When I was born, my skin was a delicate white-pinkish hue. My mom was convinced this trait came from her side of the family. She took delight in dressing me in light-colored clothes—shades of pink, orange, yellow, and other pastel hues—that complemented my skin tone perfectly. However, as I grew older, my skin gradually darkened. My family still chuckles about how this change coincided with the time when my dad would take me constantly outside every morning between 8:00 and 9:00 A.M. for extra vitamin D. They jokingly blamed him for the darkening of my skin, and this playful teasing became a running joke in our household.

During my early years, I was largely indifferent to my skin color. I didn’t let other people’s opinions or jokes about my appearance bother me. I wasn’t yet aware of the societal standards of beauty or how my skin tone could affect my self-esteem. Even as my skin continued to darken and I became more tanned, I remained confident and untroubled. I still actively participated in volleyball leagues and competitions outside of school, and I trained hard from early morning until late afternoon. My mindset during these years was my skin color was simply a part of who I was, and I didn’t let it interfere with my love for the sport or my sense of self.

This mindset and confidence began to fade when I stopped playing volleyball to focus on my studies. That’s when the teasing got worse. People started calling me names like "Negra", "dry skin player" and “slidy face,” making fun of my skin color and texture. It hurt even more when my own family joined in, using my skin color as an insult during arguments. Since I had the darkest skin among my siblings, they would attack me about my appearance, which made me feel very insecure.

The constant teasing made me feel so self-conscious that I started avoiding going outside. I thought if I stayed indoors, it might help lighten my skin. I even started to use heavy filters when I was taking a picture and filming a TikTok video, and the thing that I won’t ever forget was when I also began asking my parents for money so that I could buy skincare products and if I really had no choice before, I was really using my sisters’ products without their permission, hoping their skincare would make my skin lighter and smoother.

Despite all these efforts, the emotional impact of the teasing and my insecurities were hard to overcome. I realized that my attempts to change my skin color weren’t just about appearance—they were about trying to escape the negative comments and judgments that had been directed at me. The struggle with my skin color became a way of dealing with the hurtful attitudes of others and my feelings of inadequacy.

I badly experienced a lot of judgment and insult because of this skin color. I can’t remember how many times I had to laugh with those people who made fun of me just to not show that I was hurt and offended by them, that I was losing my self-esteem because of them. But, that was all before, that was just during my early teenage years.

Now, as I realized that this is really my skin color and no matter what I do, this is really it, “pupusyaw man ako, pero ito na talaga ‘yon ih”, I learned how to overcome little by little that insecurity, and I even started to be proud and to romanticize my skin color. This is why when I started to live here in Manila to study, I made sure that I will take good care of my skin using my own purchased skincare. So that, I might not be as mestiza as others and I used to be, but at least I can achieve glass and clear skin like other people’s skin so that they can only call me “Negra” and not "dry skin player" and “slidy face” anymore.

Back in 2020, I was a 13-year-old girl who had just become conscious of her skin color. I used to compare my skin color to other girls'. My self-confidence had gotten low because of my morena skin color. I wanted to have white skin because I thought it would make me more beautiful. Since it was the pandemic, I started using products to lighten my skin. I tried using a whitening soap because that's what my mother used. Over time, I noticed that my skin had really brightened, which made me very happy. However, after a few weeks, my skin became very dry, rough, flaky, and sometimes itchy. As a result, I stopped using that soap. After a few weeks, my cousin mentioned that her friend, who had lighter skin, used detergent bar (bareta) to achieve a lighter skin tone. As a conscious teenage girl, I decided to try using bareta as my soap to lighten my skin, without doing any research. Nothing went wrong with my skin, but I stopped using it immediately because it had no noticeable effects. I eventually learned that using bareta on your skin could have adverse effects and may also make your skin dry.

After those experiences, I started reading about other girls' skincare journeys and routines. I learned specific techniques on how to take care of my skin. But the most important thing is I learned that you don't need to be white to be beautiful; everyone is beautiful in their own way, in their own color.

