Beauty is beyond skin-deep

If you want to be in control of your life and achieve your goals, you have to overcome your insecurities starting with your skin.

That’s a friendly tip from model/entrepreneur/TV host Patti Grandidge who embodies the Free In My Skin Movement launched recently by Physiogel, the moisturizer often prescribed by dermatologists.

A multi-tasker, Patti is a seasoned traveler so she knows whereof she speaks. Once the co-host of Kim Jones (now Mrs. Jericho Rosales) of the TV show Etcetera, Patti graduated with a degree in International Business from Pepperdine University in Malibu, California, and later interned at Sprinkles, a famous bakery in Los Angeles.

A certified foodie, she started baking at the age of five. She has been writing a food blog (pattispalette.blogspot.com) since she was in college. She was dubbed as the “Cupcake Queen” (you probably guess why). She owns and manages Sweet Patti Cakes (www.sweetpatticakes.com), a business she put up because of her passion for baking. She is married to DJ Johnny  Verse (a.k.a. Jon Herrera). Patti’s mom is related to director Jun Urbano (a.k.a. Mr. Shooli).

At the launch of the Free In My Skin Movement, you were asked to honor three women who have inspired you.

“I chose my mom, as she has been very supportive of me in everything I do. My manager Cher Gioskos and my very good friend Karen Pamintuan.”

You are flawless. How do you take care of your skin?

“Well, I definitely don’t think I am flawless, but thank you, I really am using Physiogel. I am using the cleanser for cleansing my skin and using the cream after that. I also apply those on my face.”

Most women are afraid of the sun, are you?

“I’m definitely not.” (Patti and Jon had a beach wedding.) “I actually like the sun and vitamin D is actually good for you but I do believe in sunblock and protecting your skin. It’s okay to be in the sun but make sure that you are equipped with the right products.”

Are you very conscious about how you look?

“I do care about how I look, but I wouldn’t say vain, you know beauty is fleeting. But in my line of work, I really need to look good.”

How long does it take you to fix yourself?

“It’s just embarrassing but it takes me just 15 minutes because I barely do anything, but that is just when I’m like going out of the house. But if it’s for events or work, it usually takes me 45 minutes to an hour.”

Are you choosy when it comes to clothes?

“A little bit, I just like to choose clothes that flatter my body so if something doesn’t, I’ll be choosy, I’ll be picky.”

What is your take on cosmetic surgery?

“I’ve never had it, so I don’t know, I don’t know if that is the answer to all the problems but if that is what you want to do, go for it!”

How would you describe your outlook in life?

“I definitely have a positive outlook. I was raised in a family where dreams were encouraged. My family was very supportive. I am always just kinda positive.”

Define sexy.

“Being sexy is really being confident in your own skin, if you are not confident, it will show.”

How do you cope up with stress?

“That is actually an everyday struggle.” (Laughs) “And I really don’t have an answer for that. I am still figuring it out. In this day and age, everyone is trying to do so much and with technology and everything, it makes things easier and more accessible. When it comes with stress, you just have to deal with it and having good skin is one thing that really makes you feel confident and empowered to take it all on. Oh, and there’s also Truffles our dog — that is how I cope with stress.” (Truffles appeared in the Physiogel video with Patti.)

What part of your body is your favorite?

“Maybe my shoulders, my back. I find it very sexy in a subtle way.”

Most vulnerable part of your body?

“I think it’s my face because that is really what you put forward in this industry. Your face is sometimes what sells so it’s really important to take care of your skin and more importantly to take care of your face.”

What part of your body needs some improvement?

“I need more muscle, I need abs. I need a little more toning. I need a butt like that of Beyoncé!”

What kind of diet do you follow?

“Recently, I have stopped eating meat and that’s making me feel a bit better, but you know it’s all about balance. I do bake cupcakes so I am not going to say that I do not indulge in sweets because I have a huge sweet tooth. I am also into that new healthy movement that you know seems to have taken over, things that are gluten-free, things that are dairy-free. I experiment with all that as well. We at Sweet Patti cakes are also doing healthy cupcakes as well because people are looking for it.”

Are you a snack person?

“Yes! If I am being healthy, I have nuts, fruits, a bit of chocolate, but you know, cupcakes aren’t so bad either.” (Laughs)

What’s your usual breakfast?

“It varies. Sometimes, I’ll have oatmeal or pancakes, sometimes eggs. My favorite is pancake or French toast.”

What about lunch?

“I would say that lunch is probably my most skipped meal, unless I have a lunch out or a lunch meeting because it’s just like during the day. Sometimes, it’s hard when I am working so that’s why I snack. I always have snacks with me. I always have snacks in my bag. Cupcakes sometimes.”

And for dinner?

“I love to eat out, and I also love to cook at home I love things like fish, I love sushi, Mediterranean food, pasta. I really enjoy eating.”

How much water do you take per day?

“You know, water is also important for good skin. I don’t know how much I take per day but I do drink a few water bottles at home. I guess at least two to three liters a day.”

What food do you usually crave for?

“French fries, chocolate, cheese and pizza!”

Don’t you deprive yourself of those?

“No, because if you deprive yourself that is when it gets to you. I believe in giving in to cravings…sometimes.”

Do you work out?

“Yes, I am definitely starting to exercise. It is also another thing that helps deal with stress — channeling some of your energy in working out and burning your calories.”

Do you have any vice?

“Does chocolate count? Hahahaha!”

What vitamins do you take?

“Supplements and multivitamins.”

 How much sleep do you get per night?

“About six to eight hours.”

What is your favorite sleepwear?

“Anything comfortable, like shorts and a T-shirt.”

What is the last thing that you do before you go to sleep?

“Pray and just reflect on how grateful and thankful I am.”

What do you usually pray for?

“I just pray for a happy and healthy family pretty much.”

What is the first thing that you do as soon as you wake up?

“Look for breakfast!”

How many pillows do you sleep with?

“Four.”

Do you talk in your sleep?

“Not that I know of. Hahahaha!”

Do you sleepwalk?

“Yeah, I used to when I was little.”

What attracts you first in a guy?

“His eyes.”

Name three guys you think has nice bodies?

“Jon Herrera. Jon Herrera. Jon Herrera.”

(E-mail reactions at [email protected]. You may also send your questions to [email protected]. For more updates, photos and videos visit www.philstar.com/funfare or follow me on www.twitter/therealrickylo.)