Catriona Gray opens up about her sensitive skin and how she found the best way to care for it.
Even Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray isn’t spared from beauty struggles.
In an exclusive interview with PEP.ph (Philippine Entertainment Portal), Catriona opened up about her personal skin-care journey—how she manages her sensitive skin and acne breakouts.
PEP caught up with her on the sidelines of Cetaphil SkinLABS 2025, held at Courtyards Vermosa in Dasmariñas, Cavite.
CATRIONA GRAY ON HAVING SENSITIVE SKIN
After discovering she had sensitive skin, Catriona set out to find the right products.
She related, "I think it's something that I noticed later in my life.
"But I think with that awareness, I was able to then try and educate myself about it and then find products that really work for me."
The challenge, however, was "there are so many things being marketed to us and so many, like, just so many products that are out there, and it could be really overwhelming."
Instead of chasing every trending product or blindly following influencer recommendations, she focused on dermatologist-tested solutions tailored to her skin’s unique needs.
"That’s why I really take the time to learn about my skin and choose science-based, dermatologist-tested products that I know will work for me."
What's her go-to cleanser?
"I've been using Cetaphil religiously for, I wanna say, like, four or five years now.
"And I've got my family on it, so my mom's using it.
"I pass it off to my friends and my friends who have had babies because, like, [this brand] really has a line for everyone of any skin type, of any age.
"So everyone's had a resounding, like, positive feedback from using the products. So that makes me really happy.
"Rather than experimenting with yung mga trends or following mga influencers, like, find skin care that's formulated for your skin type and stick there."
CATRIONA GRAY'S BEAUTY MUST-HAVES THROUGH THE YEARS
For someone constantly on the go, having a skin-care routine and trusted products for her skin concerns is essential.
"I’ve been really consistent in the last couple of years because I found a routine that really works for me.
"The only time it fluctuates is when I’m traveling to colder places."
Her must-have? "A thicker moisturizer."
Catriona has also been mindful of skin discoloration. She focuses on prevention intead of treatment.
"I did mention before that I do have skin that marks very easily, so kapag nagka-breakout ako, I’ll notice that I'll already have a dark spot form. Ganun talaga ang balat ko.
"I haven’t had any and like, since I've been using [skin-care brand]. That's how good it is and that's why I really stick to that routine."*
CATRIONA GRAY ON HANDLING BREAKOUTS BEFORE BIG EVENTS
During her menstrual cycle, Catriona gets acne.
“Yeah, usually around my time of the month, I'll break out, especially around my chin area. It's something that I haven't been able to avoid because it's more of a hormonal breakout,” she admitted.
Sometimes, these breakouts happen right before important events. When they do, a topical treatment she swears by comes in handy.
“Like, I remember even when I competed in Miss Universe, nagkaroon ako that time. So like, you know, it really hits us at all of the moments and it could be a big moment.
“So, I just try to stick with my good skin care, I also use a spot cream like the Benzac, it’s a really great line as well."
But no matter what, skin problems should never affect her mood during events.
“At the end of the day, like, I really believe that whether it's you're going to work or going to school or you're going about your day or you have a huge event, like, people are gonna remember how you made them feel, the impact that you made on them, and that interaction rather than noticing a blemish."
CATRIONA GRAY'S ULTIMATE ADVICE FOR SENSITIVE SKIN
When asked for her number one tip for those struggling with sensitive skin, Catriona replied:
"Educate yourself. Learn about your sensitive skin and then find products that really are catered through and work for you.
"Rather than experimenting with yung mga trends or following mga influencers, like, find skin care that's formulated for your skin type and stick there."
There's no need to rush.
Do your research. Check what the experts have to say. Allot enough time to test the products.