LG ELECTRONICS Wins “Best Brand of IFA 2026” and Multiple Honors at IFA Innovation Awards

LG Electronics (LG) has achieved the highest recognition at the second annual IFA Innovation Awards, capturing the highly coveted Best Brand of IFA 2026 title. By earning this top distinction at the established global technology awards program, LG firmly strengthens its reputation as a global innovation leader, setting new benchmarks in technology, design and market impact.

Leading the product categories, LG secured multiple Category Best awards. The LG OLED evo AI W6, True Wireless Wallpaper TV earned the Best in Home & Entertainment award, recognized for reimagining the iconic Wallpaper TV with an ultra-thin 9mm range2, True Wireless connectivity and Hyper Radiant Color Technology that combine to deliver a seamless fusion of design and picture innovation. The product embodies LG's vision of built on The product embodies LG's vision, built on the concept of “Technology Without the Clutter,” offering unprecedented freedom in how premium televisions integrate into living spaces.

In the audio category, LG Sound Suite AI was named Best in Audio for transforming the home listening experience through the world's first Dolby Atmos® FlexConnectTM sound ecosystem. Designed to give users greater freedom to combine, arrange and position speakers throughout their spaces, LG Sound Suite AI creates a more flexible and personalized approach to immersive home audio.

LG’s premium display and audio lineups were further recognized with five Honoree distinctions, highlighting the breadth of the company's innovation across home entertainment and lifestyle experiences.

The LG OLED evo G6 was recognized for advancing OLED picture performance to new heights through Hyper Radiant Color Technology, delivering exceptional brightness, contrast and color precision while preserving the self-emissive advantages that define LG OLED.

The LG Micro RGB evo (MRGB96) earned recognition for introducing LG's vision for the next era of premium TV displays, harnessing RGB-based illumination technology to deliver high color volume, luminance and ultra-large-scale performance.

The LG Mini RGB evo (MRGB88) was honored for bringing the benefits of RGB display innovation into a more accessible form factor, balancing advanced picture quality, energy efficiency and everyday usability for premium TV consumers.

The LG StanbyME 2 Max received an Honoree distinction for redefining personal entertainment with a movable lifestyle screen designed to adapt to the way people live, work and relax, extending content experiences beyond the traditional living room.

Furthermore, the LG xboom Stage 501 received an Honoree award in the Best in Audio category for delivering powerful, crowd-energizing performance tailored for parties, live entertainment and social gatherings, demonstrating LG's continued expansion into lifestyle-focused audio experiences.

From earning the Best Brand of IFA 2026 honor to securing multiple honors across its MS division, LG’s achievements reflect the company’s unwavering commitment to innovation and to creating products that continuously elevate the customer experience. 

# # #

1 Visually lossless based on TÜV Rheinland certification test conditions conducted in accordance with ISO/IEC 291702. Measurement and performance results may vary depending on connection status and environment.

2 The actual measurement is 9.95mm and may vary slightly depending on the measuring conditions.

About LG Electronics Media Entertainment Solution Company

The LG Media Entertainment Solution Company (MS) is a recognized innovator in televisions, audio, displays and smart TV platforms. The MS Company enhances the media entertainment experience with its OLED TVs, renowned for perfect black and perfect color, the newest Micro RGB TVs and Mini-LED QNED TVs, all powered by the personalized webOS smart TV platform. The MS Company also offers Information Technology solutions (gaming monitors, business monitors, laptops, projectors, cloud devices and medical displays) as well as Signage solutions (Micro LED signage, digital signage, hospitality displays and signage software solutions) that are designed to maximize customers’ work efficiency and deliver strong value. For more news on LG, visit www.LG.com/global/newsroom/.

What to See, Eat, and Drink Around Hong Kong’s Old Town Central

One place to start is the Old Town Central neighbourhood that brings together historic streets, old-school shops, award-winning restaurants that sit just along the world’s longest outdoor covered escalator, the iconic Central Mid-levels Escalator. Here’s how to spend a day discovering a more local side of Central:

Old Town Signatures

These are local institutions that showcase Central Hong Kong’s traditions, flavors, and everyday experiences that have built the neighborhood for years. From the cuisines that are served at the dai pai dongs (open-air street food stalls) of Upper Lascar Row to traditional wet markets and historic temples, Old Town Signatures offer experiences that are unmistakable Hong Kong. 

