All posts by Bhumika

About Bhumika

Bhumika is a Chartered Accountant by profession but a Beauty/Fashion/Lifestyle Blogger by passion..blogging since 10 plus years, isn't that a proof enough ? :D Her love for lipsticks, accessories, shoes and all things pretty comes across in most of her posts.

What is Multi Masking? New The Body Shop Facial Masks Review

What is Multi Masking? New The Body Shop Facial Masks Review

Face Mask, New Launches, Reviews, Skin care, The Body Shop, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

What is Multi Masking? New The Body Shop Facial Masks Review

Hey guys,

I have been using the new Body Shop Facial Masks since a few days and here are my thoughts..

First of all, let me tell you a little about multi masking, coz that is how I am using them and loving it. Multi masking is basically using a face mask according to your concern on that particular area on the face. It’s a blessing for people like me who have combination skin coz my T zone is oily and rest of the face is dry/normal. So the clay based masks used overall on the entire face leave my cheeks over dry and craving for moisture.

So I use the clay based masks on my T zone and the more hydrating/nourishing ones on my cheeks and rest of the face.

Claims: 100% VEGETARIAN
Our Himalayan Charcoal, British Rose and Amazonian Acai masks are 100% Vegan
MADE WITHOUT PARABENS, SILICONE, MINERAL OILS & PARAFFINS
FIVE SENSATIONAL NEW FACE MASKS
We’ve crushed, pressed and blended five sensational NEW face masks. Formulated without the addition of parabens, paraffin, silicone or mineral oil – just our finest recipes inspired by nature. Meet our, 100% vegetarian face masks.

Variants:

  • British Rose (Hydrating)
  • Amazonian Acai (Energising)
  • Himalayan Charcoal (Purifying)
  • Ethiopian Honey (Nourishing)
  • Chinese Ginseng & Rice (Brightening)

MRP: Rs.2495/- for 75ml

I have British Rose, Chinese Ginseng & Ricee and Himalayan Charcoal, so would be talking about these three.

Starting with British Rose,

Claims: For skin that needs to be quenched and re-plumped with moisture to reveal its dewy glow again. Inspired by the European bathing rituals, our refreshing hydrating face mask is infused with real rose petals, rose essence, rosehip oil and aloe vera. Giving you visibly smoother-looking skin plumped with moisture.

Ingredients:

Himalayan Charcoal

Claims: For skin that needs purification to help reveal a healthy, youthful looking glow. Inspired by traditional beauty remedies, our tingling mud mask contains bamboo charcoal, exfoliating Green Tea leaves & tea tree oil. Purify your skin and give it a new lease of life with our charcoal face mask.

Ingredients:

Chinese Ginseng & Rice

Claims: Inspired by Chinese traditions, our creamy exfoliating mask combines ginseng, rice extract and sesame seed oil and reveals brighter-looking, more even, supple skin.

Ingredients:

As you can see the names in front of each masks, each mask is a recipe from that particular region/tradition and the ingredients as always are also sourced from there organically.

I love the fact that all these masks are paraben, mineral oil and paraffin free.

They come in a sleek glass jar packaging, the jar is quite heavy and they are not very travel friendly. But it is quite thick and won’t break.

The Body Shop also has a wooden handle face mask brush and a hand towel/head band set which you can use for/while applying the masks.

Each of the mask smells really good, you actually feel like you are in a spa getting a nice facial done. The directions say keep the mask on for 5-10 minutes, I keep all for about 10 minutes and the Himalayan Charcoal one untill it dries completely.

The British Rose mask is in a clear gel form with crushed real roses in it. It smells exactly like the British Rose Range they have and is very hydrating and plumping. I love using it on my cheeks, jaw line and neck. The rosehip oil and aloe vera moisturise and hydrate the skin well.

Himalayan Charcoal mask is ash gray in color coz of the bamboo charcoal. It is clay based and thick, I would advise not leaving the jar open and taking the required product and applying it immediately, as it dries super fast. I love using it on my nose and the surrounding areas both side where I have open pores. Since it has tea tree oil and green tea extracts too, it won’t strip off the skin of moisture and also help against acne as tea tree oil is anti bacterial. It tingles as mentioned in the description and as you scrub off the mask, it does leave the skin a little red for some time. But regular use of this would help keep blackheads at bay as it also exfoliates the skin while taking the mask off. I really like this one!

Coming to the Chinese Ginseng & Rice one, it is a white colored thick, grainy paste. You can feel the crushed rice in it, it also mildly exfoliates the skin. Sesame oil moisturises while the Ginseng brightens and evens out the skin. I use it on my forehead and around my mouth where I have some uneven tone. It does brighten the skin a bit, but you have to use it regularly to see difference. You won’t notice it in one go. I love this one too.

Multi Masking

Overall, I am very happy with these and they are pretty good! I wish it was priced a little lower though. I highly recommend trying out 1 at least. If you have oily skin, Himalayan Charcoal one is a must have and for normal/dry skin, Chinese Ginseng & Rice. If you have very dry skin, British Rose is good for you. So select a mask according to your skin type and go with that. They also have sachet samples of each mask online and at all The Body Shop stores. Ask for samples and test them out, before investing in the mask 🙂

Which one did you find the most interesting?

Kairali Ayurvedic Healing Village Experiential, Vlog

Health, Lifestyle, Travel, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Kairali Ayurvedic Healing Village Experiential, Vlog

Hi guys,

So last to last weekend I was in Palakkad in Kerala at The Kairali Ayurvedic Healing Village. Those of you who follow me on social media already know that and have been seeing the live updates.

Since there was no network and WiFi there, I couldn’t update much, but of course I captured everything for the vlog.

