The Girl Behind the Pen

Let me start this by saying that I'm very aware that this is a very small problem considering the global situation, but as someone who typically worries about every single thing, I need to say this: I'm (sort of) freaking out that I'm having breakouts on my cheeks—on the lower left part of my face to be exact.

I've had breakouts on my forehead and on my chin but not on my cheeks. It started in March so I think, one of the main causes is wearing a mask. But since it's now part of the new normal, the maskne problem may not be going away soon.

How to Prevent Maskne

If you also experience this, here are some things you can do to #SkipTheMaskne:

1. Use a cloth mask made with breathable fabric
2. Wash your mask regularly
3. Keep your face clean
4. Skip the makeup, if possible
5. Use a trusted skincare brand

Here's the good news, there's a solution to our maskne problem—the new @pondsph Anti-Bacterial Range. It is formulated with Advance Protect Technology that is scientifically proven to fight 99% of maskne-causing bacteria. 

The Anti-Bacterial Facial Foam is formulated with BHA that helps prevent acne; while the Anti-Bacterial Face Mist and Wipes are formulated with AHA that helps exfoliates skin cells.

Can't wait to use these. I'll share the progress with you after 2 weeks. And oh, you can get them on Shopee until December 12. #MakeItFunWithPonds

How do you know if you're not okay? Experts say that whenever we don’t feel like ourselves and struggle to do what we are used to doing, it’s likely we’re not doing okay.

Well, I'm not okay. I'm doing the thing I love the most every single day yet, I'm not completely happy. What I considered my passion turned out to be one of the causes of my stress and doubts right now. I don't know what I want to do. I don't know what my "passion" is anymore. Oh, my 20 year-old self who thought had figured life already would be so disappointed knowing this. Then add the pandemic... *cue in Chandler* could life be any more unsure than this?

But one thing I discovered in this uncertain time—you can't control the situation but you can control how you respond to it.

In my case, I dress up to keep myself motivated. It might make your eyebrows raise but seriously, dressing up totally helps boosting my mood. It makes me feel beautiful and empowered.

Cliché as it sounds but it's okay not to be okay. It's okay to doubt yourself but don't let it consume you. You may be on a tough spot right now but trust me, you'll find your way out. Little ways can pull you out of trouble, even if it means simply dressing up or just doing what you love amid the uncertainty.

So now, I challenge all the women, including you, to keep doing what you've started. Don't stop, and be the person who makes us proud to be women.

Beautiful, strong, and valuable—let these words define you.

Since quarantine started, I've been living in shirts and shorts all the time. I can't even remember the last time I wore a dress.

Last week, I had to run errands and since I'm already out of the house, might as well use the time to shoot and be more thoughtful in the way I dress. Boy, it feels so good dressing up again. And trust me, it can totally boost your mood. 

Fashion designer Sukriti Grover through Hindustan Times said "clothes have a measurable effect on our mental health. How we pick something from our wardrobe each morning, be it for a day at work, for lunch with friends or a party on a night out, each outfit has a symbolic meaning and has a definite effect on the wearer’s psychology and performance.” 

So if you're feeling down because of the pandemic, all you have to do is get up and put on your best pieces to lift up your quarantine mood.

So what should you do?

1. The Headband

2. Skirts and Dresses

3. Bows

4. A good-matching bag

What is Athleisure Trend?

How to Wear the Athleisure Trend

• Mix active wear into your regular fashion wardrobe. You can layer sports pieces under regular clothing like sports bra under a leather jacket or cropped top; or leggings under a chic coat.
• Use sneakers as your go-to footwear.
• Pair your leggings with longer tops or try tying a shirt around your waist to make it more streetwear appropriate.
• Wear athleisure trend to work by replacing your corporate blazer with a bomber jacket or if you can't ditch the corporate jacket, just mix a sporty T-shirt with it.