Old Town Legacy

Walk through Central’s layered history and influences that have kept the district standing for generations. Explore through the distinctive granite steps of Pottinger Street, the revitalised former police station and prison complex at Tai Kwun, the historic Dr Sun Yat-sen Museum, traditional tong lau architecture. 

Neighbourhood Taste 

Michelin-starred restaurants, acclaimed bars and beloved local institutions together side by side. Immerse yourself in Hong Kong’s famous flavors such as traditional teas, dim sum, neighborhood bakeries, and cocktail bars even after dark.

Art & Soul 

Roam around the artistic side of Central, where contemporary art and design exist alongside traditional craftsmanship and historic streetscapes in every corner. From galleries and colorful murals along Hollywood road, cutting-edge creativity and design at PMQ, antiques along Upper Lascar Row, and the character-filled streets in Wing Lee Street and Tai Ping Shan Street, this creative side of Hong Kong is worth the visit. 

To get even closer to the heartbeat of the community, allow this new interactive AR web app to guide you throughout your journey along Central which not only offers dynamic, motion-activated content at key locations along each themed experience but also allows visitors to listen to immersive audio experiences, where local business owners or staff at local institutions share personal stories about Central’s evolving character. Featured local voices include:

Bonny Yuen (Founder of Yuen’s Tailor): a family-run tailoring shop boasting over 55 years of history and craftsmanship.

Gavin Yeung (Co-founder of Kinsman): a Central cocktail bar known for its innovative drinks inspired by Cantonese and Chinese spirits.

Ben Tsui (Fourth-generation owner of Kung Lee Herbal Tea Shop): a time-honoured herbal tea shop famous for its fresh sugar cane juice and traditional herbal jelly.

Cecilia Chan (Co-founder of Glocal Mahjong): one of the few places in Hong Kong where visitors can pick up a unique mahjong-themed souvenir.

Take Central Memories Home with Limited-Time Keepsakes and Cocktails 

Old Town Map are available to help visitors navigate the neighbourhood’s hidden gems. Old Town Exclusive Cocktails will be also served at selected bars for a limited time.

Get a chance to redeem one of five limited-edition Street Sign Pins at Central Market, Tai Kwun, PMQ or other participating merchants when you spend HKD200 or more in a single same-day transaction at participating merchants. 

To add to the celebration, 14 neighbourhood bars will serve Old Town Exclusive Cocktails inspired by the Central’s character for a limited period. This includes 50 Best-listed bars such as COA, Montana, The Opposites, The Savory Project and Tell Camellia.

Visit Hong Kong Tourism Board’s page to start planning your Old Town Central journey!

HONOR 600 Pro MOLLY Edition Debuts Exclusively on Lazada for only Php 49,999

HONOR Philippines today announced the launch of the HONOR 600 Pro MOLLY Edition, a limited-edition smartphone created in collaboration with Pop Mart and available exclusively on Lazada Philippines for as low as Php 49,999.

Bringing together HONOR’s premium smartphone technology and MOLLY’s distinctive style, the special-edition device is designed for users who want powerful everyday performance with a more expressive, collectible appeal.

“We are excited to bring the HONOR 600 Pro MOLLY Edition to the Philippines and introduce this special collaboration with Pop Mart,” said Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines. “MOLLY has a distinct identity and strong connection with its community, and we’re thrilled to bring that personality together with HONOR’s technology and innovation. Through this collaboration, we hope to connect with new communities and give both HONOR and Pop Mart fans a smartphone experience that is both powerful and expressive. We look forward to seeing the MOLLY Edition become part of the everyday lives of our consumers.”

A Stylish Smartphone with Collectible Appeal

The HONOR 600 Pro MOLLY Edition gives the HONOR 600 Pro a fresh special-edition treatment inspired by MOLLY, offering fans and collectors a device that stands out in both style and function.

At just 7.8mm thin and 200g, the device features a cold-carved unibody design, translucent Composite Fiber back panel, matte metal frame, and an industry-leading 0.98mm narrow black bezel for a sleek, refined look.