Fast forward to 2024, my skin has changed over time. Though I still have to work on some parts of my skin. For instance in my knees and elbows. I'm still trying to make those parts better. But, I now spend my time using different skincare products after I take a bath. I have a very simple skincare routine, but it is still very effective for me. I focus on keeping my skin clean and moisturized and I no longer use whitening products. For my face, I usually wash it with a facial cleanser, then use micellar water to thoroughly clean my face and neck. After that, I apply moisturizer to keep my skin healthy and finish with sunscreen to protect my skin from the harmful effects of the sun. For my body routine, I scrub my body at least 3-4 times a week to maintain cleanliness, then apply lotion all over to keep it moisturized and prevent dryness and flakiness.

Recently, I was diagnosed with psoriasis, which has affected my scalp, ears, fingers, elbows, and knees. At first, I thought it was just dandruff that I could treat with anti-dandruff shampoos. However, over a few months, the condition worsened with increased flakiness, itchiness, and bleeding when scratched. My ears have also been very dry and flaky, so I used baby oil to relieve the dryness. I had become used to the dryness on my fingers, elbows, and knees, believing it was due to insufficient moisturizing. It turns out that this too is related to psoriasis. I'm now working on treating my psoriasis and am glad I found out early. Being aware of the condition has helped me learn how to properly care for my skin with the guidance of my dermatologist.

Now I realize that my skin is unique. I have a scar on my knees that I find very memorable because I got it during my first JDG production. Every time I see this scar, it reminds me of my JDG journey. Additionally, my skin has several small moles all over my body, and my favorite feature is the small heart-shaped birthmark on my right elbow, which I find very cute. I think it’s a sign to continue loving my skin and myself.

Growing up, I never really had problems with my skin, and I took pride in that. I took pride that I didn’t use skincare products or wear makeup, at least back then. I remember the time where I had no problem going out in public bare faced or not doing a 12 step skincare routine every night. Looking back at it, I should’ve appreciated my skin more that time.

Everything was going just fine till I reached the age of 14, that was when I got my first pimple. I vividly recall the panic that I felt, I kept thinking that my life was over and I didn’t fit the beauty standard anymore. I remember staying up all night scrubbing that one little pimple vigorously because I didn’t want it on my face on full display.  I didn’t want people to clearly see my imperfections.

It got worse from there. As I entered senior high school my face was littered with white heads and acne scars from before, I felt awful.

I would wake up as early as 4:30 in the morning just to put make up on for at least 30 minutes, making sure that no acne scars were visible. I thought I doing a good job hiding it until one of my friends commented that “Yung pimple mo teh, kitang-kita ang dami.” my heart dropped. I have never felt so defeated. I avoided taking pictures as much as possible because I would feel so disgusted with myself. I would place my hand a certain way to cover my acne or just hide my face from the camera.

“I’ve done everything I can to fix this but It just doesn’t seem to work.”

Then I realized that no matter how much makeup I use to cover my “impressions” up it still wouldn’t change if I didn’t change my lifestyle. To be completely honest, I didn’t had the healthiest lifestyle last year. I ate junk food a lot and often eat at fast food restaurants, I did some research online and found that a healthy lifestyle was more effective in reducing your acne than putting extensive amounts of skincare products.

Now, thankfully my acne had subsided. Sure my skin wasn’t as clear as it was before but now I feel more confident to go outside with or without makeup on. Sure, I still have my acne scars but for me, it shows one of the hardest times of my life and how I manage to overcome it.

Although the term “the beauty standards doesn’t define who you are.” is quite overused now, I still would like to say it to others, not because I’m simply trying to make them feel better but because, I want to make them feel that they’re not alone. A lot of teenagers have struggled with their skin and I feel and understand you.  So if you feel that you’re not pretty enough or not pale enough just know that we’re all unique in our own simple ways and I applaud every single one of you who overcame their struggles.

I grew up navigating the complex world of skincare with a lot of trials and errors. It felt like I was a scientist experimenting on myself as the subject in a laboratory. One core memory I have is from my annual visit to the pediatrician, during which my parents were strongly advised to, again, reconsider changing my soap, as it was still deemed too harsh for my skin. The pediatrician also emphasized the importance of avoiding contact with "safeguard" soap, detergents, and bleach as much as possible. My parents were not particularly strict, but they didn't allow me to engage in rowdy play. They were concerned that if I got abrasions and scars, it would be challenging for them to heal and would likely leave lasting marks on my skin.