About Kairali: Kairali Ayurvedic Group’s signature resort ‘The Ayurvedic Healing Village’ is situated int Palakkad, just a few kilometers from the world’s biggest mountain pass between Kerala and Tamil Nadu. There is no better place to get inside nature and rejuvenate with natural medicine than the sweet scented forests of Kerala’s Pala trees. Time spent at this unique jungle paradise will allow you to experience the authentic healing practices of ancient India, while relaxing in the lap of modern holistic luxury.

They have different packages for different treatments, yoga therapy, yoga training, ayurveda training, etc. They get patients from all around the world for hypertension, anxiety, nervous breakdown, facial paralysis, weight loss, etc.

You can of course also go there to detox, relax and rejuvenate. A break like this is very refreshing.

We were welcomed with the sandalwood tikka, small white shawl like silk cloth and fresh coconut water. Once you check in, the first thing is consultation with the doctor as your stay, food and everything that will follow will be according to the doctor’s guidelines. The doctor checks your blood pressure, weight and asks for your entire medical history and specific concerns and issues.

Treatment/Massage room

She also prescribes ayurvedic medicines, if required. Apart from that, there are 1-2 massages/treatments everyday as per your package and medical requirement.

We had two massages and we tried Abhyangam on Day 1 and Shirodhara on Day 2. I absolutely loved the massages, they use warm oil very generously and each patient has two attendants and they both do it in perfect sync.

Abhyangam is massaging each and every body part with a lot of warm oil, from head to toe. Shirodhara as the name suggests is flow of oil on your head. They do start with the body massage at first, which is followed by Shirodhara. After the massage, we have to sit in the steam chamber for about 5-6 minutes, followed by the bath. They give a special ubtan (which has green gram powder) to bath with, it gets rid of all the oil without stripping any moisture from the skin. I did not require any moisturiser while I was staying there, because of the generous oil during the massage on both the days.

Outside my villa

There are 30 villas in the Kairali property right now, I loved how each villa was at a distance and each villa had a nice verandah outside to relax and admire the surroundings. The entire property is lush green with a lot of different trees and waterfalls around. You can also find a lot of rare birds and butterflies.

Breakfast (Wheat Upma)

Food is all organic made with very little oil and less salt and spices. There is no sugar used in anything, you can get palm sugar if needed. All desserts had jaggery in it. You get fixed portions if you are here for weight loss program. But you get everything from soup, salad, roti, 2 veggies and one dal and rice, followed by dessert. They grow all fruits and vegetables in their own organic farm behind the property. Morning breakfast starts with a plate full of fresh fruits and fresh fruit juice, followed by one main dish and toast/butter.

The water served here is special herbal water. There is red sandalwood based pink water which everyone can drink, it tastes just like regular water. And there is Niranjal (not sure if this is the correct spelling :/) which is light yellow in color and meant for weight loss and increasing metabolism, it has a slight jeera water taste.

They also have a herbal garden which has one herb plant each, it is only for training purpose. Their main property where they grown all the herbs is near their factory. We also visited the factory where they make all Kairali products and saw the entire process how each product is made. We were allowed to click only in two rooms, hence the part you see in the vlog is only half of the process.

We also met the founders Mrs. Gita Ramesh and Mr. K.V Ramesh, it was so good meeting them. They were very warm and down to earth. We chatted for about 45 minutes with them. There was also a cooking demo by the main chef and an astrology session later on.

While you are staying there, each day 6.30 to 7.30 is yoga practice and 6 to 7 in the evening is meditation. In between you can have your breakfast, lunch, relax and get your massage treatments done. They also have an entertainment room where you can play a few games and a gym.

You get WiFi access only at the reception area and not in the rooms, so you have to come to the reception to use WiFi. I had no network, so was almost without internet the 3 days. I actually liked this small little break/detox. I am online 24/7, so it was difficult at the start but I was liking it after a day.

The only thing I would have liked better are the rooms. The interiors could have been much better, and same goes for the bathroom. Bathroom didn’t have proper drainage system. Since we were occupied on both the days and were out the whole time, it didn’t bother me much but if someone comes for the 7 days/14 days package, they have to be comfortable. I wish they work on the interiors and bathrooms, because everything else is just perfect!

Overall, I loved the experience and highly recommend going there for a treatment if you are suffering from something specific or just for a detox. Also for elders who are suffering from arthritis, diabetes, blood pressure, etc, it’s an ideal place to visit.

See more/book the place here www.ayurvedichealingvillage.com

We also got a few products during the factory visit. I have been using them since quite some days and I really like them. This Grapeseed and Almond body lotion was a part of the toiletries in the bathroom and had used it during the stay too. I absolutely love the smell. It looks rich but is water based and gets absorbed instantly.

I have used the Kairoil hair oil and the Kairkare body massage oil just once, so will update on that later. I absolutely loved the sandal soap, it smells really good and doesn’t dry the skin at all because of the glycerin in it.

Also the herbal powder for body wash is really good. It exfoliates the skin gently and does not strip the natural oils from the skin. The lemon anti-dandruff shampoo is refreshing and works on keeping the scalp clean and dandruff free.

The products are slightly expensive I would say, but since they are all herbal and natural and if they work, all up for it. Since I saw the factory and how the products are made, I would really love trying more of Kairali products and definitely will. Highly recommend them. I am looking forward to try Kaircin which is a facial oil for glowing skin 🙂

Products/Medicines/Oils can be bought here: www.kairaliproducts.in

P.S: I went to Kairali Healing Village as a part of Ayurveda Sutra Wellness Bloggers meet Edition 2

Have you been to an ayurvedic/health resort before? How was your experience?

