Acclaimed Debut Novel Explores the Enduring Spirit of the Igbo People Through History, Family, and Resilience

As holiday parties and reunions approach, nail art offers another way to complete a festive look. Gel polish, dip powder, acrylic extensions, magnetic designs and embellishments have expanded the options beyond French tips and glossy colors. But beneath the colors, chrome accents and gemstone flowers, natural nails still need care, Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed) reminds beauty enthusiasts. “What may look pretty on the surface may be covering an entirely different story underneath. Our nails can provide us with clues and hints about our health as a whole,” said dermatologist Sharon Osmena Lim. Changes in nail color, texture, shape and strength can point to nutritional deficiencies, infections and possibly cancer, she explained, and may require further attention. Healthy nails feel smooth and strong and appear uniformly pink with white tips. Unusual changes should not be overlooked. Brittleness or easy breakage may have several causes, including poor nutrition, fad diets, decreased circulation or trauma from excessive manipulation during manicures and pedicures. Exposure to harmful chemicals, including those in nail polish and cuticle removers, can also contribute to brittle, discolored nails. Lim also cautioned against excessive removal of the nail, traumatic removal of ingrown nails and excessive trimming of the cuticle, which protects the nails. Yellowish or discolored nails may result from polish stains but can also signal a fungal infection. Horizontal ridges, known as Beau’s lines, may follow illness or injury, while dents or pits may be linked to skin conditions such as psoriasis. Changes in color or thickness, swelling of a finger or toe, separation of the nail from its bed and pain require medical evaluation, particularly when symptoms worsen or persist, Lim said. This is especially important for people with diabetes, kidney disease and other conditions affecting wound healing. Nail changes may also be related to anemia, thyroid problems and circulation issues. “While we cannot diagnose a health issue just by basing it on the changes in one’s nail appearance, it can serve as a starting point for further assessment by a medical professional,” she said. Regular gel manicures and nail art can also affect nail health. Lim cited chemicals in nail products, exposure to UV curing lamps and the application and removal of extensions and gems as factors that can weaken the natural nail plate over time. Care should extend beyond salon appointments. She advised keeping nails clean and dry because bacteria and fungi thrive in moist environments. Use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser and dry hands after exposure to water or chemicals. Lim also advised avoiding frequent hand-washing, nail-biting and picking, and using nails to open hard containers. Wear gloves when handling chemicals. Finally, she recommended giving nails time without polish and treatments. “Give your nails a break from all the buffing and chemical and UV exposure. Allotting recovery time after treatments can reduce risks of long-term damage that may be harder to reverse – or worse, cause permanent damage.” For those who enjoy designs, that recovery time is part of caring for the natural nails beneath the artwork.

Cebu-based society lady Jennifer Sarmiento of Luisa Estate Park in Banilad, Cebu, celebrated her birthday with prominent members of society and close friends at Chef Jessie Rockwell in Makati. The ele­gant gathe­ring was hosted by society ladies Ofelia Wadle and Dr. Elsie Pascua, who welcomed guests to an evening of friendship, food, music and celebration. Adding a festive touch to the occasion, the hosts and guests came together in striking red dresses, creating a vibrant atmosphere for the birthday celebration. Guests enjoyed an array of dishes, including fresh salads, beef and fish, as they gathered for an evening of good food and conversation. Music added to the festivities, with Sir Rex providing entertainment that had guests singing and dancing throughout the evening. Joining the musical celebration were society ladies Joy Rustia, Linda Rustia, Maru Go, Ofelia Wadle, Dr. Elsie Pascua, Fortune Ledesma and Duday Tuazon, who sang for the guests. The celebration brought together friends over music, food and laughter, marking Sarmiento’s birthday with an evening of fellowship and camaraderie.

Artists Nguyễn Hồng Hưng, Mai Trang and Vân Thuyết bring distinct perspectives and styles to their interpretations of the world, showcased in an exhibition Following Father’s Footsteps exhibition opened on October 2 in Hà Nội.

GMA Kapuso Foundation brought free healthcare services to quake- and flood-hit residents in Glan, Sarangani.

Taking place on October 2 and 3 at the Hồ Gươm Opera House, the two-night concert marks the return of the London Symphony Orchestra (LSO) to the capital.

The Hà Nội Book Fair 2026 will open on the evening of October 2, offering readers a world of knowledge while bringing them closer to technology applications at the event's 11th edition.

British pop group Blue is returning to the Philippines as part of its 25th anniversary celebration next year!

Amazon is giving its Kindle lineup a redesign, with the Kindle, Kindle Paperwhite, and Kindle Colorsoft getting slimmer designs, updated displays, and new color options including Ube.

The event drew leading experts from the Asia-Pacific and beyond to discuss heritage, authenticity and ways to protect and uphold the value of World Heritage sites.

Senator Bam Aquino has filed a bill seeking to provide more government support for Filipino creative workers who travel abroad for professional opportunities, with SB19 helping him create the proposed measure.

If matcha"s bright green color and earthy flavor have become familiar, you may have also come across its roasted cousin, hojicha.

The Sắc Việt (Vietnamese Colours) collection by designer Nguyễn Thị Đoan Trang has impressed visitors at the 2026 Uttar Pradesh International Trade Show (UPITS) in India.