Following through my teenage years, I faced increasing challenges due to hormonal imbalances. Due to these difficulties, we eventually overlooked that I developed a late-onset Atopic Dermatitis (AD) that exacerbated my skin condition. This is because initially, it was not visible as symptoms were confined to my back. However, with the lack of treatment and acknowledgment, the condition progressed and started to spread to other parts of my body- my face, scalp, hands, and feet.  

Atopic dermatitis is a common form of eczema characterized by symptoms, such as itchiness, dryness, and cracked skin.  Although it is acknowledged as a chronic condition, AD severity often varies and can improve over time, especially in young children. With this, my sensitive skin became even more sensitive, and daily life became more challenging as AD was caused by triggers such as stress, drastic changes in climate, chalk, concentrated soaps/detergents, etc.

Due to this, I became more cautious with how I treated my skin and became more involved in choosing products. Aside from doctor recommendations, I started to research on my own what products are best for my skin. From simple body soaps, lotion, ointments, and facial products like facial wash, creams, and even make-up. But it is also important to note that having proper hygiene is equally important as having suitable skincare products.

Additionally, I have a lot of birthmarks and most of them are dark and visible even from afar. When I was younger, it was part of my insecurities, but as I got older, I realized it is a part of my identity and individuality that makes me, me. Fun fact! One of my favorite birthmarks—a butterfly-shaped one is interlinked with how we should treat ourselves despite skin imperfections. Like how butterflies have distinct fluttering colors and unique figures, we should learn how to love and appreciate our unique skin.

It was the year 2021, I noticed that my skin is always dry and started to get itchy. When I decided to go check in the mirror, I found out that there is a red bump located on my nose. Since I grew up knowing that acne goes by when untouched, I decided not to touch and just ignore it. But the itch and irritation led me to touch and end up popping it. That is where I started to believe that popping it is good and would be helpful.

But I was wrong, weeks past by and multiple black and white heads was on my face and more pimples came. So I decided to use bath soap, wondering if it would help reducing acne. When it got to the point that it was so plenty, my mother decided to bring me to a dermatologist alongside with my brother. This was the point where I started to get insecure to myself, knowing only few of my classmates have acne and some of them don't even go to dermatologists. I also started to ask myself “Is it my face that causes people to hate and ignore me.”

Weekly checkups and facial treatments were the ways that helped reducing acne breakouts on my face. The dermatologist also gave medications which are the Lab46 Acne toner and the Klenzit CMS in order to reduce acne even without having facial checkups and treatments.

Fast forward to 2023, ever since I started to study senior high school in Manila. I was having a hard time on taking care of my face due to the unexpected workload. Having no weekly checkups and facial treatments makes it hard because way back then, I used to follow a schedule on washing my face but as time progresses, I started to completely forget about taking care of my face. That is where I started finding facial products online.

Y.O.U products were the ones that I saw on tiktok, and I decided to try and use it. And, it totally has the same effects when I used the products from the dermatologist. My motivation in taking care of my skin was back not until many workload from the school came in. Which led to me forgetting once again my daily routine. When my cousin started noticing about my face, he recommended that Oxecure would help reduce pimples because it totally worked for him, so I decided to give it a try. Few weeks gone by, and no result was changed.

So my parents decided to bring me back to the dermatologist in order to gain back my motivation on doing my daily routine. And now, I am still doing the same routine, even though with the slow result, this would totally help me reducing my acne which are one of my insecurities. The important lesson on having daily routines is that patience is the key. I now believe that we need to accept the fact that even though we have these insecurities, we still have to continue in enjoying life and treating such this conditions as normal and not to be judged at because we all have our struggles and unique style on taking care of our skin.

It was a warm afternoon, and I was riding my bike in the neighborhood with friends. We’d been racing down streets. I remember feeling the exhilarating speed, and the thrill of the ride.

That feeling didn’t last long.

As we were riding, I noticed a car approaching from a side street. Normally, this wouldn’t have been a big deal, but in that moment, panic set in. The car wasn’t going fast, but it felt like it was coming straight at me. My heart leaped, and without thinking, I swerved hard to avoid it.

The next few seconds happened in a blur. My front tire wobbled as I lost control. The world tilted, and before I knew it, I was tumbling off my bike. I threw my hands out instinctively, trying to brace my fall, but my elbow took the brunt of the impact. The sharp sting of pain shot through my arm, followed by a warm, wet sensation as I realized I’d scraped my skin against the rough pavement.

