Bela Padilla seems to have unlocked the secret to turning passions into success. From actress, director, and scriptwriter to now a flourishing businesswoman, Bela has taken the Philippine beauty industry by storm with her growing beauty line, Bela by Bela. Just a month after her well-received Dot Perfection Cheek Tint and Color Changing Lip Balm launch, Bela unveiled not one but two new product lines — her fragrance line Dani by Bela and Bloom by Bela beauty soaps.
“I’ve never been happier than right now, and honestly, it’s a little scary. Life has its ups and downs, but I feel complete,” Bela shared, speaking from a recent press event in Quezon City.
It’s easy to see why; with a busy schedule that includes hosting, her new film, “100 Awit Para Kay Stella,” and her expanding her beauty business, Bela is thriving.
Partnering with her best friend, Dani Barretto, Bela’s Dani by Bela fragrance line is a celebration of their 15-year friendship and a symbol of their shared creativity. “Dani has been my best friend for years, and her lending her name to this project is such a big deal for us,” Bela said.
Together, they crafted five signature scents, each unique but deeply personal: Nostalgia, Summer’s Kiss, Spring’s Touch, Campfire and Coolector.
“Nostalgia is my personal favorite. Spring’s Touch is inspired by Dani’s favorite. Summer’s Kiss is my current scent. Campfire is our men’s scent and Collector is gender neutral,” described the actress.
Bela thinks Nostalgia will be a favorite as its a scent that reminds people of childhood.
Bela also launched Bloom by Bela, a line of beauty soaps that respond to customers’ requests for more skincare options. Inspired by Filipino favorites, Bloom by Bela includes three soaps: Papaya for skin brightening, Pinya (pineapple) with Vitamin C for rejuvenation, and Kape (coffee) for exfoliation. Each soap is cut into smaller portions — a nod to Bela’s own practice as a teenager to make soap last longer. “I remember cutting soap to save it, and I know a lot of people can relate to that,” Bela said with a laugh, explaining the thoughtful, budget-friendly packaging.
Bela’s vision for Bela by Bela has always been simple: to share products she genuinely loves. “It’s not about the money; it’s more about what we can do to make an impact. I want my fans and audience to experience what I love,” Bela shared.
Her commitment to inclusivity and promoting all forms of beauty has shaped her products, from gentle makeup enhancers to skin-loving soaps. “We don’t want you to cover up who you are. Confidence shouldn’t be borrowed — it should be an intrinsic part of you.”
For Bela, balancing her career in entertainment with her budding business has had its challenges, but she’s determined to keep growing. With “100 Awit Para Kay Stella” soon to be filmed and the continued expansion of Bela by Bela, she’s living her dream and looking forward to what’s next.
“This is a passion project for me…,” Bela admitted. “I still have a lot to learn, but having amazing business partners has made it possible.”
She still don’t consider herself a full-fledged entrepreneur. “Maybe when Go Negosyo invites me as a beauty entrepreneur, I’ll feel like I’ve really made it,” she joked, with a nod to her best friend Dani, who’s already been invited by the business initiative.
With every new venture, Bela Padilla continues to bring her authentic touch, making her fans feel like they’re on this journey with her. In both business and film, everything is coming up roses — and fragrances, tints, and soaps — for this multi-talented star.
