In today's society, where there is an overwhelming pressure to fit in with conventional beauty standards, it's okay to not conform and be your own version of beautiful. C'mon, it's 2022, and we acknowledge that beauty comes in all forms.
Singer, dancer, model, and actress Gabb Skribikin is here to show that Filipinos are more than their skin color and that beauty isn't just skin deep. Morenas, we see you, we hear you, and we celebrate what it means to be truly comfortable in the skin you're in. After all, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and we empower people to define it for themselves.
Gabb is a graduate of the first idol pop group in the Philippines, MNL48. Her flawless vocals, swaggy dance, and attractive personality earned her a spot on MNLoves' oshi lists. Gabb especially turned heads when she rocked a bob cut paired with an overflowing charisma. No matter where she is in the group's choreography, she not only stands out but also slays, especially in her center spot in High Tension and River.
In our latest #PARCINQBeauty editorial, Gabb shares her skin journey and how constant self-love, positivity, and body care enable her to shine through. Read on as she reveals her Morena icon and learn a thing or two from her beauty routine so you too, can glow more than ever.
Q. Define morena from your own point of view.
Gabb: Morenas are masterpieces.
LOOK 1: Real Girl
Glossier Lip Gloss
Q. Do you ever feel like being morena is a hindrance or insecurity? What makes you feel that way?
Gabb: To be honest, yes. At first, when I was just starting palang sa industry. I was having problems accepting the color of my skin. To the point I take capsules or drips to be able to be more maputi. And I believe it's because of the beauty standard we have here. I think being maputi will make people to love and appreciate you more and dati, I seek for people's validation and compliments kaya that's why. But all skin colors, whether mestiza or morena. All skin color matters. [At first, when I was just starting in the industry. I was having problems accepting the color of my skin. To the point I take capsules or drips to become mestiza. I think people will love and appreciate you more if you are mestiza. And I used to seek people's validation and compliments, so that's why.]
Q. What made you start to love and appreciate your skin? Was it a sudden realization or a gradual process?
Gabb: It's difficult for me to accept the color of my skin. But, at the age of 20, I began to accept and love it. It took me a long time talaga. But, I realized that I didn't have to change the color of my skin in order to be accepted and adored by others. That's not me kasi. "Gabb is known for having Morena skin." I want people to accept me for who I am.
LOOK 2: Angels With Dirty Faces
Shu Uemura PK379 Rouge Unlimited Laquer
Q. In an industry where mestizas are highly adored, how do you stand out to show off the color that you were born with? What edge does a Morena have today?
Gabb: I believe that everyone has their own way of standing out. As for me, I simply encourage and spread positive vibes. And I always tell people to love themselves and not to worry about what other people will say about their physical appearance, etc. And to simply be yourself. And, I believe right now, most people are growing to love and appreciate Morenas na. It's a wonderful sight to see. Kaya sana patuloy tuloy na yung ganito. [ It's a wonderful sight to see. So I hope that's going to continue.]
Q. How do you take the pressure of having to meet standards of beauty that are set by society?
Gabb: To be honest, I'm still pressured kasi nasa industry ako and I need to look good physically. Syempre, mahirap. But I have this mindset na kailangan ko nang mahalin sarili ko and to focus on myself na. That's what I'm doing right now. Kaya happy ako kapag nakakarecieve ako ng compliments na ang glowing and ang happy ko. And it's because of self love! [Since I'm in this industry, I honestly still feel pressured to look good physically. Of course, it's hard. But my mindset is to love and focus on myself, and that's what I'm doing right now. I get so happy whenever I receive compliments about me being glowing and happy.]
LOOK 3: B Boy Baby
Mac Stone Matte Lipstick
Q. What's your go-to beauty routine for maintaining or enhancing your skin?
Gabb: Drink plenty of water, take your vitamins, and have enough or plenty of sleep. Trust me, it works talaga. And syempre, take care of your skin para maging soft and glowing. Body care is the key! [Drink plenty of water, take your vitamins, and have enough or plenty of sleep. Trust me, it always works. Of course, it all boils down to how you take care of your skin to maintain its softness and glow.]
Q. Who is your Morena icon, and what inspiration do they give you?
Gabb: Miss Nadine Lustre herself. Papaapak ako anytime sa kanya huhu. And she always encourages fellow women to love themselves. Kaya super hanga ako sa kanya! [Miss Nadine Lustre herself. I'd let her stomp on me. And she always encourages fellow women to love themselves. I admire her so much!]
LOOK 4: Flatline
Nars Geraldine in Forget Me Not Lipstick Palette
Q. What would you say to someone who is struggling with insecurities about their skin and beauty?
Gabb: I know it's hard. But always remember you're not alone. And that your feelings are valid. Need lang ng self-love and positive energy! It takes time but always remember din na we have our own pace. ‘Di siya racing para makipag-unahan. Take time, and no one is rushing you. You all have the time in the world. Love your skin and love yourself. Mwa! [ I know it's hard. But always remember you're not alone. And that your feelings are valid. You just need self-love and positive energy! It's not a race, so don't rush. Take time, and no one is rushing you. You all have the time in the world. Love your skin and love yourself.]
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Photography by Rxandy Capinpin
Makeup by Lars Cabancan
Hair by Jay Wee
Styling by Dani Familara
Words and Interview by Queenie Cailing