Designed for photography and content creation, the HONOR 600 Pro features a 200MP Ultra-Clear Night Camera with a 1/1.4-inch sensor and CIPA 6.0 OIS, paired with a 50MP 3.5X Periscope Telephoto Camera that supports up to 120x zoom and CIPA 6.5 OIS. Its industry-exclusive AI Image to Video 2.0 feature also enables users to transform still images into cinematic video content powered by AI.

The device is powered by a 7,000mAh battery with 80W Wired and 50W Wireless HONOR SuperCharge, while its 6.57-inch display delivers up to 8,000 nits peak brightness and a 120Hz refresh rate for a smooth, vivid viewing experience.

Exclusively on Lazada

As the exclusive platform for the HONOR 600 Pro MOLLY Edition in the Philippines, Lazada provides HONOR and MOLLY fans with a dedicated destination to access the limited-edition collaboration.

The launch coincides with Lazada’s 9.9 Campaign, giving consumers the opportunity to discover the special-edition smartphone with exclusive pricing and flexible payment options through LazPay, Lazada PayLater, and credit card installments, subject to applicable campaign terms.

The HONOR 600 Pro MOLLY Edition is available exclusively on Lazada for an SRP of Php 59,999, but consumers can enjoy up to Php 10,000 in total discounts, including a Php 1,500 HONOR discount, Php 3,000 Lazada platform voucher, and an additional Php 5,500 voucher for UnionBank credit card users, bringing the checkout price down to as low as Php 49,999, subject to applicable terms and conditions. For more information and to purchase the limited-edition device, visit https://bit.ly/H600Pro_Molly.

With the HONOR 600 Pro MOLLY Edition, HONOR Philippines and Lazada Philippines continue to bring consumers new ways to experience mobile technology through the intersection of innovation, personal style, and collectible culture.

For more information about HONOR Philippines, you may visit: https://www.honor.com/ph/. To stay updated on launch announcements, product information, and exclusive offers, follow HONOR Philippines’ social media platforms on Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines) for exclusive launch updates, product information, and more. 

#HONOR600ProMollyLimitedEdition #HONORxLazada #HONORxPopmart

###

About HONOR

HONOR is a global leading AI device ecosystem company. It is committed to revolutionizing human-to-device interactions to bridge the AI ecosystem with all consumers in the agentic AI era and beyond. The company endeavors to open industrial boundaries through open, seamless collaboration to co-create a value-sharing ecosystem with industry partners. With an innovative product portfolio spanning AI phones, PCs, tablets, wearables, and more, HONOR aims to empower every human, enabling everyone to embrace the new intelligent world.

Captivate Your Audience with the New Logitech Spotlight 2Advanced Presenter, Featuring Haptics and Digital Highlighting