All Nykaa PaintStix Review, Swatches

Lipsticks, Makeup, New Launches, Nykaa, Reviews, Swatches, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

All Nykaa PaintStix Review, Swatches

Hi guys,

So I had all 12 of the new Nykaa Paint Stix and hence, did decided to do this review + swatches.

Claims:  Nykaa Paintstix Collection

Go big on color and big on glamour! Nykaa’s Paintstix boasts a remarkable formula that pushes the boundaries of color intensity with its rich and intense pigment. This supreme formula glides on your lips effortlessly, providing you with, undeniable saturated color in one stroke. It s time to go bold with Nykaa!

  • Extreme color intensity
  • Soft matte finish
  • One stroke application
  • Long-wearing
  • Consists Vitamin E and nutrient-infused butter
  • Glides on effortlessly
  • Bold range of shades

Nykaa Paintstix Collection Includes :

Nykaa Paintstix! Lipstick – Nude Spice :Let the crowd follow your lead with Nykaa Paintstix! Lipstick in Nude Spice. This warm nude shade is just enough to keep things spicy! Swipe it on and let the fun begin.

Nykaa Paintstix! Lipstick – Cool Girl Nude : Bring out the cool gal in you with Nykaa Paintstix! Lipstick in Cool Girl Nude! This cool-toned nude is all you need to do the job. Not out-there, not flashy, this nude shade is just chill and classy!

Nykaa Paintstix! Lipstick – No Chill Orange : Don t keep calm, go ahead freak out with the Nykaa Paintstix! Lipstick in No Chill Orange. This bright, orange shade has the capability to pick you up on the gloomiest day! Go ahead, swipe it on and conquer the world, girl!

Nykaa Paintstix! Lipstick – Peaches n Cream : Nykaa Paintstix! Lipstick in Peaches n Cream is the sugar rush to your sweet tooth! This perky, peachy shade can never go wrong. Whether it is your usual Monday look and your chill Friyay look, this hue is sure to make you look all peachy and fabulous!

Nykaa Paintstix! Lipstick – Tender Rose : Play the game and wait no more with the Nykaa Paintstix! Lipstick in Tender Rose. It doesn’t get more girly and pretty than this lovely pinkish mauve shade. Look sweet like a candy in this gorgeous shade!

Nykaa Paintstix! Lipstick – Chick Flick Pink : Put on your cutest jammies and call in your girlfriends for the best sleepover ever! Pink doesn’t get more fetch than our vibrant Chick Flick Pink! Go ahead, whisper all your dirty secrets sipping dirty martinis!

Nykaa Paintstix! Lipstick – Rock n Roll Pink : Put on your dancing shoes and get ready to tap your feet to the 90’s beats with the Nykaa Paintstix! Lipstick in Rock n Roll Pink. This purple-toned pink is nothing like you’ve seen! Swipe this fierce hue on and don t be afraid to show your sassy self!

Nykaa Paintstix! Lipstick – Purple Monster : This bright purple hue is not for faint-hearted! Nykaa Paintstix! Lipstick in Purple Monster is sure to bring the spotlight on you wherever you go! Dare to go purple, dare to be party monster with this audacious shade!

Nykaa Paintstix! Lipstick – Bombshell Berry : Push and pull like magnets do, and let him stay amazed while you sway on the rhythm. This deep berry hue is all you need to keep things interesting. Put it on girl, Nykaa Paintstix! Lipstick in Bombshell Berry is handmade for a hottie like you!

Nykaa Paintstix! Lipstick – Rebellious Red : Don t let anyone bring you down, be a rebel that nobody can ignore with Nykaa Paintstix! Lipstick in Rebellious Red. When you need a pick me up, this bright red hue is enough to make you feel invincible. Step out and take on the world, nothing is stopping you!

Nykaa Paintstix! Lipstick – Hearts n Kisses : Let the love reign, and let your lips give the sweetest kisses with Nykaa Paintstix! Lipstick in Hearts n Kisses. This red with pink undertones is the prettiest red that you ll ever wear. Go ahead, pucker and pout!

Nykaa Paintstix! Lipstick – Grunge Brown : Back up and wind it with the Nykaa Paintstix! Lipstick in Grunge Brown. This deep brown shade is sure to give you that trendy, 90 s grunge look! C mon turn the stereo on and swing to the finest 90’s tracks with this delicious, irresistible shade.

Why Should You Make It Yours :

These cute, lipsticks are all you need to make your look little more fun, little more glamorous! This cruelty-free, and high-pigment formula gives you a soft, cushiony matte finish. The unique formulation ensures that your lips stay comfortable, colored up and matte-smooth all day long. Another bonus: These vivid, full-coverage hues are hand-selected and named by our In-house Nykaa Panel, just in time for the most-trendiest season. The best part, these fun hues won t break the bank! Go ahead, stock em all!

MRP: Rs.425/- (Buy HERE)

To start with the packaging, it has color coded matching outer cover and black body. The packaging is similar to the MAC Liptensity lipsticks and looks very classy from the outside. The inner part however is flimsy and plasticky, it’s not very sturdy and the body shakes a bit. Also the bullets are not very sturdy, one of my lipstick bullet came off on it’s own. I had not even started swatching them or using them, just opening and twisting, maybe one was already broken.

But if you drop them once, the lipstick bullet will break and come off. I like the So Matte magnetic packaging more as it was sturdier comparatively. You have to be very careful with this one.

Also the shape of the lipstick bullet is flat and I hate applying lipsticks which are flat on top as application on the edges of the lips is very difficult and the lipstick goes everywhere :/ You have to use the tip on the edges, but the flat shape often goes outside.

