In this edition of Tried and True, we delve into a brand known as a timeless classic, a name that’s transcended trends and generations, and one prominently known for luxury skincare and beauty—Elizabeth Arden.
Elizabeth Arden was on its way to becoming a big name in beauty in 1910 when it was founded by the businesswoman Florence Nightingale Graham, later known as Elizabeth Arden. And it wasn’t just about the makeup—it became a whole movement. She set out to change the public perception of makeup at that time, because back then, its heavy application was considered improper before the 1920s. Arden dedicated her work to making sure that women having good skin and wearing makeup to achieve a ladylike appearance would eventually be considered appropriate.
She was a real trailblazer. Consider Elizabeth Arden the pioneer of many “firsts” in beauty history. She was the first to introduce “eye shadow” to the United States, changing the way ladies dolled up their eyes. She was also the first to develop travel-sized beauty products, perfect for those who are always on the move, and set a precedent for easy and portable makeup options. Her legacy even extended to the creation of the “makeover” concept and spearheaded a team of traveling demonstrators and saleswomen.
Elizabeth Arden offers more than skincare and makeup, they’ve got captivating fragrances, too. The brand’s fragrance collection consists of classics like the iconic Red Door that dates back to 1989, as well as contemporary creations such as the Green Tea series.
Take a look at some of the timeless products that have made Elizabeth Arden a household name along with tidbits of the rich history that has shaped the brand.
EDITOR FAVORITE
Advanced Ceramide Capsules Daily Youth Restoring Serum
The Advanced Ceramide Capsules Daily Youth Restoring Serum is one of Elizabeth Arden’s signature gems that has gained popularity for its targeted approach to skincare, specifically focusing on ceramides.
A true innovation, these capsules are said to be the first ampoules of their kind. The ceramide capsules are known to toughen up the skin, boost moisture, and fight off signs of aging.
Advanced Ceramide Capsules Daily Youth Restoring Serum
P4,050, Rustan’s
THE HERO PRODUCT
Eight Hour Cream Skin Protectant
Elizabeth Arden’s Eight Hour Cream Skin Protectant is an iconic and multipurpose skincare product that’s been working wonders since it was introduced in 1930. Created by Elizabeth Arden herself, this product has been a fan favorite for decades because of its versatility and effectiveness in solving many skincare woes.
This skin-protectant product isn’t just your typical moisturizer: It’s your go-to for dry skin, chapped lips, rough hands, and even skin irritations. It can also be used as a makeup enhancer because of its ability to “create instant radiance” and add a natural sheen to the cheekbones, legs, collarbones, and the bow of the lips.
Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream Skin Protectant (Limited Edition)
P1,950, Zalora
Eight Hour Cream Lip Protectant Stick Sunscreen Spf 15
The Eight Hour Cream Lip Protectant has become a top pick in the Philippines when it comes to Elizabeth Arden’s makeup collection.
According to Elizabeth Arden Philippines brand manager Rhizza Encarnacion, this product gives the lips a good dose of hydration, containing ingredients that help replenish lost moisture, soothe chapped lips, and restore softness to promote overall lip health. But here’s another great part about it—it’s a multi-tasker that can be used beyond the lips.
“In addition to moisturizing and protecting the lips, it can also be used to smooth and condition rough cuticles, soothe minor burns or irritations, and even add a subtle sheen to eyelids or cheekbones, making it a versatile addition to any makeup bag,” Rhizza says.
“Unlike some lip balms or protectants that may feel heavy or greasy on the lips, the Eight Hour Lip Protectant features a lightweight and non-greasy formula,” she adds.
Eight Hour Cream Lip Protectant Stick Sunscreen Spf 15
P1750, Zalora
NEW ESSENTIAL
Green Tea
Elizabeth Arden’s Green Tea is basically like a breath of fresh air captured in a bottle—it has that light and energizing fragrance that feels like a refreshing breeze. Per Rhizza, the Green Tea Eau de Toilette has become one of the best-selling and most recommended scents in the Philippines because of its refreshing and uplifting aroma. It’s also become popular for its versatility because it’s suitable for both day and night, and can be your go-to for any setting, whether casual or formal.