Logitech announced Spotlight 2, a premium advancedpresenter designed to keep audiences fully engaged. Raising expectations in the presenterscategory, the device moves beyond simple control to deliver a first-of-its-kind guided breathingexperience alongside an intuitive, force-sensitive highlighting button with subtle haptic feedback.Engineered to build confidence before a speaker even steps on stage, Spotlight 2 ensures thethumb finds its home instantly without a glance, allowing the presenter to highlight the slidedetails easily and naturally while staying focused on the audience. To prepare for presenting,soft haptic pulses can help regulate breathing and offer a grounding sense of calm.“Presenting can be a high-pressure moment, even for experienced speakers,” said Sally Yu,Head of Distribution and Retail at Logitech Philippines. “Spotlight 2 brings together intuitivecontrols and subtle haptic guidance to help Filipino professionals feel more grounded andempowered. By taking some of the uncertainty out of presenting, we hope to give them theconfidence to focus less on the technology and more on making their message count.”Digital Highlighting Effects and CustomizationGoing beyond the limitations of traditional lasers, Spotlight 2 offers advanced highlighting effectsincluding Spotlight, Squarelight, Magnify, and Annotation, in addition to a Digital Pointer andClass 1 laser, ensuring key points land with impact in both in-person and hybrid settings. Easyto use, intuitive and customizable to your own presentation style via the Logi Options+ App,users can configure the Action Button to trigger shortcuts like start, blank screen, or mute with asingle press, transforming Spotlight 2 from a simple clicker into a personalized control center.Designed for SustainabilitySpotlight 2 is designed with thoughtful choices to reduce environmental impact, carefullyselecting materials like aluminum made with renewable energy and certified post-consumerrecycled plastic (PCR). The presenter’s plastic parts include 43% recycled plastic for Graphite,Sand, Light Lilac, and Black models to give a second life to end-of-life plastics from oldconsumer electronics, as well as FSCTM-certified paper packaging. The result is a product thatis beautiful with a lower carbon impact.Additional tech specs:● Two ways to connect: Easy pairing via Bluetooth® or the included Logi Bolt USB-Creceiver.● Quick charge: Get 3 months of use on a full charge or 3 hours of presentation time froma 1-minute charge.● Cross-platform compatibility: Works seamlessly across PowerPoint, Google Slides,Keynote on macOS and Windows.● Long wireless Range: A range of up to 30m (100 feet) provides the confidence tomove, engage, and present without being tied to a laptop● Secure grip: An improved grip design allows for a confident hold, ensuring the presenterremains focused on the performance without the distraction of the device slipping fromthe hand.Pricing and AvailabilityThe Spotlight 2 retails for PHP 8,295 on Shopee, Lazada, and Logitech’s authorized retailpartners. Color options include Graphite and Sand, with Light Lilac and Black available in selectmarkets. To learn more about the product and upcoming product releases, follow Logitech onFacebook. You may also visit Logitech’s official website for more product offerings.###About LogitechLogitech designs software-enabled hardware solutions that help businesses thrive and bringpeople together when working, creating, gaming, and streaming. As the point of connectionbetween people and the digital world, our mission is to extend human potential in work and play,in a way that is good for people and the planet. Founded in 1981, Logitech International is aSwiss public company listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange (LOGN) and the Nasdaq Global SelectMarket (LOGI). Find Logitech and its other brands, including Logitech G, at www.logitech.com 

AIA Philippines launches FutureProofing with AIA, beginning with the insurance industry’s first-ever investment-focused podcast series

AIA Philippines has launched FutureProofing with AIA, its flagship podcast, debuting with a four-episode investment-focused series, marking the Philippine insurance industry’s first podcast dedicated to investing. The podcast is now streaming on Spotify and YouTube.

FutureProofing with AIA brings AIA Philippines’ experts into conversations about questions that investors may face at different stages of their financial journey, from whether to start, top up, or stay invested in a variable unit-linked (VUL) insurance plan, which combines life insurance protection with investment opportunities, to exploring opportunities beyond Philippine markets and balancing investment growth with financial protection.

Designed for both current and aspiring investors, FutureProofing with AIA simplifies investment concepts and provides practical guidance on investing wisely, empowering Filipinos to make informed financial decisions as they build, grow, and strengthen their investment portfolios.

“Through FutureProofing with AIA, we want to make investment conversations more approachable and relevant, giving people the confidence to take action and make informed decisions. By combining expert insights with practical guidance, we're helping Filipinos future-proof their finances, grow their wealth with greater confidence, and protect what matters most at every stage of their journey,” shared Katherine Wong, Interim Chief Marketing Officer, AIA Philippines. 

Answering questions investors are asking

The four-episode pilot features Ramon Domingo, Investments Consultant at AIA Philippines, and Mika Uichanco, Investments Principal at AIA Philippines, who bring their expertise to the conversations. They aim to address key questions around starting, growing, and protecting investments, while exploring opportunities across local and global markets. By helping Filipinos better understand investment options and strategies, the podcast empowers them to make more informed decisions as they build long-term financial security and wealth.

In one episode, titled “How to Grow Your Investments Wisely and Secure Your Finances,” AIA explores topics around expanding your investment portfolio while protecting your finances. The episode features Ramon Domingo and Mika Uichanco breaking down the considerations that investors may want to understand when making these decisions.

“When it comes to investing, many people find it challenging because of the wide range of options available. I would think people have heard about stocks and bonds. But the question is, which of those is the right choice for them, and how can they get started?” said Ramon Domingo, Investments Consultant, AIA Philippines.

“If we only invest in the Philippines, we might lose out on growth stories abroad. By investing globally, you will be able to mitigate that. While it does not guarantee gains, it may help lessen potential losses through broader market exposure,” added Mika Uichanco, Investments Principal, AIA Philippines.