I lay there for a moment, stunned. The car had passed, and my friends rushed over. I sat up slowly, cradling my right arm. That’s when I saw it, the raw, torn skin, blood oozing from the jagged scrape on my elbow.

The ride home felt much longer than the whole adventure. I remember cleaning the wound, the sting of antiseptic, and the bandage that followed. I hid it from my parents, but they eventually found out. At that moment, I was more concerned about when I’d be able to ride again.

As the days passed, my elbow began to heal, but not without leaving its mark. The scab that formed was a constant reminder of that fall, a badge of both my fear and my recklessness. When it finally peeled away, a pale, pink scar remained. At first, I hated it. Every time I looked at my arm, I saw that moment of panic, that loss of control. The scar seemed like a permanent reminder of the importance of staying calm under pressure and how my impulsive reaction caused more harm than good.

As I continue to grow and change, my skin will too. New marks may appear, and old ones may fade, but they will all be part of my personal history. The scar on my right elbow will always be a small yet significant reminder of a lesson learned in my youth, etched into my skin forever.

I do this so my skin will continously love me all the way.

How do I take care of my skin:
I clean it! Since it is very exposed to dirt, I make sure to clean it every day by taking a shower.

I moisturize it! I apply lotion to moisturize my skin; I won't let my baby feel flaky!

I protect if from the sun! It may not withstand the heat that the sun gives, which is why I often apply sunscreen. With this, I know that I am far from experiencing sunburn.

Lastly, I kiss it and tell it I love you. Just kidding...

But as much as possible:
I tend to be very careful to avoid letting my skin get hurt. Wounds are obviously inevitable, so when it happens, I make sure that I am ready to heal and protect it.

I take extra care of my skin to maintain its youthfulness.
As a result of showing Tender Love, and Care, I recognize my skin become firm, smooth, and resilient.

✨Shimminet✨
be perfect
be flawless
look like a supermodel's skin

✨She may have✨
marks,

scars,
moles, and

scratches.

But, this is my skin, myself, and I love her.
I love my skin; therefore, I love myself.

Seemingly overnight, rashes started appearing on my back and acne appeared on my face one by one. I was confused at their sudden appearance and disappearance. What I thought would only last a week started spreading through my body. Then, what I thought would never go away, suddenly vanished as if it had never been there.

After a few months of this recurring issue, I discovered a distressing reality. After I ate my favorite foods, which were mangoes, chicken, eggs, chocolate, and shrimp, rashes started appearing at my back and acne appeared on my face. As if the food triggers weren’t enough, the interactions with my dogs began to provoke similar reactions. I was frustrated with my skin and with the realization that I would never be able to enjoy the things I love in the same way again.

I faced a dilemma, debating whether to give up the things I love to avoid triggering rashes and acne or to keep enjoying them despite the persistent skin issues and the embarrassment that inevitably followed. But, I guess I subconsciously already made my decision before I knew it. I chose to continue eating whatever I wanted, have fun however I liked, and embrace whatever I loved. But this time, in moderation. While I continue to have acne and rashes when I consume too much food I’m allergic to and whenever my face gets too close to my dogs, something feels different now. I'm no longer as frustrated or embarrassed. I’ve come to accept these reactions, knowing they stem from the moments I spent with the things I love.

Over time, I am also thankful for my skin’s reactions. If it weren’t for my skin warning me using rashes that I should lessen interaction with for example my dog, my nose will clog up from the allergy and a more severe approach to treat me will occur. I’ve learned to listen closely to my body’s signals and to approach each meal and interaction with caution. I also learned to use products like toners and moisturizers to take better care of my skin. I used to use sunblock but because of my sensitive skin, I also gain acne when I use them so currently I'm still finding a brand that suits me. I also created a routine to better care for my overall health. And thankfully because of this, rashes don’t leave permanent marks on my skin.

Over time, I learned that the condition of my skin is closely related to what’s happening inside my body. But sadly, this discovery isn’t going to solve my skin problems. It just made me slowly start to accept it even though there are times that I am still bothered by my skin’s appearance. As I approach adulthood, I hope I am soon able to accept my skin as it is and have confidence whether or not my allergic reactions are visible.