Its top notes include bergamot, caraway, fruity rhubarb, lemon, and orange zest; has middle notes of green tea, cool minty peppermint, sweet jasmine, spicy carnation, fresh fennel, crispy celery spice; and contains base notes of amber, oakmoss, and musk. Like the White Tea series, Elizabeth Arden has released various limited editions and variations of Green Tea over the years, introducing different twists to the original scent.
Green Tea Scent Spray
P4,400, Rustan’s
UNDERRATED ICON
Prevage Anti-Aging Daily Serum 2.0
Elizabeth Arden’s Prevage Anti-Aging Daily Serum 2.0 is a fresh take on its predecessor—it’s an upgraded version with 10 new ingredients designed to tackle all things aging and shield the skin from different stressors. Elizabeth Arden’s Prevage line, their flagship collection known for being top-notch in anti-aging, incorporates idebenone, a powerful antioxidant that helps fight off the effects of free radicals and keeps skin looking young.
The serum is often used as a treatment for specific concerns related to aging, such as improving elasticity, evening tone and texture, and reducing fine lines and wrinkles, to name a few.
Prevage Anti-aging Daily Serum 2.0
P10,500, Rustan’s
NEW ICON
White Tea
Imagine the quiet joy of sipping tea and the calm experienced during this simple moment. That’s the inspiration behind this fragrance—tranquility and simplicity. Take a whiff of this scent and notice its top notes of Italian mandarin and sensual sea breeze accord; middle notes of white tea extract, Mate absolute, and white iris accord; and base notes of Madras wood, ambrette seed absolute, and a trio of tranquility musks. The White Tea collection also consists of other fragrance variations that have different notes and accords. We also appreciate that this fragrance is 100% vegan.
White Tea Eau de Toilette Spray
P4,000, Rustan’s
TIMELESS ICONS
Retinol Ceramide Capsules Line Erasing Night Serum
The Retinol Ceramide Capsules Line Erasing Night Serum, which is the most potent retinol form you can buy without a prescription, is among the best-selling and most recommended skincare products in the Philippines, according to Rhizza.
“They contain a powerful combination of retinol and ceramides, which are renowned for their skin-rejuvenating properties,” she says. “This combination not only addresses existing signs of aging but also works to prevent future damage, making it suitable for a wide range of age groups and skin types.”
Rhizza says these capsules are also popular because they’re convenient and easy to use. No need for measuring or trying to guess the right amount—it’s perfect for those with a packed schedule or are always on the move.
These capsules are also eco-friendly. They’re biodegradable and are made from vegetable and mineral-based materials, so they dissolve in water.
Retinol Ceramide Capsules Line Erasing Night Serum
P4,050, Rustan’s
Flawless Finish Sponge-On Cream Makeup
Elizabeth Arden’s Flawless Finish Sponge-On Cream Makeup is an all-time favorite that has been a staple in the brand’s makeup collection for many years. This best-selling classic is known for its smooth application and versatile coverage. It’s also infused with micronized diamond powder to reflect light and diffuse the look of imperfections.
Here’s an interesting tidbit: A pot of Elizabeth Arden cream foundation, formerly named Pat-a-Creme Foundation, was spotted in Marilyn Monroe’s makeup collection.
Elizabeth Arden Flawless Finish Sponge-On Cream Makeup
P3,285.37, Care to Beauty
Red Door
This fragrance features a floral bouquet with a mix of freesia, lily of the valley, red roses, and orchids to create a lush and feminine scent that is likewise classic and alluring. It comes in a distinctive red and gold bottle that resembles the red doors of the brand’s renowned spas and salons. That’s why they named it after them—Red Door. Over the years, Red Door has become a timeless fragrance in the perfume industry. Women love it for its refined floral vibe, so if that’s what you’re looking for, Red Door is your go-to.
Elizabeth Arden Red Door EDT Spray
P6,100, Zalora
5th Avenue
Meet Fifth Avenue—this popular fragrance made its debut in 1966 and takes one on a leisurely walk down the fancy and luxurious streets of New York City. It was inspired by the alluring style associated with this iconic location and aims to capture the energy and excitement of the city that never sleeps.
Fifth Avenue is described as a fresh floral fragrance, blending top notes of dewy magnolia, lilac, and linden blossom; middle notes of violet, rose, ylang-ylang, and jasmine; with base notes of amber, Tibetan musk, sandalwood, and iris.