Formula though is pretty good! These are super pigmented, all these hand swatches are 1.5-2 swipes each like I didn’t even need to go two full times over them. Same for my lips, in two swipes you get complete, opaque coverage. See in the swatches video, I wanted to show that specifically.

These have a semi matte finish again, but are more pigmented and rich in colour compared to So Matte. These stay for 4-5 hours, and even longer without eating or drinking. With eating, it will fade from the center but leaves a strong tint behind which stays on throughout. I like the staying power

These are very moisturising nad comfortable on the lips. I love the shade selection they have, everything from nudes and pinks to deep purples and browns. A perfect shade range, also the affordable price tag!

I have divided them into six each, 1 to 6 and 7 to 12 for convenience.

01 Nude Spice is a cool toned nude

02 Cool Girl Nude is a more deeper nude brown, again cool toned

03 No Chill Orange is a bright, warm orange

04 Peaches N Cream is a beautiful peachy pink mix

05 Tender Rose is a cool toned bright rosy pink

06 Chick Flick Pink is a deep pinky brown

07 Rock N Roll Pink is a bright fuchsia pink

08 Purple Monster is a bluish purple

09 Bombshell Berry is a deep berry

10 Rebellious Red is a bright cool toned red, reminds me a little of MAC Ruby Woo. Of course formula wise, completely different

11 Hearts N Kisses is a warmer red

12 Grunge Brown is a deep, dark chocolate brown

Here are all the swatches on me..

Also another con would be the shade name is only mentioned on the outer box, I had to remove those stickers and stick them on the lipstick, as the actual lipsticks only have numbers.

My favourite shades are Cool Girl Nude, Peaches N Cream, Tender Rose, Chick Flick Pink, Rock N Roll Pink, Rebellious Red and Grunge Brown. I know I have many favourites 😀 Even like the first Nude Spice, perfect everyday shade. Even Peaches N Cream and Tender Rose are good everyday wear shades.

Let me know your favourites in the comments below 🙂

Top 10 Estée Lauder Products in India, Prices, Buy Online

Estée Lauder, Top 10, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Top 10 Estée Lauder Products in India, Prices, Buy Online

By Sanchita

Here’s the list of the bestselling products from the house of Estée Lauder available in India. Estee Lauder, a premium American company is known to deal with variety of cosmetics, skin care products, hair care products and perfumeries. It is one of the luxurious high ends brand in India and finally the products are available online on Nykaa and Amazon.

Every product is commendable and we have handpicked the best sellers and award winning ones for you. Here’s the list of the top 10 Estée Lauder Products in India.

1. Estée Lauder Double Wear Nude Cushion Stick Radiant Makeup – Price Rs. 3500 (BUY HERE)

The product comes in 16-18 shades and gives a polished look and evens skin tone for a healthy looking glow. It is a light-medium coverage foundation that doesn’t oxidize and has a very convenient twist-up packaging with a sponge at the tip for buffing and blending the foundation. The formula is lightweight and provides a natural look. The mild fragrance is there and it won’t look ashy in photographs. The wear time is really good and long lasting and great for normal to oily skin. Overall, the Double Wear Nude Cushion Stick Radiant Makeup is a great foundation for daytime.

2. Estée Lauder Pure Color Envy Sculpting Lipstick – Price Rs. 2500 (BUY HERE)

The Pure Color Envy Sculpting Lipstick are available in 30 shades and also has a matte and glossy range. The original range has an array of colors – from bold purple, deep browns, reds and pinks. The lipsticks are gorgeously packaged with Estée Lauder’s signature navy and gold, while golden plaques at each end of the case, and golden tones within the interior. The colors are enriching with a satin finish, transforms lips for a full, curvaceous and sexy pout and has impeccable pigmentation. It glides well, hydrates the lips and brilliantly long lasting.

3. Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in- Place Flawless Wear Concealer – Price Rs. 2100 (BUY HERE)

Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in- Place Flawless Wear Concealer comes in cylindrical tube with a doe foot applicator. A simple packaging and the consistency is medium – neither too runny nor too thick and hence it is easy- to apply. It blends like a dream, without caking up and gives a beautiful satin touch finish. The coverage is medium to buildable and helps to get rid of minor imperfections very well. The range has around 10 shades, well suited for variety of Indian skin tones. It gives a natural flawless look and goes on without creasing throughout the day. It is long wearing and water proof.

4. Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay In Place Eye Pencil – Price Rs. 1650 (BUY HERE)

The Double Wear Stay In Place Eye Pencil are available in 8 shades. It comes in a pencil form which has to be sharpened and has a silicon smudger on the other end. The colors are beautiful and gives a rich and intense color pay off. You won’t have to drag too much and it glides smoothly. The formula is water proof, Ophthalmologist tested and Fragrance-free. It is safe for lens wearers and doesn’t irritate the eyes. It is smudge proof but comes off easily with cleansing oil.

5. Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Recovery Complex II – Price Rs. 5900 (BUY HERE)

The Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Recovery Complex II is one of the most-bestselling and award winning product from the brand and comes with a hefty price tag. A little product goes a long way and it is a great anti-ageing product. It is formulated with the exclusive Chronolux technology and repairs the skin well. You will see a visible improvement in the signs of aging-specifically lines, uneven skin tone and immediate hydration and protects the skin from UV rays, smoke, pollution and even emotional stress. It will not break out and has rich anti- oxidant reserve.