Other episodes broaden the conversation to other aspects of investing, including potential opportunities of investing across global markets, how investors can think about growth, income, and protection together, and how to navigate investment opportunities while protecting their finances. The series also features AIA’s Global Adventurous Income Fund and Peso/Dollar Advantage Max.

Making future-proofing conversations more accessible

Beyond investments, AIA’s future episodes will tackle financial literacy, insurance, financial planning, and other practical ways to strengthen financial security and enhance health and life protection for Filipinos. 

AIA Philippines will also extend FutureProofing with AIA across Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, and YouTube Shorts, bringing key insights and takeaways from each conversation to audiences in shorter, easy-to-digest formats. These shorter-form pieces will highlight practical investing perspectives from the podcast and give audiences additional ways to engage with the topics discussed in each episode.

The series will also be featured across AIA Philippines’ digital platforms, where audiences can access the podcast episodes and related content.

FutureProofing with AIA is now available on Spotify and YouTube.

Listen and watch the series:

Spotify: https://bit.ly/FutureProofingwithAIA   

YouTube: https://bit.ly/FutureProofingOnYT 

###

 

About AIA Philippines

AIA Philippines formerly AIA Philam Life (The Philippine American Life and General Insurance Company), is the country’s premier life insurance company. Originally established on 21 June 1947 and became popularly known as Philam Life, AIA Philippines has earned the trust of customers for its financial strength, strong brand name, and ability to deliver on its promises.

AIA Philippines has PHP 253.35 billion in total assets and PHP 70.14 billion in net worth as of 31 December 2025 while serving more than 1.1 million individual policyholders and more than 1 million insured group members. AIA Philippines understands the needs of its customers and provides holistic solutions that include life protection, health insurance, savings, education, retirement, investment, group, and credit life insurance. It also offers bancassurance through its subsidiary, BPI AIA Life Assurance Corporation (formerly BPI-Philam Life Assurance Corporation).

Based on the audited reports submitted to the Insurance Commission as of 31 December 2025, the combined total premium income of AIA Philippines and BPI AIA was at PHP 34.32 billion. AIA Philippines is a member of AIA Group Limited, the largest independent publicly listed pan-Asian life insurance group.

AIA and BPI AIA are regulated by the Insurance Commission.

 

About AIA 

 

AIA Group Limited and its subsidiaries (collectively “AIA” or the “Group”) comprise the largest independent publicly listed pan-Asian life insurance group. It has a presence in 18 markets – wholly-owned branches and subsidiaries in the Chinese Mainland, Hong Kong SAR(1), Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, Cambodia, Indonesia, Myanmar, New Zealand, the Philippines, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan (China), Vietnam, Brunei and Macau SAR(2), and a 49 per cent joint venture in India. In addition, AIA has a 24.99 per cent shareholding in China Post Life Insurance Co., Ltd.

 

The business that is now AIA was first established in Shanghai more than a century ago in 1919. It is a market leader in Asia (ex-Japan) based on life insurance premiums and holds leading positions across the majority of its markets. It had total assets of US$360 billion as of 30 June 2026. 

 

AIA meets the long-term savings and protection needs of individuals by offering a range of products and services including life insurance, accident and health insurance and savings plans. The Group also provides employee benefits, credit life and pension services to corporate clients. Through an extensive network of agents, partners and employees across Asia, AIA serves the holders of more than 45 million individual policies and over 16 million participating members of group insurance schemes.

 

AIA Group Limited is listed on the Main Board of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited under the stock codes “1299” for HKD counter and “81299” for RMB counter with American Depositary Receipts (Level 1) traded on the over-the-counter market under the ticker symbol “AAGIY”.