 After that whole discovery and with the whole “finally putting a name on the condition,” I experienced a lot of trial and error when it came to trying products because my skin is also quite sensitive. Like, for example, I eventually found out that I can’t share bar soaps with others as it gives me hives when I do, so ever since we discovered that, we were advised that I should just switch to liquid baby soap—liquid so that the whole ”hives due to sharing soap” thing won’t happen again and baby soap just to be safe and to make sure that it would be gentle on my skin to avoid future complications such as hives and irritation. Then in school, due to the use of chalkboards, I noticed that after handling chalk I would get itchy rashes. At first, I didn’t think much of it, but eventually, we did consult a doctor about it, and she said that it might be acute contact dermatitis. Contact dermatitis is an itchy rash caused by direct contact with a substance or an allergic reaction to it. The rash isn't contagious, but it can be very uncomfortable. Like I said earlier, I’ve always had a rough relationship with my skin since it felt like I always found a new complication with my skin just after I figured out the last complication. It did eventually get frustrating as it became a cycle with one compilation right after the other, and of course, the time when I didn’t know anything about these conditions and up until not knowing how to handle it was uncomfortable and at times painful. 

To conclude, My journey with my skin was truly a long process of trial and error, not only with the products that I use or that come in contact with my skin but also with routines. Looking back on these occasions in my life, I realized how unique our skin is, as no two skin conditions are the same. I also realized how remarkable and robust our skin is, able to defend itself against external stressors while also successfully responding and repairing itself. It fascinates me how vital our skin is and what role it plays. Throughout my journey, I learned that asking questions and seeing a doctor is vital for ensuring correct skin care, so don't be scared to do so. I also learned how to properly care for my skin and why it is crucial to do so.

Here the stories goes when I was grade 5 I had my first period I have a normal period in the first years of my period year had passed, grade 6 i became irregular every other two months duon palang Ako mag kakaron, i thought it was normal pa until the 2 months began to 3 months without having period years passed half of the year I didn't have a period.

Half of the year without having period after months I will have period that will lasts for months I was not really open to my parents when I'm having sickness until

2024 Aug I have to be rushed in emergency because blood loss due to my heavy period that I'm keeping from my parents na I wasn't normal already to always have an heavy period for 4months.

My experience before rushing to the emergency wasn't normal already weeks efore it I was having severe headache thinking na it was just migraine pero week happens a I was washing the dishes but my sight was slowly turning black I have blurred vision resulting to rush my mother for help but couldn't talk properly na because the dark already eats me

I was need in for blood pero since it was midnight already they couldn't find a blood donor or a blood that stock for those who are in need I was unconscious for several hours in the emergency room

Weeks had passed my blood platelets is getting low even after transfusion it was tough battle because it can be 50-50 if my platelets downs from 2.

School week was getting near na I'm still weak and low blood platelets, my doctor decided na pag Hindi pa tumaas I'll be in the hospital for months.

But thank lord that tumaas sya and I can be discharged even if I'm still weak.

But I was wrong, yes, the wounds/scars healed but the it left a scar/mark on my skin. As you can see in the top left picture, you can see the scars, those scars are from my childhood. It looks okay but the marks makes me insecure. At the age of 7 I get called "polka dots" by my playmates and classmates as a joke because of my scars on my legs. Because of that I became insecure to the point I can’t wear dress or any clothes that will show my legs and in my elementary school were not allowed to wear pants or long socks but I’m glad they allow me to wear long socks.

I keep trying different ointment or products that is recommended to me in order to remove my scars, one of the product that I use is sebo de macho. Sebo De Macho smell so bad, I hate the smell but I don’t have a choice but to apply it because my friend said that this product help her to remove her scars. But yeah as you can see in the pic, nothing change on my scars and year 2023 when I stop using products and began accepting my scars and now I use aloe vera soothing gel to moisturize my skin:)

In 2022, lots of pimples appeared on my face. My mother assumed that it’s because of multiple products that I use on my face knowing I have sensitive skin. As shown in the top right photo, my face was full of pimples. At first, I thought they were just normal pimples that would heal in a few days or weeks, but I was wrong. The pimples began spreading and stayed on my face for an entire year. That period made me feel so insecure about myself. I was thankful that wearing face masks was required during that time, because it allows me to hide my face from my classmates and others.  Those are the times that I couldn’t take a single photo without using a filter, and even with filters, I still felt insecure about it.

