
MANILA, Philippines – Current inflation and high fuel and commodity prices have many people looking for new ways to get more for their money.
So, besides recycling and sustainability, multi-purpose skin care and cosmetic products are a big trend these days, as they offer many benefits for the price of one.
At Watsons Philippines’ recent “Switch and Save” press launch at SM Megamall, Watsons Philippines Marketing Manager Margarita Contreras showcased multi-way products and offers consumers can check out as options to survive the inflation.
Like how salt and baking soda can be used beyond flavoring foods, here are a few new versions that might come in handy for everyday life — in more ways than one:
1. Bilberry Complex is a good eye health supplement at half the price.
Pexel through Pixabay; Philstar.com/Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo
Due to the pandemic, many people are online more than ever, whether they are working from home on a computer, attending virtual classes, playing video games or watching via streaming apps. These cause eye strain and as such, experts said eye health could be the next big medical challenge after COVID-19.
To protect the eyes from harmful radiation from gadgets, it is a good idea to take eye health supplements. Among the effective but less expensive options is the blueberry complex, made from small blue bilberries endemic to northern Europe. Known for medicinal use since the Middle Ages, blueberries are related to improve vision and even lower cholesterol and blood sugar.
2. Don’t like the taste of vitamins? Turn them into smoothies.

Philstar.com/Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo
3. Can’t make it to a salon? Stick fakes and false nails!

Philstar.com/Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo

Philstar.com/Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo
4. Shower gel can replace shaving cream.

Philstar.com/Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo
5. Underarm deodorant is also good for sweaty feet.

Philstar.com/Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo
6. Mint floss feels like menthol toothpaste.

Philstar.com/Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo
Contreras said Philstar.com this mint dental floss is a must in her toiletry bag. Studies show that flossing can add a year to life because it helps prevent gum disease and/or heart disease.
7. Make your own natural toothpaste

Philstar.com/Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo

Philstar.com/Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo
8. Heavy traffic? Put on a mask.

If you commute and usually fall asleep between traffic jams, you can maximize your time in the passenger seat by putting on a skincare face mask.
Serum is already shorthand for skipping a multi-step beauty regimen, but here’s a lazier option: serum masks – no need to apply with an ampoule or your fingers. Watsons new serum mask, Contreras said, contains one bottle of serum per mask.
If you can’t wash your face, especially after using gadgets for a long time, the brand also offers new flavored wet tissues. You can put them in a cup with a little hot water, leave them there for a while until they get warm, then pat them on your face for a relaxing spa feeling.
One of the brand’s bestsellers is Vitamin C Inducer Cotton Puffs – cotton pads containing collagen and vitamin C that are activated by water.
Philstar.com/Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo
9. Aloe Vera Gel for Rashes and Dry Ankles

Philstar.com/Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo
10. Turn laundry water into home fragrance

Breeze / Freed
Aromatherapy, according to studiescould lift your spirits and be good for your mental and overall health.
But since most home fragrances are made from natural oils, they usually cost a fortune. Still, here’s a trick that can make your home smell fresh without spending a penny more: Before you throw away the last rinse of your laundry water, especially if it contains fabric softener, soak your carpet in it and recycle the scented water to clean your floor and windows, so that the fragrance fills the house. The scent could last for a day or even several days depending on the amount of fabric softener in the water.
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