Notes:

1. Hong Kong SAR refers to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. 

2. Macau SAR refers to the Macau Special Administrative Region.

See the Toyota Tamaraw Take on New Forms atPURVEYR Fair 2026, AFEX 2026, PHILBEX Cebu, andDCPH Grandparents Day

Since its introduction in 2024, the Next Generation Toyota Tamaraw has continued todeliver its promise to be the vehicle of choice for versatility. Its highly configurable platform is meant to becustomized according to the needs and lifestyles of any business owner or individual. From passenger andcargo transport to refrigerated logistics and purpose-built mobile businesses, the Tamaraw can serve a widerange of uses depending on operational requirements. Paired with the proven Toyota QDR (quality, durabilityand reliability) and trusted aftersales service, it truly is the vehicle of choice for daily business operations.This coming week, Toyota will demonstrate the versatility of the Next Generation Tamaraw across 4 events inMetro Manila and in Cebu. From September 9 to 12, Tamaraw will participate in the Asia Food Expo (AFEX) atthe World Trade Center showcasing different business possibilities in the food and beverage industry.On September 10 -13 at the IEC Convention Center Cebu, the Tamaraw will be at PHILBEX Cebu showcasingthe vehicle as a work horse in the building and construction industry. Guests can see and experience thevehicle through test drives during this event.Moreover, this weekend from September 12 - 13, the local creative community at the annual PURVEYR Fairwill get to experience for the first time, a Tamaraw GL Dropside DJ booth. On the same dates, a Tamaraw GLDropside can also be found on display at the Die Cast PH Grandparents Pit Stop event at Cash & CarryMakati, placing the Tamaraw in the diecast collector event, for collectors to see and take inspiration from.Guests can go to any of the 4 events where Tamaraw will make its appearance and be able to find somethingabout the Tamaraw that can pique their interest.Make your “Abante, Posible” with the Toyota Tamaraw Refrigerator Van at AFEX 2026Different configurations for different business requirementsAt the AFEX, a trade show focused on food processing, packaging, handling machinery, equipment, andtechnology, Toyota is featuring four configurations: the Tamaraw Utility Van, Tamaraw GL Dropside, TamarawWing Van, and Tamaraw Ref Van. On the other hand, the Philippine Building Construction Expo Cebu 2026 orPHILBEX Cebu will also see a Tamaraw GL Dropside variant, with test drives also being available.Recognizing the rapidly expanding construction and design sector in Cebu, PHILBEX Cebu is an event thatcontinues to drive the Cebuano construction and design industryGet the chance to test drive the Next Generation Tamaraw at PHILBEX Cebu 2026The two events are a perfect platform for the Tamaraw, highlighting its role as a nation building vehicle,allowing aspiring and current business owners to see the Tamaraw’s potential in being an integral part ofoperations in business industries.Catch the Toyota Tamaraw GL Dropside DJ Booth at PURVEYR Fair 2026Taking the Next Generation Tamaraw into more specialized applicationsThe Next Generation Tamaraw takes on a different character at PURVEYR Fair, where two units willdemonstrate applications beyond conventional passenger and cargo transport. The two-day gathering ofindependent Filipino brands, creatives, and communities will see a Tamaraw GL Dropside converted into a DJbooth and a pop-up flower store, using the vehicle’s open rear section as the foundation for two very differentmobile setups.On September 12, the Tamaraw Dropside DJ booth will be featuring DJ sets from Waff, Roy De Borja, Okami,Average Bri, Nix Damn P! and J Dope. While on September 13, Okami, ADMV, Michiko, Nix Damn P!, Butta B,and Yela Renee will cap off the event with their performances.A Tamaraw Food Truck will also be deployed at the fair in support of Waves For Water, demonstrating anotherway the vehicle can be converted into not only functional mobile business space but a medium for spreading abusiness’ advocacy.See theSee what the Tamaraw & the Philippine Diecast community has to offer at DCPH Grandparents Day Pit StopEventgoers of the Diecast Car Collectors of the Philippines (DCPH) Grandparents Day Pit Stop will also havethe chance to see a Tamaraw GL Dropside. The growing diecast community in the Philippines has also showninterest in the Next Generation Tamaraw, due to its modular and adaptable nature as a vehicle not only forbusiness but also for artistic expression and leisure.See the Next Generation Tamaraw and its different variants and conversions at AFEX on September 9-12 atthe World Trade Center and PURVEYR Fair on September 12-13 at the World Trade Center Tent. Additionally,catch the Tamaraw displays at PHILBEX Expo 2026 on September 10-13 at the IEC Convention Center Cebu,and the DCPH Grandparents Day Pit Stop on September 12-13 at Cash & Carry Makati. Discover how thevehicle continues to help individuals start their “Abante, Posible” with Toyota.Find out how you can experience the thrill and joy of moving together with the Next Generation Tamaraw byvisiting https://www.toyota.com.ph/tamaraw.Follow Toyota Motor Philippines on Facebook, Instagram and X, and join the ToyotaPH community on Viber toget the latest updates on products, services, and promos.###

Tis the season for manipeds, but don’t forget what’s beneath the polish MakatiMed shares a guide to nail care

With the holiday season fast approaching, salons are getting booked and busy with people glamming up for all the yearend parties and reunions. A glamorous look is incomplete without the magic of perfectly manicured fingers and toes. Beyond French tips and glossy colors, a mani-pedi session has evolved into a form of art and self-expression. 