6. Estée Lauder Sumptuous Extreme Lash Multiplying Volume Mascara – Price Rs. 2500 (BUY HERE)

The Sumptuous Extreme Lash Multiplying Volume Mascara comes with the signature packaging of Estée Lauder – golden tube with deep blue accents. The wand has a tapered shape with dense bristles and fibers. It easy to easy and coat the lower lashes as well. The mascara has a whipped mouse texture and coats the lashes well. The lengthening part is medium but it stands true to its name – the Volume Mascara. It also adds a nice lift and holds curl fairly well, giving a beautiful look. It won’t smudge at all but comes off easily with makeup remover. Despite being pricey, it is surely a wonderful product.

7. Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in- Place Makeup – Price Rs. 3300 (BUY HERE)

The Double Wear Stay-in- Place Makeup is a must-have from this brand. It comes in a small glass bottle but isn’t very travel friendly. The foundation has a true liquid texture but not extremely runny. It has a viscous consistency and gives medium to full coverage. It feels lightweight and works great for normal and oily skin. It covers up unevenness, acne marks etc. and gives a natural looking matte finish. It stays for around 9-10 hrs and doesn’t flashback in photos. There are around 14 shades available and has variety of yellow undertones.

8. Estée Lauder Pure Color Envy Sculpting Eye Shadow 5-Color Palette – Price Rs. 3850 (BUY HERE)

The Pure Color Envy Sculpting Eye Shadow 5-Color Palette are available in 3 shades – Infamous Sky, Currant Desire and Envious Orchid. It has a great combination of metallic and satin shades. The packaging is great with two double ended applicators. The colors are of soft, velvety, creamy texture with intense pigmentation. The fallout is minimal and the eyeshadow colors blend like a dream. it is long wearing even without primer and great for subtle as well as dramatic looks. The eyeshadow won’t irritate the eyes.

9. Estée Lauder Double Wear Make Up To Go Liquid Compact – Price Rs. 3650 (BUY HERE)

The Estée Lauder Double Wear Make Up To Go Liquid Compact is a liquid foundation packed in a compact form. The packaging is great and travel friendly and comes with a sponge. The foundation is semi-liquid and applies well on skin. It is available in 14 shades and would match with a lot of Indian skin tones. It gives medium coverage and feels weightless on skin without feeling heavy or looking cakey. The finish is dewy and once you set with powder, it gives natural finish. The foundation is hydrating and great for dry and dull skin. It is extremely long wearing but the smell is a bit strong.

10. Estée Lauder Modern Muse Eau De Parfum – Price Rs. 5900 (BUY HERE) Review HERE

The Estée Lauder Modern Muse Eau De Parfum is inspired by the intriguing duality of today’s woman and the fragrance has a Lush Floral Woody scent, a true statement in modern luxury. It’s aroma is extremely feminine and if you prefer floral and sensuous scents, this is the right one for you. The packaging is extremely gorgeous and luxe.

What are your favourite Estee Lauder products?

How to Select The Best Planner: Weddings in India

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How to Select The Best Planner: Weddings in India

Since, every person is quite sure his or her wedding must be the best, much time and efforts are paid to make a wedding ceremony perfect. The amount of the efforts is so huge, that it takes months to arrange a wedding. Definitely, wedding is an exact day that cannot be planned and arranged without a help of professionals. Moreover, when you want to spend one of the best days of your like abroad, you should take care of it every detail in advance.

Where to Find a Skilled Planner

In case you want to perform your ceremony in India, you should always look for the wedding planner, who will be aware of traditions and customs of citizens of India. For sure, no one is forced to hold own wedding in Indian style, but staying in the country it is also important to follow certain rules. If you have chosen to spend your wedding day in India, the first thing you should do is to find the best wedding planners in Delhi NCR. This is definitely not an easy task; still you can find a great wedding planner quite quickly.

If you want to find expert planner, follow the next stages:

– Try to ask your friend and family about the planner that they have used to work with in past or cooperate currently.

– Use the Internet to find the list of the best planners in India.

– Look for a feedback and responses on the Internet and at local media.

– Contact the couples, who used the services of certain planners.

– Make your choice.

Where and How to Arrange a Wedding

The landscapes of India will make every wedding a real fairytale, no matter whether you have been expecting it or not.

When you have a chance to arrange a wedding in such a country, there must be no doubts you are making a great choice. Living or staying in India for a while gives you an additional opportunity to plan your wedding in details, in advance. In the same time, services of an expert planner is always of a high importance. It is all because only such a skilled specialist will make sure nothing extraordinary will happen during a wedding day. Everyone likes surprises, but not on the day that must be held perfectly and according to the plan.

There is also a great rule never to expect other person to do something for you, but there are always exceptions to the rule. Here is the exact day, when other professionally trained person will help you to fully enjoy your wedding day, and forget about responsibilities and other wedding details.

Fenugreek (Methi) for All your Skin Issues

DIY, Face Mask, Skin care, Women, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Fenugreek (Methi) for All your Skin Issues

By Nidhal

Mortified of those pesky pimples making a peek-a- boo every time you have to get ready and paint the town red or when you have an indispensable event and you just can’t miss it? Exhausted with trying every over-the –counter trick or product on those acne scars of yours that have sworn never to leave your skin? Dissatisfied with every spot/blemish removal cream in the market which promises you flawless skin within minutes but ends up burning a hole in your pocket in a minute instead of doing what it actually promised to?

To tackle all these woes, let us simply turn back to Nature. The wonder ingredient that we would be relying upon today to preen ourselves is none other than the 5 lettered word whose benefits would surpass your imagination- METHI.

