In the heart of a fast-evolving beauty industry, one name made a triumphant return—one that generations of Filipinos have trusted for decades. Inside Hortaleza Lab: A Tour Exhibit Through Years of Skinvention was not merely a product launch. It was a powerful, immersive celebration of history, hope, and a renewed commitment to skin health.

It marked the official reintroduction of Hortaleza M.D., signaling both a return to roots and a leap toward the future. Held at a transformed venue in Makati that evoked the feel of a modern-day laboratory, the event was well-attended by some of the most respected figures in the industry: board-certified dermatologists, long-time business partners and resellers, and a new generation of influencers. The gathering represented not only where the brand has been—but where it is headed.

From the beginning, the experience set a tone that was thoughtful, confident, and emotionally resonant. Guests weren’t led through a product showcase; they were invited into a story. A story of how one family’s vision reshaped beauty retail in the Philippines—and how they are once again stepping forward with innovation grounded in care, credibility, and purpose. But beneath the product reveal was a deeper unveiling— the continuity of a vision first laid down decades ago by Dr. Rolando B. Hortaleza, now passed on to a new generation. The commitment to making science-driven, accessible skincare for every Filipino remains just as strong today as it was in the brand’s beginnings.

In an opening address, Alexone Rolando A. Hortaleza Jr., now president and COO of Prime Global Corporation, offered a heartfelt perspective: “This isn’t just another launch event. It’s a full-circle moment—for my family, for our team, and for every person who has been part of the Hortaleza journey through the years.”

The most anticipated moment of the afternoon was the unveiling of Microneedle-like Botanical Retinol, the brand’s crown jewel and first major innovation under the new Hortaleza M.D. banner. The product encapsulates the essence of the relaunch: science that listens, technology that empowers, and skincare that meets people where they are.

In a panel discussion that struck the rare balance between poise and pulse, host Jazmine Estorninos facilitated a compelling dialogue between Alexone Hortaleza Jr. and Dr. Philip Cedrick Lorena, a board-certified dermatologist known for his sharp clinical insight and accessible expertise. The conversation traced the evolution of skincare needs among Filipinos and how the new product line was designed to answer them directly.

The panel unpacked a truth that many in the skincare world have learned the hard way: traditional retinol, while effective, is often too harsh for the average Filipino skin type. Redness, peeling, dryness—these are common side effects that leave many hesitant to commit to long-term use. It can also be difficult to combine with other potent ingredients, making it tricky to incorporate into skincare routines. This is where Microneedle-like Botanical Retinol comes in.

Described as a breakthrough in both formulation and delivery, this serum marries two game-changing elements: plant-derived retinol and micro-spicules. The Botanical Retinol, sourced from Indian moth bean extract, offers similar benefits to traditional retinol —such as improving skin texture, boosting collagen production, and speeding up cell turnover—less the irritation. It’s ideal for users with sensitive skin and safe for long-term use. But the true innovation lies in its delivery system: Micro-spicules. These are microscopic structures that mimic the effects of microneedling—without the discomfort or downtime. As the panel explained, these spicules create invisible microchannels in the skin, enhancing the absorption of active ingredients and accelerating visible results. It's professional-grade skincare made accessible for everyday routines.

“It’s bold yet gentle, innovative yet grounded,” Dr. Lorena said. “For a country whose consumers are increasingly skincare-savvy but still trust heritage, this is a product that feels made for us, by us.”

Influencers in attendance like Maine Eugenio, Ryona Lei, Ayanna Yap, Danielle Lee, and Iya Caruncho brought a fresh wave of excitement to the event. But they weren’t there just for appearances. They moved through the space like participants, not spectators—curious, engaged, and eager to share their authentic experiences with a product that speaks to the evolving needs of modern Filipinos. Their presence mirrored a truth the brand knows well: today’s consumers are smart, intentional, and values-driven. They want products with real benefits. They want brands with real stories. And Hortaleza M.D. delivered on both fronts.

But it wasn’t just dermatologists and digital creators who felt at home at the relaunch. The event also honored a community that has long been integral to the brand’s success—its legacy resellers and distributors. Many of them started their businesses decades ago with just a handful of products and a leap of faith. Some were salon owners. Others, neighborhood storekeepers. Over time, they built livelihoods—and in many cases, legacies of their own— through partnerships rooted in mutual trust.

The relaunch reopens that door. Hortaleza M.D. is not just returning to store shelves—it is actively inviting entrepreneurs, both seasoned and new, to grow with them. Distribution and partnership opportunities are once again available, now supported by training systems, marketing tools, and a proven product line.

“This is not just a relaunch,” said Alexone Hortaleza Jr. during the program. “It’s a rebuild: Of community. Of collaboration. Of dreams.”

The event closed with cocktails and open-floor networking, but the energy in the room lingered long after the program ended. There was excitement, yes —but also something deeper. A feeling of alignment. A recognition that Hortaleza M.D. offers not just skincare. It’s skin confidence. It's an opportunity. It’s a brand with soul. For the thousands who have used Hortaleza products over the years, and for the new generation discovering them for the first time, the message is clear: this is not a nostalgic return. It’s a visionary stride forward. And for every Filipino who believes that science can be soulful—and that heritage still matters— this is your time.