Vanessa Hudgens was taken aback when an Asian makeup artist attempted to give her a porcelain-like complexion. The 34-year-old actress wants to emphasize her Filipino heritage, which includes embracing her natural skin color. Speaking to Allure, Hudgens expressed her surprise at the “beauty culture shock” and exclaimed, “I looked in the mirror and I was like, ‘Ohhh!'” She added that porcelain skin isn’t her preference, as she aims to showcase a bronze beauty instead. According to her, the more tan she is, the happier and healthier she feels.
The co-founder of KNOW Beauty is eager to incorporate ingredients from the Philippines into her skincare line. Hudgens loves using natural elements found in nature, as she believes Mother Nature has much to offer. When asked about sourcing ingredients from her mother’s country, she revealed that it’s an idea she constantly contemplates and is actively working towards.
Hudgens used to be falsely assumed to be of Latina descent due to her portrayal of Gabriella Montez, her character in “High School Musical.” She shared that many people still assume she is Latina, but when she discloses her Filipino heritage, they are often surprised. Hudgens feels that she appears quite ambiguous, leading people to be uncertain of her background. However, she is determined to inform and educate others about her proud Filipino identity.