1. METHI POWDER, CURD & ROSE WATER MASK

Apart from reducing cholesterol, preventing diabetes and increasing breast milk, fenugreek aka Methi seeds and leaves are widely used in Indian households. Curd works well to remove dryness, tan and dullness off your skin. Rose water works wonders as a toner. And do I need to say more on its heavenly aroma? Naah! You guys might already by picturing it being sprayed on your skin while you unwind during your weekend spa (or at-home spa session) by now, right?

PROCEDURE- In a clean and dry blender, grind 4-5 tbsp of methi seeds till a fine powder is obtained. In one heaped tbsp. of methi powder, add a tbsp. of curd and adequate rose water to liquefy the concoction slightly. Do not add rose water in excess because curd too has whey which being a liquid will make the process of application arduous if rose water is added with abandon.

Mix well, apply on your face and neck. Avoid eye area. Wash off after 15 minutes with ample cold water. This pack will give you instantly brightened skin.

2. METHI POWDER & NEEM DECOCTION MASK

Vitamin A housed in fenugreek (methi) and incorporated in cosmetic products can treat a variety of skin disorders like acne, eczema, psoriasis and blackheads. Neem, by the virtue of having antimicrobial, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties helps you bid adieu to pimples and acne. Guess what a combo of the two can do to your skin?

PROCEDURE- In a heaped tbsp. of methi powder, add sufficient neem water and mix well to form a smooth paste. Preparing neem water is a piece of cake. How? Just boil 8-9 Neem leaves in half a litre of water on the stove. When the colour of the water changes to dark green, switch off the stove. Let the water cool. Strain the water and discard the leaves. You water is ready! Told you it was a cakewalk.

Apply the mask on your face and neck. Let it dry. Wash off with cold water. Repeat once daily. This mask is a Holy Grail mask for those with oily skin.

3. METHI POWDER, BESAN FLOUR, HALDI & MILK MASK

The antioxidant properties of vitamin C in methi can help you from UV rays and prevent aging wrinkles. Fenugreek is rich source of vitamin K. Assorted properties in vitamin K help to treat stretch marks, spider veins, fade scars and reduce dark circles. Besan works to sort sallow complexion and Haldi (I recommend Amba Haldi and Kasthoori Manjal for both of them are specifically meant for skin care and not for cooking). Milk is enriched with lactic acid hence, helps in lightening one’s scars, spots and marks.

PROCEDURE- In a heaped tbsp. of methi powder, besan and a pinch of haldi, add adequate amount of milk to forma consistent paste. Mix well. Apply on your skin. Let it dry and then wash off with cold water.

Editor’s Note: These are some really good DIY masks, would surely try some.

Do you use methi for your skin?

Lakmé Absolute White Intense Skin Cover Foundation Review

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Lakmé Absolute White Intense Skin Cover Foundation Review

By Sanchita

INTRODUCTION – I have been hunting for a good drugstore foundation for a long time. A friend of mine suggested me this range and I immediately took the plunge. I was little confused whether to go for this or the illuminating range, but finally settled for this one. I have been using this foundation for the past 3-4months and I am quite happy about it. Read on to know more about the product.

 

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION – A flawless face is now your everyday gift with this one of a kind Lakmé Absolute White Intense Skin Cover Foundation. An ultra-light, water-based, oil-free foundation with Vitamin B3 & SPF 25 guards the skin against harmful rays leaving it visibly fairer, polished & vibrant with 16 hours of complete skin coverage. Say hello to flawless skin –all day, every day!

PRICE – Rs. 700 for 15ml

MY REVIEW

Packaging – Lakme Absolute White Intense Skin Cover Foundation comes in a pump bottle which is dark steel gray in color and with a click shut cap. The foundation has to be taken out through the pump and for travelling, this is one of the most convenient packaging I have seen so far. It is sturdy, light weight and very easy to travel with. However, from the opaque packaging you can’t exactly tell how much product is left behind. Except for this, the packaging feels quite good to me.

Shade – The shade range is slightly disappointing as it has only 6 shades and most of them are suitable to fair to fair-medium. I picked up the shade 03 Golden Medium which was the closest match to my skin tone (I am NC41) and under tone but slightly lighter. I generally mix a darker foundation to make this work for me. I feel the shade range should have more yellow undertone than pinkish or neutral ones.

Texture – The texture of the foundation is medium – neither too runny nor too thick. It feels light weight unlike any other medium consistency foundation. Having said that, the foundation isn’t very hydrating and thus it will work better for oily to combination skin type. You have to make sure that the skin is well prepped and hydrated for the foundation to work better. If you have dry or dead skin, it has the tendency to accumulate and look patchy. The texture makes it slightly time consuming to blend in winters. However, if you are using a moisturizer and primer, the job becomes easier. It has SPF 25. Further, it is enriched with the goodness of Vitamin B3.

Application – I am not very good with brushes and I stick to my YBP Makeup Sponge for foundations. I generally use my fingers to apply the product all over the face and blend everything out with the sponge. I feel the brushes doesn’t give the exact finish I want. Also, use a buffing motion every time with this foundation as dragging the sponge will give you an uneven finish. Also, work quickly as the foundation sets very fast.

Coverage – The coverage of the foundation is medium to buildable. If you try to build up to full coverage, it looks cakey. The coverage is good for a drugstore foundation and evens out the skin really good. It does cover pigmentation and faded marks but for heavy acne scars, it may require color corrector. For events and parties, the coverage is pretty good. If you apply and blend the foundation well, it adds a bright layer to the skin.

Finish – The foundation gives a natural matte finish. It does not make a huge difference if you have open pores but does good job in concealing and smoothing out the skin. I like the fact that this foundation does not settle into lines or pores of the skin. The foundation doesn’t clog the pores or break you out.

