BEAUTY BLOG
The woman spearheading Keihl’s Philippines talks skincare, her beauty philosophy and giving back
Kiehl’s Kaila Nicdao on the foundations of skincare
For many Filipinos, Kiehl’s products have been a long-time staple, with their gel moisturizers and anti-aging serums finding their way into our hearts. Known for combining a cosmetic and pharmaceutical approach— customers are recommended a personalized skincare routine—it is easy to see why many have grown to be immensely loyal to the brand.
Kaila Nicdao, Business Unit Director of the Luxury Division for L’Oreal Philippines, heads the team behind Kiehl’s Philippines. Her dayto-day life at the office means handling brand management, training and retail. “For ten years, I was professionally working in hair care so moving to do skincare in Kiehl’s was a breath of fresh air for me,” she says.
More than just their quality products, however, she also shares that what attracted her to the brand was their belief in giving back. You simply have to pass by a Kiehl’s store to see this to be true. Upon entering, customers have the option of getting a thorough skin consultation where they are recommended the best products for their skin type and issues. “We’re very generous when it comes to devoting our time to customers, from explaining what is best for their skin to letting them try out products for free. But in addition to this, Kiehl’s also gives back to the environment. We use naturallyderived ingredients, minimal packaging and we also come up with recycling programs. The brand has a big heart!” she shares enthusiastically.
“[KIEHL’S] TAUGHT ME THAT BEAUTY IS BEYOND YOUR APPEARANCE AND THAT YOU SHOULD FOCUS ON WHAT YOU ARE MADE INSTEAD” OF
It seems as if the qualities Kiehl’s is known for—natural, approachable, conscious about giving back—Kaila also has in herself, making her the perfect representative for the brand. During our shoot, she was incredibly easy to work with. Another thing stood out: her glowing complexion, which she credits to her skincare regimen, of course. One can easily tell that this is a woman who practices what she preaches.