserves to shine.
Ashly R. Marin is a young writer just starting out as an intern in the field. While he may be well-versed in writing news, opinion, and feature articles from being a journalism student at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines, Ashly enjoys writing about and doing photography, film, music, theatre, and art.