Photography and Oxidation – The foundation flashes back and I would not recommend this for photography at all. It great for daytime and normal events but when you are going to be photographed, especially flash photography, I would advised against using this foundation. The foundation never oxidizes on me, which is a good thing.

Staying power – The foundation is long wearing but not exactly 16 hrs, as claimed. It stayed on me for around 6-7 hrs and after that I noticed fading and also the T-zone looked oily. You need touch ups every 5-6 hrs to make the foundation long lasting on the face. The price justified for a drugstore foundation and also it is on discount on most of the sites.

WHAT I LIKED

1. Well designed, sturdy pump packaging.

2. Medium consistency and blends well.

3. Easy to work with texture.

4. Medium to buildable coverage.

5. Even and flawless look.

6. Matte finish.

7. Enriched with Vitamin B3 and has SPF 25.

8. Does not settle into lines or pores of the skin.

9. Doesn’t oxidize.

10. Long wearing, around 6-7hrs.

11. Well priced.

WHAT I DISLIKED

1. Shade range can be better.

2. Flashes back in photographs.

3. Not suitable for dry to very dry skin.

4. Missing ingredient list.

RATING – 4/5

OVERALL – Lakmé Absolute White Intense Skin Cover Foundation is a medium coverage foundation with a soft matte finish, medium consistency and easy to blend. It gives an even, flawless skin and best suitable for normal-oily skin. it doesn’t break out, enriched with SPF 25 and is decently long wearing foundation. However, this doesn’t photograph well.

Have you tried the Lakmé Absolute White Intense Skin Cover Foundation?

Bollywood Ladies Who Rock Dungarees

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Bollywood Ladies Who Rock Dungarees

By Nidhal

I remember the last time I wore it or more appositely, was made to wear it was more than a decade ago when I about to enter my teens. That piece of clothing made me look as if I had been wrapped in a sack (of potatoes). In one word- AWKWARD. I vowed never to fall prey to my mother’s persuasion/emotional gas-lighting ever until a few months ago, I saw a number of Tinseltown ladies step out in sheer panache swathed in “those”. And now that I have seen HOW to sport them, my interest in owning a couple of them has increased by leaps and bounds.

Need a clue as to what am I alluding at? Take a look at the title of the post. Got it? Yes, it is the DUNGAREE that has made a comeback into the limelight in an all-new avatar 🙂

Need to see the ladies who changed my perception of them? There you go!

1. KANGANA RANAUT- Do I need to say anything about her fashion and sartorial choices even a little? This lady has changed the rules of fashion and how! Once a plain Jane, now a fashionista who carries anything and everything as if it’s tailor-made for her, Kangana sports a rugged look replete with a pair of beige shoes, cap and a graphic tee that shows off her faded pair of dungaree perfectly. Add to that her inherent swag and we go ‘Banno Tera Swagger Laage Saixy’ all over again!

2. PRACHI DESAI- As cute as a button, Prachi Desai opts for a pair of denim dungarees, sleeveless black top, boots and a funky pair of shades that transmogrifies her into a smoldering diva instantly.

3. PRIYANKA CHOPRA- With her immaculate sartorial choices and toned body, it didn’t come as a surprise that this Desi Girl opted for a full top-to- bottom dungaree that she teamed up with stiletto ballerinas. Needless to say, she looked fresh as a daisy and made sure that both the shutterbugs as well as the fashion police have a whale of their time.

4. YAMI GAUTAM – Yami just brought her girl-next- door to the forefront with this look. Swaddled in a pair of thigh –length dungarees teamed up with a simple black top underneath and Adidas sneakers, this look was simple, youthful and breezy.

5. ALIA BHATT – A personal favourite of mine in this list, Alia delineates vibrancy, chirpiness and pertness like no other. Teaming a pair of denim dungarees with a light pink top and white sneakers with her luscious hair let loose, Alia defined the art of easy and comfortable yet chic dressing. The only flaw? Her expression. Why so serious, Alia? You look winsome 🙂

6. KRITI SANON – This kid on the block is making all the right noises, especially when it comes to her sartorial choices. Opting for a pair of tube dungarees for an event with colour blocked heels, Kriti looked effortlessly funky.

7. KATRINA KAIF – That Katrina doesn’t like to accessorise much is a no-brainer. What we do not know about her is that her dressing can be as easy and comfort-oriented that we can conveniently borrow those tricks from her. Seen here is the lady swathed in a pair of dungarees with a casual tee, sneakers and plaid tee. That’s one look a lot of us including me, can live in forever.

Editor’s Note: My dungaree memory, when I was in school and Kuch Kuch Hota Hai had released, Kajol brought back the dungarees and I owned one then. I used to love it. Love Alia and Katrina’s dungarees here which are more boyfriend style and comfortable.

Do you own/like dungarees? Your favourite look?

All Nykaa So Matte Nudes Collection Lipsticks Review, Swatches

Lipsticks, Makeup, New Launches, Nykaa, Reviews, Swatches, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

All Nykaa So Matte Nudes Collection Lipsticks Review, Swatches

Hi guys,

So many of you wanted the new Nykaa Nude Collection Review, so here it is..

Claims: Meet your new favorite nude lipstick! The creamy, long-lasting texture gives you pout-worthy lips in one stroke. It effortlessly glides on your lips, giving you a gorgeous soft matte finish. Nykaa brings you a collection that offers you eight stunning nude shades that you won’t be able to keep your hands off! Pucker up and party with our delectable nude mattes!

Plush, pigment-rich formula.
Intense colour pay-off.
Smooth texture.
One stroke application.
Luxurious, effortless glide.
Soft matte finish.