Intricate and elaborate nail art now use gel polish, dip powder, acrylic extensions, as well as studded and magnetic designs, which include whimsical fruit and beach designs in playful jelly-like 3D art, Met Gala-approved metallic nails with chrome accents, or even fool-proof dainty gemstone flowers. Sky’s the limit these days!

Nail art may be a great way to elevate a look, but it is important to keep your nails healthy. Top hospital in the Philippines Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed) reminds that playing with colors and embellishments shouldn’t get in the way of taking care of your actual nails. 

“What may look pretty on the surface may be covering an entirely different story underneath. Our nails can provide us with clues and hints about our health as a whole,” explains dermatologist Sharon Osmena Lim, MD, FPDS, DPSV. “Keep an eye out as changes in nail color, its texture, shape, and even its strength. These can point to underlying medical conditions such as nutritional deficiencies, infections, and possibly even cancer, which will definitely require further attention.”

A healthy nail usually feels smooth, strong, and is uniformly pink with white tips. Dr. Lim underscores that unusual changes in the nails should not be overlooked. 

When nails feel brittle or break easily, this may be linked to many causes which can include poor nutrition, fad diets, decreased circulation, or trauma from excessive manipulation during a mani-pedi session. Brittle, discolored nails can also be the result of harmful exposure to chemicals or even excessive chemicals in nail polish and cuticle removers, excessive removal of the nail itself, traumatic removal of ingrown nails, as well as excessive removal of the cuticle meant to protect the nails. 

Unsightly discolored or yellowish nails may be caused by nail polish stain, but it can also signal a fungal infection. Moreover, horizontal ridges across the nails, known as Beau’s lines, may stem from an illness or injury. In addition, dents or pits on the surface of the nail may also be linked to skin problems including psoriasis.  

“Discoloration, changes in color or thickness, swelling of the finger or toe, separation of the nail from the nail bed, and pain require medical evaluation, especially if the condition worsens over time or does not resolve on their own. This is particularly crucial for individuals diagnosed with systemic diseases like diabetes, kidney disease and other conditions that may affect wound healing,” Dr. Lim adds. 

Dr. Lim also notes that such changes may also be related to other illnesses such as anemia, thyroid problems, and issues with circulation. “While we cannot diagnose a health issue just by basing it on the changes in one’s nail appearance, it can serve as a starting point for further assessment by a medical professional.”

Regular manicures with gel nails and nail art can also affect nail health, the MakatiMed doctor stresses. This is primarily due to the cocktail of chemicals in nail products, the nail’s exposure to the UV curing lamps, and the application and removal processes of the extensions and gems that can weaken the natural nail plate over time.

Some tips for nail health

Dr. Lim underlines that taking care of your nails should go beyond the regular sessions you have with your go-to nail technician. It is important to maintain proper hygiene and habits to keep your nails strong and healthy, especially if you love wearing nail art designs. 

“Make sure that our nails are always kept clean and dry to avoid bacteria and fungi from growing as they thrive in moist environments. A good practice is to use a non-fragrant, mild cleanser and to always dry our hands after being exposed to water 0r chemicals,” Dr. Lim states. “Avoid frequent hand-washing and nail-biting and picking, as well as using your nails as tools like opening hard containers. When handling chemicals, wear gloves as a precautionary measure.” 

Finally, Dr. Lim strongly advises going bare. “Give your nails a break from all the buffing and chemical and UV exposure. Allotting recovery time after treatments can reduce risks of long-term damage that may be harder to reverse – or worse, cause permanent damage.” 

For more information, please contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632.88888 999, email mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph. Follow @IamMakatiMed on Facebook and Twitter.