In 2023, my parents brought me an aloe vera plant from Mindanao, believing it could help. My mom said that my cousin who has same skin problem as mine, her pimples healed because of aloe vera, that’s when my mom decided to bring me a strand  of aloe vera plant from our province to Manila. She was right, after a few weeks of applying the aloe vera plant on my face, my pimples started to disappear and heal. I still use aloe vera, but I've also bought an aloe vera soothing gel as an alternative for when I'm too tired to apply the plant directly. My routine now consists of washing my face with Cetaphil, drying it with tissue, and then applying either the aloe vera plant or soothing gel. As my pimples have healed  I gain self-confidence.

This is the first time I share or open up about this but I'm happy that finally I learn to accept whatever skin stuff that I have:)

Not to brag or anything but, I grew up in a family that I think has one of the lightest skin in our province. Growing up, I often heard people say, “Para kang bondpaper” to us. I didn’t know how to respond to such a compliment because, for me, my skin color was normal, at least among my family members. Since all my family members were described as “maputi,” I was compared to my brother, who had the white skin that people wanted. Even if he stayed out too long under the sun, his skin would just redden, and the next day, it would be back to its original color—white. I actually envied his skin color for a short time because I wanted that skin for myself. As time went by, I learned not to compare myself to anyone because every skin is different, and I just had to love mine.

However, there’s a funny story I want to share. Long story short, when I was younger, I rode a motorcycle for the first time and, as a beginner, had no clue where to place my legs. Accidentally, I placed them on the muffler, resulting in a scar. It was a traumatic experience indeed, but something I laugh about now—a scar that I barely notice after so many years.

In our province, skincare routines, sunscreens, and cleansers were not really a thing. Hence, I didn’t have a skincare routine like other girls my age. My mom and grandmother would constantly remind me not to touch or apply anything to my skin, or it would be ruined. As a child, I valued their words and listened to them. However, when I moved to Manila, I tried using products and developed my own skincare routine, buying sunscreens and cleansers from different brands and testing them out. But after a day of using cleansers, I started to have small pimples or patches on my face. After that experience, I stopped using those products and stuck to one sunscreen.

My skin’s appearance is probably average—nothing unusual. As a teenager, I had pimples, rough, and oily skin due to hormonal imbalance. Although irritated at times, I have learned to accept that it is a part of me. I did not have issues with my skin color due to my family’s genes, but I guess no one can escape puberty.

Upon thinking, the only unique thing about my skin is the scar on my leg. Other than that, I find it hard to identify something special about it. However, writing this has made me realize that maybe the unique thing about my skin is that I never had a hard time loving it. I didn’t care about my skin color or how it looked. Truth be told, I am very grateful that my issues were just the “normal problems” encountered by teenagers, considering that many people face much more serious skin problems.

I remember when my insecurities began, back in grade school, when a classmate called me "mukhang unggoy" because of my hairy skin. It deeply affected me and left me feeling embarrassed and uncomfortable.

By junior high, I tried shaving my hair, hoping it would help with my insecurities. However, shaving only led to more frustration. The hair grew back thicker and darker, which is common with hair regrowth. I soon realized that shaving wasn’t a solution but a temporary fix that made my insecurities worse. I found myself constantly worried about my appearance and what others thought of me.

As the years passed, I came to understand that everyone has their own insecurities and that I wasn’t alone in feeling different. I began to seek acceptance not just from others but also from myself. I came to see my hairy skin as a unique trait of mine, a part of who I am rather than something to be hidden or changed.

Now, looking back, I see how far I’ve come. My hairy skin no longer defines me; it serves as a reminder of how I’ve learned to accept myself. My experience with self-consciousness taught me valuable lessons about self-acceptance and self-love. It’s an ongoing journey that reminds me that everyone has their own struggles and that true beauty lies in authenticity.

I remember clearly that the first day was a blur of introductions, new faces, and awkward small talk. As I walked through the hallways, I felt every glance like a weight on my shoulders. I remember the way I tried to blend into the background, hoping that if I stayed unnoticed, I could avoid the potential sting of rejection.

It was there that I first met Joelle, a little kid with an infectious smile and an easygoing nature. She didn’t hesitate to approach me and strike up a conversation. At first, I was cautious, questioning her friendliness—could someone be so genuinely nice?