Nykaa So Matte! Lipstick Nudes Collection Includes :

Nykaa So Matte Nude Lipstick- Caramel Mocha 21M : Nykaa So Matte Lipstick in Caramel Mocha is all you need to start your day right! This delicious light nude hue is as delicious as its name. Swipe it on and conquer the day girl!

Nykaa So Matte Nude Lipstick- Royal Honey 22M : All you’ll do win, no matter what with the Nykaa So Matte! Lipstick- Royal Honey. This warm toned nude shade is as majestic as it gets! We promise you won’t be able to get enough of this lovely light nude!

Nykaa So Matte Nude Lipstick- Hot Cocoa 23M : Girl, all we are saying is that simple is better! Show off your true self with the Nykaa So Matte Lipstick in Hot Cocao. This pinkish toned nude shade will ensure you are summer-time fine even in December!

Nykaa So Matte! Lipstick- Praline Cookie 24M : Nykaa So Matte Lipstick in Praline Cookie is the sugar rush to your sweet tooth! Go, ahead and give in to this beautiful brown toned shade. Let your lips look absolutely delish in this stunning hue. If this shade doesn’t excite you, we don’t know what will

Nykaa So Matte Nude Lipstick- Haute Fudge 25M : Baby, you are the It girl with the Nykaa So Matte Lipstick in Haute Fudge. Rock it all night and all day with this brown hue. We promise, this shade is sure to put you in the middle of spotlight! Who’s complaining about that, right?!

Nykaa So Matte Nude Lipstick- Bon Bon 26M : Leave your lipstick stains of the passport and conquer the whole world with the Nykaa So Matte Lipstick in Bon Bon. This rich, chocolate brown shade is sure to make you look like an international diva!

Nykaa So Matte Nude Lipstick- Coffee Mousse 27M : Coffee plus dessert, who can say no to that! Nykaa So Matte Lipstick in Coffee Mousse is what dreams are made of! This light brown-toned nude hue is sure to fashionably kick-start your day! Go ahead, swipe this baby on, we know you can’t resist it!

Nykaa So Matte Nude Lipstick – Chocolate Truffle 28M : Disturb the peace and run your hands all over him, take him to the other side with the irresistible Nykaa So Matte Lipstick in Chocolate Truffle. This rich, dark brown hue is as fun as it gets! So, what are you waiting for? Take the wheel in your hands!

MRP: Rs.399 /- (Buy HERE)

The packaging is same as all other Nykaa lipsticks, black and magnetic with the matching shade name cover on the bottom.

The formula, staying power all being same, let me quickly talk about the shades.

They have numbers 21 to 28 from lighter to darkest nudes. 21 to 24 will work for lighter skin tones and 25 to 28 for deeper skin tones. Though the shades 25 to 28 work well on medium to fair skin tones giving it a deep lip look and not a nude lip colour look.

I have swatched them in 2 parts, 21 to 24 and 25 to 28

L-R: Caramel Mocha, Royal Honey, Hot Cocoa,
Praline Cookie
L-R: Caramel Mocha, Royal Honey, Hot Cocoa,
Praline Cookie
L-R: Caramel Mocha, Royal Honey, Hot Cocoa,
Praline Cookie

Caramel Mocha is a light nude brown

Royal Honey is warmer than Caramel Mocha and has more brown

Hot Cocoa is a nude mauve

Praline Cookie is the darkest from first four, this is where the darker shades start, as the first three are lighter nudes. It is a nude warm brown, deeper than Caramel Mocha and Royal Honey.

L-R: Haute Fudge, Bon Bon, Coffee Mousse,
Chocolate Truffle
L-R: Haute Fudge, Bon Bon, Coffee Mousse,
Chocolate Truffle
L-R: Haute Fudge, Bon Bon, Coffee Mousse,
Chocolate Truffle

Haute Fudge is a light chocolate brown

Bon Bon is a perfect pink brown mix

Coffee Mousse is a brick brown, with a slight reddish tint

Chocolate Truffle is a deep, dark cool toned chocolate brown

Here are all the swatches on me..

The first three lighter shades last a little less than rest of the deeper shades.

I absolutely love Hot Cocoa, Haute Fudge, Coffee Mousse and Chocolate Truffle.

See the Nykaa Lipsticks detailed review and the first 12 shades swatched HERE, the Fall/Winter Collection swatched HERE

Which are your favourites? Let me know in the comments below.

Feb 2017 My Envy Box Review & Unboxing

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Feb 2017 My Envy Box Review & Unboxing

Hi guys,

I got the Feb My Envy Box today, the product card which as the theme name was missing in my box. But I saw it online, it’s the Indo-French Edition theme, so there are Indian and French brands in here.

MRP: Rs.850/- (Available HERE)

Products I got:

  • L’Oreal Paris Magique Bold Kajal
  • Avene Micellar Water sample
  • Gulnare Gold Dust Highlighter
  • Votre Face Serum

There are 2 Indian and 2 French brands (Considering L’Oreal as a French brand)

I have already tried the Votre Face Serum, I had received it in one of my Fab Bag last year. I have two full sized Avene Micellar Water bottles and it’s pretty good. This though is a small sample size, good enough to travel with.

Gulnare Gold Dust Highlighter is a jar full of gold wax kind of thing. I can’t understand the base, but it gives a soft, gold glow. It’s very sheer though. Good for the body.

I do not expect L’Oreal Paris kajal in My Envy Box as it’s supposed to be a luxury box with luxury brands, also this is something which is available anywhere and everywhere, it is not even an international brand.

I did not like this month’s My Envy Box, even though there are three full sized products, none is interesting. I don’t recommend it.

Last month’s box was so good! I had really high expectations :/

What did you get? Did you get something different?