Top 5 Skincare Problems of Filipinos, According to Our Dermatologist

This list might surprise you!

Feb 7, 2024

The typical Filipino skin is often celebrated for its effortless warmth and beautiful, sun-kissed tones. Morena complexions, characterized by varying shades of tan to deep brown, are a hallmark of Filipino beauty. This natural melanin-rich skin reflects our tropical heritage—a healthy vitality that speaks of a life lived under the sun.

But beyond the glowing facade lie common skin woes that many Filipinos struggle with. Here, Dr. Maximin Navarro, resident dermatologist at Bella Pelle Skin Solutions and a fellow of the Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS), shares the top five skin issues among Pinoy patients. Plus, we share some tried-and-tested solutions you can easily access via our online shop.

1. Acne

No surprises here: The tropical climate makes our skin prone to excess oil, making it a breeding ground for acne-causing bacteria. Other factors only make it worse—from daily stress and hormonal changes to the food we eat and the poor air quality in our cities. Fear not, though, for a consistent skincare routine coupled with professional treatments, like facials and peels, can help you restore clarity to problematic skin.

Check out these acne-fighting heroes:

2. Hyperpigmentation

Those stubborn patches of darker skin, be it from sun exposure, inflammation, or the aftermath of acne—also known as pekas—can really put a damper on our complexion goals. Combatting hyperpigmentation involves a two-pronged approach: diligent sun protection to prevent further darkening and the use of brightening agents like vitamin C and niacinamide to fade existing spots.

Here are some derma solutions to try:

Derm Biologiques Vit C + E + Ferulic Acid, P3,500
This Vitamin C + E + Ferulic Acid Serum is an anti-aging and skin-brightening formula packed with active ingredients that help combat hyperpigmentation.

3. Scars

Scars tell tales of our skin’s resilience, but sometimes, they stick around longer than we’d like. Whether from acne, injuries, or surgical procedures, scars can be a reminder of past skin trauma. Luckily, advancements in dermatology offer a myriad of treatments, from microneedling to laser resurfacing, to help minimize these rough patches and restore smoother skin.

Try this skin-healing gel from Froika:

Froika Flamosin Gel, P1,600
This repair gel accelerates the natural healing process of damaged skin while also moisturizing and calming the affected area with hyaluronic acid.

It’s important to know, though, that topical products can only do so much and may not be able to fully fade or eliminate scars, especially bigger and deeper ones. For a quick fix, you can try a cosmetic cover-up, like this:

Coverderm Perfect Legs SPF 40 Fluid, P3,300
This waterproof makeup formula that perfectly covers up all spots and imperfections—including scars and stretch marks.

4. Skin Lightening

In a country where fair skin is often associated with beauty, the quest for a lighter complexion is prevalent among Filipinos. However, the pursuit of fairness shouldn’t compromise skin health. Opting for gentle lightening agents like kojic acid or arbutin, alongside sun protection, can help achieve a more even skin tone without resorting to harsh chemicals that may do more harm than good. (Got underarm lightening concerns? Read this.)

Check out these derma-approved picks:

5. Wrinkles

Ah, the inevitable signs of aging that etch their way onto our skin, reminding us of the passage of time. Wrinkles, a.k.a. fine lines and creases on the skin surface, may appear earlier than expected due to factors like sun exposure, smoking, or genetics. While we can’t turn back the clock, we can certainly slow it down with a cocktail of skincare ingredients like retinoids, peptides, and antioxidants, coupled with lifestyle modifications like adequate hydration and a healthy diet. (Read our retinol how-to here.)

Power up your anti-aging routine with these potent formulas:

Beyond these skin worries, there are obviously many other issues that we, Filipinos, deal with. But whether flawless or flawed, our skin tells our story; it’s part of what makes us who we are. Armed with knowledge and the right products—plus the guidance of a trusted dermatologist—we can surely conquer common skin woes with confidence.

For customized skincare recommendations, you can book a face-to-face or virtual dermatological consultation with Dr. Maximin Navarro, here. To know more about the skincare services offered at Bella Pelle Skin Solutions or to schedule an appointment, call or text (63) 999-887-1933. For a full list of facial services and other treatments, click here.

Bella Pelle Skin Solutions is located 2/F L Building, #142 Katipunan, Brgy. Saint Ignatius, Quezon City. The center is open Monday to Friday, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

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Peak Beauty Gel Fix Anti-Acne Cleansing Gel, P800	Frezyderm AC-Norm Normalizing Lotion, P1,750
MD Therapy Glutatone A+ Ceramide Lotion, P2,650	Heliocare Purewhite Radiance Max 240, P4,500

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