Joelle seemed to sense my hesitation despite being classmates for at least 1 month. As we talked for the first time during our MAPEH project, she shared stories about her own experiences of feeling out of place and how she had struggled with being accepted in various situations. Her honesty struck a chord with me, and I found myself opening up about my fears of not fitting in because of my skin color and even my small pores building or opening up at that time. I explained how I had worried that my differences would make it hard for me to connect with others, especially during that MAPEH project.

To my surprise, Joelle listened intently and reassured me. She told me that everyone has their own struggles, and what truly mattered was finding people who valued you for who you are, not just how you look. Her words were comforting, but the real turning point came when she invited me to join her and a few friends at their table the next day.

Fast forward to my high school years when I felt my confidence building up with the right amount of support from my friends–Sofia, Amara, Joelle, Chelsea, Yanie, Katrina, and many more. The girlhood in us can never be removed from any of us. They supported me, especially on the things that I considered as my “flaws”. They made me love my flaws and accept myself. The acne, pores, and the worry about being morena had faded into the background, overshadowed by the acceptance and warmth I had received. Joelle's kindness had not only helped me feel included but had also taught me the invaluable lesson that acceptance and true friendship come from looking beyond outward appearances.

Before ending this story, I would like to thank you for letting me share my journey with you. Every step of the way has been a testament to my resilience and growth, and I hope it serves as a reminder that our flaws do not define us—they shape us into who we are meant to be.

Embracing our imperfections is not just about accepting who we are, but celebrating the unique beauty we each bring into the world. Remember, your worth is not measured by the color of your skin or the clarity of your complexion. It’s measured by your courage, your kindness, and the love you give to yourself and others.

So, let your inner light shine brightly, and let your story inspire those around you. We are all beautiful in our ways, and together, we can lift each other and embrace the journey with all its ups and downs.

You are amazing, just as you are. Keep shining, and never forget that you are enough.

Padayon, HSPS! 

- Nagmamahal, Anel.

It wasn’t just my shoulders either. I’ve always disliked the skin around my tummy. It’s not as flat or tight as I thought it should be, and that made me feel like I needed to look different—smaller, thinner. I wanted to be emaciated. Sometimes, that feeling still creeps in, the thought that if I were just more “toned” or if my body took up less space, maybe I’d feel better about it. It’s a struggle that lingers, despite everything.

Skincare became a turning point for me, though not in the way I expected. What started as a simple routine to "improve" my skin turned into a daily ritual of self-care. Slowly, I shifted from seeing it as something to fix imperfections and began to view it as an act of kindness toward myself. The softness I once hated became something I started to embrace—part of who I am, a natural part of my skin.

Makeup followed in the same way. Where I once used it to hide or cover up, now it feels like a form of self-expression, a way to enhance how I feel without masking anything. Taking care of my skin, applying makeup, these little acts have become moments of connection with myself.

But I wonder sometimes—has this shift in focus, this time I now spend on my appearance, become too much? I used to barely think about how I presented myself. Now, it’s something I consider almost daily. Is that a good thing or not? I’m not sure. It’s not about vanity, but rather a way of engaging with myself that I didn’t have before. It simply is. And maybe that’s enough for now.

Back then, when i was in junior high i had a fungal infection like having a flaky skin, and thick dandruff. These infection were not only uncomfortable but also took a toll on my confidence. They were difficult to manage and often took a month or more to fully clear up, making it hard to maintain healthy skin. When i told my mom about it she thought it was a psoriasis because of my flaky skin and scalp. The turning point came when we decided to seek for professional help from a dermatologist. with their guidance, i learned to about specific needs for my skin and received tailored treatment plan.

Additionally, growing up, i faced severe acne that affected not only my appearance but also my self-esteem. Especially when i'm stressed and have a problem, my acne will get worse. so tried countless products, some worked temporarily, while others made my skin worse. it was a frustrating cycle of hope and disappointment. Through trial and error, i discovered that less is more when it comes to skin cares. So i decided to trey home remedies just like rice water and ice etc. And also i started focusing on quality over quantity, choosing products with ingredients that beneficial for my skin.

Further more my skin is very sensitive too, i always notice that even minor bumps or scrapes would leave noticeable bruises.

This journey has taught me the importance of self-care and listening to my body's needs. My skincare routine has become a daily ritual that reminds me to be kind to my self and stay committed to my skins health. I hope my story inspires others to embrace their skin journey and find what works the best for them..